Gold Lake
At the southern part of the Plumas National Forest, just north of Tahoe National Forest lies Gold Lake – a quintessential California (sierras) mountain lake – with clear/cool water and plenty of evergreens and rocks. I was there in early/mid June and found the area quite peaceful and picturesque.
It was not crowded (late afternoon) in the day use area, which has a small sand/beach type area which makes water access easier for little kids. The camping and boating areas also were not busy, but I am guessing that is because it was early summer and in middle of the week. The water temperature was cold, although not the harshest I’ve experienced (no visible snow on the shore)! I did swim for a bit but it took me a while to submerge all the way. If you plan to go into the water outside of the day use area, I would recommend water shoes or tight aquatic sandals to negotiate the slimy rocks.
Gold Lake is part of the Lakes Basin Recreation Area which contains 20+ small lakes, each with their own topography, charm and opportunities for fun activities. Many of the lakes have small resorts or cabins associated with them. It seems near impossible to book a stay in one of these cabins or resorts, due to the limited supply and immense natural beauty they offer. If you have flexibility with dates then getting on the cancelation list might work.
Getting there: from Graeagle (north), it is about 20 minutes of scenic driving. Arriving via the aptly named Gold Lake Highway, I would recommend passing the local road which leads to the campsites and instead take the main Gold Lake Road when you see the traditional large wood sign for the lake/marina. The part of Gold Lake Road which goes along the lake and serves the campsites is advised for 4-wheel drive cars with decent ground clearance.
From Truckee (south-east) it is about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The road into the camp from Gold Lake Highway is paved but has some sizable pot holes – so go slow and be careful!
There were a few boats around and one speedboat did take some rip-roaring laps around the lake. So it’s not all peace and quiet but certainly less frenzied and loud than the more popular and accessible lakes.
I only stayed for an hour or so since I had already done a long hike that day. But if I went back I would try camping overnight. Reservations are possible but most sites are only available on a first-come first-served (FF) basis.
Expand to see my scouting notes about the various campsites
- Sites #2-12: I didn’t look closely at these since they were mostly occupied. They are within a short walk from the day use “beach” area and the boat parking. As of right now it looks like more than half are available ‘FF’.
- Sites #35-38: they are a little bit out of the way up on a hill. I didn’t check them out but it could be a nice area if wanting your own section with a few sites among friends.
- The road to the sites listed below is advised for 4-wheel drive cars only. By my estimation, my Toyota Sienna AWD could carefully navigate up to site #22 or so, at least in dry weather.
- Sites #13-19: very scenic but the lots appeared sloped to varying degrees, which might make your sleeping bag (and you) slide within your tent. Boiling water without spilling could be a challenge as well, if the tables are not level.
- Sites #20-24: this might be the sweet spot – somewhat level lots, close to the lake and not too difficult to get to. They are somewhat close together, so this might not be the best option if you want more privacy.
- Sites #25-34: I didn’t go this far along the road. These may be more difficult to get to without a serious 4WD vehicle that has ground clearance and possibly a shorter wheelbase.