Grizzly Forebay Campground

Greetings, fellow California adventurers! If you're yearning for a refreshing escape to the mountains, where clear waters meet towering pines, then Grizzly Forebay Campground in Plumas County is a destination you'll want to explore. Nestled within the expansive and beautiful Plumas National Forest, this campground offers a classic Northern California outdoor experience, perfect for families, anglers, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature. It’s a beloved spot for many locals who appreciate its convenient amenities combined with its stunning natural setting, particularly its proximity to Lake Davis.

Grizzly Forebay Campground is renowned for its inviting atmosphere and a good balance of services that make camping comfortable without losing the essence of being in the wilderness. Whether you prefer tent camping under the ample shade of mixed pine trees or bringing your RV, this campground is designed to accommodate various camping styles. Its location by Lake Davis provides a fantastic backdrop for a wide array of recreational activities, from fishing and boating to simply enjoying the serene lakeside views.

We understand that planning your next outdoor adventure in California requires reliable information. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with all the essential details about Grizzly Forebay Campground, drawing on publicly available data and insights into its offerings. From its precise location and accessibility to the specific services and highlights that set it apart, we'll equip you with the knowledge needed to plan a memorable and enjoyable trip to this Plumas County gem. Be sure to note its seasonal operations and reservation details to ensure a smooth visit.

Grizzly Forebay Campground is located in Plumas County, CA, USA, specifically on the south end of Lake Davis. Lake Davis is a 4,000-acre reservoir created in 1967, offering 32 miles of shoreline. This prime location places the campground within the Plumas National Forest, surrounded by mixed pine forests and offering picturesque views of the lake. The elevation of the campground is approximately 5,900 feet, providing a pleasant mountain climate, especially during the warmer summer months.

Access to Grizzly Forebay Campground is generally straightforward compared to some more remote California campgrounds. From Portola, California, you can take County Road 126 north for about seven miles. At the intersection with County Road 112, turn left and proceed approximately one mile, and the campground will be on your left. The roads leading to the campground are typically paved, making it accessible for a wide range of vehicles, including RVs and trailers.

However, it is crucial for visitors to be aware of the campground's seasonal operation. Grizzly Forebay Campground is typically open during the summer season. For instance, in 2024, it was expected to open around June 7th. Campground openings can be influenced by lingering snow in the spring and hazard tree conditions, so it's always advisable to check current conditions directly with the Plumas National Forest or on Recreation.gov before planning your trip. While some sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, 25 of the 55 campsites may be reserved in advance, up to six months ahead, via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Reservations must be made at least three days in advance. Always check for alerts and notices on the Plumas National Forest website for the most current information regarding closures or restrictions.

Grizzly Forebay Campground is well-regarded for its extensive list of services, providing a comfortable and convenient camping experience amidst the natural beauty of Plumas County. The campground aims to offer more than just a place to set up camp, with amenities that enhance your stay:

• Number of Sites: The campground boasts 55 campsites, offering a good number of options for visitors.
• Campsite Features: Each campsite is well-equipped with a picnic table, a paved parking area, a fire ring, and a grill, providing essential comforts for your outdoor meals and relaxation.
• Water and Restrooms: Piped drinking water is available throughout the campground, and flush toilets are provided, offering a significant convenience compared to more primitive sites. There are also accessible flush toilets available.
• Showers: While not directly within the campground, coin-operated showers are available a half-mile away at Grasshopper Flat Campground, providing an excellent option for staying fresh during your trip.
• Host On-Site: The presence of a campground host provides an added layer of assistance, ensuring rules are followed, and campers have a point of contact for questions or issues.
• Trash Service: Trash service is provided, which is a valuable amenity for maintaining a clean and responsible camping environment.
• Paved Roads: The roads within the campground are paved, making it easy to navigate for all types of vehicles, including RVs and trailers.
• Reservations and First-Come, First-Served: Approximately 25 of the 55 campsites can be reserved through Recreation.gov, allowing for planning ahead, while many other sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.
• Accessibility: There are two fully accessible sites equipped with grills, fire rings, water hydrants, hardened pads (one paved), and paved walkways leading to accessible toilet buildings, catering to visitors with specific accessibility needs.
• Vehicle Accommodations: Sites can accommodate up to two vehicles, though a fee is charged for a second vehicle parked at campsites. Camping trailers are permitted.

