Grizzly
PLUMAS NATIONAL FOREST - BECKWOURTH RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 7, BLAIRSDEN, CA 96103, USA
Grizzly
$30.00 - $38.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Grizzly Campground charges $38 per night during peak season and $30 per night during the first-come, first-served season. Additional fees include $8...
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Standard Site Fee$38.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$38.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider530-836-2575jandmtharp@earthlink.net
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, Grizzly Campground beckons families and outdoor enthusiasts to discover the pristine beauty of Lake Davis. Wake up to the sound of birds chirping through towering pines, spend your days casting lines into crystal-clear waters teeming with fish, or explore scenic hiking trails that wind through mountain meadows. After a day of adventure, gather around your campfire ring with its convenient grill, share stories under starlit skies, and enjoy the comfort of modern amenities including flush toilets and fresh drinking water at every turn.
The campground accommodates a mix of tent and RV camping. There are no utility hookups, but the sites are spacious and well-suited for families.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape shaped by both nature and human ingenuity. Lake Davis emerged in 1967 as an ambitious project to nurture thriving fish populations while securing water resources for the historic town of Portola. Today, this man-made marvel has become a natural treasure, drawing visitors who appreciate both its ecological importance and recreational opportunities. History buffs will delight in a short drive to Portola's renowned Western Pacific Railroad Museum, where the golden age of rail travel comes alive through meticulously preserved locomotives and fascinating exhibits.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Grizzly Campground delivers the perfect mountain escape, with gloriously clear skies and comfortable temperatures that hover between a crisp 55°F in the early morning to a pleasant 83°F during afternoon adventures. The dry conditions create ideal camping weather, though seasoned visitors know to secure their gear when the legendary Lake Davis winds pick up, transforming the placid waters into a churning expanse that commands respect from kayakers and small boat enthusiasts.
ElevationPerched at 5,777 feet above sea level, Grizzly Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where summer's heat gives way to cool, pine-scented breezes. This elevated paradise provides the perfect escape from valley temperatures, creating an alpine atmosphere where morning mist dances across the lake and evening temperatures invite cozy campfire gatherings.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic pines tower overhead like nature's cathedral, their branches creating a verdant canopy that filters golden sunlight onto your campsite. While the sparse understory offers an open, airy feel perfect for family activities, the surrounding landscape bursts with diversity—from sweeping meadow rangelands that bloom with wildflowers to shimmering aspen groves that whisper secrets in the breeze. Though most campsites are set back from the water's edge, the eastern shore location ensures Lake Davis remains your constant companion, its presence felt in every cool breeze and glimpsed through breaks in the forest.
Geological RegionDiscover your place within the magnificent Lake Davis Recreation Area, where 32 miles of scenic shoreline create endless opportunities for exploration. This jewel of the Plumas National Forest showcases the diverse beauty of the northern Sierra Nevada, from dense pine forests that stretch to the horizon to expansive meadow rangelands that paint the landscape in shades of green and gold. Here, the ancient geological forces that shaped these mountains meet the modern recreational paradise that draws visitors from around the world.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityTwo campsites are specifically designated as accessible. The campground offers flush toilets with lighting and other basic accommodations.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious, capable of accommodating two vehicles and providing ample room for tents and RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the lack of understory vegetation. However, the tall pine trees offer ample shade.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider avoiding sites near noisy groups; bring leveling equipment for sloped sites and personal potable water due to occasional water issues.
Best CampsitesSites 36, 39, and 49 are mentioned favorably in reviews as spacious and well-maintained.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay: 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates up to two vehicles and likely a standard number of guests.
