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Established Camping

Gold Lake 4x4 Campground

Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

Please be aware that there are currently no sanitation facilities at this campground. All campers must arrive at the campground with a plan that addresses the safe removal of all solid human waste. This is best accomplished by using Waste Alleviating Gel Bags (WAG bags), which are readily available online or at sporting goods outlets. We deeply appreciate the publics cooperation in maintaining health and safety conditions at this campground so all can enjoy their stay.Please also note that a campsite must be occupied the first night. If you do not arrive within 24 hours and do not notify the Forest Service, your reservation will be cancelled. This is to ensure campsites dont sit unoccupied while others could make camping reservations.

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Gold Lake 4x4 Campground, near Plumas National Forest, is a rugged retreat perfect for those who love adventure and the great outdoors. This spot is all about the experience, with sites that are first-come, first-served, so be ready to snag your favorite spot early, especially on weekends.

The campground is known for its stunning views and proximity to Gold Lake, where you can fish, swim, or just soak in the scenery. Visitors rave about the clear waters and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a fantastic place to unwind. As one camper put it, “The lake is calmest in the early morning and at sunset, perfect for a SUP.”

Keep in mind, this isn’t your typical campground. It’s primitive, so you’ll need to bring your own water and a portable toilet. The access road requires a high-clearance vehicle, so make sure your ride is up for the challenge. Reviewers have noted that the drive can be tough, but the breathtaking views and serene environment make it worth it. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Gold Lake 4x4 Campground is a solid choice for a memorable outdoor experience.

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Location

Gold Lake 4x4 Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Reno, NV, take US 395 north. At Halleluiah Junction go west 32 miles on Highway 70 to Blairsden. Take the Highway 89 turnoff south 3.5 miles to Gold Lake Highway. Proceed southwest on Gold Lake Highway, 9.1 miles to Gold Lake Campground Road. Follow the signs to the 4X4 staging area, the campground is approximately 2 miles further down the OHV road. From Hwy 80 (Truckee) take Highway 89 north 54 miles to Gold Lake Highway. Follow the Gold Lake Highway southwest 9.1 miles to the Gold Lake Campground Road. Follow the signs to the Gold Lake 4x4 staging area. The campground is about 2 miles further down the OHV road. Drivers can also reach this destination from Hwy 89 to Hwy 49 over Yuba Pass or from the Grass Valley/Nevada City area on Hwy 49. Call for more directions.

Address

There is no physical address for the campground, it is located off of Gold Lake Highway
CA

Coordinates

39.66898 N
120.66239 W

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Detours Nearby

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Connectivity

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Water Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

10 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 8, 2023

Fantastic!

Warning - this site requires a high clearance vehicle with good off road tires. Low profile tires and trucks modified for street use, you WILL destroy your vehicle. We saw a truck that ripped their entire exhaust system out from the rocks, and bent their $$$ rims. You've been warned.

Drove down from Seattle and met with my friends down in Sacramento and drove in. The drive scenery was beautiful. You get to drive through some little cute towns. Once you get to the main camp area, you'll get to the 4x4 route. I highly recommend you air down, it will make things much easier and comfortable. The camp area is first come first serve, so pack your patience. You may have to camp off the beaten path. We ended up finding a nice clearing by Little Gold Lake. It was nice I that it was away from water so there were less mosquitos. The view of the lake was beautiful! I would definitely come back! Btw, pack a portable toilet. You'll need it!

SiteLittle Gold Lake
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Rich N., August 8, 2023
  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Rich N., August 8, 2023
  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Rich N., August 8, 2023
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Aug. 23, 2022

Peace and Clear Lake Views

We stayed in the first camping spot when you drove through the rock obstacle course. We had a big group, about 6 rigs. Restrooms were out from the storm, but we brought WAG bags and there was a good hill with lots of trees to use for privacy. The site was big and flat for our rooftop tents. It is primitive, bring water or filter water from the lake. We swam in the lake, it was so clear and the temperature was great. There are many trails to explore. We drove and hiked the lookout tour and followed some trails.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jul. 20, 2022

Absolutely breathtaking

Campgrounds are well maintained, clean and right next to the water. Lots of shade and campfires welcome. The lake is calmest in the early morning and at sunset, perfect for a SUP. No bathrooms. The 4x4 trail that leads to the camp site is more difficult than imagined making the site somewhat exclusive. High clearance definitely required. Highly recommend if your looking for something off the beaten path. Views of the lake are amazing. 10 out of 10

Site1
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Samantha V., July 20, 2022
  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Samantha V., July 20, 2022
  • Camping on the edge of the lake
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  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jul. 10, 2022

Great spot near the Sierra Buttes

I loved this getaway! There is absolutely no cell service, so it was the perfect place to unplug and relax. The sites were spacious and able to comfortably fit an RV or tent.

