Important Updates for Gold Lake Campgrounds: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Sierra Adventure!
Hey Sierra Rec readers, We’ve got some important updates about two popular campgrounds in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area: Gold Lake Campground and Gold Lake 4×4 Camp. This information will help you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable camping experience this summer!
Changes at Gold Lake Campground:
- First-Come, First-Served: Due to staffing limitations, Gold Lake Campground will operate on a first-come, first-served basis this year. There will still be fees associated with camping, so be sure to bring cash or a check to pay on-site according to posted instructions.
- Finding a Campground Host: The Forest Service is actively seeking a solution for a campground host next year. This will hopefully improve the reservation process and overall experience at Gold Lake Campground.
Changes at Gold Lake 4×4 Camp:
- Reservations Required: Attention off-road enthusiasts! Gold Lake 4×4 Camp, accessible by a challenging 4×4 road or boat, now requires advanced reservations on Recreation.gov. Reservations can be made online or by phone at least 3 days before your visit.
- Responsible Waste Disposal: Visitors to Gold Lake 4×4 Camp will need to pack out all human waste. Traditional methods of burying waste are no longer suitable due to heavy use and environmental concerns. To comply, consider purchasing a waste kit or WAG (Waste Alleviation and Gelling) bag from local outdoor stores or online.
- Toilet Removal and Replacement: The existing toilets at Gold Lake 4×4 Camp are not functional and require removal. While a replacement plan is in the works, the timeline is uncertain.
Important Reminders:
- Opening Date: Lakes Basin, including Gold Lake, is still impacted by snow. The paving of Gold Lake Highway has reached Gold Lake at the time of this article. The Forest Service will announce an estimated opening date soon.
- Respecting the Environment: By following these changes and practicing responsible waste disposal, we can all help protect the beauty of the Lakes Basin Recreation Area for future generations.
Plan Ahead and Have Fun!
Recreation staff on the Beckwourth Ranger District will be increasing patrols at Gold Lake 4×4 Camp this summer to ensure compliance with the reservation system and sanitation requirement.
“We know Gold Lake 4×4 Camp has been enjoyed spontaneously by so many over the past several years,” Brenzovich said. “For now, we really need visitors to plan ahead, make a reservation in advance, be prepared and truly leave no trace when they leave the campground.”
With a little extra planning, you can ensure a fantastic camping experience at Gold Lake this summer. For more information on these changes, the Plumas National Forest, or to make a reservation for Gold Lake 4×4 Camp, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/plumas/ or https://www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas/.
We hope to see you out there enjoying the Sierra Nevada!
