Set within Plumas National Forest, Antelope Lake Recreation Area provides both drive-in and boat-in camping access along a mountain lake that draws visitors from Nevada and surrounding valleys. The campground sits roughly eight miles from Janesville in forested terrain that opens to lake views, with several sites positioned directly on the water due to the lake's distinctive shape.
Campers find a mix of group sites and individual spots, many offering tree coverage for privacy while maintaining lake proximity. The water warms enough for swimming from June through August, and visitors regularly fish from shore or launch boats and jet skis from the available ramp. Laura F. notes that "many sites are located very near or on the water" and recommends booking "reservable on-the-water sites well in advance." Wildlife sightings add to the outdoor experience.
The campground includes vault toilets, picnic tables, and allows campfires with firewood available for purchase. During peak season, the proximity to Reno and nearby valleys means noise levels can increase at night, particularly on weekends. Sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, with ADA-accessible facilities available. The area works well for groups seeking water-based recreation and fishing access, though families preferring consistently quiet conditions might consider timing their visit during weekdays or shoulder seasons.
Description
Antelope Lake is one of the more remote, quiet lakes on the forest. At 5000 feet in elevation, Antelope Lake is located in the north eastern part of the Mt. Hough Ranger District. It is a small remote lake with 15 miles of shoreline. Surrounding the lake are mountains blanketed with pine and fir trees. Protected coves around the lake attract several species of migrtory birds. The campgrounds are usually open by Memorial Day weekend and closed by the middle of October. These dates are subject to change depending on the snow level in the area. DIRECTIONS Antelope Lake is located 30 miles NE of Taylorsville on the Genesee/Antelope Lake Rd. From Janesville, on Hwy 395, take County Rd. 208 for four miles, then FS Rd. 28N01 for nine miles, turn right on FS Rd. 28N03 for two miles. Closest towns to purchase gasoline are Greenville and Janesville.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsAntelope Lake Recreation Area is located in California near Janesville
Coordinates
40.18300027 N
120.59000067 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 41 min from Reno, NV
- 2 hrs 4 min from Carson City, NV
- 2 hrs 47 min from Yuba City, CA