Site02
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Sienna L., July 10, 2022
  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Sienna L., July 10, 2022
  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Sienna L., July 10, 2022
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Aug. 19, 2019

4X4 Campground

The 4x4 campground is great, stayed here a couple times now. The trail in isn’t very challenging, the first rock section is a good “gatekeeper” if you will. My 4runner made it in fine, small lift and 33’s. Never touched sliders, but the wheels & skids got some new scratches. Dirtbikes make very quick work of the trail. Sites are plenty, but if you get there on a weekend get there early because sites fill up fast. Bathrooms are still closed for the summer as well, but they do provide wag bags for free. Lake is glass in the morning, and this place is overall somewhere I will always return to. Great getaway from the rv campers etc. if that’s not what you’re into. 5/5

  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Jake R., August 19, 2019
  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Jake R., August 19, 2019
Reviewed Jun. 14, 2019

Two areas to camp

Near the boat dock and along lake shore. Only camped along the shore but both campground have great access to the lake.

Reviewed Jun. 12, 2019

Breath Taking Views

Situated out in the Sierra Buttes in California. This bad boy was shown to me by my father. A place to really escape the busy city life, let alone people. Located near Gold Lake you’ll have access to fishing, phenomenal hiking trails that overlook the Sierra Buttes. People respect the area so the conditions are what you expect nature to be like. Not run down with garbage and all. Highly recommend this campground. Been going here once a year.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed May. 27, 2019

Beautiful lake

Campground is right on Gold Lake which is great for fishing, boating, and hiking. Lots of other beautiful lakes in the area. Campsites aren’t super close to each other which is nice but it is first come first served and can get pretty popular in the summer especially on weekends.

  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Samantha  T., May 27, 2019
  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Samantha  T., May 27, 2019
Reviewed Jul. 12, 2018

Great area, campgrounds could be better

Most campsites are right by the lake which is great. 1st come 1st serve. The roads have not been kept up at all though in the campground so you may want to find another spot if you have a small car. The one problem with being right by the lake is all the bugs!!!!

  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Suzie S., July 12, 2018
Reviewed Aug. 26, 2017

Beautiful Lakeside views

Gold Lake is a gem with spectacular views all around you.  The sites are not available for reservations so you will need to get there mid week to get a prime spot.  Sites 17-24 are my favorite with beautiful views of the lake.  Dogs are allowed as long as they are on a leash.  There are great trails to hike all over Lakes Basin with spectacular views of many different lakes.  There are also an off-road vehicle campsites.  Gold Lake itself is one of the largest in the Basin that allows motorized boats.  I would highly recommend this lake for kayakers and hikers, during off season it is extremely peaceful.

SiteSite 17
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground by Audrey C., August 26, 2017

Frequently Asked Questions

What do campers say about their experience at Gold Lake 4x4 Campground?

Campers consistently rate Gold Lake 4x4 Campground very highly for its spectacular views, pristine natural setting, and lakeside locations. Many appreciate the escape from city life and complete lack of cell service, making it perfect for unplugging. The proximity to Gold Lake provides excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and paddleboarding, especially during calm mornings and evenings. Visitors enjoy the spacious sites that can accommodate both tents and RVs, along with the privacy between campsites. The surrounding area offers phenomenal hiking trails with views of the Sierra Buttes. Despite the challenging access, most find the journey worthwhile for the serene camping experience.

What is the layout of Gold Lake 4x4 Campground?

Gold Lake 4x4 Campground features spacious, well-maintained sites with many positioned right along the lakeshore. Sites 17-24 are particularly desirable for their beautiful lake views. The campground offers plenty of shade and permits campfires. The first camping spot is immediately accessible after driving through the rock obstacle course, with flat areas suitable for rooftop tents and larger groups. While the campground roads are not well-maintained, the sites themselves are comfortable and can accommodate both RVs and tents. Note that there are no permanent bathroom facilities (the existing ones have been damaged by storms), so campers should come prepared with their own waste disposal solutions.

How do I make reservations for Gold Lake 4x4 Campground?

Gold Lake 4x4 Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. To secure a prime spot, especially during summer weekends when the campground becomes popular, plan to arrive mid-week. Sites 17-24 are particularly coveted for their lake views, so early arrival is essential to claim these locations. The campground's challenging access helps limit overcrowding, but competition for sites still increases during peak season. For the most current information about availability and any potential changes to the reservation policy, contact the local Forest Service office before your trip.

Do I need a 4x4 vehicle to access Gold Lake Campground?

Yes, a 4x4 high-clearance vehicle is absolutely required to access Gold Lake 4x4 Campground. The trail features challenging rock obstacles that serve as a natural gatekeeper. Standard vehicles or those modified for street use will likely sustain damage—there have been instances of trucks ripping out entire exhaust systems and bending rims on the rocks. For successful access, your vehicle should have good off-road tires, adequate clearance, and 4-wheel drive capabilities. While not extremely technical, the trail is rugged enough to keep the campground relatively exclusive and uncrowded.