Cabin camping near La Porte, California offers access to the Plumas National Forest with elevations ranging from 3,500 to 8,000 feet across the region. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 50-60°F at night, while winter brings significant snowfall that closes many campgrounds. Most cabin accommodations in this Sierra Nevada region operate seasonally from late spring through mid-fall with limited winter options.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Sardine Lake Campground serves as a gateway to multiple hiking trails, including routes to upper Sardine Lake. "The campsite can get trashed easily, so do your part to pack out your trash and leave it better than you found it. It was nice to be hike up to volcano lake from our campsite as well as sardine lake and upper sardine lake," notes one visitor at Sardine Lake Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Collins Lake Recreation Area provides productive fishing spots stocked regularly. "We fished from kayaks and always caught fish for dinner. There are nice hiking and biking trails in and around the campground as well," reports a camper who stayed at Collins Lake Recreation Area.
Swimming holes: Locations like Manzanita Rock Meadow offer access to the Yuba River's swimming areas. "It is just a short drive or bike ride to the incredible Yuba River where there is swimming, picnicking and lots of trails to hike. Such a gorgeous area!" explains a visitor from Manzanita Rock Meadow.
What campers like
Quiet off-season stays: Several campgrounds offer more peaceful experiences during shoulder seasons. "Will return but off season when kids are back in school," recommends a camper about Little Bear RV Park, noting its well-maintained grounds and convenient location.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds feature regular wildlife sightings. "Each day a family of deer came thru our site and were so tame they ate fruit right out of the kids' hands. So cool!" shares a visitor about their experience at Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain high cleanliness standards. "The showers are extremely clean, private, and comfortable. Seems like everyone complied with 'camp shower' guidelines as I had good water pressure and hot water for my short but satisfying shower," notes a camper about Movin' West RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabin rentals operate from April through October, with limited winter options. "We had great time at sardine lake campground. Great place for active families. Gorgeous view of sardine lake and sand pond in walking distance and lots of other lakes around the area," shares a camper about their summer experience.
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by location and season. "No wood fires, propane is okay," mentions a visitor about restrictions at Movin' West RV Park.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is sparse throughout the region. "Clean and Rustic. WiFi is very very limited - drive to top of hill or lodge (very sporadic)," warns a camper about Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas and activities. "Kid friendly with activities and play areas. Pet park for off leash play! Clean and friendly staff!" explains a visitor about Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park.
Swimming options: Lakes with beach areas provide safer swimming for children. "We spent practically the whole wknd in the lake. It was the perfect temperature to sit in for hours. No motorized water craft kept it quiet," shares a camper about Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs.
Space for activities: Consider campgrounds with open areas. "The kids scootered and rode bikes along the camp roads, and drivers were cautious and patient," notes a visitor about their experience at Movin' West RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: Many RV sites position units close together. "Every space is so close to each other, you have next to you their services and it's impossible to access your storage without bothering your neighbors," cautions a visitor about Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park.
Leveling and access: Most campgrounds feature relatively level sites but access roads vary. "It was a little challenging getting our 16' trailer to the pad but it was worth it. So quiet and serene there. I don't think the bigger rigs would be able to make the turn into the site and the road to the entrance is a bit rough," warns a camper about Manzanita Rock Meadow.
Power limitations: Electrical issues can occur at some campgrounds. "There wasn't a single day when some campsite didn't have electrical issues, in fact they turned a lot of their RV sites into Tent Sites because of electrical issues," notes a visitor about Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs.
