Laufman Campground
3.6815 reviewsLaufman 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
User reviews consistently mention that camping at Laufman Campground is free. "This campground has now been essentially abandoned. A sign says free" (Emily St). Past accounts suggest no fee is charged at this campground.
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About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Plumas National Forest, Laufman Campground offers an intimate escape just four miles southeast of Milford, California. This hidden gem features six thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with its own picnic table, fire ring, and dedicated parking area. While embracing a back-to-basics camping philosophy with vault toilet facilities and no water or garbage services, Laufman rewards visitors with an authentic wilderness experience where the focus remains on connecting with nature rather than modern conveniences.
Laufman Campground is a simple, rustic campground offering primitive camping options. It provides six campsites equipped with basic amenities.
ElevationPerched at 4,800 feet above sea level, Laufman Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where summer temperatures remain pleasantly cool and crisp mountain air greets you each morning. This higher elevation provides natural relief from the heat of California's lower valleys, making it an ideal destination for those seeking comfortable camping conditions even during the warmest months.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a serene canyon sanctuary where golden aspens dance in the breeze and create a natural windbreak for peaceful camping. Previous visitors have fallen in love with this enchanting spot, describing it as a 'very pretty place in the trees' where grassy meadows blend seamlessly with shimmering aspen groves. The campground's secluded location offers a quiet retreat where the only sounds are rustling leaves and birdsong, creating an atmosphere of tranquility that feels worlds away from everyday life. Generous shade from the surrounding forest canopy ensures comfortable camping throughout the day.
Geological RegionNestled within the diverse ecosystem of Plumas National Forest, Laufman Campground showcases the region's characteristic blend of open meadows, aspen groves, and mixed conifer forests. This unique geological setting creates a tapestry of landscapes where grassy clearings provide stunning contrast to the surrounding woodland, offering campers the best of both worlds – sunny spots for relaxation and shaded retreats for cooler moments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited information available; vault toilet is described as handicap accessible. Campsites might be challenging for those with mobility issues due to overgrowth and uneven terrain.
Sites SizeCompact sites suitable for tents and small campers, with some users noting difficulty for larger RVs or trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as 'very private' and 'quiet,' surrounded by trees and providing a secluded environment.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome sites are better suited for tents due to uneven ground. "Most of the sites will be rather tricky to put a tent up" (One Outlander). Larger rigs (e.g., over 21 ft) may face difficulty fitting in some spots.
Best CampsitesCampsite #1 is noted for being near a small creek (Caren TeGantvoort).
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 day limit per the authority.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Walk-in AvailabilityNo reservation system; the sites appear to be first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Laufman Campground offers limited recreational options, but its natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and a quiet retreat. User reviews highlight the presence of wildlife such as eagles, deer, and wild turkeys, and the campground's proximity to a small creek (seasonal).
Wildlife viewing
Visitors have reported sightings of eagles, deer, ground squirrels, and wild turkeys in the area. The natural setting, including tree cover and a nearby creek, provides a habitat for various wildlife species.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsCampers need to practice bear safety due to the location within bear-prone areas. There's no mention of other specific hazards.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage service; campers are required to pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresA small creek is located near campsite #1, but it may run dry depending on the season.
Common complaintsMaintenance issues were noted as a recurring concern. "The spaces are overgrown and not being maintained" (Emily St). Another camper mentioned: "Picnic tables are a little worn" (One Outlander).
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Susanville, California, take Highway 395 southeast 20 miles to Milford. Take County Road 336 approximately four miles southeast to the campground.
"It is a paved road up to the very last little ways. Was graded with some was wash board." (User Review: Vickie DeMenge). The final quarter mile to the campground is unpaved but manageable with any vehicle.Nearby places
Susanville, California, 20 miles (approx. travel time not provided)
Camper Reviews
3.7
15 reviews
Laufman Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews provide a mixed perspective on Laufman Campground. Positive feedback highlights its secluded and peaceful atmosphere, with comments such as 'Very private and clean' and 'Great Campground very private very pretty.' However, some users note declining maintenance, with mentions of overgrown sites and lack of facilities: 'The spaces are overgrown and not being maintained.'
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the quiet, secluded environment and the natural beauty of the site. Comments like 'surrounded by trees,' 'protected from the wind,' and 'a gem, you can't go wrong' emphasize its...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of maintenance, overgrown and uneven campsites, and the absence of water and garbage services. Several reviewers mentioned that the campground feels abandoned:...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all necessary supplies, including water and garbage bags, as there are no services on-site. Campers with larger vehicles should be cautious as the sites are compact. Arrive early to secure a...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground appears to be more accessible and enjoyable during the warmer months, as reviewers mentioned the creek drying up by late summer. Cooler temperatures in the canyon and tree cover...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Very pretty place in the trees.' - 'Tucked up in the canyon with some aspens. Protected from the wind.' - 'Fairly level in most places. You could probably get an RV in here if you're careful.' -...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #1 was noted for its proximity to a small creek. Some sites were described as uneven and overgrown, making it difficult to pitch a tent. Larger vehicles might find it challenging to navigate...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
One reviewer mentioned a handicap-accessible vault toilet, but overall accessibility may be limited due to overgrown and uneven sites.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025