Lakes Basin Family Campground .

About

Lakes Basin Family Campground occupies a unique setting in the heart of the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, nestled among the ruins of a historic mountain lodge at 6,400 feet elevation. Some of the old stonework remains intact, including steps leading down to a deep swimming hole on Gray Eagle Creek. The campground provides 11 family campsites including one double site, plus a group tent-only site that accommodates up to 25 people. The surrounding area is a high-country paradise with over 20 small alpine lakes, most accessible by the network of 30+ miles of maintained hiking trails branching throughout the basin. Popular activities include fishing, swimming, and exploring the many lakeside trails. Mount Elwell and the Sierra Buttes provide dramatic backdrops to this scenic destination. The campground operates seasonally from late May through late September. After mid-September, water systems are shut down and dry camping is available until snow closes the area. About half the sites are first-come, first-served while others are reservable through Recreation.gov. Sites feature vault toilets, drinking water from shared spigots, fire rings with grills, picnic tables, and trash collection.

Directions

From Graeagle, take Highway 89 southeast three miles to Gold Lake Highway (County Road 519). Proceed on Gold Lake Highway approximately 9 miles to the Lakes Basin Campground entrance. Be prepared for a sharp right turn into the campground.