Lightning Tree

4.3·21 reviews
·Plumas National Forest

Overview

Lightning Tree Campground (5,800 feet) is one of three family-friendly campgrounds located in the Lake Davis Recreation Area. The lake was formed by damming Grizzly Creek in 1967. The purpose of the lake was to provide water for the town of Portola, improve area fishing and provide recreation opportunities. The 32 miles of shoreline has several boat launch facilities and fishing access points. Lightning Tree Campground is a great place to serve as hub for family fun and recreation. At the end of the day return to this home away from home to relax around the campfire.

Great Facilities and Amenities

  • Checkin Time

    (All campsites have Checkin Time)

  • Checkout Time

    (All campsites have Checkout Time)

  • Driveway Entry

    (Majority of the campsites have back in)

  • Max Num Of People

    (Up to 16)

  • Max Num Of Vehicles

    (Up to 4)

  • Pets Allowed

    (All campsites have Pets Allowed)

  • Shade

    (There are variety of Shade. Such as true and full.)

Natural Features

Lake Davis, Plumas National Forest - Credits: Share the Experience, Terry Kiser
Lake Davis, Plumas National Forest - Credits: Share the Experience, Terry Kiser
CamperEdge Unavailable Image - Credits: CamperEdge
CamperEdge Unavailable Image - Credits: CamperEdge

Lake Davis is situated in the hills north of the town of Portola in the Plumas National Forest. Smith Peak State Game Refuge to the south and west of the lake is a great place for bird watching, nature viewing, photography and exploring. Large sheep herding ranches used this area before the dam was build. Today, cattle trek across the rangeland meadows. Get a panoramic view of Lake Davis, Sierra Valley and peaks of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Ranges from Smith Peak Fire Lookout.

Recreation

Lake Davis, Plumas National Forest - Credits: Share the Experience, Terry Kiser

In addition to camping, the area offers a wide variety of popular water-related activities, including fishing, boating and swimming. Numerous fishing access points are located around the perimeter of the lake and anglers will find rainbow and brown trout, bass and catfish. A boat ramp is located nearby.



Mountain biking, hiking, hunting and wildlife viewing are also available in the area. During winter months, visitors enjoy ice fishing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

Permitted Equipment

  • rv-N/A

  • tent-N/A

  • trailer-N/A

Nearby Attractions

Restaraunts, stores and services are available in Portola, CA

Visit the largest railroad museum in the Western United States located in Portola. 

The old Basque style sheepherder bread oven at Jenkins Point has been restored

Visit Smith Peak Fire Lookout

Additional Information

Campsites