Gold Lake 4 X 4 Campground
Closed — Closed for the season. The campground operates from early June through mid-October. Planned opening is June 6, 2026. Reservations required and must be made at least 3 days in advance via Recreation.gov. Reservable dates are released 30 days in advance.
Plumas National Forest Camping Stay and Occupancy Limits
A Forest Closure Order with the limits for amount of time and number of people allowed when camping on the Plumas National Forest.
About
Gold Lake 4x4 Campground lies at 6,400 feet elevation within the Plumas National Forest in northeast Plumas County, California. This primitive, reservation-only campground offers 13 rustic campsites suited for those seeking solitude and backcountry adventure. The campground is located approximately 1.5 miles from Gold Lake Campground along a challenging boulder-strewn off-highway vehicle road that requires 4-wheel drive and high clearance. Boat access is also available. The campground serves as a base camp for exploring the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, which features crystal-clear alpine lakes, glacially-carved granite peaks, and extensive OHV trail systems. The OHV access road continues beyond the campground onto the adjacent Tahoe National Forest, with routes leading north toward LaPorte and Plumas Eureka State Park, southwest towards Downieville and Sierra City, and south toward Packer Lake and Sardine Lakes. Each campsite includes a picnic table, bear-proof food locker, and fire ring, with several sites situated directly next to the lake. This is not a luxury destination. The campground has no potable water, no hookups, and basic vault toilet facilities. Campers must bring all necessary water and be prepared for primitive conditions. OHV use is prohibited within the campground itself. The area is rich in Native American history, gold mining heritage, and natural beauty, offering opportunities for fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and exploring nearby attractions including Mills Peak Fire Lookout and the Sierra Buttes.
Directions
From Highway 89 southeast of Graeagle, proceed south on Gold Lake Highway for 10 miles to Gold Lake. Take the Gold Lake 4x4 road to the campground. 4-wheel drive and high clearance required. The campground is approximately 1.5 miles from Gold Lake Campground along a boulder-strewn OHV road.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| james.bradeen@usda.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (530) 836-2575 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov |
Availability
Photos
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