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Lakes Basin Campground

Plumas National Forest, California

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As of October 2026, Lakes Basin Campground is a campground in Plumas National Forest, California with 11 campsites. Lakes Basin Campground is booked through Recreation.gov.

PermitSnag checks Lakes Basin Campground for availability and tells alert holders when a site opens up.
Lakes Basin Campground is located at 39.6667° N, 120.6578° W.

people allowed on 9 of 11 sites: 8
people allowed on the largest site: 25

Lakes Basin Campground reservations and next available dates

October 2026

November 2026

open, tap to book on Recreation.govsold outin your alert

Campsites at Lakes Basin Campground

241013151820212216A6B

Standard 7
Tent 4
Accessible 2

Amenities

restrooms
potable water

At a glance: Setting: Mountain · Access: Paved road.

Things to do: fishing, boating, hiking, wildlife, climbing, photography, horse riding.

All sites at Lakes Basin Campground, as listed by Recreation.gov

Site	Loop	Type	Sleeps	Access
002	FAM	Standard	8	-
004	FAM	Standard	8	Accessible
010	FAM	Tent	8	-
013	FAM	Tent	8	-
015	FAM	Standard	8	-
018	FAM	Standard	8	-
020	FAM	Standard	8	-
021	FAM	Standard	8	-
022	FAM	Tent	8	-
001	LAKE	Tent	25	Accessible
6A6B	MULT	Standard	16	-

About Lakes Basin Campground

Overview

Lakes Basin Campground (6,445 feet) is situated in the ruins of an old mining community. Some of the old stonework still exists, including steps leading into a deep pool of Gray Eagle Creek. This campground is within easy reach of many trailheads. The campground also offers a tent only group campsite by reservation only.

Recreation

Gold Lakes Basin offers a variety of recreational activities including boating, fishing and hiking. A network of over 30 miles of maintained trails branch out across the area, and the Pacific Crest trail can be easily reached from the trail system.

Many of the trails are open to hiking, biking and horseback riding, including the 1-mile Grassy Lakes Trail, accessible from the campground.

At nearby Gold Lake, where a boat ramp is provided, visitors enjoy convenient access to boating and fishing. Once on the water, anglers won't have any trouble trolling for brown and rainbow trout and Mackinaws in the cool, clear waters.

Facilities

The single loop campground offers family campsites and one group tent-only site. One double-family site is also available. Vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided. All sites have fire rings with grills and picnic tables.

Natural Features

The area was formed by glaciers and is characterized by breathtaking mountain scenery--most notably the craggy peaks of the Sierra Buttes and over 20 natural glacial lakes, most of which are accessible by well-maintained hiking trails. The campground sits among fir and aspen trees along Gray Eagle Creek. Mt. Elwell towers to the west.

Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (530) 836-2575.

Nearby Attractions

Visiting Plumas Eureka State Park is a worthy side trip. About 18 miles from the campground, this historic site offers a gift shop, visitor center, walking tour and information about local mining history.

Mills Peak Fire Lookout provides a panoramic view of Sierra Peaks and Mohawk Valley. Visit the Red Fir Interpretive Trail along the way.

Frazier Falls Trail is best viewed in the Spring. This is a 1 mile paved accessible trail to an overview across from the falls.

The Sierra Buttes and its lookout overlook the southern end of Lakes Basin in Tahoe National Forest.

Gold Lake Boat Launch Facility has a two lane ramp, loading dock and day use area.

A hand launch gravel ramp suitable for launching small water craft is located at Gold Lake Dam Day Use Area.

Rules and notices at Lakes Basin Campground

Recreation.gov does not date these notices. We last read them on September 28, 2026. Check Lakes Basin Campground on Recreation.gov

Notices from Recreation.gov

About half the sites are available on first come first serve

Generally, campsites will accommodate 2 vehicles. The first vehicle is included in the site fee, the second vehicle fee will be collected onsite at the daily rate posted on the fee sign.

Caution: bears, raccoons, etc. frequent the area; all food must be kept in approved containers

No RVs on sites 10, 13, 22 and site 1 (group site) Also, only one vehicle allowed in sites 10 and 22.

Water spigots are shared between sites.

Walk-in sites available year round (weather permitting).

After mid-September there is dry camping only.

Click here for more information on the Plumas National Forest

Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by using only local firewood. This wood is available for purchase from the camp host, or collecting in the national forest. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.

Behaved pets are welcome. Dogs in the campground must be on leash.

Off road vehicles are not allowed on any campground road.

Firewood Bundles are available for purchase from a Campground Host.

Check- In is 2:00pm and Check-Out is Noon

Campground Map

Recreation.gov permit and campground cancellations →

Lakes Basin Campground FAQ

How hard is it to get a campsite at Lakes Basin Campground?

Lakes Basin Campground is rated "Hard to Book" based on historical demand. This campground is popular and often books out weeks in advance. Your best strategy is to monitor cancellations.

How do I find last-minute availability at Lakes Basin Campground?

Cancellations happen frequently at Lakes Basin Campground, especially 1-2 weeks before check-in dates. PermitSnag monitors availability 24/7 and sends instant alerts when sites open up due to cancellations. This is often the best way to snag popular campsites.

How many campsites does Lakes Basin Campground have?

Lakes Basin Campground has 11 campsites.