Lakes Basin Group Campground .

Closed — Closed for the season as of September 28, 2025. Typically opens in late May after Gold Lake Highway and access roads are cleared of snow.

About

Lakes Basin Group Campground is a tent-only group site situated in the scenic Lakes Basin Recreation Area of Plumas National Forest. At 6,400 feet elevation, the campground sits amid the ruins of an old mining community, with remnants of historic stonework still visible. This reservation-only facility accommodates groups of up to 25 people and serves as an excellent base for exploring the Lakes Basin area. The campground provides access to over 30 glacially carved alpine lakes via an extensive network of hiking trails. The area offers outstanding swimming, fishing, sightseeing, and nature viewing opportunities. The site is located near one of the region's best swimming holes and provides breathtaking scenery throughout the Lakes Basin Recreation Area. The campground features essential amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, food lockers for bear-safe food storage, and vault toilets. During the operating season, trash service is provided. Note that potable water is not available at the group site itself. Access depends on county road clearing of Gold Lake Highway and typically opens in late May after winter snow clears, operating through late September.

Directions

From Graeagle, take Highway 89 southeast for 3 miles to Gold Lake Highway (County Road 519). Continue on Gold Lake Highway approximately 9 miles to the Lakes Basin Campground entrance. The group campground is adjacent to the main Lakes Basin Campground.

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