Plumas National Forest
RV Guide
Introduction
Plumas National Forest is an RV and outdoor enthusiast's haven, featuring over one million acres in northern California. You'll see a wide variety of terrain in this forest, from the Ponderosa pines of the Hartman Bar National Recreation Trail to the cascading water of the 640-foot Feather Falls.
Plumas National Forest is an excellent place for fishing, water skiing, or swimming during the summer, offering scenic locations like the Little Grass Valley Recreation Area. During the winter, it offers 100 miles of snowmobile and cross-country skiing trails. You can also make memories around the picnic table after your hike to Box Canyon Viewpoint for some breathtaking views.
Change your perspective while enjoying moments of tranquility out on the hiking trails or have an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) adventure exploring the Backcountry Discovery Trail. One of the best spots for birding and wildlife watching is among the old-growth forests at the Valley Creek Botanical Special Interest Area. If you want to go for a scenic drive and enjoy a serene afternoon picnic, drive the motorhome to the Indian Valley Area.
Come and camp at one of the forest's 39 RV campgrounds underneath the lush foliage as you leave your cares away and take a break in nature. We've highlighted three of our top RV campground choices below.
RV Rentals in Plumas National Forest
Transportation
Driving
Plumas National Forest is less than two hours from Reno, Nevada, and three hours from Sacramento and Redding, California. Plumas is actually tucked in between to other national forests: Lassen National Forest and Tahoe National Forest. While most roads within Plumas National Forest are easy to navigate, this is a mountainous and hilly region, so you'll want to take caution when driving a big rig along steep, winding, or narrow roads. The winter presents unique challenges in this area of the state, so make sure to check for weather conditions and road closures during the snowy season. At over one-million acres, Plumas National Forest is large, so you'll have to drive your RV or car to access every corner of the forest.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Plumas National Forest
Campsites in Plumas National Forest
Reservations camping
Long Point Campground
If you're looking for a relaxing vacation by the lake, Long Point Campground in the Antelope Lake Recreation Area is a perfect destination. Open from May to September, you can choose from 35 sites among the shady hardwood forest or on the banks of the lake. Potable water, vault toilets, bear-proof food lockers, fire rings, grills, and picnic tables are available within the campground. Antelope Lake offers all sorts of outdoor fun like boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. Pets are welcome, and RVs and trailers up to 99 feet long can be accommodated.
First-come first-served
Lower Bucks Campground
Make plans to camp at the cozy and delightful Lower Bucks Campground. Nestled next to Lower Bucks Lake, this area is excellent for anglers, boaters, and hunters. With seven sites, this first-come, first-served campground offers vault toilets, bear-proof storage lockers, and picnic tables. Since the campground is pet-friendly you can bring your dog and take the short walk to the water’s edge to enjoy a sunset on the beach. Keep in mind that this is a pack-in, pack-out campground, meaning you'll have to take all of your garbage with you when you leave.
Strawberry Campground
Come live the rustic life off the river banks of Sly Creek at the Strawberry Campground. You can enjoy all sorts of outdoor recreation in this scenic spot from fishing along the river to hiking one of the many scenic forest trails. There are 17 first-come, first-served sites open from May to October. Amenities include vault toilets, picnic tables, and potable water. True to its name, wild strawberries grow on the trails just outside the campground. Pets are welcome to camp with you here.
Seasonal activities in Plumas National Forest
Off-Season
OHV Riding
Spend some time having an OHV riding adventure out on the open trails at the Plumas National Forest. With countless miles of terrain to cover, make sure to check out the Backcountry Discovery Trail. If you want to ride in the open area, check out Buck Lake Recreation Area. There are several roads you can ride in the Feather River Ranger District and Mt. Hough Ranger District. From gravel to dirt roads, you'll want to bring your camera to capture all of the sights of this gorgeous national forest.
Winter Sports
There is so much to do during the winter months at Plumas National Forest. Get your winter fix by ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, or sledding. This national forest offers trails for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Views of the mountains are breathtaking this time of year, so if you're out on a horse, skis or a sled, you are sure to have a great time. Break out your winter gear and get ready for some delicious hot cocoa. Once you arrive, you'll be glad you're camping in your RV in this winter wonderland paradise.
Fishing
Grab your favorite fishing rod and your bait and head out to California's clear blue waters. With the multitude of lakes, streams, and rivers, you'll find that fishing in Plumas National Forest is some of California's best. Have a perfect moment on the lake while fishing for a mackinaw trout. Fishing is a favorite outdoor pastime for visitors because they can enjoy the peaceful scenery of the Sierra Nevadas while catching rainbow trout, brown trout, catfish, and bass. It's a great place to sit back, relax, and enjoy the surrounding nature.
In-Season
Hiking
You'll find that Plumas National Forest is one of the best places in California to hike, and it is a fabulous location for anyone seeking a rugged adventure. Hike on one section of the Pacific Crest Trail, as 75 miles of the trail covers this grand forest. From running or going out for a gentle stroll, there is something for all ability levels. Hike up to 6,663 feet above sea level during your next camping trip. Bring your leashed dog and head out for a day of fun— you'll never know what you're going to see while out in the wilderness!
Outdoor Learning
There is so much to do at the Plumas National Forest. Learn more about this excellent place by taking a hike and seeing the educational placards along the way. Check with the visitor center to see if there are any upcoming campfire programs to participate in during your next RV vacation. Visit any of the recreational areas to learn all that you can about this tremendous national forest: Antelope Lake Recreation Area, Bucks Lake Recreation Area, Davis Lake Recreation Area, or Little Grass Valley Recreation Area.
Scenic Drives
There is nothing like driving through some of the best parts of nature in the western United States. The Plumas National Forest is a magnificent forest, and you'll love seeing the diverse terrain from your camper. The Feather River Scenic Byway won't disappoint with its 130 miles of breathtaking beauty. You'll want to make sure your RV is gassed up and ready to go as there aren't many gas stations near Plumas National Forest. From driving high in the mountains to the calming landscape of the meadows, driving through this beautiful forest will be a treat.
