The Greenville area in California sits within Plumas County at approximately 3,500 feet elevation, surrounded by Plumas National Forest and near the southern Cascade Range. Summer temperatures typically range from 50°F to 85°F with cooler nights, while fall brings color changes and daytime temperatures between 40°F and 70°F. Winter camping options are limited as most campgrounds close from October through April.
What to do
Swimming at Spanish Creek: Spanish Creek Campground offers exceptional swimming opportunities during summer months. "The spots are great and have a picnic table and fire pit provided. There is no shortage of swimming holes with beautiful clear water and breathtaking views," notes Lex N., who recommends checking with camp host Manny for insider tips on the best swimming locations.
Fishing at Butt Lake: Cool Springs Campground provides access to fishing at Butt Lake. "Just try to get a last minute camp spot on Memorial Day weekend most places. We were fortunate to discover Butt Lake near Lake Almanor. Only one small burn area far from the campgrounds," writes Ray B., who mentions the lake is fed by a pipe from Lake Almanor with a hydroelectric plant.
Sailing on Lake Almanor: Rocky Point Campground offers excellent sailing conditions during summer. "Our visit to Lake Almanor was amazing. My Dad brought his sail boat and the wind was perfect for sailing," shares Tammy H., who notes the campground's proximity to Chester, a small town worth visiting for supplies.
Bike riding on paved roads: Ponderosa Flat Campground offers ideal terrain for biking with children. "Pave roads are great for kids for bike riding, scooters and skateboards. The campsites are spacious and the lake has great fishing," says Matt D., who recommends it as one of his favorite spots that's easy to access.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained facilities at many dog friendly campgrounds near Greenville. "Drinkable water and very clean and well kept pit toilets. Manny, the camp host, is great, he keeps a great area," writes Lex N. about Spanish Creek Campground, while another camper notes, "The vault toilets were some of the cleanest I'd ever seen. Basically zero smell."
Wildlife viewing: Taylorsville County Park offers excellent opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Beautiful Taylorsville is always a good place to set up my tent. Many spots, some with hook ups! Lots of trees," says Barbara S. Other campers mention deer frequently approaching their sites in the morning and evening.
Water access: Most pet-friendly camping options near Greenville feature water access. "The water is clean and inviting, the beach is wide and covered with shake rocks, and the views up the sides of the steep banks are beautiful," reports Erika B. about Spanish Creek's swimming hole, adding that they "battled meat bees and mosquitos a bit."
Off-season tranquility: Fall and early summer camping offers quieter experiences. "We came after Labor Day when the spaces are first come first serve. We got a great campsite next to the restroom... The campground is not full and it is quiet this time of year," reports J.R. about Rocky Point Campground.
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: Spanish Creek Campground sits near active train tracks. "The trains were definitely loud in the night, because the rails cling to the sides of the canyon, and the wheels scrape against the rails on the curves," warns Jessica F., recommending earplugs for light sleepers.
Bear safety requirements: Food storage is strictly regulated throughout pet-friendly campgrounds in the Greenville area. "Bear box included, neighbors aren't too close," notes Zachary J. about Spanish Creek Campground. Rangers enforce proper food storage, particularly important when camping with pets.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely between campgrounds. "Cell service is atrocious but that isn't their fault," mentions Zachary J. about Spanish Creek. Plan communications accordingly, especially if traveling with pets who might need veterinary care.
Seasonal water levels: Lake and reservoir levels change throughout the season. "Lake Almanor is very low this time of year but it is an easy walk out to the water," notes J.R. about camping in fall. Late summer typically sees lower water levels at most lakes in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Consider spacious sites: Silver Lake Campground offers room for families with dogs to spread out. "Went here for 4th of July. It was a beautiful small lake with hiking trails right off of the lake," says Amy W., noting it has only nine campsites which can fill quickly on holidays.
Seek out family-friendly swimming: Families with children and dogs appreciate shallow water areas. "The river is warm and slow right there and it has crawfish. My boys caught a handful and had a great time!" shares Jennifer J. about Hallsted Campground's river access.
Look for recreation options: Some campgrounds offer additional activities beyond hiking and swimming. "They also have a volleyball court, horse shoes, and arcade available," mentions Jacquelynn W. about Lake Cove Resort & Marina, which also offers various accommodation types for families with different needs.
Pack for variable weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly even in summer. "This campground is beautiful with pine trees, lava rock, boulders and the lake just a short walk down the bike path," notes Teresa E., who recommends bringing layers for cool mornings and evenings even during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Check site limitations: Almanor Campground has restrictions on RV size. "If your rig is over 30 ft you will have a more difficult time getting into spaces. The roads are narrow and don't leave a lot of room to maneuver. Some spaces have low hanging branches," warns J.R.
Consider reservation timing: Most campgrounds in the Greenville area operate on different reservation systems. "North campground is OPEN, but you cannot reserve it. First Come First Served (FCFS)," advises Kurt T. about Almanor Campground, adding that the south campground was closed for the 2024 season.
Look for level sites: Finding level spots can be challenging at some campgrounds. "I am not a huge fan of campgrounds, but this is worth staying in. Beautiful views of the lake and nice little beach for kids. It's packed pretty tight and we were on a slope but booked it again this year," mentions Alex about Rocky Point.
Check campground seasonality: Most RV-friendly campgrounds near Greenville have limited seasons. "This campground and the one to the south, Cool Springs, are both run by Pacific Gas and Electric Utility company... The entire campground closes at the end of September," notes Patricia N. about Ponderosa Flat Campground.
