Golden Trout

Star4.36
41 reviews
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

3,100 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open Memorial Day we...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Feather River Ranger District site

Official Website
Get Directions
Golden Trout
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$15 overnight camping fee mentioned multiple times. Senior and Access passes honored for single campsites.
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground
USFS
Provider
nullnull
Help improve this page
See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.36

Recommended

Based on 41 reviews

31 Google reviews

Most mentioned

sceneryquietspaciouswater

"User reviews praise Golden Trout Crossing for its serene, scenic environment and family-friendly atmosphere. The natural swimming holes, trails, and overall tranquility are commonly highlighted."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Golden Trout

39.6050, -121.1390

Driving directionsFrom La Porte, CA, take Main St. (LaPorte Rd) south 14.5 miles to a "Y" intersection. Bare right onto Golden Trout Crossing and go 2.5 miles to campground which straddles the road. NOTE: If using RV, do not attempt driving to La Porte from Quincy via Forest Rt. 120 - very steep grades and narrow road
"NOTE: If using RV, do not attempt driving to La Porte from Quincy via Forest Rt. 120 - very steep grades and narrow road"
Nearby places
null
Nearby supplies
null

Best Time to Camp at Golden Trout

Golden Trout Crossing showcases nature's dramatic seasonal transformations throughout the year. Winter and shoulder seasons bring crisp, crystalline air with temperatures that can plunge to truly cold levels, often accompanied by pristine snowfall and refreshing mountain rains that feed the river below. As summer arrives, the campground transforms into a sun-dappled paradise where warm, dry days invite endless outdoor exploration and comfortable nights perfect for stargazing around the campfire. This seasonal diversity means each visit offers its own unique magic, from snow-dusted pines to wildflower meadows.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 14% in CA

Peak season; popular for swimming and family outings per seasonal reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Displays dramatic seasonal transformations; scenic fall views likely good.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Open starting Memorial Day; shoulder‑season conditions variable and weather dependent.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Open Memorial Day weekend through October; winter access limited/closed.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Memorial Day weekend through October. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open Memorial Day weekend through October - weather dependent
  • Current Alerts: null

About Golden Trout

Once a hidden gem known only to locals as a dispersed camping area, Golden Trout Crossing has evolved into a cherished rustic campground while preserving its untamed spirit. Nestled alongside the melodic waters of the South Fork Feather River, this mountain retreat offers the perfect balance of wilderness adventure and natural comfort. Towering conifers create a cathedral-like canopy overhead, their generous shade transforming even the warmest summer days into pleasant outdoor experiences. Whether you're casting a line for native trout, exploring scenic hiking trails, spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, or seeking thrills on nearby OHV trails, Golden Trout Crossing serves as your gateway to authentic Sierra Nevada adventures.
Golden Trout Crossing is a rustic campground suitable for both tent and group camping. It operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis and has retained much of its dispersed camping charm.
Advertisement

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
14 days

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Golden Trout Crossing offers a range of outdoor activities, including stream fishing, day hiking, nature viewing, and off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding. The South Fork of the Feather River provides natural swimming holes and opportunities for gold panning. However, OHV use is restricted within the campground.
FishingThe South Fork of the Feather River is home to rainbow trout. "Rainbow trout (native)" are available for fishing.
SwimmingThe natural swimming holes in the river are a highlight. "Perfect swimming holes...The water is cold, but the kids don’t seem to mind." - User Reviews
Wildlife viewingNature viewing is listed as an activity. Details on specific wildlife species are not provided.
Advertisement

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThis is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques. User reviews mention poison oak and rugged road conditions on certain approaches.
Active Alertsnull
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Golden Trout

Reviews

4.4
41 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Golden Trout is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise Golden Trout Crossing for its serene, scenic environment and family-friendly atmosphere. The natural swimming holes, trails, and overall tranquility are commonly highlighted.
Review Summaries
Based on 41 reviews

What Campers Love

- Beautiful scenery and natural swimming holes. - Family-friendly with minimal bugs and poison oak. - Quiet, spacious campsites. - Good for off-road enthusiasts. - Nearby water activities and fishing.
Based on 41 reviews

Common Concerns

- Lack of cell service. - Roads leading to the site can be rugged. - Trash left by some visitors.
Based on 41 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring all necessary supplies, including water and trash bags. - Choose your route carefully as some roads are more rugged.
Based on 41 reviews

Seasonal Insights

- Summer: Popular for swimming and family outings. - Winter: Access may be limited due to weather conditions.
Based on 41 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Just gorgeous. Amazing little spot on the Feather River." "Very nice off-the-grid place to camp. No cell service whatsoever." "This is a gem of a spot."
Based on 41 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

"The water pump (when it’s working) and toilets are available."
Based on 41 reviews

Accessibility Features

"One accessible site and wheelchair-friendly vault toilets."
Based on 41 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

"Pets must be on leash and attended at all times."
Based on 41 reviews

0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5

Add your voice to the Outdoorithm community

Been to Golden Trout? Your review helps fellow campers discover what makes this place special—and what to expect.


Last updated January 13, 2026
Advertisement

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in California

Campgrounds
Plumas National Forest
Golden Trout