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Plumas/Frenchman
Overview
Located within the Plumas National Forest, the Frenchman Lake Recreation Area offers a serene mountain getaway near Chilcoot. This high-altitude destination is centered around a sprawling reservoir, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat. The campgrounds here, including the well-known Frenchman Campground, emphasize a connection with nature rather than resort-style luxuries. Visitors are greeted by towering ponderosa pines and expansive views of the Sierra Nevada landscape, making it a premier spot for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of the Great Outdoors and a slower pace of life.
Location & Surroundings
The park is situated at an elevation of approximately 5,500 feet, tucked away in the eastern Sierra region. The landscape is characterized by a unique transition between alpine forests and high-desert sagebrush. Being a short drive from the Nevada border, the area feels isolated and peaceful, offering dark night skies perfect for stargazing. The proximity to Frenchman Lake means that many campsites are within walking distance of the water's edge, surrounded by rugged rocky outcrops and dense timber that provide a sense of seclusion and privacy for campers.
Amenities & Park Features
As a United States Forest Service facility, the amenities at Plumas/Frenchman focus on the essentials for traditional RV camping. Travelers will find vault toilets and access to potable water throughout the camping loops. Each site is typically equipped with a sturdy picnic table and fire ring, ideal for classic evening campfires. While there are no electricity or sewer hookups, the sites are generally spacious enough to accommodate a variety of RV sizes. There are also several boat launch ramps located around the lake to facilitate easy water access for guests.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is Frenchman Lake, which is renowned throughout the region for its excellent trout fishing and boating opportunities. Anglers often flock here to catch rainbow and brook trout from both the shore and motorized boats. For those who prefer land-based activities, the surrounding Plumas National Forest provides access to various hiking and mountain biking trails that weave through the mountains. During the winter months, the region transforms into a hub for ice fishing and snowmobiling, making it a versatile year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for self-contained RVers who enjoy boondocking-style amenities in a beautiful natural setting. It is a favorite for families looking to unplug and spend their days on the water without the distractions of modern technology. If you are an avid angler or a nature photographer seeking rugged mountain scenery, you will find exactly what you are looking for here. It is best suited for travelers who prioritize peace, quiet, and outdoor recreation over high-speed internet and full utility hookups.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Mason Maxfield
Great place not too many people.
Rodrigo Castillo
Really nice place to camp! Unfortunately our camping area was inclined but the place was great!
davis mclaughlin
Relaxing, nice weather and quiet A great getaway.
John O'Neal
Frenchmans campground had perfect conditions. The grass was green, the dirt was dry, the lake saw full and the sky was blue with amazing clouds passing by. It was very peaceful and relaxing.
Glen San Marcos
Let me start by saying that I live in my RV - at campgrounds, so my needs may be different than yours. For $34 you really don't get much. A picnic table and fire ring. There are quite a few vault toilets around, but when I was there they desperately needed pumping. No hookups in any site, but water spigots were available. My site, 14, was about as far away from the water as any site in that CG, but the walk to the water isn't bad. It's very easy to get to the shore. I'm a decent fisherman, and the fishing was horrible (I was there in July). Even though the cell coverage maps say there is Verizon coverage - there is not. None, zero. I was not able to even send a text while I was there. The sites were very small. I have a 25 foot Class C and I cannot imagine fitting much bigger rigs in most of these sites. I am also not a fan of the 'parallel parking' camp spots, and there are a few in this CG. Make sure you check the map (which is HORRIBLE on their site) as best you can before you make a reservation. One other thing I found strange is how far the picnic tables are away from the parking spot. If you are in a rig like me, and you use the picnic table...you may be in for a hike every time you go back and forth. And that hike may be relatively steep. Also, the area is in the burn area of the Beckwourth fire, and it shows. Just don't be surprised. Still, there are quite a few trees that provide ample shade in most sites. All in all, this place didn't really work for me, but I can see it as being a nice place for a family outing.