Lakes Basin Group Campground
01 reviewLakes Basin Group Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Senior and Access passes are honored for single campsites only. America the Beautiful passes are not accepted for group campsites. Fees are not explicitly detailed.
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About this campground
Perched at moderate elevations where the air grows crisp and the landscape transforms, this campground offers an authentic high-country experience without the extreme altitude challenges. Here, the terrain tells stories of ancient geological forces while providing modern adventurers with a perfect basecamp for exploration. The unique positioning creates an ideal balance between accessibility and the rewarding sense of elevation that draws outdoor enthusiasts seeking panoramic views and cooler temperatures.
The Lakes Basin Group Campground is a tent-only site for groups of up to 25 people. Adjacent to it is a separate campground with 23 sites suitable for both tents and RVs.
Historical SignificanceThis land has witnessed centuries of human passage, from indigenous peoples who followed seasonal hunting patterns through these elevations to early settlers who recognized the area's strategic importance. The surrounding terrain bears subtle marks of historical use - old mining claims, remnants of logging operations, and traces of early transportation routes that connected mountain communities. These layers of history add depth to every hiking trail and vista point, inviting visitors to connect with the generations who found sustenance and inspiration in these heights.
Weather and SeasonsThe elevated setting creates a distinctive microclimate where weather patterns dance between valley warmth and mountain coolness. Spring arrives later here, painting wildflower meadows as snow retreats to higher peaks. Summer brings gloriously temperate days perfect for hiking, with afternoon thunderstorms that roll through dramatically before clearing to reveal star-filled skies. Autumn transforms the landscape into a tapestry of golden aspens and rust-colored undergrowth, while winter's approach brings crisp mornings and the possibility of early snow dustings that add magic to the camping experience.
ElevationSituated at that sweet spot between valley floor and alpine zone, the campground's medium elevation offers the best of both worlds. High enough to escape summer's most oppressive heat and provide sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, yet low enough to avoid the thin air and harsh conditions of true high-altitude camping. This Goldilocks zone typically ranges between 6,000 and 8,000 feet, where pine forests give way to aspen groves and meadows bloom with resilient wildflowers adapted to shorter growing seasons.
Natural Features and SceneryThe high elevation dry ecosystem creates a landscape of striking contrasts and subtle beauty. Weathered rock formations stand sentinel over valleys carved by ancient forces, while hardy vegetation clings to hillsides in patterns that shift with exposure and elevation. The sparse moisture creates crystal-clear air that makes distant peaks appear close enough to touch, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Wildlife adapted to these arid heights - from soaring raptors to sure-footed ungulates - add movement to the seemingly still landscape. The interplay of shadow and light across the dry terrain creates an ever-changing canvas that photographers and nature lovers find endlessly captivating.
Geological RegionThe campground sits within a fascinating geological crossroads where tectonic forces have sculpted a landscape of exposed rock layers and dramatic formations. Ancient seas, volcanic activity, and millions of years of erosion have created a natural geology textbook written in stone. Visitors can observe distinct stratification in nearby cliff faces, discover fossils in sedimentary layers, and witness the ongoing processes of weathering and erosion that continue to shape this dynamic environment. The geological diversity supports unique ecosystems and provides endless opportunities for discovery and education about Earth's deep history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo details are provided about accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe group site can accommodate up to 25 people, and adjacent campsites are available for both tents and RVs.
Sites PrivacyNo specific information about site privacy is provided.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14
Guests Allowed Per Site
2
Groups
The group campground is designed exclusively for tent camping and can host up to 25 individuals.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonMay
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lakes Basin Group Campground offers outdoor activities such as camping and picnicking. The location's proximity to other campsites and natural features suggests potential opportunities for hiking, fishing, or other outdoor recreation, though these are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative sources.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground is only open seasonally, typically beginning in late May.Water Sports
No water sports are mentioned in the available information.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingSeasonal trash service is available, but no further details are provided regarding recycling.
Campground Map
Driving directionsTake County Road 519 off of State Route 89 just out of Graeagle, California. Proceed north approximately nine miles to campground turnoff.
The campground is accessible after County Road 519 and Gold Lake Highway are cleared of snow. This typically occurs by late May, making the site seasonally accessible.Nearby places
Graeagle, CA: approximately 9 miles
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Lakes Basin Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment about Lakes Basin Group Campground is limited but positive, with one user describing it as 'probably the nicest I've seen.'
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is described as 'probably the nicest I've seen,' reflecting a positive overall impression.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
No specific complaints are mentioned in the provided user reviews.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
No user-provided tips or recommendations are available.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No seasonal trends in reviews are provided, though the campground opens seasonally in late May.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
One user stated: 'Lakes Basin Campground is probably the nicest I've seen.'
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback is not available in the provided materials.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews address accessibility features or experiences.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no user reviews that discuss pet policies or experiences.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025