Within Plumas National Forest, this US Forest Service campground operates from late April through mid-October at $38 per night. The forested sites sit near both river and lake access, though several campsites are positioned on slopes that can complicate tent setup and furniture placement. Lake Davis provides fishing and boating opportunities, but swimming proves less appealing due to a slimy coating that transfers to swimmers.
Bug activity runs high during evening hours, with mosquitoes, gnats, moths, and beetles requiring defensive measures like lanterns positioned away from camping areas. The facility maintains clean restrooms with hand sanitizer, though campers should bring their own soap. For those planning extended stays in the region, pet-friendly sites near Plumas National Forest accommodate dogs and other pets throughout the forest system.
Description
Overview
Grizzly Campground (5,777 feet) is one of three family-friendly campgrounds located in the Lake Davis Recreation Area. The recreation area and its namesake lake, Lake Davis provides the classic lake fishing experience. For example, there are four boat launching facilities and many fishing access points around the lake. Water skiing and jet skiing are not allowed on this lake. That makes it a quieter location for that peaceful leisurely camping experience you're looking for.
Recreation
In addition to camping, the area offers a wide variety of popular water-related activities, including fishing, boating and swimming. Numerous fishing access points are located around the perimeter of the lake and anglers will find rainbow and brown trout, bass and catfish. A boat ramp is available a half-mile north of the campground. Mountain biking, hiking, hunting and wildlife viewing are also available in the area.
Facilities
The campground offers dozens of single-family sites, two of which are accessible, for tent and RV camping. A large portion of the campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Utility hookups are not provided.Each site is equipped with picnic table, campfire ring with grill, and can accommodate up to two vehicles. Campground host, accessible flush toilets, and drinking water are provided. Campers are welcome to take advantage of the coin-operated showers half a mile away at Grasshopper Flat Campground.
Natural Features
Lake Davis covers 4,000 acres and was created in 1967 for recreational opportunities, as well as to rejuvenate fish populations in nearby rivers and supply water to the town of Portola. The lake offers 32 miles of shoreline and is surrounded by tall pine trees. The campground is on the eastern shore and just a few campsites have lake views. The trees provide ample shade for the campground, however privacy is limited by a lack of understory. Smith Peak State Game Refuge borders the lake to the east and south, creating prime habitat for a variety of wildlife and birds. Rich meadow rangeland combines with pine forest in every direction around the lake. Many lovely stands of aspen show, adding their richness to area fall color.
Nearby Attractions
The closest town is Portola, California, which is about 9 miles from the campground. Portola is home to one of the largest railroad museums in the western United States. Visit Smith Peak Fire Lookout when lightning is not expected. Explore the many forest roads in this area. Take along a map, full tank and a dependable vehicle.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (530) 836-2575.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundPlumas National Forest Grizzly Campground is located in California
Directions
From Reno, travel north on Highway 395 to Highway 70 and turn west to Portola. From Portola, take County Road 126 north for 7 miles, then County Road 112 to the east side of Lake Davis. Continue approximately 1 mile to the campground, which is on the left.
Address
PLUMAS NATIONAL FOREST - BECKWOURTH RANGER DISTRICT
PO BOX 7
Blairsden, CA 96103
Coordinates
39.8872222 N
120.4725 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 4/23/26
AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 4/23/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 4/23/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 4/23/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Pets
