Tent campsites near Quincy, California range from lakeside settings to forest clearings within Plumas National Forest. The region sits at elevations between 3,400 and 5,000 feet, creating a diverse climate with warm summer days and cool nights. Winter snowfall typically closes many campgrounds from November through April, with spring runoff creating variable conditions during the May reopening period.
What to do
Kayaking access: Goose Lake Campground provides direct water access with camping spots bordering the lake on multiple sides. According to camper Michele B., "Dry camping with space between sites. Great for kayaking and tents. Some sites require high clearance vehicles. Beautiful views."
ATV trails exploration: Golden Trout Campground connects to extensive riding networks. "This campground had riding trails that could bring you to Sly Creek and secret camping sites that a quad or 4 wheel drive could find," notes Elaina S., who adds practical advice about facilities: "The main camp area sits on 2 sides of the creek and has hand pump water and a vault toilet."
Soda springs visit: The historic soda springs site near Yellow Creek Campground offers cultural significance. "There's a natural soda spring on the entrance road where the local indigenous Maidu used to gather and drink for healing," explains Matt D., highlighting this little-known attraction approximately 8 miles down a gravel road from the main highway.
What campers like
Lake views: The waterfront positioning at Antelope Lake creates premium tent sites. At Boulder Creek Campground, camper SupTard notes, "Antelope Lake is always gorgeous though and worth the trip," despite concerns about recent price increases.
Uncrowded camping: Lower visitation rates make certain sites more appealing. "Most people flock to the nearby Lake Almanor or Butt Valley campgrounds, so Yellow Creek Campground is a nice place to go to escape bigger and busier spots," reports Matt D., highlighting the benefit of venturing off the main tourist path.
Paddling opportunities: Ponderosa Flat Campground features water recreation options. Susan R. observed, "Most of the sites are reservation based, and some are closed right now, so not a lot of neighbors. The lake is beautiful and long. Wonderful for Kayaking."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many tent sites require specific vehicle types. Bill B. cautions about Goose Lake Campground: "High ground clearance vehicles only. Two poorly marked entrances... 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."
Water considerations: Water availability varies significantly between campgrounds. Scott explains the situation at Goose Lake: "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."
Insect preparedness: Summer brings substantial insect populations. Regarding Golden Trout Campground, Elaina S. warns, "Beware there are TONS of mosquitoes!" The mosquito population tends to be highest near water sources and during early summer months following the spring melt.
Tips for camping with families
Site accessibility evaluation: Family groups should consider how difficult reaching campsites might be. At Goose Lake, Scott notes, "Some sites are easily accessible by car, but about half would be trouble to reach for a normal sedan," suggesting families research specific site numbers in advance.
Swimming safety: Snake Lake Campground has water access but requires monitoring. According to Jim S., there's "No water apart from lake (generally overgrown)," suggesting families should prepare to bring drinking water and exercise caution with lake swimming.
Private sites availability: Families appreciate space between camping neighbors. Jim S. describes Snake Lake Campground's layout: "Large clear sites with plenty of space between them. Forested area, dirt roads. Equestrian sites available."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large RVs face access difficulties at most tent-focused sites. For Goose Lake, Bill B. cautions, "NO Trailers advised," and suggests only smaller RVs attempt access: "standard class B rv a maybe."
Fee structure changes: Recent management adjustments have affected value perception. SupTard comments about Boulder Creek: "I'm bummed about the new management company charging $30 a night. It's not worth $30 a night for pit toilets," indicating RVers should research current pricing.
Rule enforcement variability: Campground management approaches differ by location. At Boulder Creek, one camper observed: "There were campground hosts roaming around but they didn't seem to be enforcing rules, like only parking on the pavement and the noise curfew," suggesting RVers should be prepared for inconsistent policy enforcement.
