Running Deer Campground
4.0818 reviewsOLD LITTLE GRASS VALLEY ROAD
Running Deer Campground
$23.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
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
Facility rates range from $23.00 to $25.00 per night during peak season. Additional reservation and service fees may apply depending on the booking method (online, app, contact center, or in-person).
About this campground
Perched on the eastern shores of Little Grass Valley Reservoir, Running Deer Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover a mountain paradise in the heart of the Northern Sierra Nevada. Here, days unfold with endless possibilities – cast your line into pristine waters teeming with fish, carve through glassy reservoir surfaces on water skis, or explore winding trails that lead through towering forests on foot, mountain bike, or horseback. Whether you're seeking aquatic adventures or terrestrial exploration, this scenic campground serves as your gateway to unforgettable Sierra experiences.
Running Deer Campground offers standard nonelectric sites suitable for tent and RV camping. Group camping and cabin lodging are available in nearby areas.
Historical SignificanceIn the 1960s, the creation of Little Grass Valley Reservoir transformed this corner of the Northern Sierra Nevada into a recreational wonderland. The flooding of the valley gave birth to a shimmering mountain lake that has since become a beloved destination for generations of outdoor enthusiasts. What was once a remote mountain valley now serves as a gathering place where memories are made and the spirit of Sierra adventure lives on.
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain climate at Running Deer creates perfect conditions for outdoor adventures, with sun-warmed days that invite exploration and crisp, star-filled nights ideal for campfire gatherings. During peak season, visitors enjoy reliably clear skies and comfortable temperatures that make every activity more enjoyable. Morning breezes often sweep across the reservoir, bringing fresh mountain air and creating gentle ripples on the water's surface – a natural alarm clock that signals the start of another perfect day in the Sierra.
ElevationAt 5,000 feet above sea level, Running Deer Campground offers the perfect mountain elevation – high enough to escape summer's heat and breathe in pure Sierra air, yet comfortable for visitors of all ages. This sweet spot in the mountains delivers refreshingly cool temperatures and that distinctive pine-scented atmosphere that makes the Sierra Nevada so special.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering pines and majestic firs create a natural cathedral around Running Deer Campground, their evergreen canopy providing dappled shade and mountain tranquility. The sparkling waters of Little Grass Valley Reservoir stretch out before you, reflecting forested hillsides in its mirror-like surface. This 5,000-foot elevation sanctuary offers breathtaking vistas at every turn – from sunrise painting the reservoir in golden hues to sunset casting long shadows through the forest, nature's grandeur surrounds you.
Geological RegionNestled within the rugged beauty of northern California's Sierra Nevada range, Running Deer Campground showcases the region's dramatic mountain landscape. The reservoir, born from 1960s engineering, now appears as natural as the ancient granite peaks surrounding it. Dense forests of pine and fir blanket the hillsides, creating a quintessential Sierra Nevada ecosystem where mountain majesty meets aquatic splendor in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed in source materials.
Sites SizeSites accommodate tents and RVs and generally have paved parking spurs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site, with some situated near the lake offering scenic views and others surrounded by trees and shrubbery.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor views, opt for campsites near the reservoir. Those with concerns about bear activity may prefer sites equipped with bear lockers.
