Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca)

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Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca)

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

First-Come

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Not Allowed

Opens Mount Hough Ranger Station site

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Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca)
No fees available
Campsite Fees
Fees are collected and used by the Mount Hough Ranger Station to purchase cleaning supplies, toilet paper and for general cleaning of campsites.
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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Provider
(530) 283-0555


Best Time to Camp at Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca)

At over 6,000 feet, Silver Lake Campground immerses you in a true high alpine environment where the air is crisp and thin, and the weather can shift with mountain moods. The elevation brings cooler temperatures even in summer, making it a refreshing escape from valley heat, though visitors should come prepared for the unpredictable nature of mountain weather and check current conditions before arrival.

Spring (Mar-May)

Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.

Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)

Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.

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

    About Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca)

    Perched at 6,000 feet in the Plumas National Forest, Silver Lake Campground offers a peaceful alpine retreat where privacy and solitude come naturally. Well-spaced campsites serve as your basecamp for exploring crystalline high-elevation lakes, challenging trails to Spanish Peak and the Pacific Crest Trail, and OHV routes that wind through landscapes marked by the 2021 Dixie Fire's dramatic transformation.
    A small, rustic campground of eight first-come/first-serve sites designed for solitude and access to high‑alpine recreation. Specific distinctions for tent, RV, group, cabin or glamping sites are not provided.
    Historical SignificanceSpanish Peak holds a quiet piece of forest history within its summit rocks—the remnants of an old fire lookout that once stood sentinel over these mountains. For decades, watchful eyes scanned these horizons for the first wisps of smoke, a reminder of the ongoing relationship between fire, forest, and those who protect these wild places.
    Weather and SeasonsAt over 6,000 feet, Silver Lake Campground immerses you in a true high alpine environment where the air is crisp and thin, and the weather can shift with mountain moods. The elevation brings cooler temperatures even in summer, making it a refreshing escape from valley heat, though visitors should come prepared for the unpredictable nature of mountain weather and check current conditions before arrival.
    ElevationThe campground sits at just over 6,000 feet, placing you firmly in the high country where the forest begins its transition to alpine character and every breath reminds you that you've left the lowlands behind.
    Natural Features and ScenerySilver Lake spreads before you like a mirror set among granite giants, where massive boulders frame shorelines and reflect the endless alpine sky. The eastern shore beckons hikers onto trails that climb toward Bucks Summit and the legendary Pacific Crest Trail, while Spanish Peak rises as a worthy challenge for those seeking panoramic views. This is high country at its finest—where granite, water, and sky compose a landscape of elemental beauty.
    Geological RegionPlumas National Forest
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    Campsite details

    Sites SizeSites are spread out and isolated to provide solitude and a quiet experience.
    Sites PrivacySites are spread out and isolated to provide solitude and a quiet camping experience.
    Total Campsites8 campsites
    Recommended CampsitesParking for day use and hiking is located near the lake by the vault toilets. Sites are spread out and isolated, providing greater privacy and quiet.

    Best Campsites

    Curated by campers, for campers
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    Reserving a campsite

    Tents
    Tents are not allowed
    RV vehicles
    RV vehicles are not allowed
    Primitive
    Primitive are not allowed
    Reservable
    Reservations are not allowed

    Site layoutEight sites that are spread out and isolated to provide solitude; sites are first-come/first-serve.
    Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come/first-serve
    Cancellation PolicyFirst-come, first-served (no reservations).

    Amenities available

    Fire rings
    Food storage lockers
    Picnic tables
    Flush toilets
    Vault toilets

    Activities you can enjoy

    High alpine lakes, granite boulders and scenic views provide natural recreation opportunities. Access to hiking is located along the eastern side of Silver Lake with routes continuing to Bucks Summit on the PCT and to Spanish Peak. OHV (off-highway vehicle) routes also leave from the campground area but were severely impacted by the Dixie Fire in 2021 and have not been maintained, creating potential hazards from trees and debris.
    Hiking
    Access to hiking is located along the eastern side of Silver Lake; trails continue up to Bucks Summit on the Pacific Crest Trail and to Spanish Peak.
    Climbing
    Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
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    Campground rules

    • Pets are not allowed
    • Each site is equipped with a fire ring. No additional fire policy or restriction details are provided.

    Hazards

    General hazardsOHV routes in the area were severely impacted by the Dixie Fire in 2021 and have not been maintained; hazard trees and debris may be present and could impede travel.

    Weather at Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca)

    48
    °F
    Dec 11
    Thursday
    Clear sky
    Precipitation: 0%
    Humidity: 36%
    Wind: 3.8 mph
    Clear sky

    Weather History
    Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

    Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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    Reveal forecast

    Good to know

    Trash and recyclingNo trash service is provided.
    Proximity to water featuresCampground is adjacent to Silver Lake; parking for day use and hiking is located near the lake by the vault toilets.

    Campground Map

    Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca)
    Driving directionsSix-mile drive to Silver Lake. Parking for day use and hiking is located near the lake by the vault toilets.

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    Limited Reviews
    Silver Lake Campground (Plumas National Forest, Ca) has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
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    Last updated December 10, 2025
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