Red Feather California
3.9551 reviews875 Mitchell Ave, Oroville, CA, 95965, USA
Red Feather California
$23.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$36.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$25.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard site fees are $23 per night, premium lakeside sites are $25 per night. Peak season rates for standard nonelectric sites are $36 per night.
About this campground
Perched gracefully on the eastern shore of Little Grass Valley Reservoir, Red Feather Campground offers an enchanting escape into the heart of the Sierra Nevada wilderness. Here, pristine alpine meadows dance alongside dense mixed-conifer forests, creating a natural amphitheater of breathtaking beauty. Whether you're seeking adventure on scenic nature trails, peaceful moments by the water's edge, or simply a chance to reconnect with the great outdoors, this mountain sanctuary delivers an unforgettable camping experience amid some of California's most spectacular scenery.
Red Feather Campground accommodates both tent and RV camping with paved parking spurs. Group camping and primitive camping options are not explicitly mentioned. Cabins and glamping facilities are not available.
Historical SignificanceThe story of Red Feather Campground begins in the 1960s, when engineers transformed this mountain valley into a recreational paradise with the creation of Little Grass Valley Reservoir. What was once a quiet valley became a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, while preserving connections to the region's rich past. The legendary Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby, linking modern adventurers to the footsteps of countless travelers who've crossed these mountains throughout history. Today's visitors become part of this continuing story, creating their own memories in a landscape shaped by both human ingenuity and natural wonder.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Red Feather brings the perfect camping climate—sun-drenched days ideal for hiking and water activities give way to crisp, star-filled nights around the campfire. Mountain weather keeps things interesting, with afternoon breezes providing natural air conditioning and occasional thunderstorms adding drama to the landscape. As seasons shift, autumn paints the meadows in golden hues before winter transforms the area into a snow-covered wonderland. Seasonal variations, including periodic droughts, remind visitors of nature's ever-changing rhythms and the importance of checking current conditions before arrival.
ElevationAt 5,100 feet above sea level, Red Feather Campground occupies a sweet spot in the Northern Sierra Nevada Mountains where the air is refreshingly crisp and the views stretch endlessly. This elevation creates an ideal climate for summer camping while offering just enough altitude to escape the valley heat without the challenges of true high-country camping.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering pines and firs create a natural cathedral overhead, their evergreen canopy providing dappled shade and filling the air with the distinctive scent of mountain forest. Alpine meadows burst with wildflowers in season, painting splashes of color against the deep blue backdrop of Little Grass Valley Reservoir. This diverse ecosystem supports an impressive array of wildlife—from curious deer grazing at dawn to the occasional glimpse of more elusive residents like black bears and mountain lions, reminding visitors they're guests in a thriving wilderness community. The interplay of forest, meadow, and water creates ever-changing vistas that photographers dream about and memories that last a lifetime.
Geological RegionNestled within the majestic Northern Sierra Nevada Mountains, Red Feather Campground showcases the region's remarkable geological diversity. Ancient granite peaks frame the horizon while volcanic soils nurture the thick stands of pine and fir that characterize this transition zone between lower elevation forests and true alpine environments. The surrounding landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where tectonic forces, volcanic activity, and glacial carving created the dramatic topography that makes this corner of California so extraordinary. Alpine meadows carpet the gentler slopes, while Little Grass Valley Reservoir adds a sparkling centerpiece to this geological masterpiece.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation about specific accessibility features is not available from the provided data.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with some accommodating larger vehicles. Specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are well-separated, while others are closer together. One user stated, 'Spaces have good distance between them.'
Total Campsites67 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lower loop sites for flatter terrain and easier trailer access. Lakefront sites are recommended for quick water access.
Best CampsitesSite #45 is highlighted as having excellent views and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights
- 21 nights total annually.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies by site type.
Groups
No details about group sites or their capacities are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized into loops (e.g., LP1 and LP2) with sites varying in size and terrain. Some loops feature sloped campsites, while others are relatively flat.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 27 to September 1 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are first-come-first-serve. Fill patterns vary, especially on weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made a day before arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee. Late cancellations of one-night reservations forfeit the entire amount paid.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a wide range of recreational activities centered around Little Grass Valley Reservoir. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and biking. The 13.5-mile Lakeshore Trail is a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the area is suitable for wildlife viewing, stargazing, and picnicking.
