Big Cove (Plumas National Forest, Ca)
4.4248 reviewsQuick Facts
5,700 ftPrice
$38 - $71/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
38 campsites
Season
Open from May 23, 20...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
5,700 ftPrice
$38 - $71/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
38 campsites
Season
Open from May 23, 20...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsBig Cove (Plumas National Forest, Ca)
$38.00 - $71.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees for standard non-electric sites range from $38 to $71 per night. The fee does not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
Standard Site Fee$38.00
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$38.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider530-836-2575jackjodyparker@yahoo.com
What Campers Say
4.42
Recommended
Based on 48 reviews
83 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanshowersrestroomsspacious
Some mention
noise
"User reviews paint a positive picture of Big Cove Campground, highlighting its clean facilities, accommodating hosts, and scenic surroundings. However, some issues like party noise, lack of food lockers, and wasps are noted."
Fees & Passes at Big Cove (Plumas National Forest, Ca)
$38 - $71/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: 14 nights per visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Cancellations before the check-in date incur a $10 fee plus other applicable deductions. Late cancel...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Plumas National Forest - Recreation Area website.
Best Time to Camp at Big Cove (Plumas National Forest, Ca)
Summer transforms Big Cove into a sun-drenched paradise where warm days averaging 87°F invite swimmers and sunbathers to the lake's edge, while pleasantly cool evenings around 59°F are perfect for stargazing and campfire stories. The unique blend of desert and mountain weather creates surprisingly comfortable conditions, with moderate precipitation keeping the landscape refreshed without dampening outdoor plans.
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)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 23, 2025, to August 31, 2025, with reservations starting June 24, 2025.
- Current Alerts: Past reviews mention fire damage and some campsites being closed due to burns. Specific current alerts are not mentioned.
About Big Cove (Plumas National Forest, Ca)
Nestled along the shimmering shores of Frenchman Lake in Northeastern California, Big Cove Campground beckons families and outdoor enthusiasts to discover a perfect basecamp for adventure. This beloved destination seamlessly blends the tranquility of lakeside camping with endless opportunities for recreation—from casting a line into crystal-clear waters to paddling across the lake at sunset. Here, children's laughter mingles with the gentle lapping of waves as families create memories that last a lifetime.
Big Cove Campground offers a range of camping accommodations, including tent and RV sites. Accessible sites are available, and there are options for both single and double sites, accommodating different group sizes.
Historical SignificanceTime has sculpted this remarkable landscape where ancient volcanic forces once ruled. The dramatic shores of Frenchman Lake and the carved depths of Little Last Chance Canyon tell a geological story millions of years in the making, where molten lava once flowed and cooled into the foundations we explore today. These natural monuments stand as silent witnesses to the Earth's powerful creative forces.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Big Cove into a sun-drenched paradise where warm days averaging 87°F invite swimmers and sunbathers to the lake's edge, while pleasantly cool evenings around 59°F are perfect for stargazing and campfire stories. The unique blend of desert and mountain weather creates surprisingly comfortable conditions, with moderate precipitation keeping the landscape refreshed without dampening outdoor plans.
ElevationPerched at 5,700 feet above sea level, Big Cove occupies a magical sweet spot where mountain majesty meets desert mystique. This elevation gifts visitors with crisp, clean air and a climate that defies expectations—warm enough for summer water sports yet cool enough for comfortable hiking, with nights that showcase some of California's most spectacular star-filled skies.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere pine-scented forests give way to rugged desert scrub, Big Cove reveals nature's artistry in stunning contrast. The landscape unfolds like a living painting—emerald pines standing sentinel over sage-dotted hillsides, while Little Last Chance Creek winds through its self-carved canyon, creating hidden pools and cascading over time-worn rocks. This unique ecosystem offers visitors an extraordinary glimpse into California's diverse natural heritage.
Geological RegionBig Cove sits at nature's crossroads, where the untamed Sierra Nevada mountains embrace the expansive high desert at 5,700 feet. The centerpiece of this geological wonderland is Little Last Chance Creek, whose patient waters have carved through ancient lava flows over countless millennia to create the breathtaking Little Last Chance Canyon. This dramatic intersection of ecosystems creates a landscape unlike anywhere else in California, where volcanic history meets alpine beauty in perfect harmony.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is wheelchair-accessible, with paved roads and campsites. One user recommended it for large families with handicapped members, noting its suitability for wheelchairs, walkers, and canes.
Sites SizeSites are spacious, with some double sites available for larger groups. Reviews describe the sites as "large and flat," providing ample room and privacy.
Sites PrivacySites are well-separated, offering a good level of privacy. One review highlighted "elbow room between sites" as a key positive.
