Plumas National Forest manages Grasshopper Flat, a drive-in and boat-in campground on the eastern shore of Lake Davis, running from late April through mid-October. Sites are large and well-maintained, set among firs and conifers that provide substantial shade throughout the day. The campground sits roughly 100 yards from the water, and waterfront spots tend to fill first. Reservations are available and worth securing early in the season.
Lake Davis is the central draw here. Anglers report strong fishing, with at least one reviewer spotting a Bald Eagle pulling a fish from the lake. Swimming is possible, though the water can run opaque and greenish from lakeside vegetation depending on conditions. Kayaks and paddleboards launch easily from the site. The campground accommodates RVs up to 54 feet, and multiple reviews confirm it handles large rigs without trouble. Campers with dogs can look into dog-friendly campgrounds near Plumas National Forest to compare options across the forest.
Generator use is common during daytime hours, which tent campers have noted as a consideration. Quiet hours appear to be enforced. Restroom cleanliness has drawn mixed feedback, with some visitors finding facilities clean and others reporting lapses mid-week. The campground is within easy reach of places to camp near Portola for those staging a longer trip through the area. "Opaque, green water from tall grass," noted Dan S., a useful heads-up for anyone prioritizing swimming. Lake Davis Overflow, about half a mile south, is worth checking if Grasshopper Flat is fully booked.
Description
Overview
Grasshopper Flat Campground (5,886 feet) is one of three family campgrounds located in the Lake Davis Recreation Area. Campground loops around in the hills overlooking the lake providing most campsites with sweeping views of the lake's crystal blue water. Pine forest gives most campsites plenty of afternoon shade. A boat ramp and RV dump station are nearby. A trailhead for 7 mile long Lake Davis Trail is less than half a mile away.
Recreation
In addition to camping, the area offers a wide variety of popular water-related activities, including fishing, boating and swimming. Numerous fishing access points are located around the perimeter of the lake. Free trout fishing days are hosted by state agencies in June and September. Mountain biking, hunting and wildlife viewing are also available in the area. During winter months visitors enjoy ice fishing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
Facilities
There are multiple single-family tent and RV campsites, as well as one large group site. All campsites are equipped with picnic table, campfire rings and grill. Each site can accommodate up to two vehicles on a paved pad. The campground has paved roads. In peak season there is a campground host, drinking water, coin operated showers, flush toilets and trash service.
Natural Features
The 4,000-acre Lake Davis was created in 1967 for recreational opportunities, as well as to rejuvenate fish populations in nearby rivers and supply water to the town of Portola. The lake offers 32 miles of shoreline and is surrounded by tall pine trees. A variety of wildlife make its home near the campground. Tall mountain peaks offer backdrop to lake views.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (530) 836-2575.
Nearby Attractions
The closest town is Portola, California, which is home to one of the largest railroad museums in the western United States. A state game refuge borders the lake to the east and the south.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsGrasshopper Flat is located in California near Portola
Public CampgroundDirections
From Reno, travel north on Highway 395 to Highway 70 and turn west to Portola. From Portola, take County road 126 north for seven miles, then County road 112 to the east side of Lake Davis. It is approximately one mile to the campground.
Address
PLUMAS NATIONAL FOREST
PO BOX 7
Blairsden, CA 96103
Coordinates
39.8905556 N
120.4769444 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageLast on 5/21/25- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 9/17/26
AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/10/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageLast on 5/21/25
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 9/17/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/10/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Big Rig Friendly
