Lightning Tree
4.4150 reviewsPLUMAS NATIONAL FOREST - BECKWOURTH RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 7, BLAIRSDEN, CA 96103, USA
Quick Facts
5,800 ftPrice
$30 - $71/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
40 campsites
Season
The campground is op...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
5,800 ftPrice
$30 - $71/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
40 campsites
Season
The campground is op...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsLightning Tree
$30.00 - $71.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary by season and site type. Charges in peak season range from $38 for standard sites to $71 for double sites. First-come, first-served season...
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Standard Site Fee$38.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$55.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$93.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider530-836-2575jandmtharp@earthlink.net
What Campers Say
4.41
Recommended
Based on 50 reviews
52 Google reviews
Most mentioned
quietcleanshadespacious
Some mention
noise
"Lightning Tree Campground is generally well-received, with users praising its cleanliness, spacious sites, and quiet atmosphere. However, some reviews cite issues with the distance to the lake, camp host behavior, and mosquito prevalence."
Fees & Passes at Lightning Tree
$30 - $71/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Premium Site
Best views or amenities
Stay Limit: The maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights per visit.
Cancellation: Cancellation involves a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night’s fee for cancellations made after...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Plumas National Forest - Beckwourth Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Lightning Tree
Each season paints Lightning Tree in dramatically different hues. Summer transforms the campground into a water lover's paradise, with warm days perfect for swimming and fishing beneath azure skies. As autumn arrives, crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine while winter blankets the landscape in snow, inviting adventurous souls to try ice fishing on the frozen lake or explore the backcountry on snowmobiles. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, offering a quieter camping experience amid nature's renewal.
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: May 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground is open for reservations from May 23 to August 31, 2025. First-come, first-served access is available from September 1 to September 28, 2025.
About Lightning Tree
Perched at 5,800 feet in the heart of the Lake Davis Recreation Area, Lightning Tree Campground beckons families and outdoor enthusiasts to experience the magic of Sierra Nevada camping. Wake up to panoramic mountain vistas and the gentle lapping of lake waters, where days unfold with endless possibilities—cast a line for trophy trout, explore winding trails alive with wildlife, or simply paddle across the crystalline waters of Lake Davis as eagles soar overhead.
The campground primarily offers standard non-electric campsites suitable for both RV and tent camping. Some double-capacity sites are available, making the campground ideal for families or groups. Primitive camping options are limited, and there are no cabins, yurts, or glamping accommodations.
Historical SignificanceThe story of Lake Davis began in 1967 when engineers dammed Grizzly Creek, transforming a mountain valley into both a vital water source for the town of Portola and a recreational treasure. Today's visitors can explore echoes of the past throughout the region—climb to the historic Smith Peak Fire Lookout for commanding views that once helped protect these forests, or discover the restored Basque bread oven at Jenkins Point, a fascinating reminder of the sheep herders who once roamed these hills with their flocks.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Lightning Tree in dramatically different hues. Summer transforms the campground into a water lover's paradise, with warm days perfect for swimming and fishing beneath azure skies. As autumn arrives, crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine while winter blankets the landscape in snow, inviting adventurous souls to try ice fishing on the frozen lake or explore the backcountry on snowmobiles. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, offering a quieter camping experience amid nature's renewal.
ElevationAt 5,800 feet above sea level, Lightning Tree exists in that sweet spot of mountain elevation where pine forests thrive and the air carries a refreshing coolness even on summer days. This altitude creates the perfect playground for year-round outdoor adventures—high enough to escape valley heat and catch winter snow, yet accessible enough to welcome visitors throughout the seasons without the challenges of extreme mountain environments.
Natural Features and SceneryLightning Tree Campground sits cradled between rolling hills where the mighty Sierra Nevada meets the volcanic Cascade Range, creating a landscape of extraordinary diversity. Ancient rangeland meadows stretch toward distant peaks, remnants of the area's sheep herding heritage now providing sanctuary for deer, bears, and countless bird species within the Smith Peak State Game Refuge. From your campsite, watch morning mist rise from the lake as osprey dive for fish, or enjoy evening alpenglow painting the surrounding peaks in shades of rose and gold.
Geological RegionNestled in the scenic hills north of Portola within the vast Plumas National Forest, Lightning Tree Campground occupies a unique geological crossroads. Here, the granite peaks of the Sierra Nevada converge with the volcanic legacy of the Cascades, creating a tapestry of ecosystems around Lake Davis—itself a testament to human ingenuity where Grizzly Creek was transformed into a 4,000-acre mountain reservoir. This diverse terrain supports everything from dense conifer forests to open rangeland meadows, offering visitors spectacular panoramic views and an incredible variety of landscapes to explore.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites are accessible, though detailed information about specific accommodations for individuals with disabilities is not provided.
Sites SizeCampsites range from standard single sites to larger double-capacity sites suitable for multiple tents or trailers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the campground. Some sites are noted as large and secluded, while others are described as closely spaced, leading some users to compare the layout to a 'parking lot.'
