Sundew Campground (Ca)

Star4.56
26 reviews
Sundew Campground (Ca)
$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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
916-386-5164recinfo@pge.com

About this campground

Escape to Sundew Campground, where the crystal-clear waters of Bucks Lake meet the towering pines of the northern Sierra Mountains. Nestled within the pristine Plumas National Forest, this mountain retreat offers year-round adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Cast a line into the lake's abundant waters, explore scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient forests, or embrace winter's magic with snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing adventures. For those seeking a more leisurely pace, horseback riding through the surrounding wilderness provides an unforgettable way to experience the Sierra's natural beauty.
Sundew Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, offering standard non-electric campsites for tents and RVs. Group campsites and luxury options like glamping are not mentioned.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Sundew brings perfect mountain weather, with comfortable temperatures typically ranging from cool 55°F mornings to pleasantly warm 85°F afternoons. During peak season (Week 28), visitors can expect reliably dry conditions with gentle breezes and virtually no precipitation – ideal for camping under the stars and enjoying all the outdoor activities Bucks Lake has to offer.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 5,500 feet above sea level, Sundew Campground offers that perfect high-mountain atmosphere where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath feels refreshing.
Natural Features and ScenerySundew Campground rests in a natural amphitheater of towering fir and pine trees along Bucks Lake's picturesque western shore. These majestic conifers create a living canopy overhead, offering cool, dappled shade during warm summer days while framing stunning views of the lake's sapphire waters. At 5,500 feet elevation, the campground provides the perfect vantage point to witness spectacular sunrises over the water and alpenglow painting the surrounding peaks at sunset.
Geological RegionSet like a jewel in the crown of the northern Sierra Mountains, Sundew Campground at Bucks Lake showcases the breathtaking beauty of Plumas National Forest. This region of the Sierra Nevada features dramatic granite peaks, dense coniferous forests, and pristine alpine lakes carved by ancient glaciers, creating a landscape that captivates visitors with its raw, natural splendor.
Advertisement

Campsite details

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility details for individuals with disabilities are provided in the official description or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size and may be challenging for larger RVs or trailers. As per a user review: "All campsites have a paved parking spur, but because the campground is nestled on a hillside, most are narrow and not level front to rear."
Sites PrivacyThe sites are shaded by trees, but privacy varies. One user noted, "Campgrounds are a bit close to your neighbors."
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoosing sites closer to the lake offers flatter ground and better views.
Best CampsitesCampsite #8 was praised for direct beach access, while campsite #7 was also noted positively.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Groups
No group camping sites are specified at Sundew Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground has a one-way road loop resembling a figure-eight.
Cancellation PolicyPlanned changes must be made in advance. A $10 fee applies to changes, while late cancellations result in forfeiting the first night’s fee alongside a $10 fee.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a wealth of recreational opportunities centered around Bucks Lake. Activities include fishing, boating, canoeing, and hiking. A trail from the campground connects to Bucks Wilderness and the Pacific Crest Trail. Wildlife viewing opportunities are also noted in user reviews.
Hiking
Hiking is a prominent activity, with trails accessible from the campground that connect to Bucks Wilderness and the Pacific Crest Trail. "My granddaughter and I hiked the Mill Creek Trail. She’s 6, had a blast!" shared one reviewer.
Fishing
Fishing is available at Bucks Lake, which is adjacent to the campground. Specific types of fish or fishing conditions are not detailed in the documents.
Swimming
Swimming is a common activity, with some sites offering direct lake access. One reviewer noted, "Number 8 has direct access to the beach."
Boating
Boating is a popular activity, with facilities like a boat dock available at the Sandy Point Day Use Area. Canoeing and kayaking are also common, as noted in user reviews.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted as an activity, with one user noting the abundance of wildflowers and wildlife opportunities.
Beach activities
Beach-related activities include sunbathing and access to the shoreline. Some campsites, like #8, provide direct lake access.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are available in the greater Bucks Lake area, including snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing, although these are not specific to Sundew Campground.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are popular at Bucks Lake, according to user reviews.
Advertisement

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are allowed. Firewood may be purchased from campground hosts.

Hazards

General hazardsBears frequent the area; food must be stored in appropriate containers.
Active alertsNo current burn damage reported.

Weather forecast

51
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 52%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 2.1 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Good to know

Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are not explicitly detailed, but campers are reminded to follow Leave No Trace principles and keep food in bear-proof containers due to frequent bear activity in the area.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along Bucks Lake's western shore, facilitating easy access to fishing, boating, and canoeing.
Common complaintsReviews note that some campsites are sloped and not entirely level, and the campground road can be narrow, limiting trailer options.
HostHosts were positively reviewed for being helpful and welcoming. Mike and Jeni (2023 hosts) received glowing praise.

Campground Map


Camper Reviews

4.6
26 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Sundew Campground (Ca) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Sundew Campground are generally positive, with a focus on its cleanliness, scenic beauty, and helpful camp hosts. Common themes include its proximity to Bucks Lake, direct lake access from some sites, and recreational opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently highlight the cleanliness of the facilities, the beautiful views of Bucks Lake, and the friendly and helpful camp hosts. "The camp hosts were wonderful and helpful," one review...
Show more
Based on 26 reviews

Common Concerns

Some complaints are about the sloped and uneven terrain of the campsites, making it challenging for trailers or large RVs. One review stated, "Most are narrow and not level front to rear."...
Show more
Based on 26 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving midweek to secure a site, as some are first-come, first-served. Another tip is to bring watercraft for enjoying the lake. "Bring your boat! And/or kayaks/canoes," one user...
Show more
Based on 26 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is more inviting during the warmer months, with activities like fishing, swimming, and boating being popular. Multiple reviews mention July and August as ideal times for a visit.
Based on 26 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This is the cleanest I have ever seen this campground and they even rake before people check in." - Shawnee Wells "You can't beat the beauty of Bucks Lake. Lakefront sites make it possible to have...
Show more
Based on 26 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #8 is highlighted for its direct access to the beach. "We had campsite #8 and #7. Number 8 has direct access to the beach," noted one user.
Based on 26 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 26 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

There are no specific mentions of pet-related experiences in the reviews.
Based on 26 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Campgrounds
Sundew Campground (Ca)