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Lakes Basin Campground: A Guide to Visiting

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in Northern California, Lakes Basin Campground is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, like Mt. Elwell, and pristine lakes, the areas around the campground offer a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking to connect with nature.

Lakes Basin Campground



Location and Access

Located in the Plumas National Forest, Lakes Basin Campground is situated approximately 6 miles southwest of Graeagle, California. The campground is easily accessible by car, with paved roads leading to the entrance. Visitors can park their vehicles at their campsite or in the designated parking areas within the campground. The campground is also only 2 miles from Gold Lake.


Lakes Basin Campground: At A Glance

  • Location: Plumas National Forest, Northern California

  • Coordinates: 39.70538695772641, -120.66157661534378

  • Closest Town: Graeagle, California

  • # of Sites: 22

  • Elevation: 6,445 feet

  • Fee/Price: ~$26 per night

  • Tents and RVs: Tents, trailers, and RVs up to 30'

  • Water & Electricity: Potable water available, no electricity

Gold Lake View
Gold Lake is one of the closest, outdoor activities to enjoy.


Amenities and Facilities

Campsites Lakes Basin Campground offers:

  • 22 campsites

  • Picnic tables

  • Fire rings

  • Bear-proof food lockers

  • RV and tent sites

  • Grills

  • Paved roads

  • Parking

  • Firewood for sale

  • Water during the peak season

The sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 30 feet in length. The campground is open from mid-May through mid-October, and reservations are recommended during peak season. There are also 30 miles of trails nearby.


Activities

Lakes Basin Campground is a hub for outdoor recreation, offering a range of activities for visitors of all ages. The nearby lakes provide opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating, while the surrounding trails offer:

  • Hiking

  • Mountain biking

  • Horseback riding

  • Camping

  • Fishing

  • Swimming

  • Off-road vehicle trails

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the campground also has a picnic area and a playground for children.


Gold Lake View
Another great view of Gold Lake near Lakes Basin Campground

Nearby Attractions

In addition to the activities within the campground, Lakes Basin is surrounded by a number of notable attractions. The nearby town of Graeagle offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and golf courses.


The historic mining town of Downieville, known for its mountain biking trails, is also within driving distance. Visitors can also explore the scenic Feather River Canyon or take a scenic drive to the top of the Sierra Buttes for panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Big Horn Sheep
Big horn sheep in the Sierra Nevada Mountains


Other Nearby Campgrounds

For those who want to explore more of the area, there are several other campgrounds in the region.


Gold Lake Campground

This campground is located just a few miles from Lakes Basin Campground. The campground is situated on the shores of Gold Lake and offers great fishing and boating opportunities. There are also hiking trails nearby.


Frazier Falls Campground

Located about 10 miles south of Lakes Basin Campground, Frazier Falls Campground is a small campground. The campground is situated near the Frazier Falls Trailhead, which leads to a beautiful waterfall. There are also opportunities for fishing and hiking in the area.


Whitehorse Campground

This campground is located about 20 miles northwest of Lakes Basin Campground. The campground is situated near the scenic Feather River and offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and mountain biking. There is also a picnic area and a group site available.


Union Flat Campground

Located about 25 miles northeast of Lakes Basin Campground. The campground is situated near the Middle Fork of the Feather River and offers great fishing opportunities. There are also hiking trails nearby.

Sierra Nevada Mountains
The campground is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Sardine Lake Campground

This campground is located about 30 miles north of Lakes Basin Campground and offers 28 campsites. The campground is situated on the shores of Sardine Lake and offers great fishing and boating opportunities. There are also hiking trails nearby, including a trail to Sierra Buttes, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.



Final Thoughts

Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Lakes Basin Campground is a great destination for your next outdoor getaway. With its stunning natural beauty and abundance of activities, this campground is sure to leave you with lasting memories of your time spent in the great outdoors.


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