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend premium sites like Site 10 for shade and privacy and Site 5 for accessibility and proximity to clean restrooms.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
The maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
2vehicles and standard site occupancy limits apply.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has over 40 sites arranged in loops and sections, including standard, double, and accessible sites. Most are spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from May 23 to August 31, 2025. First-come, first-served access is available from September 1 to September 28, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov and related online platforms.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, especially during shoulder seasons when the campground is less crowded.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation involves a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night’s fee for cancellations made after midnight prior to the check-in date. Late cancellations of one-night reservations will result in no refund. Modifications are allowed for extending or shortening stays without fees, but switching to different dates incurs a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lightning Tree Campground offers a diverse range of recreational activities suitable for visitors of all ages and preferences. Water-related activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming are popular, though swimming conditions may vary due to lake levels and algae presence. Hiking and mountain biking trails provide additional opportunities for outdoor exploration, and the area is known for excellent wildlife viewing, including abundant deer sightings. Winter activities include snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing, making the campground a year-round destination.
Hiking
Numerous trails are available for hiking, including routes that connect to nearby Smith Peak and the Grizzly Valley Dam. Trails vary in difficulty and provide opportunities for both casual walks and more strenuous treks.Fishing
Lake Davis offers excellent fishing opportunities with species such as rainbow and brown trout, bass, and catfish. Fishing access points are located around the lake, and a dedicated boat ramp is nearby.Swimming
While swimming is permitted, conditions may vary due to lake levels and algae. Some reviews recommend swimming near the dock for the best experience.Biking
The campground features biking trails that connect to the Grizzly Valley Dam and surrounding areas, offering options for both casual and intermediate cyclists.Boating
Non-motorized boating activities such as canoeing and kayaking are popular. A boat ramp is located nearby for easy lake access.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, with deer sightings being particularly common. Birdwatchers will enjoy the variety of avian species, especially around Smith Peak State Game Refuge.Winter Activities
Winter activities include ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Popular water sports include canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted, but tools for extinguishing fires are provided. Campers are asked to adhere to fire safety rules.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent strong winds may pose risks for small boats. Bears are active, requiring proper food storage. Vault toilets also attract insects during summer.
Weather at Lightning Tree
35
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
Weather History
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Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are located in Portola, CA, including medical facilities and basic services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo trash cans are available within one mile of the campground, and waste management facilities are limited. Campers are encouraged to pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresWhile Lake Davis is accessible, it requires a short walk or drive. The campground is not directly adjacent to the water.
Common complaintsComplaints include the campground's distance from Lake Davis, limited shade, and generator noise during quiet hours. Some users have also noted neglect in maintenance tasks such as clearing firepits and trimming trees.
HostHosts are generally described as attentive and friendly, though there are isolated reports of unprofessional behavior. Ron and Tony are positively mentioned repeatedly.
Campground Map
PLUMAS NATIONAL FOREST - BECKWOURTH RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 7, BLAIRSDEN, CA 96103, USA
Driving directionsFrom Reno, travel north on Highway 395 to Highway 70 and turn west to Portola. 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 to the campground, which is on the left.
The roads leading to Lightning Tree Campground involve paved highways and county roads. Access is generally reliable year-round, but frequent strong winds can make the lake hazardous for small crafts. Road conditions are standard for rural areas.Nearby places
Portola (7 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Portola, CA, provides restaurants, stores, camping supplies, and fuel approximately 7 miles from the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
50 reviews
Lightning Tree is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Lightning Tree Campground is generally well-received, with users praising its cleanliness, spacious sites, and quiet atmosphere. However, some reviews cite issues with the distance to the lake, camp host behavior, and mosquito prevalence.
Review Summaries
Based on 50 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is frequently described as quiet, clean, and spacious, with well-maintained vault toilets and ample shade in many sites. Wildlife sightings and the proximity to Lake Davis are also...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the distance to the lake, the lack of bear boxes, and inconsistent behavior from camp hosts. Some users also mention that the campground feels like a parking lot due to...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray to combat mosquitoes, and be prepared for chilly nights even in summer. Consider driving to the lake for easier access, and note that there are no bear boxes, so plan food storage...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer: Highly popular with families due to warm weather and access to Lake Davis. Winter: Offers unique attractions like cross-country skiing and ice fishing, though conditions can be harsh....
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Vault toilets that weren't disgusting. They are cleaned and stocked every day.' – Brittany Alonso. 2. 'The campsite was beautiful and if it weren't for the angry host I would definitely visit...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 10: Large and private with lots of shade. Site 17: Spacious and suitable for large groups. Site 34: Close to bathrooms but with a 10-minute hike to the lake.
Based on 50 reviewsAccessibility Features
Campers with disabilities have positively noted the accessibility of certain sites and restroom facilities, with one camper specifically highlighting Site 5 as a favorite due to its accommodating...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Most reviewers appreciate that the campground is pet-friendly, though no specific amenities for pets are mentioned.
Based on 50 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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