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Goose Lake Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Rough roads with large rocks and tight turns around trees challenge standard vehicles at this lakeside Forest Service campground in the Sierra Nevada. Campers with high-clearance vehicles can access sites positioned along Goose Lake's shoreline, with the water surrounding the camping area on multiple sides. The rocky access road requires careful navigation, and Bill B. warns that "Class C RV over 16 ft not advised" due to the challenging terrain.

Sites offer direct lake access for kayaking and floating, though fishing opportunities remain limited according to visitor reports. The campground operates as a dry camping facility with vault toilets but no running water. Campers must travel five miles downhill to reach the nearest water source for refilling supplies.

Views extend toward the Sierra Buttes from lakefront sites, and spacing between camping spots provides privacy for tent campers and those with smaller RVs. The seasonal operation from June through November aligns with snow-free access conditions. Nearby options include Haven Lake Campground and Plumas National Forest Gold Lake Campground, both within half a mile.

Bring extra water and check vehicle clearance before attempting the access road, particularly for RVs or low-clearance cars.

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RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsGoose Lake Campground is located in California near Graeagle

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

Take Highway 89 southeast from Graeagle, California for two miles. Proceed south on Gold Lake Highway for 12 miles to GooseLake

Coordinates

39.67559872 N
120.63636855 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Goose Lake Campground

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4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the stunning lakeside location with Sierra Buttes views, though access requires high clearance vehicles due to rocky roads. Limited facilities with no running water may challenge some campers.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Jun. 15, 2021

Happy place

Dry camping with space between sites. Great for kayaking and tents. Some sites require high clearance vehicles. Beautiful views.

SiteGoose Lake, #9
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jul. 30, 2020

Primitive Camping Only

High ground clearance vehicles only. Two poorly marked entrances. Lake on 2 or 3 sides of camp spot. Typical length vehicle only. Large rocks in road to drive over and trees to avoid. Class C RV over 16 ft not advised. Tight turns to navigate trees and rocky road. (Not gravel but rock outcropping) standard class B rv a maybe. NO Trailers advised.

Reviewed Jun. 12, 2019

Great views, but fairly primative services.

Nice small lake for floating, but no fishing to speak of. Keep an eye out for leaches if swimming. Permanent pit toilet, but no running water. Nearest water is 5 miles down the hill. Some sites are easily accessible by car, but about half would be trouble to reach for a normal sedan.

Reviewed Jun. 16, 2016

One of the BEST Mountain Campgrounds!!!!

Pull right off the "highway" into the campground surrounded by a lake on three sides!! Camp right on the edge of the lake with a view of the sierra buttes. It doesn't get ANY better than that. We highly recommend this amazing place :)

  • Review photo of Goose Lake Campground by The Camp Kit , June 16, 2016
  • Review photo of Goose Lake Campground by The Camp Kit , June 16, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Goose Lake Campground?

Goose Lake Campground offers primitive camping with minimal amenities. The campground features permanent pit toilets but no running water (the nearest water source is about 5 miles away). There are no hookups or shower facilities available. The campground is primarily designed for tent camping and small vehicles, with sites spread out to provide privacy. The main attraction is the lake itself, which surrounds the campground on multiple sides and offers excellent opportunities for kayaking, floating, and swimming, though swimmers should be aware of potential leeches.

Where is Goose Lake Campground located in Graeagle, California?

Goose Lake Campground is located near Graeagle, California, accessible directly off the highway. The campground sits in a picturesque setting with the lake surrounding it on three sides, offering stunning views of the Sierra Buttes. The natural setting provides campers with lakefront sites and mountain vistas. The location is relatively remote, providing a peaceful camping experience away from crowds.

How do I make reservations at Goose Lake Campground?

Goose Lake Campground appears to operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservation system. Since it's a more primitive campground with limited sites, arriving early is recommended, especially during peak season. For the most current information about possible reservation options, fees, and availability, contact the local Forest Service district office or check the official USFS website before your trip.

What are the nearby attractions to Goose Lake Campground?

The primary attraction at Goose Lake Campground is the lake itself, perfect for kayaking, floating, and swimming. The campground offers spectacular views of the Sierra Buttes, providing excellent photo opportunities and scenic vistas. Nearby Graeagle offers additional services and amenities. The surrounding area is known for outdoor recreation including hiking trails and exploring the natural beauty of the northern Sierra Nevada region. Downieville, another point of interest, is within driving distance and known for mountain biking trails and historic sites. The remote mountain setting makes this an ideal base for nature enthusiasts.