Fishing enthusiasts and water recreation seekers will find direct access to Silver Lake from this Forest Service campground in the Bucks Lake Wilderness area. The campground sits approximately five miles down a dirt and gravel road that reviewers describe as "relatively nice," though campers should prepare for the unpaved approach through forested terrain.
The lake provides opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and angling, with one reviewer noting "there is good fishing at silver lake." Beyond the water activities, hiking trails branch directly from the lakefront area. A unique geological feature draws visitors to nearby granite potholes carved by the river, which one camper called "the highlight of camping here" and described as "a great escape from the heat."
Sites include water hookups and accommodate RVs, with standard Forest Service amenities like vault toilets and potable water. The campground allows pets and tends to see increased activity during holiday weekends. As one reviewer noted after a July 4th visit, "A little busy, but it was 4th of July so it's to be expected." The location serves as a base for exploring places to camp near Plumas National Forest, positioned about 50 minutes from Lake Tahoe.
Plan for the forest road access and bring what you need, as the nearest services require a drive back toward civilization.
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
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundSilver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) — Plumas National Forest is located in California
Coordinates
39.95908 N
121.135474 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Toilets
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