Best CampsitesUser reviews specifically mention Campsite 20 for its proximity to the water and scenic beauty.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
14:00
Check-out
12:00
Stay Limit
14 nights
Groups
Details about group sites are not provided in source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features paved parking spurs and loops, with sites distributed around the reservoir and some nestled among trees and shrubbery.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground opens on June 15th and closes on September 6th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov through the website, contact center, or app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are reserved; others are available on a first-come-first-served basis as noted in user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before the scheduled arrival date, with a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur additional fees, including forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to reservations ahead of the check-in date are subject to a $10 fee if the new stay dates differ.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides a wide range of activities including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and biking. The Little Grass Valley Reservoir offers opportunities for water sports, angling for trout and kokanee salmon, and access to the Lakeshore Trail, which loops 14.5 miles around the lake. Mountain biking and horseback riding are also popular on trails connecting to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound, particularly along the Lakeshore Trail, which circles the 14.5-mile perimeter of Little Grass Valley Reservoir and connects to the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Day hikes on portions of the trails are popular among visitors.Fishing
Fishing at the 1,615-acre Little Grass Valley Reservoir is a highlight of the campground experience, with an abundance of trout and kokanee salmon.Swimming
Swimming is available at designated lake access points. However, user reviews mention that water levels can vary significantly, potentially affecting swimming conditions.Biking
Mountain biking trails, including the 14.5-mile Lakeshore Trail, cater to riders of various skill levels. Some trails also accommodate horseback riding.Boating
A boat ramp within the campground offers convenient access to Little Grass Valley Reservoir for boating, including water skiing. Various types of boats are permissible.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is common, including sightings of bears. Campers should secure food and garbage in appropriate containers to minimize bear encounters.Winter Activities
Running Deer Campground serves as the hub of a popular snowmobiling area during winter months.Water Sports
Water sports include swimming, boating, and water skiing in Little Grass Valley Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is a serious concern, as multiple reviews note encounters with bears raiding campsites, dumpsters, and food storage. The bears are described as bold and unconcerned about human presence, posing risks to campers.
Active alertsThere have been reports of water shut-offs during certain seasons, as noted in user reviews. Bears are also actively present, requiring vigilance from campers.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.8 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 unknown based on the source material.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 15, 2025 - September 06, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection bins are available throughout the campground. Some user reviews mention issues with bears accessing dumpsters, leading to trash being spread across the campground.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Little Grass Valley Reservoir, giving easy access to the lake for boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing.
Common complaintsLack of bear boxes at some campsites, water shut-offs, poor maintenance of campground facilities, and issues with campground cleanliness have been cited in reviews.
HostNo campground host was reported in 2022, according to user reviews.
Campground Map
OLD LITTLE GRASS VALLEY ROAD
Driving directionsFrom Oroville, California, travel east on Highway 162 to Olive Highway. Turn right and continue 5 miles to Forbestown Road. Turn right and go 16 miles to La Porte Road. Turn left and travel 27 miles to La Porte, then 2 miles to signs for the recreation area. Turn right and continue just over 2 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, although the journey involves highways and local roads with various turns (Highway 162, Olive Highway, Forbestown Road, and La Porte Road). Seasonal conditions or navigation challenges are not explicitly mentioned in the data.Nearby places
La Porte (2 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are unknown based on the source material.
Camper Reviews
4.1
18 reviews
Running Deer Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Running Deer Campground highlight its scenic beauty, proximity to Little Grass Valley Reservoir, and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and swimming. Common issues include bear activity, inconsistent water availability, periodic restroom closures, and limited bear boxes.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the beautiful scenery, abundant recreational activities, clean facilities (when operational), and opportunities for family gatherings. The lake access and fishing are particularly...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include bear activity, restroom closures, lack of onsite water, and limited food storage lockers. Some campsites reportedly have poorly maintained picnic tables.
Based on 18 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers advise bringing extra water, securely storing food, and avoiding leaving ice chests outside due to bear activity. Reservations are recommended for peak season.
Based on 18 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are popular but marked by bear activity and occasional water shortages. Winter camping is centered around snowmobiling. Spring and fall attract fewer visitors but provide a quieter...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Been here twice now and love it! There are no showers and food should be stored in coolers and bins IN THE CAR!" - Maria “Luisa” Puentes. "Bathrooms have flush toilets and kept clean. No host in...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews indicate mixed experiences; Campsite #16 receives praise for its location, while Campsite #22 has complaints about bear activity.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not reviewed in depth, but user feedback does not highlight specific accessibility issues.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and there are no significant issues reported by pet owners beyond securing food due to bear activity.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025