Gold Lake 4x4 Campground
4.6012 reviewsQuick Facts
6,400 ftPrice
Free
Booking
Reservable
Sites
13 campsites
Season
By reservation only ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
6,400 ftPrice
Free
Booking
Reservable
Sites
13 campsites
Season
By reservation only ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Gold Lake 4x4 Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are required for this site. However, reservations are mandatory and must be made no less than 3 days in advance. There is an $8 service...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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USFS
ProviderWhat Campers Say
4.60
Top-Rated
Based on 12 reviews
35 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewslocationlakesites
Some mention
noise
"User reviews for Gold Lake 4x4 Campground are mixed, with many praising the area's natural beauty, great fishing, and 4x4 trails, while others note issues with noise and inconsiderate campers. Some campers enjoyed the solitude and described the lake as 'amazing' and 'beautiful,' while others were disappointed by the proximity of campsites and lack of enforcement on noise regulations."
Fees & Passes at Gold Lake 4x4 Campground
Free
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: 14-day limit
Cancellation: Rules for canceling reservations are not explicitly mentioned.
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Plumas National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Gold Lake 4x4 Campground
The high-elevation climate here tells a tale of two seasons: winter transforms this alpine retreat into a frozen wonderland where snow blankets the landscape and temperatures plunge well below freezing, making the campground inaccessible to all but the most intrepid winter adventurers. Come summer, the mountain air turns crisp and invigorating, with crystalline blue skies dominating the forecast. Afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through, painting dramatic scenes across the lake as lightning dances on distant peaks—a reminder of nature's raw power in this elevated wilderness.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: June to October. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: By reservation only June 6, through October 20, 2025.
About Gold Lake 4x4 Campground
Tucked away at 6,400 feet in the Sierra Nevada, Gold Lake 4x4 Campground rewards adventurous souls who dare to navigate the boulder-strewn backcountry road that guards its entrance. This remote primitive sanctuary sits on the pristine southwest shore of Gold Lake, where only the rumble of your 4x4 and the whisper of mountain winds break the profound silence. After conquering the challenging 1.5-mile off-highway vehicle trail from Gold Lake Campground, you'll discover a handful of secluded sites equipped with the essentials—sturdy picnic tables, bear-proof food lockers, and stone fire rings—some positioned so close to the water's edge you can hear the gentle lapping of waves as you drift off to sleep under a canopy of stars.
Gold Lake 4x4 Campground is a primitive camping site featuring 13 reservable rustic campsites. It caters to tent camping and OHV camping enthusiasts but lacks facilities for RV camping, cabins, or glamping.
Weather and SeasonsThe high-elevation climate here tells a tale of two seasons: winter transforms this alpine retreat into a frozen wonderland where snow blankets the landscape and temperatures plunge well below freezing, making the campground inaccessible to all but the most intrepid winter adventurers. Come summer, the mountain air turns crisp and invigorating, with crystalline blue skies dominating the forecast. Afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through, painting dramatic scenes across the lake as lightning dances on distant peaks—a reminder of nature's raw power in this elevated wilderness.
ElevationPerched at 6,400 feet above sea level, this high-altitude hideaway offers the kind of thin, pure mountain air that clears your mind and fills your lungs with the essence of the Sierra Nevada. The elevation creates a natural barrier, filtering out casual campers and ensuring that those who make the journey are rewarded with an authentic backcountry experience where the modern world feels wonderfully distant.
