Explore Lakes Basin Campground in 360°

This campground has a full virtual tour with interactive campsite markers. Walk through every loop, inspect individual sites, and see the views before you book.

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What campers say

Lakes Basin Campground sits in a scenic area with direct access to many lakes and trails, including a creek and a small swimming spot. The campground is consistently described as clean and well‑maintained, with potable water, vault toilets, picnic tables and an attentive camp host who sells firewood. Sites are functional and generally comfortable, though they can be close together and offer limited privacy. It can be difficult to secure a spot during peak times—some camping operates first‑come, first‑served—so arrive early or plan ahead for reservations.

Our summary of 33 traveler reviews.

✅ Amenities & Features

.GOV.RECREATIONBack-inBathroomsBikingBoatingCampfireCanoeingCreekDirtDogsFamily FriendlyFirepitsFishingForestGroupHikingHorseback RidingKayakingMountain BikingMountainsOff-roadOff-RoadingPavedPetsPrimitivePublic ParkRVScenicShadeSwimmingTentsTrailsTreesUS Forest ServiceWaterWildlife

📖 About This Campground

Lakes Basin Campground (6,445 feet) is situated in the ruins of an old mining community. Some of the old stonework still exists, including steps leading into a deep pool of Gray Eagle Creek. This campground is within easy reach of many trailheads. The campground also offers a tent only group campsite by reservation only. The single loop campground offers family campsites and one group tent-only site. One double-family site is also available. Vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided. All sites have fire rings with grills and picnic tables.
The area was formed by glaciers and is characterized by breathtaking mountain scenery--most notably the craggy peaks of the Sierra Buttes and over 20 natural glacial lakes, most of which are accessible by well-maintained hiking trails. The campground sits among fir and aspen trees along Gray Eagle Creek. Mt. Elwell towers to the west. Gold Lakes Basin offers a variety of recreational activities including boating, fishing and hiking. A network of over 30 miles of maintained trails branch out across the area, and the Pacific Crest trail can be easily reached from the trail system. Many of the trails are open to hiking, biking and horseback riding, including the 1-mile Grassy Lakes Trail, accessible from the campground. At nearby Gold Lake, where a boat ramp is provided, visitors enjoy convenient access to boating and fishing. Once on the water, anglers won't have any trouble trolling for brown and rainbow trout and Mackinaws in the cool, clear waters.

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