Camping options in Plumas County near Twain, California range from forested lakeside sites to creekside destinations at elevations between 3,500 and 5,000 feet. The area experiences dry, warm summers from June through September with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F. Winter snow closes most facilities from November through April, with many campgrounds reopening in mid-May when mountain roads become passable.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Last Chance Creek Campground sits 4 miles off Highway 36 with the creek flowing directly alongside campsites. "Creek runs right by the campground... Was very quiet," notes a camper who appreciated the peaceful setting. Horseshoe pits located across from the camp host provide additional recreation.
Boating access: Almanor Campground offers convenient water access with boat ramps at the North campground. "If you just have a paddleboard or kayak, you can just walk to the water by just waking down the road and launch at the edge of the lake," explains one visitor. The campground operates from May through October.
Hiking trails: Grasshopper Flat provides access to lakeside trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. "AWESOME for birding - Bald Eagles, Pelicans, woodpeckers, chickadees & ravens - this is the Sierra after all," shares a camper who enjoyed the natural surroundings. The campground includes flush toilets and potable water.
What campers like
Lake proximity: Merrill Campground offers both water/electric hookup sites and dry camping options closer to the water. "With no campers in the dry sites closest to the water, we had the perfect unobstructed view of the lake," shares one visitor who appreciated the lakefront location. The campground operates seasonally from May 15 to October 31.
Clean facilities: Long Point Campground features well-maintained sites with good shade coverage. "All sites are well shaded with fir and pine trees. Great fishing and wildlife watching," notes a camper who enjoyed the natural setting. The campground typically operates from late May through early September.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Little Bear RV Park receives consistent praise for its maintenance and amenities. "This clean, quiet, and very family friendly campground offers a mixture of full and partial hookup sites, plus cabins," explains a camper. The park includes a refreshing swimming hole within walking distance along the Feather River.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: At many locations, advance booking is essential during peak season (July-August). "North is open, South is closed for Summer 2024... The North campground is OPEN, but you cannot reserve it. First Come First Served," notes a recent Almanor Campground visitor, highlighting the importance of checking current status.
Limited amenities: Several glamping options close to Twain, California lack traditional campground facilities. "There is no beach to the lake, so sun bathers be warned," mentions a Merrill Campground visitor. Similarly, at Grasshopper Flat, a camper noted, "Not so great for swimming. Opaque, green water from tall grass. A bit grimy."
Bear safety: Long Point Campground sits in active bear territory. "This is bear country so be advised," warns a camper plainly. Food storage regulations apply at most campgrounds in the region, with violations potentially resulting in fines.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly lakes: Black Rock Campground offers family-oriented recreation with trail access. "Very pretty views of the valley from the campground, and having hiking trails start from the campground was really nice," notes one visitor. The drawbacks include "very close neighbors and little shade."
Activity options: Families visiting Grasshopper Flat appreciate the variety of recreation possibilities. "Beautiful, quiet and clean campground. Gorgeous lake, great for swimming. Convenient launch for boaters," shares a family camper who found it "great for family camping."
Seasonal considerations: Plan family trips for June or September to avoid peak season crowds. "It definitely gets busy here in the summer but my stay in October was peaceful. Nice distance between most sites," notes an Almanor camper who visited during shoulder season.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Merrill Campground, full hookup sites cost $35, while water and electric run $30. "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," explains an RV camper. The campground features "exceptionally large" sites according to visitors.
Navigation challenges: Some glamping locations near Twain have limited RV access. "Roads are terribly narrow and sites are small and very uneven. Not a great place for a trailer nor class A," warns a Black Rock Campground visitor about certain areas.
Off-season advantages: Visiting after Labor Day offers quieter experiences. "We were able to ride bike in the park and on the road that was safe with little to no traffic," notes an RV camper at Little Bear RV Park, who recommends returning "off season when kids are back in school."