Natural Features and SceneryGold Lake sparkles like a sapphire jewel in the crown of the Plumas National Forest, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks and endless sky. The campground's rustic sites blend seamlessly into the landscape of weathered granite, towering conifers, and alpine meadows that burst with wildflowers in season. From your tent, watch morning mist rise from the lake's surface while eagles soar overhead, or explore the network of backcountry trails that spider-web through this pristine wilderness, each path promising new vistas and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient granite heart of the Plumas National Forest, this 6,400-foot perch showcases the dramatic geological story of the Sierra Nevada. Millions of years of volcanic activity and glacial carving have sculpted this rugged landscape, creating the perfect playground for 4x4 enthusiasts who seek adventure among boulder fields and rocky outcrops. The challenging terrain that makes access difficult also preserves the area's wild character, ensuring that Gold Lake remains a pristine alpine ecosystem where mountain geology and high-elevation ecology converge in spectacular fashion.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is remote and only accessible by a 4x4 road or boat, which may pose challenges for visitors with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as rustic and may vary in size, although exact measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across campsites; some reviews describe sites as being close together, while others highlight secluded spots near the lake.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites next to the lake are recommended for views and proximity to water.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14-day limit
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people per site
Groups
Group camping details are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 13 rustic campsites, some located next to Gold Lake. Sites include picnic tables, food lockers, fire rings, and parking.
Open and Closed SeasonBy reservation only June 6, through October 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available. Reservations are mandatory.
Cancellation PolicyRules for canceling reservations are not explicitly mentioned.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Gold Lake 4x4 Campground offers recreational opportunities including OHV camping and OHV road riding. The lake provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Some user reviews highlight the area's scenic beauty, great fishing spots, and potential for solitude away from the main campground.
Fishing
User reviews describe the lake as offering 'great fishing.'Boating
Access to the campground is available by boat, and user reviews suggest the lake is ideal for kayaking and canoeing.Winter Activities
Winter recreational activities are not described.Water Sports
Opportunities for kayaking and canoeing are available, as the campground is located near Gold Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings are provided at campsites, but specific fire policies are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters (bear precautions are required) and the challenging terrain of the 4x4 road leading to the campground.
Weather at Gold Lake 4x4 Campground
37
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Good to know
Peak season datesJune to October
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned, but visitors are required to pack out what they pack in, and approved waste systems are necessary.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the southwest end of Gold Lake.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention loud parties, trash left behind, and proximity of campsites leading to noise disturbances. 'Some people show up here to party and be loud very late into the night,' noted one reviewer.
Campground Map
Driving directionsTake Highway 89 southeast from Graeagle, California a couple of miles. Proceed south on Gold Lake Highway for 10 miles to Gold Lake. Take the Gold Lake 4x4 road to the campground. 4-wheel drive and high clearance are required.
The campground is accessible via a boulder-strewn off-highway vehicle road, requiring high-clearance 4-wheel drive. Access is also available by boat.Nearby places
Graeagle, California (approximately a few miles east of Highway 89). Exact distances for nearby towns are not explicitly mentioned.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
12 reviews
Gold Lake 4x4 Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Gold Lake 4x4 Campground are mixed, with many praising the area's natural beauty, great fishing, and 4x4 trails, while others note issues with noise and inconsiderate campers. Some campers enjoyed the solitude and described the lake as 'amazing' and 'beautiful,' while others were disappointed by the proximity of campsites and lack of enforcement on noise regulations.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the campground's scenic location, the quality of fishing, access to 4x4 trails, and opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. One user described it as 'the best lakeside...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include noisy neighbors who play music late into the night, close proximity of campsites, lack of restroom facilities, and offensive behavior by some visitors. One reviewer stated,...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend visiting during weekdays to avoid crowding and noise issues. High-clearance vehicles are essential for accessing the campground, and bringing approved waste disposal systems is...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground becomes crowded and noisy during summer weekends, with heavy campsite traffic. Weekdays and off-peak times are recommended for a quieter experience.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Been here a handful of times and it's been pretty good to me. Great fishing, beautiful scenery, and being annoyed by people is optional.' - Ben Jones
2. 'Cool trail. I took my stock 2018 Toyota...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground features 13 reservable campsites, some of which are lakeside. Reviews indicate that the proximity of sites can vary, with some being close together and others offering more privacy....
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, but the rugged 4x4 road required to access the campground may make it challenging for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Multiple reviews confirm that the campground is dog-friendly, but no specific pet amenities are mentioned.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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