Plumas National Forest Guide
- Home
- National Forests
- California
- Plumas National Forest
Plumas National Forest lies on more than 1 million acres near the northern end of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. The area started as the Plumas Forest Reserve in 1905, but it didn't take long to be transferred to the U.S. Forest Service a year later. Now 85% of Plumas National Forest sits in Plumas County, with the remaining 15% split among eastern Butte, northern Sierra, southern, Lassen, and northeast Yuba counties. Hiking enthusiasts will be in for a treat, as Plumas National Forest offers more than 10 trails to discover. With swimming, fishing, boating, and nature-watching, there is something for everyone here.
RV Rentals Near Plumas National Forest
Plumas National Forest Hiking Trails
-
Jamison Creek Trail
This short trail weaves through beautiful azure waters and red fir forests. You can view aspens and all kinds of wildflowers, along with a rocky stairway called the Stairway to Heaven. Hiking of all kinds is popular here, whether it's hiking on foot or horseback trail riding.
Length: 3.7 miles
Intensity: Easy to Moderate
-
Indian Springs Trail
If you are looking to test yourself, Indian Springs Trail might be just for you. As you pick your way across a rugged landscape of rocks and trees, you will be rewarded with a great view of the Feather River Canyon and the peaks of the Bucks Lake Wilderness in the distance. Just be sure to pack the appropriate shoes and equipment.
Length: 6 miles
Intensity: Difficult
-
Bucks Lake Area Grizzly Forebay Trail
This pleasant trail boasts massive groves of Jeffrey pine trees. Roaming among the trunks are animals like black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, and more. This trail is great for all ages but beware of a few steep slopes.
Length: 1.25 miles
Intensity: Moderate
-
Long Lake Loop Trail
This trail takes you around the beautiful Long Lake and through large pine forests. It is well-trafficked, but the boulder-strewn paths create some difficulty. As much of the path goes downhill, be sure to pack some good hiking boots to make your journey slightly easier.
Length: 4.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
-
Frazier Falls Trail
This trail is great for hikers of any skill level. In addition to having the opportunity to view the awesome Frazier Falls, you will find yourself surrounded by a crown of mountain peaks. It is a popular place for nature trips and bird-watching. The trail is paved and flat, so you can take your time absorbing the wonderful sights.
Length: 1.1 miles
Intensity: Easy
-
Gray Eagle Creek Trail
This trail is great for the solitary hiker. This lightly-trafficked trail takes you through thick forests and offers awesome views of the nearby mountains. Wildflowers of all kinds make their homes here. However, if you want to see Gray Eagle Creek, you will have to venture a little way off the beaten path.
Length: 6.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
-
Cascade Trail
This lengthy trail is a great opportunity for adventurers and photographers. Parts of the trail take you along a steep-edged path that leads down to a river. You will cross a wooden bridge and find yourself in thick green forests. Wooded hills loom over most of the trail, providing some shade to keep you cool.
Length: 11 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Activities in Plumas National Forest
-
Identifying Flora and Fauna
For nature and flora viewing, head to Frenchman Lake. This beautiful spot is on the southeastern end of the forest, between Dixie Mountain and Adams Peak.
You'll find a wide range of wildlife at Lake Davis near Portola. While you may see bears or bobcats, you're more likely to find deer, coyotes, raccoons, squirrels, and skunks.
-
Fishing
Anglers can find plenty to catch at Crystal Point Fishing Access, Strawberry Campground, and Round Valley Reservoir. The reservoir is great for fishing for bluegill.
-
Stargazing
For stargazing, head to Black Mountain Lookout. On dark evenings, you'll have no trouble spotting constellations with the minimal light pollution the park offers.
How to get to Plumas National Forest
Address: 122 Hot Springs Rd, Greenville, CA 95947
Fee: Entry fee (per person) $5.0
RVing is a fantastic way to go out and see the country, including places like Plumas National Forest. Lose yourself in more than a million acres of mountains, rivers, and woodlands. Visit a nearby museum or state park, or just take a relaxing trip to some beautiful vistas. The possibilities are endless. With an RV to go back to at the end of the day, this is easier and more enjoyable than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plumas National Forest
Is there a fee to get into Plumas National Forest?
No, there is no fee to get into Plumas National Forest. However, there is a fee to use certain recreation sites within the forest area.
Does Plumas National Forest offer free camping sites?
Yes, Plumas National Forest offers free camping sites. There is dispersed camping available throughout the park, which is free. There are also several developed campgrounds that do not charge a fee as well.
Is Plumas National Forest open all year round?
Yes, Plumas National Forest is open year-round. In summer, visitors can hike, fish, and boat. In winter, there is snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and more.
Can you kayak, canoe, or raft in Plumas National Forest?
Yes, you can kayak, canoe, and raft in Plumas National Forest. Several mountain lakes make great spots for kayaking and canoeing. There are also several outfitters that lead rafting trips in the area.
How many hiking trails does Plumas National Forest have?
There are a number of hiking trails in Plumas National Forest. There are 90 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail through the forest, plus trails that lead through mountains, to waterfalls, and to lakes in the area.
