Lakes Basin

About

Lakes Basin Campground sits at 6,445 feet elevation among fir and aspen trees along Gray Eagle Creek in the Gold Lakes Basin Recreation Area. The area was carved by glaciers and features breathtaking mountain scenery, including the craggy Sierra Buttes and over 20 natural glacial lakes. Some old stonework from the historic mining community still exists, including steps leading into a deep pool of Gray Eagle Creek. The single-loop campground offers 11 family sites (including one double-family site) and a reservable group tent-only site. Site lengths range from 26 to 45 feet, though some sites do not accommodate RVs. About half the sites are first-come, first-served. All sites have fire rings with grills, picnic tables, and access to vault toilets and potable water. After mid-September, only dry camping is available with no water service. A network of over 30 miles of maintained trails branches out across the area, including the 1-mile Grassy Lakes Trail accessible from the campground. The Pacific Crest Trail can be reached from the local trail system. Gold Lake offers a boat ramp and excellent fishing for brown trout, rainbow trout, and Mackinaw. Nearby attractions include Plumas Eureka State Park, Mills Peak Fire Lookout, and Frazier Falls Trail.

Directions

From Graeagle, CA, at the intersection of State Route 89 and Forest Route 24 (Gold Lakes directional sign), turn onto Route 24 and go 6.9 miles to the campground sign. Turn right onto the single-lane road and proceed 0.3 miles; the campground is on the right.