Groups
No specific details about group sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features single-family sites arranged in loops. Sites are equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 23 to August 31; first-come, first-served availability from September 1 to September 28.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov through the website, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityA large portion of campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis during specific periods.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, and the cost of the first night's stay is forfeited for late cancellations (defined as cancellations within 24 hours of check-in). Additional fees apply for changes made to reservations.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Grizzly Campground offers abundant recreational activities in and around Lake Davis. Popular activities include fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The area is also suitable for hunting. Visitors frequently enjoy observing the diverse wildlife, which includes deer and birds of prey.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available in the vicinity, including routes providing scenic views of Lake Davis and the surrounding pine forests.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction, with opportunities to catch rainbow and brown trout, bass, and catfish. The lake features numerous access points for anglers.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in Lake Davis, with some campers mentioning the calm waters as ideal for a leisurely swim.Biking
Mountain biking is a popular activity in the area, with trails offering a mix of terrain.Boating
Boating is encouraged, but motorized sports like water skiing and jet skiing are not allowed, ensuring a quieter experience.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with deer, bears, eagles, and other bird species commonly sighted by campers.Winter Activities
The source does not mention any specific winter activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are supported due to the quiet nature of Lake Davis.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated rings; campers are advised to adhere to fire safety guidelines, especially during peak wildfire season.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity warrants strict food storage practices. Strong winds can make Lake Davis hazardous for small craft.
Active alertsFrequent strong winds and bear sightings reported in user reviews; potable water contamination noted in some recent reviews.
Weather forecast
51
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The closest town, Portola, provides emergency services including a hospital, police, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to August 31
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but no details on recycling or pickup schedules are provided.
Proximity to water featuresLake Davis is within walking distance, offering fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation.
Common complaintsNoise and lack of enforcement of quiet hours are frequent complaints. Other issues include sloped campsites, cleanliness concerns, and additional fees.
HostCampground hosts are generally described as helpful and friendly. Some reviews mention inconsistent enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
PLUMAS NATIONAL FOREST - BECKWOURTH RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 7, BLAIRSDEN, CA 96103, USA
Driving directionsFrom Reno, travel north on Highway 395 to Highway 70 and turn west to Portola. From Portola, take County Road 126 north for 7 miles, then County Road 112 to the east side of Lake Davis. Continue approximately 1 mile to the campground, which is on the left.
Road access is relatively straightforward via paved roads. Seasonal conditions, such as snow, may affect accessibility, as Grizzly is located at an elevation of 5,777 feet.Nearby places
Portola (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Portola, located 9 miles away, offers groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials
additional supplies may be found at local shops near Lake Davis.
Camper Reviews
4.3
70 reviews
Grizzly is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Grizzly Campground is generally well-regarded, with an average sentiment score of 4.14. Visitors praise the natural beauty, spacious campsites, and friendly camp hosts. However, noise disturbances and maintenance issues were raised by some reviewers.
Review Summaries
Based on 70 reviews
What Campers Love
Common praise includes the spacious campsites, scenic lake views, abundant wildlife, clean facilities, and helpful camp hosts. "The host was super friendly. The views were to die for," noted one...
Based on 70 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues include noise disturbances from other campers, lack of bear lockers, uneven or poorly maintained campsites, and limited enforcement of quiet hours. A reviewer stated, "I was surrounded by...
Based on 70 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing cash for fees, being prepared for bear activity, and checking site conditions beforehand. "Don't forget to bring cash if you're paying for reservations in person!" advised...
Based on 70 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with the campground being described as great for fishing and kayaking. However, noise issues and crowded conditions are more frequent during peak season. Fall is...
Based on 70 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This is one of our favorite campgrounds. You get a lot of space, the scenery is gorgeous, and every year we see deer, bears, and the fishing is plentiful." - Diana Heldenbrand. "Nice quiet little...
Based on 70 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 28 was criticized for having broken asphalt and being uneven, while Site 44 was praised for its proximity to fresh water access and a bald eagle nest. Site 36 received positive remarks for being...
Based on 70 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible sites and flush toilets with lighting were positively noted. However, some campers raised concerns about uneven terrain in certain spots, making mobility challenging.
Based on 70 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and several reviewers mentioned enjoying the camping experience with their dogs. However, leash rules are enforced.
Based on 70 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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