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Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

North Trinity Lake

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

North Trinity Lake, near Weaverville, California, is a fantastic spot for those who appreciate the beauty of nature without the frills of modern amenities. This area is perfect for dispersed camping, offering wide-open spaces where you can pitch your tent and soak in the stunning views of the lake and surrounding woods.

Visitors rave about the picturesque scenery, especially at sunrise and sunset. One camper noted, “Beautiful views at night and in the morning!” With no facilities around, you’ll need to come prepared, but the tranquility and isolation make it worth it. You can choose to camp in an open field or find a cozy spot among the trees, giving you the freedom to enjoy the outdoors your way.

If you’re up for some exploration, there are multiple dirt roads leading down to the lake, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick dip. Just keep an eye on your GPS, as some have found it leads to unexpected places. While the area is pet-friendly, remember to pack out what you pack in, as there are no trash facilities.

Whether you're looking for a quick overnight stay or a longer retreat, North Trinity Lake offers a peaceful escape into nature. Just be ready to embrace the wild side of camping!

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Location

North Trinity Lake is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

41.01849956 N
122.696283 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if North Trinity Lake needs a permit.


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Reviews

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 9, 2023

Beautiful spot!

This was a perfect spot for a quick one night stay as we were passing through. The coordinates were off though and it took us up to a private residence road so I would not follow that. There’s multiple side dirt roads leading down to the lake from the main road so I would just look for those. Beautiful views at night and in the morning! It was wide open with no other campers in site.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of North Trinity Lake by Mckenna S., June 9, 2023
  • Review photo of North Trinity Lake by Mckenna S., June 9, 2023
  • Review photo of North Trinity Lake by Mckenna S., June 9, 2023
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2021

Not accessible

The coordinates and GPS lead to a random part of the highway surrounded by hills. Not real or inaccessible in vehicle, lake may be dried up.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed May. 24, 2021

a lovely area

  • dispersed camping
  • no amenities
  • a beautiful open field with the woods in the back and Trinity lake in the front
  • you could camp in the open field or in the woods
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of North Trinity Lake by Karen T., May 24, 2021
  • Review photo of North Trinity Lake by Karen T., May 24, 2021
  • Review photo of North Trinity Lake by Karen T., May 24, 2021
  • (4) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping spots on North Trinity Lake?

North Trinity Lake offers two distinctive camping environments. You can choose between camping in the open field with scenic lake views or opt for more secluded spots in the surrounding woods. The open field provides easier lake access and panoramic views, while the wooded areas offer more shade and privacy. Note that the coordinates in some navigation systems may be inaccurate - instead of following GPS directly, look for dirt side roads leading down to the lake from the main road to find the best dispersed camping areas.

What amenities are available at Trinity Lake campgrounds?

North Trinity Lake is a dispersed camping area with no amenities or facilities. There are no restrooms, potable water, trash service, or established campsites. Campers should come fully prepared with all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal methods. This is a true primitive camping experience requiring proper preparation and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.

When is the best time of year to camp at Trinity Lake?

Late spring through early fall provides the best camping conditions at North Trinity Lake. May through September typically offers the most pleasant weather and more reliable lake access. Water levels can fluctuate significantly throughout the year, with some visitors reporting dry conditions during drought periods. Summer weekends may be busier, so consider weekday visits for more solitude. Always check current conditions before your trip, especially if visiting during shoulder seasons.

What activities can you do while camping at Trinity Lake?

Trinity Lake offers numerous outdoor recreation opportunities including swimming, fishing, and kayaking when water levels permit. The surrounding area provides options for hiking and wildlife viewing. The campground's layout, with open fields and wooded areas, makes it ideal for stargazing on clear nights. Since this is dispersed camping in a scenic location, photography and nature appreciation are popular activities. Plan to bring your own recreation equipment as there are no rental facilities or organized activities at this primitive camping area.