Trinity Lake serves as the backdrop for camping near French Gulch, California, located at approximately 2,500 feet elevation in the Klamath Mountains. The lake encompasses 16,000 surface acres when full and connects to the Trinity River watershed. Seasonal water levels vary dramatically, with spring and early summer typically offering the highest water levels for lake activities, while fall brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
What to do
Watercraft activities: At Trinity Lake KOA Holiday, visitors can access boat rentals at the marina about 20 minutes away. "Many people brought ATVs to utilize these and it looked like a great time. We used out truck and mountain bikes to tootle around on them and had a great time," notes camper Austin W.
Hiking opportunities: The area features trails suitable for various skill levels. Near Crystal Creek Primitive Campground, trails wind through forested areas with wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper reported, "About 3am something woke me up sniffing around my hammock. I was not able to see it without moving, but it bumped me and was large enough to make the hammock sway."
Swimming spots: Lewiston Lake offers calmer waters compared to Trinity Lake. A visitor to Mary Smith Campground shared, "We took tubes out and laid in the water and soaked up the sun, it was so nice. It's especially so calming because there isn't a million boats on the lake partying and such it's just quiet and calm water."
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Several campers highlight the peaceful atmosphere around French Gulch. A visitor to Minersville Campground stated, "Hidden out of the way little gem. The campground has only eight sites. The restrooms are clean and showers are available at a neighboring campground."
Tent platforms: Some sites feature raised platforms that enhance camping comfort. "We had the campground to ourselves as they hadn't put up the glamping tents yet. We set our tents up on the platforms and had a great view of the lake and trinity alps in the distance," notes a camper at Mary Smith Campground.
Off-season advantages: Camping during shoulder seasons offers unique benefits. "Birds and frogs were in abundance. The lake was too cold for swimming and the fish were hanging out in deep water so no swimming or successful fishing," shared a spring visitor to the area, highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities when fewer people are around.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly across the region. A camper at Pinewood Cove Resort noted connectivity issues while another visitor to Minersville Campground shared, "There is no wifi or cellular coverage. Booking the site was a little confusing because the website noted 'dry camping'."
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels can change dramatically throughout the season. "Right now the lake is so low you really can't get to it. But it's great just to hang out in peace and quiet," reported a Minersville Campground visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for wildlife interactions by using provided food storage. "I put my food in the locker, and I'm very glad I did. About 3am something woke me up sniffing around my hammock," warned a Crystal Creek camper.
