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Plumas/Big Cove
Overview
Nestled within the vast expanse of the Plumas National Forest, Plumas/Big Cove offers a quintessential High Sierra escape. Located on the shores of Frenchman Lake, this campground provides a serene environment where the scent of Jeffrey pines fills the air. It serves as a peaceful retreat for those looking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the rugged beauty of Northern California’s mountain landscapes near a scenic reservoir.
Location & Surroundings
The park is situated near the small community of Chilcoot, CA, sitting at an elevation of approximately 5,500 feet. This high-altitude location ensures cooler summer temperatures and stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The landscape is characterized by open pine forests and rocky outcroppings, providing a dramatic backdrop for the deep blue waters of the reservoir. Travelers can enjoy wide-open spaces and the relatively remote feel of the eastern Sierra Nevada.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional Forest Service destination, the focus here is on a rustic experience rather than modern luxury. The sites feature paved parking spurs suitable for many RV sizes, along with picnic tables and campfire rings for evening gatherings. While there are no utility hookups, the park provides potable water stations and vault toilets throughout the loops. Many sites are positioned to offer a view of the water or easy access to the shoreline.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is undoubtedly Frenchman Lake, a popular spot for trout fishing, jet skiing, and kayaking. Several boat ramps are located just a short drive from the campsites, making water access convenient. For those who prefer land-based adventures, the surrounding forest offers miles of scenic hiking trails and opportunities for mountain biking. Birdwatchers often visit the area to spot bald eagles and ospreys that nest near the water’s edge during the summer months.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for self-contained RVers who appreciate a boondocking-style experience with the convenience of a level, paved pad. It is a perfect fit for families looking for a classic camping trip focused on outdoor recreation and water sports. If you enjoy quiet evenings under a starry sky and a slower pace of life away from the city, this park provides the perfect mountain sanctuary.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Trish Shepherd
One of my favorite places to camp that’s not too far from Reno!! Beautiful and great people. There is a Little Rock canyon across the lake from the campground that is unreal… and so peaceful
F4iGuy
Awesome spot. The host jaryd is probably one of the best hosts I've ever had. 10/10
Sunny D
First time at this campground and overall great experience. A beach within walking distance from the campground to set up at or you could drive to other locations for different water options. Camp host was nice and kept the bathrooms stocked and clean and kept us informed if we could burn fires at night. Neighbors were a little close, which not the end of the world, but if you have an overly loud and obnoxious neighbor that likes to yell at his other neighbors it did become annoying. We had campsite 36 which was okay. A lot of the day spent in full sun so definitely hot! Having never been there before and snagging a last minute site that opened up in reservation I couldn’t be picky. I will say if you have the opportunity to make an early reservation that campsite 25 would be the ideal spot as well as the others on the lakeside loop. If you have dogs beware of the food stealing and instigating chipmunks, lol! It kept our GSP on alert the entire weekend. 😂
Sean Villagracia
Awesome place! The sites are spacious and well equipped. Working toilets and also showers along with potable water easily accessible as there are spigots every couple of sites. The lake can be a bit annoying to get to if you aren’t camped too close to it, especially because you can’t park near it and have to walk. We went with a big group of friends and spent a few nights there. Someone brought jet skis and others brought floaties, kayaks, and paddle boards. Definitely recommend it! It was during the heat wave for us but our site had great tree coverage so the shade saved us. Only just under an hour from Reno so it’s a quick drive without much hassle and Goodwin’s is right off of HWY 70 if you need to stock/restock supplies. It’s about a half hour from the campground and they have everything you need. Even hot food and a little cafe! There wasn’t too much bug activity except at dusk. Bring bug spray, but I don’t think it’s too terrible if you forget it.
Cyndi Williams
Sad to see our favorite camping areas burned out! Hopefully it's open for next year!
Kris Youngquist
Seems like a great idea at first. I’ve been trying to get a spot here for years, they’re always booked. why?
Bailee Dalton
Dan and Darlene are nice people they are sweet. The other host is Reta and she’s my grandmother if you go up there on a weekend maybe you might see ME
Diane Olsen
This is a Great place to escape for a couple of days. Especially if you have access to a boat or kayaks or other toys. Great place to take the family for a 2 or 3 day weekend
Sierra Valley CBD
Frenchman's lake great place been going there since about 6 years old.
Tiago Moura
I can heard Nick and Alicia sing "This Land is Your Land" in the summer at the Big Cove camp. 🏕💀 #FearTheWalkingDead