Total Campsites38 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome sites are closer to the lake and provide better views. Double sites cater well to larger groups but may attract noisy campers.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 Noon
Stay Limit
14 nights per visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Typically accommodates up to 12 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes single-family and double sites with paved roads and accessible pathways.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to August 31, 2025, with reservations starting June 24, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov and associated applications. Phone support is also available.
Walk-in Availability15 out of the 38 campsites are reservable during peak season; the remaining sites are first-come, first-served. First-come sites must be occupied on the first night of rental.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before the check-in date incur a $10 fee plus other applicable deductions. Late cancellations are penalized by forfeiting the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Big Cove Campground, situated near Frenchman Lake, offers a myriad of recreational activities. Visitors can engage in fishing, boating, swimming, and various water sports. The nearby Little Last Chance Creek is ideal for streamside recreation, nature viewing, and photography. The area is also a hub for hiking, biking, picnicking, and exploring forest roads.
Hiking
The campground provides access to multiple trails, including paved paths leading to the lake. These trails cater to a range of abilities, making them popular among families.Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound in Frenchman Lake and Little Last Chance Creek. Anglers can enjoy lake fishing as well as streamside fishing along the creek.Swimming
Frenchman Lake features designated swimming areas, and the lake's blue waters are perfect for a refreshing dip.Biking
Biking is a popular activity in the area, with many forest roads open for exploration.Boating
Boating activities include canoeing, paddleboarding, skiing, and jet skiing. The lake is well-suited for various watercraft.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with daily sightings of deer and even an American Bald Eagle reported by campers. Wasps, however, are a noted nuisance.Water Sports
Water sports like paddleboarding, skiing, jet skiing, and canoeing are available at Frenchman Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground. Visitors are encouraged to collect firewood locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears frequent the area. Wasps are reported as a nuisance. Visitors are advised to use bear-safe practices and hang wasp traps if necessary.
Active alertsPast reviews mention fire damage and some campsites being closed due to burns. Specific current alerts are not mentioned.
Weather at Big Cove (Plumas National Forest, Ca)
33
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 1.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services, including hospitals and ranger stations, are not explicitly mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available, but user reviews indicate a need for more receptacles to handle waste effectively.
Proximity to water featuresNear Frenchman Lake, which offers fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. The walk to the lake from some sites may be inconvenient for some visitors.
Common complaintsSome campers reported issues with loud noise during quiet hours, party crowds in double sites, and generator noise. A lack of food lockers and insufficient trash receptacles were also highlighted.
HostCamp hosts are consistently praised for their helpfulness and dedication to cleanliness. Hosts sell firewood and enforce rules to varying degrees.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Reno, Nevada, take Highway 395 north for 24 miles. Merge onto State Route 70 west and continue for 5 miles to the town of Chilcoot. Turn right on State Route 284 and continue for 8 miles to Frenchman Lake. Cross the dam and proceed 2 miles to the campground.
Paved roads lead directly to the campground. Roads are considered accessible and well-maintained. Seasonal closures or weather-related restrictions are not mentioned.Nearby places
Chilcoot (8 miles), Loyalton (distance not specified)
Nearby supplies
Stores in the towns of Chilcoot and Loyalton offer supplies, and Goodwin’s grocery store is approximately 30 minutes away from the campground. Firewood is sold at the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
48 reviews
Big Cove (Plumas National Forest, Ca) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews paint a positive picture of Big Cove Campground, highlighting its clean facilities, accommodating hosts, and scenic surroundings. However, some issues like party noise, lack of food lockers, and wasps are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 48 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and the helpfulness of the camp hosts. "The restrooms and showers are spotless and smell nice," noted one camper, while another...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise from parties and RV generators, lack of food lockers, and wasps were common complaints. One user mentioned, "There was loud, thumping music and several groups of partying people making noise...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a wasp trap to manage pests effectively, and consider camping on weekdays to avoid noisy weekend crowds. Early arrival is recommended for securing first-come, first-served sites.
Based on 48 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the campground's popularity and were generally positive regarding weather and recreational activities. However, noise complaints were more frequent during peak seasons.
Based on 48 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "The camp hosts are amazing people. Sites and facilities are clean." 2. "Restrooms were well stocked with hand soap and toilet paper." 3. "There wasn’t too much bug activity except at dusk." 4....
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 11 was noted as closed due to burn damage in one review. Double sites were appreciated for their size but criticized for attracting noisy groups.
Based on 48 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible paved roads and campsites received positive comments, making the campground suitable for families with handicapped members.
Based on 48 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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