Grizzly Forebay Campground stands out for several key features and highlights that make it a highly desirable camping destination in Northern California. These attributes contribute to its popularity among locals and visitors alike:

• Lakeside Location on Lake Davis: The most prominent highlight is its direct proximity to Lake Davis. This 4,000-acre lake offers incredible opportunities for water-related activities such as fishing (known for rainbow and brown trout, bass, and catfish), boating, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. A boat ramp is conveniently located a half-mile north of the campground.
• Ample Shade from Mixed Pine Forest: The campground is set within a mixed pine forest, providing extensive shade for campsites. This is a significant benefit, especially during warm summer days, offering a comfortable and cool environment for campers.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With amenities like flush toilets, potable water, and the option to reserve sites, Grizzly Forebay is very suitable for families. The variety of recreational activities on and around Lake Davis also caters to different age groups and interests.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Bordered by the Smith Peak State Game Refuge, the area around Lake Davis is prime habitat for various wildlife and birds. Campers have opportunities for wildlife viewing, though it's important to be bear aware and store food properly.
• Scenic Driving and Exploration: The surrounding Plumas National Forest offers numerous forest roads for exploration, as well as hiking and mountain biking trails. Nearby attractions include the town of Portola, home to a large railroad museum, and the Smith Peak Fire Lookout.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Visitors appreciate the generally well-maintained facilities, including paved roads within the campground, clean sites with tables and fire rings, and functional restrooms.
• Combination of Reservable and First-Come Sites: The availability of both reservable sites (up to six months in advance) and first-come, first-served options provides flexibility for campers, catering to both planners and those on spontaneous trips.
• Beautiful Seasonal Changes: While best visited in summer, the surrounding area offers rich meadow rangeland and lovely stands of aspen, which provide beautiful fall colors, adding another dimension to its natural appeal.

For inquiries about Grizzly Forebay Campground, including current conditions, availability, and specific fees, it's best to contact the managing authority. As the campground is part of the Plumas National Forest and reservations are handled through Recreation.gov, here's the relevant contact information:

Address: Plumas County, CA, USA (The campground is on the south end of Lake Davis).

For more detailed information and direct contact for the Plumas National Forest, specifically the Beckwourth Ranger District which manages this area:

Beckwourth Ranger District Office

Address: 23 Mohawk Road (PO Box 7), Blairsden, CA 96103

Phone: (530) 836-2575 (This number is active and open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)

You can also check the official Plumas National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/plumas) for alerts and notices, or Recreation.gov (www.Recreation.gov) for reservations and detailed campground information. While a specific phone number for Grizzly Forebay Campground itself isn't provided, the Ranger District is the primary contact for all operational inquiries.

For California locals, Grizzly Forebay Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination, offering a quintessential mountain camping experience that perfectly aligns with the desires of those living in the state. Its prime location in Plumas County, within the beautiful Plumas National Forest and on the shores of Lake Davis, provides an accessible yet truly immersive escape into nature. This is particularly appealing for Californians seeking to get away from the more densely populated coastal and urban areas, offering a breath of fresh, crisp mountain air and a change of scenery.

The campground’s robust amenities, including flush toilets, piped water, and well-maintained sites with fire rings and picnic tables, make it a comfortable choice for families and those who appreciate some conveniences while still enjoying the outdoors. The availability of both reservable and first-come, first-served sites adds flexibility, catering to both planners and those on spontaneous weekend trips – a common characteristic of California's active outdoor community. The presence of a campground host further enhances the experience by providing on-site assistance and ensuring a pleasant environment for all.

Moreover, the abundance of recreational activities centered around Lake Davis, such as excellent fishing, boating, and swimming, provides ample opportunities for entertainment right at your doorstep. For locals who love to explore, the surrounding forest offers trails for hiking and mountain biking, as well as scenic drives. Being "bear aware" is a good practice for any California camper, and Grizzly Forebay reminds visitors of this important aspect of responsible wilderness enjoyment.

In essence, Grizzly Forebay Campground embodies the best of California's accessible mountain wilderness. It offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and essential comforts, making it an ideal choice for California residents looking to create lasting outdoor memories without venturing too far from home. It's a place where the pace slows down, and the natural world takes center stage, providing a much-needed respite for those seeking to reconnect with themselves, their loved ones, and the stunning environment of Northern California.

Grizzly Forebay Campground

Plumas County, CA, USA