Hiking
The Lakeshore Trail, a 13.5-mile loop, is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. It connects to the Pacific Crest Trail. Day hikers favor this trail for its scenic views of the reservoir.Fishing
Fishing is a major activity, with opportunities to catch trout and kokanee salmon. A valid fishing license is required.Swimming
The reservoir provides clear water ideal for swimming. A small beach area is available for visitors.Biking
Biking is permitted on the Lakeshore Trail. The terrain accommodates mountain biking and offers scenic views.Boating
The reservoir supports various boating activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing. There is a boat ramp nearby.Wildlife viewing
Bear sightings are common, and the reservoir area provides opportunities to observe birds and other wildlife. One user reported, 'Saw lovely flowers and some birds.'Beach activities
A small beach area near the reservoir is ideal for sunbathing and casual swimming. Users noted the water's clarity and appeal.Winter Activities
Not described in the provided information.Water Sports
Water skiing and other non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are prohibited during high fire danger periods. Fire pits are provided at most sites.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM (subject to enforcement).
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequently visit campsites at night; campers must store food securely. Other wildlife hazards include mountain lions. Road leading to the campground is bumpy and challenging for large vehicles.
Active alertsPotential drought conditions affecting water availability. Fire restrictions during high-risk seasons.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Oroville, including hospitals and police facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 27 - September 1.
Trash and recyclingBear-resistant trash bins are located throughout the campground. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Little Grass Valley Reservoir with access to swimming, fishing, and boating.
Common complaintsFrequently reported issues include poorly maintained bathrooms, noise disturbances from other campers, and challenges with water availability during drought conditions.
HostNo consistent camp host reported. Some reviewers noted absence of on-site staff.
Campground Map
875 Mitchell Ave, Oroville, CA, 95965, USA
Driving directionsFrom Oroville, travel east on Highway 162 to Olive Highway, turn right and continue 5 miles to Forbestown Road. Proceed right for 16 miles to La Porte Road, then left for 27 miles to La Porte. Continue 2 miles to signs for the recreation area, then turn right and drive just over 2 miles to the campground.
The road is a mix of paved and gravel surfaces. Reviews indicate significant potholes and uneven terrain near the campground. Users recommend approaching cautiously, particularly in larger vehicles.Nearby places
Oroville (approximately 63 miles, about 1.5 hours driving).
Nearby supplies
A limited inventory store is located about 15 minutes from the campground. For comprehensive supplies, users recommend Oroville, which is about an hour away.
Camper Reviews
4.0
51 reviews
Red Feather California has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with some praising the campground's natural beauty, spacious sites, and recreational opportunities, while others highlighted issues like restroom cleanliness and noise from other campers. Wildlife encounters, including bears, were frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 51 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the scenic reservoir, the 13.5-mile Lakeshore Trail, and the availability of bear-resistant lockers. Several users appreciated the spaciousness of campsites and the paved...
Based on 51 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include unclean restrooms, noise from other campers, and limited cell service. Some users also mentioned occasional lapses in maintenance, such as overflowing trash bins and dirty...
Based on 51 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend securing food in bear lockers, bringing extra toilet paper and soap, and downloading maps before arrival due to poor cell service.
Based on 51 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with visitors appreciating warm days and cool nights. However, overcrowding and maintenance issues are more common during this period. Some users noted that drought...
Based on 51 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Very awesome place, they even provide campers with wood logs for free!'
2. 'The reservoir is beautiful. The water is very clear.'
3. 'Bathrooms always had toilet paper and paper towels.'
4....
Based on 51 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #45 is highly recommended for its proximity to the water and scenic views. Sites in the upper part of Loop 2 are noted for being sloped, making them less ideal for trailers.
Based on 51 reviewsAccessibility Features
Specific feedback on accessibility features is not available. However, the campground's paved roads and parking spurs may aid mobility.
Based on 51 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but there are no specific reviews addressing pet accommodations or experiences.
Based on 51 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025