Sundew Campground

For Californians seeking an immaculate and welcoming escape into the heart of the Northern Sierra Mountains, Sundew Campground at Bucks Lake stands out as a premier destination. Renowned for its exceptional cleanliness, friendly atmosphere, and stunning natural surroundings, this campground offers a truly refreshing outdoor experience. If you're a local resident looking for a pristine spot to pitch your tent or park your RV, enjoy lake activities, and be surrounded by the beauty of the Plumas National Forest, Sundew Campground is consistently praised as one of the best places to camp.

This comprehensive article aims to provide you with an in-depth look at what makes Sundew Campground such a beloved spot. We'll explore its idyllic location along Bucks Lake, detail the services and facilities available, highlight its unique features, and explain why it's a perfect choice for Californians seeking a memorable and well-maintained camping adventure. From the moment you arrive to the serene moments by the lake, Sundew Campground promises an experience that truly connects you with nature while providing the comforts of a diligently cared-for site.

Sundew Campground is ideally situated on Bucklin Rd, Meadow Valley, CA 95956, USA. This address places it directly on the western shore of the beautiful Bucks Lake, nestled within the expansive Plumas National Forest in the Northern Sierra Mountains. This location is a significant draw, offering campers direct access to the lake and its myriad recreational opportunities, all while being enveloped by a verdant forest of fir and pine trees.

The campground is set at an elevation of 5,500 feet, which provides a refreshing escape from the summer heat of lower elevations. While the surrounding area has unfortunately experienced fire damage in some parts, the campground itself is noted for its "beautiful (unburned) trees," preserving its scenic appeal. Access to Sundew Campground is generally via well-maintained forest roads. For those traveling from Quincy, it's about 17 miles west on Bucks Lake Road. From Oroville, there are two routes, either via Highway 70 through the Feather River Canyon to Quincy, then to Bucks Lake, or a more direct route via Olive/Hwy 162 that is open primarily during summer months after the road is plowed. It is always advisable to check current road status and any alerts from the Plumas National Forest, especially during shoulder seasons or after significant weather events.

Despite some sites being on a slope, particularly those closer to the water, the overall accessibility is good. The tranquil setting and relatively easy access for a mountain campground make it a convenient and desirable choice for a quick getaway or an extended stay for Californians from various parts of the state.

• Campsites: Sundew Campground offers 20-22 single-family campsites suitable for both tents and RVs (up to 22 ft max RV length). Each site is equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table, accommodating up to 2 vehicles and 8 people.

• Restrooms: The campground provides vault toilets. Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness of these facilities, with the "smell of pine" helping to mask any typical odors, indicating diligent maintenance by the camp hosts.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available on-site, a crucial amenity for any camping experience.

• Bear Boxes: For food storage and safety in bear country, bear boxes are available at each site, helping campers securely store food and attractants.

• Firewood for Purchase: Firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host, adding convenience for those who enjoy traditional campfires (always check for fire restrictions before lighting a fire).

• Camp Hosts: Sundew Campground consistently receives rave reviews for its camp hosts. Described as "the absolute best," "so nice and helpful and hard working," they contribute significantly to the positive atmosphere and overall cleanliness of the campground.

• Lake Access: The campground provides direct lake access for various water activities, and nearby boat ramps (at Bucks Lake Marina and Bucks Lakeshore Resort) are available for those with watercraft.

• Accessible Sites: Some sites are noted to be accessible, though specific details on their features should be confirmed with the forest service.

• Exceptional Cleanliness: This is arguably the most highlighted feature of Sundew Campground. Visitors frequently remark on how clean the campground is, noting that it's often raked before new campers arrive and that the grounds and bushes are meticulously trimmed. This dedication to cleanliness greatly enhances the camping experience.

• Outstanding Camp Hosts: The presence of "the absolute best" camp hosts like Mike and Jeni (and other lovely hosts) is a recurring theme in reviews. Their hard work, helpfulness, and welcoming smiles create a friendly and positive environment that sets Sundew apart.

• Beautiful Lakefront Location: Situated directly on Bucks Lake, the campground offers stunning views and easy access to the water. Some campsites are even lakefront, providing unparalleled views and immediate access for water-based activities.

• Abundant Pine and Fir Trees: The campground is set amidst a beautiful forest of fir and pine trees, providing ample shade during warm summer months and contributing to a classic mountain camping ambiance. Importantly, despite nearby fires, the trees within the campground remain unburned and lovely.

• Year-Round Recreation Opportunities: While camping is seasonal, the broader Bucks Lake area offers a wide array of year-round recreational activities including fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking (with access to the Pacific Crest Trail nearby), snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing.

• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting of Plumas National Forest means ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, enhancing the immersive outdoor experience.

• Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the campground maintains a tranquil and serene atmosphere, perfect for those looking to relax and disconnect from urban noise.

Address: Bucklin Rd, Meadow Valley, CA 95956, USA

Phone: While the prompt provided (530) 257-2151, general contact for Plumas National Forest campgrounds, including Sundew, is often through the Mt. Hough Ranger District at (530) 283-0555. For reservations, Recreation.gov (1-877-444-6777) is the primary platform.

For Californians, Sundew Campground at Bucks Lake truly represents an ideal local escape into the natural splendor of the Northern Sierra. Its exceptional reputation for cleanliness and the outstanding dedication of its camp hosts create an unusually welcoming and well-maintained environment, setting it apart from many other campgrounds. This focus on quality ensures that visitors can fully relax and enjoy their surroundings without typical camping concerns.

The campground’s prime location on the western shore of Bucks Lake offers a diverse range of activities right at your doorstep. Whether you’re an avid angler, love to paddle on calm waters, or simply want to relax by the lake, the immediate access to Bucks Lake is a huge draw. Furthermore, the beautiful, unburned fir and pine trees within the campground provide that quintessential forest atmosphere, offering shade and a sense of deep immersion in nature, even after regional fire events.

For those looking for an authentic yet comfortable camping experience without the frills of full hookups, Sundew Campground delivers. It encourages a back-to-basics approach while providing essential amenities like clean restrooms and bear boxes, ensuring both convenience and safety. Its accessibility from various parts of California, coupled with the myriad of recreational opportunities in the surrounding Plumas National Forest, makes it a perfect choice for weekend getaways or longer vacations. Sundew Campground isn't just a place to camp; it's a meticulously cared-for haven that allows Californians to truly appreciate the natural beauty and hospitality of their home state.

For a visual preview of Sundew Campground in Plumas National Forest, you can watch this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1SXEPKkY0U) video.

Sundew Campground

Bucklin Rd, Meadow Valley, CA 95956, USA