Glamping near Belden, California offers several options within the Plumas National Forest region at elevations ranging from 2,100 to 4,500 feet. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures typically 75-85°F and cooler nights around 45-55°F. Most luxury camping sites in this area operate seasonally from May through October due to winter snow conditions.
What to do
Water activities: Lake Almanor fishing. The lake waters provide good fishing opportunities with boat rentals available. "We rented a boat for fishing, and the guys slowly explained and guided us (yes... first time fishing as well)," notes a visitor to Plumas Pines Resort.
Creek exploration: Cool off during summer months. Last Chance Creek Campground provides direct creek access. "Creek runs right by the campground. This campground is about 4 miles off highway 36. Horseshoe pits are right across from camp host. Was very quiet," according to a camper at Last Chance Creek Campground.
Hiking options: Trails connect to Lassen National Forest. Several moderate trails start directly from campgrounds. "Very pretty views of the valley from the campground, and having hiking trails start from the campground was really nice," reports a camper at Black Rock Campground.
Lake paddle sports: Kayaking and paddle boarding. Eagle Lake offers calm water conditions ideal for beginners. "We enjoyed walking the paved Eagle Lake Recreation Trail to both Christie Campground and the marina. Each direction is about a 4 mile out and back," notes a visitor to Merrill Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites with lake access: Many campgrounds offer direct water views with space for equipment. "We stayed at site 60A Lake Front View, which had stunning water views and a spacious setup. The site gets a lot of sun in the morning and afternoon, so bring a popup canopy for shade," shares a visitor to Collins Lake Recreation Area.
Clean facilities with basic amenities: Most established campgrounds maintain good standards. "Sites are spacious and include covered picnic bench and fire pit. NO HOOKUPS. Dumpsite 2 miles up the road," notes a camper at Gansner Bar Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Birds and occasional larger wildlife frequent the area. "Amazed to watch a bald eagle grab a fish and fly away," mentions one camper at Collins Lake Recreation Area.
Quiet atmosphere on weekdays: Most campsites offer more solitude midweek. "It definitely gets busy here in the summer but my stay in October was peaceful. Nice distance between most sites," reports a visitor to Almanor Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect planning: Many sites close completely during winter months. "North is open, South is closed for Summer 2024. It took some digging on this information as the USFS website is wrong," warns a regular visitor to Almanor.
Mosquitoes can be intense: Lake and creek proximity means insect pressure. "Mosquitoes were out in full force thanks to the proximity to the creek, and the cattle from the ranch next door were mooing all night," shares a camper at Battle Creek Campground.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have spotty or no connectivity. Service typically improves at higher elevations or closer to towns.
Reservations essential during summer: Weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day fill quickly. Most sites accept reservations 6 months in advance through recreation.gov.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: Look for designated swim zones with gradual entry. "The lake is appropriately named as we saw bald eagles daily... While we loved our site, it was probably the least shaded of any site there," notes a visitor to Merrill Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger programs. "There is a small ranger station here, and while I didn't go to any they are supposed to have educational programs at the amphitheater," reports a visitor to Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Playground alternatives: Natural features often serve as play areas. "Totally awesome lake that's safely swimmable for kiddos that's also available for day-use. Flush toilets(always a plus). Enough to do either at the campground or nearby to keep kiddos busy for several days," shares another Summit Lake North visitor.
Easy access to supplies: Some campgrounds have general stores. "There is a General Store within walking distance and restaurant/bar right on the lake too. I highly advise reservations for dinner on the deck," mentions a visitor to Almanor.
Tips from RVers
Parking surface variations: Some sites have paved pads while others are dirt/gravel. "Most sites had good shade for both trailers and tents. You have to boil the water, so we brought plenty with us," notes a visitor to Battle Creek Campground.
Limited hookup options: Many sites are dry camping only. "We opted for the loop with water/electric hookups knowing there was easy access to a dump station across from the entrance to the campground," shares a visitor to Merrill Campground.
Navigation challenges: Some access roads have tight turns. "The roads are in terrible condition, trash is strewn throughout, and staff is less than friendly or helpful. Roads are terribly narrow and sites are small and very uneven," warns a visitor to Black Rock Campground.
Site selection matters: Not all sites are created equal. "We camped here TWICE in 2019. First time in mid April and 2nd time on the first weekend of November. Both campsites, #66 and #116 had power, water and sewage. They were both lake front campsites," explains a Collins Lake Recreation Area camper.
