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Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest

Description

Overview

Large landscape views of trees and valleys can be seen along the six mile drive to Silver Lake. Sitting at just over 6,000 ft in elevation, the Silver lake campground set up for solitude and tranquility. The sites are spread out and isolated to provide for an optimal quiet experience to enhance the camping experience. Easy access to hiking trails, high alpine lakes and OHV riding is just a short distance from the campground.

Recreation

High alpine lakes, granite boulders and blue bird skies are treats for those who camp here. Access to hiking is located along the eastern side of Silver Lake. Continue up and on to Bucks Summit on the PCT or climb the prominent Spanish Peak where the ole look out once stood. OHV routes also leave from the campground area but were severely impacted by the Dixie Fire in 2021 and have not been maintained so be aware of hazard trees and other debris that might slow down your route.

Facilities

There are eight first come/ first serve campsites. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring and food storage locker. No trash service is provided Vault toilets are located in two areas of the campground Parking for day use and hiking is located near the lake by the vault toilets The Mount Hough Ranger Station maintains this campground and uses the fees collected to purchase cleaning supplies, toilet paper and general cleaning of campsites.

Natural Features

High alpine lakes, granite boulders and blue bird skies are treats for those who camp here. Access to hiking is located along the eastern side of Silver Lake. Continue up and on to Bucks Summit on the PCT or climb the prominent Spanish Peak where the ole look out once stood.

Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (530) 283-0555.

Fee Info

$15 per night standard rate The fee station is located at the information station by campsite 1 Pay with the QR Code directly to REC.gov if the app is preloaded onto your portable device

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Location

Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

39.95908 N
121.135474 W

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Toilets
  • Pets

For Vehicles

  • Water Hookups

Contact

General Info


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Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 7, 2025

Beautiful lake, 9 camp sites, PLUMAS Forest NOT El Dorado Forest

Went here for 4th of July 2025. It was a beautiful small lake with hiking trails right off of the lake. I think all of the reviews for this campground are for the Silver lake in the El Dorado national forest and that IS NOT THIS LAKE. This is the Silver lake campground in PLUMAS national forest. 

In Bucks Lake wilderness, about 5 miles of relatively nice dirt/ gravel road to campground. A little busy, but it was 4th of July so it's to be expected.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest by amy W., July 7, 2025
  • Review photo of Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest by amy W., July 7, 2025
  • Review photo of Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest by amy W., July 7, 2025
Reviewed Jul. 12, 2018

great summer fun

there is good fishing' at silver lake, but the highlight of camping here is the potholes.The river carved some unusual holes in the granite. great escape from the heat

  • Review photo of Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest by jim N., July 12, 2018
  • Review photo of Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest by jim N., July 12, 2018
  • Review photo of Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest by jim N., July 12, 2018
Reviewed Sep. 6, 2016

Was there when we needed it!

Once again we found ourselves on the weekend of our road trip and because we didn't have a plan of where exactly we would be on a certain day- we failed to stay in Lake Tahoe. However- this place was only 50 minutes away! It was perfectly quiet and private- tons of trees for hamocking and even had a nice lake across the street! We very much enjoied our time at this campsite and in Tahoe!

  • Review photo of Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest by Molly G., September 6, 2016
  • Review photo of Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest by Molly G., September 6, 2016
  • Review photo of Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest by Molly G., September 6, 2016
  • (7) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Silver Lake Campground located in Plumas County, California?

Silver Lake Campground is located in the Plumas National Forest in northern California. It sits beside a beautiful small lake and is often confused with another Silver Lake in the El Dorado National Forest. The campground is approximately 50 minutes away from Lake Tahoe, making it a good alternative when Tahoe campgrounds are full. The serene forest setting offers plenty of trees and privacy for campers looking to escape to nature.

What amenities and facilities are available at Silver Lake Campground?

Silver Lake Campground offers basic facilities in a natural setting. The campground provides sites suitable for tent camping and hammocking thanks to the abundant trees. Fishing opportunities are available at the lake itself. The area's highlight is the unique "potholes" - unusual holes carved by the river into the granite landscape. Additionally, the campground provides access to swimming holes and hiking trails that start right from the lake.

How far is Silver Lake Campground from Quincy, CA?

The exact distance between Silver Lake Campground and Quincy, CA is not specified in available information. For accurate driving directions and distance, it's recommended to use a mapping application or contact the Plumas National Forest ranger district office. Kirkwood is mentioned as being nearby and provides access to groceries as needed during your camping trip. For precise travel planning, the forest service can provide the most current road information and directions.

Are there photos available of Silver Lake Campground before I visit?

Yes, photos of Silver Lake Campground are available online. You can find images showcasing the small lake, surrounding forest, granite features including the unique potholes, and hiking trails. To view official photos and get the most current visual information about the campground, check the Plumas National Forest website or contact the forest service office. Photos can help you preview the campsite layout, lake views, and natural features before your visit.