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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

LAKES BASIN

Downieville, California · Sierra County · Campground

Overview Lakes Basin Campground (6,445 feet) is situated in the ruins of an old lodge, Lakes Center Lodge, built in 1912 and removed in the late 1970's. Some of the old stonework still exists, including steps leading into a deep pool of Gray Eagle Creek. This campground is within easy reach of many trailheads. The camp…

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39.66667, -120.65778
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About LAKES BASIN

Overview Lakes Basin Campground (6,445 feet) is situated in the ruins of an old lodge, Lakes Center Lodge, built in 1912 and removed in the late 1970's. Some of the old stonework still exists, including steps leading into a deep pool of Gray Eagle Creek. This campground is within easy reach of many trailheads. The campground also offers a tent only group campsite by reservation only. Recreation Gold Lakes Basin offers a variety of recreational activities including boating, fishing and hiking. A network of over 30 miles of maintained trails branch out across the area, and the Pacific Crest trail can be easily reached from the trail system. Many of the trails are open to hiking, biking and horseback riding, including the 1-mile Grassy Lakes Trail, accessible from the campground. At nearby Gold Lake, where a boat ramp is provided, visitors enjoy convenient access to boating and fishing. Once on the water, anglers won't have any trouble trolling for brown and rainbow trout and Mackinaws in the cool, clear waters. Facilities The single loop campground offers family campsites and one group tent-only site. One double-family site is also available. Vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided. All sites have fire rings with grills and picnic tables. Sites are as listed.SITE NUMBER, SITE LENGTH, SHADE, MAXIMUM VEHICLES, ALLOWABLE EQUIPMENTSIte #001 GROUP FULL#2 Site Lenght-42', Shade-SUN, Max Vehicles-2, Equipment-RV, TENT, TRAILER, VAN#4 Site Length-28', Shade-PARTIAL, Max Vehicles-2, Equipment- RV, TENT, TRAILER, VAN#6A,6B Site Lenght-MULTI 45', Shade-SUN, Max Vehicles-4, Equipment- RV, TENT, TRAILER, VAN#10 Site Lenght-26', Shade-FULL, Max Vehicles -1, Equipment- TENT, VAN#13 Site Lenght-41', Shade-FULL, Max Vehicles-2, Equipment- TENT, VAN, SMALL TRAILER#15 Site Length-40', Shade-FULL, Max Vehicles-2, Equipment- RV, TENT, TRAILER, VAN#18 Site Lenght-42', Shade-PARTIAL, Max Vehicles-2, Equipment- RV, TENT, TRAILER, VAN#20 Site Length-42', Shade-PARTIAL,

How to Get There

In Graeagle, CA, at the intersection of State Rt. 89 and Forest Rt. 24 (Gold Lakes directional sign), turn onto Rt. 24 and go 6.9 miles to campground sign. Turn right onto the single-lane road and proceed 0.3 miles. The campground will be on the right.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to LAKES BASIN

Heading to LAKES BASIN? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for LAKES BASIN?

No central reservation system listed for LAKES BASIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/231963) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to LAKES BASIN?

In Graeagle, CA, at the intersection of State Rt. 89 and Forest Rt. 24 (Gold Lakes directional sign), turn onto Rt. 24 and go 6.9 miles to campground sign. Turn right onto the single-lane road and proceed 0.3 miles. The campground will be on the right.

How do I contact LAKES BASIN?

You can reach the park at phone: CAMPGROUND/CAMPSITE STATUS CALL (530) 832-1076 or email: james.bradeen@usda.gov.