California / Sierra County / Plumas National Forest

Lakes Basin

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground closed September 28, 2025 and typically reopens in late May after Gold Lake Highway and access roads are clear of snow.

About

Lakes Basin Campground is situated at 6,400 feet elevation in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, nine miles southwest of Graeagle. The campground occupies the site of an old mining community, with remnants of stonework still visible, including steps leading into Gray Eagle Creek. Set among fir and aspen trees with Mt. Elwell towering to the west, the campground offers 23 sites plus a tent-only group site. The area was carved by glaciers and features breathtaking mountain scenery, including the craggy peaks of the Sierra Buttes and over 20 natural glacial lakes accessible by well-maintained hiking trails. A network of over 30 miles of trails branches out across the area, connecting to the Pacific Crest Trail. The 1-mile Grassy Lakes Trail is accessible directly from the campground. Many trails are open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Nearby Gold Lake provides a boat ramp and excellent fishing for brown and rainbow trout and Mackinaws. The area offers proximity to Plumas Eureka State Park, Mills Peak Fire Lookout, Frazier Falls Trail, and the Sierra Buttes lookout.

Directions

Take County Road 519 off of State Route 89 just outside of Graeagle. Proceed north approximately nine miles to the campground turnoff on the right. Continue 0.3 miles on the single-lane access road.

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