El Dorado County, CA

Break out the s’mores and your favorite tent—summertime is camping season in Butte County in Northern California! The high country of Butte County includes several camping opportunities in Lassen National Forest and Plumas National Forest. Bring your fishing poles, hiking shoes, and kayaks, too, because these campgrounds are near many exciting adventures!

Humboldt Rd
Forest Ranch, CA

The Butte Meadows Campground is a perfect spot for families wanting to get away without being too far from amenities. With Butte Creek rushing nearby and a huge canopy of trees overhead, you might not realize that you’re within walking distance of the Butte Meadows Mercantile or a burger at the Bambi Inn. Each of the 13 camping sites have picnic tables and a fire ring.

La Porte Rd
Strawberry Valley, CA

Strawberry Campground is nestled in a lushly forested area alongside Sly Creek just before it enters the 562-acre Sly Creek Reservoir. Don’t forget your kayak or paddleboard! There are 17 sites total.

Forest Ranch, CA

The well-shaded Cherry Hill Campground is found alongside Butte Creek upstream of Butte Meadows and gets you really close to many recreational areas—including the historic Jonesville area, Colby Mountain Lookout, and the Pacific Crest Trail. There are 26 sites total with several walk-in sites available across Butte Creek for extra solitude.

Magalia, CA

The Philbrook Campground is located by Philbrook Reservoir, which sits over a mile high in Lassen National Forest and is a peaceful place to paddle or go fishing for trout. Day-users and campers can use the car-top boat ramp or visit the picnic area. Philbrook Campground is operated by PG&E and includes first-come, first-serve campsites as well as reservable sites (2-night minimum for reservations).

El Dorado County, CA

Most Forest Service campgrounds in Butte County are open late May through early October and have access to drinking water and vault restrooms, so you have plenty of time to experience these Northern California gems.