Lightning Tree
Closed for winter season. The campground typically operates from late May through late September, weather dependent. Most sites are first-come, first-served with some available for reservation up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov.
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
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. The maximum time is 14 days in a developed campground, 14 days dispersed camping per Ranger District per year, not exceeding 30 days camping per year on the Plumas…
About
Lightning Tree Campground sits at 5,800 feet elevation on the east shore of Lake Davis in the Plumas National Forest. The lake was formed by damming Grizzly Creek in 1967 to provide water for Portola, improve fishing, and create recreation opportunities. The campground features more than 36 single and double capacity campsites suitable for tents and RVs up to 45 feet, with gravel driveways and back-in access. Facilities include flush toilets, fire rings with grills, and picnic tables at each site. Potable water is not available, so campers must bring their own supply. Coin-operated showers are located 4 miles away at Grasshopper Flat Campground. Bear-resistant food lockers are not provided, so proper food storage is essential. The 32 miles of shoreline offer numerous fishing access points for rainbow and brown trout, bass, and catfish. Water skiing and jet skiing are prohibited, keeping the lake peaceful for anglers and paddlers. The area also offers mountain biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Smith Peak Fire Lookout nearby provides panoramic views of Lake Davis, Sierra Valley, and the Sierra Nevada and Cascade ranges.
Directions
From Portola, take County Road 126 north for 7 miles, then County Road 112 to the east side of Lake Davis. Continue approximately 5 miles and the campground is on the left.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $38 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 45ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 45ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| james.bradeen@usda.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (530) 836-2575 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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