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Established Camping

Elam Campground

5 Reviews

Elam Campground, near Lassen National Forest, California, is a refreshing escape from the summer heat, perfect for those looking to unwind in nature. With sites that come equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, it’s an ideal spot for gathering around the fire after a day of fishing or hiking.

The campground is known for its proximity to Deer Creek, where visitors have had success catching native trout. Clean pit toilets and a hand pump for water make it convenient for campers, and the friendly hosts add to the welcoming vibe. One camper noted, “The sites are paved with a fire pit and a picnic table,” highlighting the thoughtful amenities available.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers beautiful hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including bald eagles and deer. Just a short drive away, Chester provides a charming stop for gas and food, making it easy to stock up on supplies before heading back to your campsite.

While some campers mentioned the nearby highway can be heard, the soothing sounds of the creek create a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or just relaxing by the water, Elam Campground is a solid choice for a weekend getaway in the great outdoors.

Description

US Forest Service

Lassen National Forest

Developed campground with 15 designated sites; most can accommodate an RV. Maximum of 8 people per site. Grills and tables provided.

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Location

Elam Campground is located in California

Coordinates

40.249116 N
121.448599 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Connectivity

Presented by T-Mobile Satellite

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Verizon
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AT&T
No Coverage

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

Trash
Firewood Available
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol

Contact

General Info

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Drive Time

1 hr 41 min from Yuba City
1 hr 46 min from Redding
2 hrs 14 min from Reno

Jeff H.

Ranger

Reviewed Jul. 8, 2022

Wooded Getaway from the Valley Heat

We came up on a Sunday as this campground is usually full. To our surprise we had the pick of most of the spots. We chose #10 which is adjacent to the creek. Campsites were clean, each one having a fire ring and picnic table. The fishing here is usually great but they were having problems at the fishery. As it was we still caught 4 native trout. Pit toilets and water is available.

Site10

Month of VisitJune

Jeff H.

Ranger

Reviewed Jun. 30, 2022

Great Getaway from the Valley Heat.

This campground is a refreshing campground. We stayed at spot #10 just above the creek. I caught three native trout. The stocked fish had a disease and couldn't be released. Clean outhouses and a water pump. The sites are paved with a fire pit and a picnic table. The hosts were very friendly. As of today, no Coleman lanterns are allowed. There is NO cell coverage. Either travel down Hwy 32 45 minutes or travel up about 20 minutes. Turn on Hwy 36 towards Chester. BYW. Chester is a nice town to visit and get gas and food.

Site10

Month of VisitJune

(4) View All

Susan R.

Ranger

Reviewed Jul. 12, 2021

Deer Creek runs next to it

This campground is on highway 32 in northern Ca. Most of the sites are on a hill, so they would be good for an RV or car camping. Pump water. The highway is close by, so you hear the cars, but the creek runs between the road and campground.

Month of VisitJuly

(10) View All

Elaina S.

Traveler

Reviewed Jun. 16, 2021

Quiet, Beautiful, Cold

Beautiful creek, quiet campground, hand pump for water, bald eagles, osprey, and a nice little hiking trail. It got freezing cold at night with our 30° bags. Creekside sites are in the back, but those across the road are still very close to the creek. I'd absolutely stay again but I'd bring an extra blanket. Also, there is heavy and quite adorable (though plague- carrying) chipmunk activity and a deer decided to thoroughly check out our camp at night.

Site5

Month of VisitJune

(5) View All

Kate A.

Guide

Reviewed Feb. 13, 2021

Family and Fishing

Great place to kick back with family and friends. It’s about 1-1.25 hour(s) from towns, so you’ll need to plan ahead for supplies like ice and essentials. Some local fishing traffic, meaning you’ll see more people in the sites than actually staying there.

Great fly fishing or general trout fishing along the bay up and down. Be sure to check local fishing g regulations about barbs and live bait.

Pre-Covid, Chester, CA was a great town spot to grab a local breakfast or meal- not sure about that now. Good grocery/gas/supply spots are there as well.