Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities. Learn more
Access Site CA

Frenchman Lake

Frenchman Lake Little Last Chance Creek Spring Creek

Source: california_department_of_parks_and_recreation Updated 1 year ago

City: Chilcoot-Vinton, CA
County: Plumas County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 39.90065700, -120.18514400
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Frenchman Lake offers excellent boating and paddling opportunities for kayakers, canoeists, and small motorized boats. The lake has two public boat ramps that provide access to its 21 miles of shoreline. The boat ramps are located along Frenchman Lake Road, about 8 miles north of the town of Chilcoot.

The boat ramps feature two paved lanes, allowing for easy launching and retrieval of small watercraft. While the ramps are open year-round, seasonal docks are available during the summer months. Nearby amenities include the Frenchman Campground, which offers campsites along the lakeshore. Paddlers and boaters should be aware of prevailing wind conditions, as Frenchman Lake can experience gusty winds, particularly in the afternoons. Overall, the lake provides a scenic setting for a variety of on-water activities, from fishing to leisurely cruising.
Federal Facility Information
530-836-2575 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Frenchman Campground (5,700 feet) sites along the shores of its namesake lake, which boasts 21 miles of shoreline. The campground is situated at the southeastern peninsula of the lake. Situated on a pine covered hillside overlooking the lake, this is the place for campers to get in tune with their surroundings. The lake is at the interface between the mountains of the Sierra Nevada and...

Overview
Frenchman Campground (5,700 feet) sites along the shores of its namesake lake, which boasts 21 miles of shoreline. The campground is situated at the southeastern peninsula of the lake. Situated on a pine covered hillside overlooking the lake, this is the place for campers to get in tune with their surroundings. The lake is at the interface between the mountains of the Sierra Nevada and high desert. Frenchman Lake and the surrounding Plumas National Forest together provide ample opportunity for recreation, relaxation and adventure.
Recreation
During peak camping season, the campground offers a variety of outdoor experiences including hiking, biking, picnicking and hunting. The nearby lake provides ample opportunities for swimming, boating, waterskiing, jet skiing and fishing. Frenchman Lake Boat Launching Facility and a day use area are near the campground. Winter activities range from ice fishing to snowmobiling. 
Facilities
The campground offers single-family campsites for tent and RV camping. Twelve of the campgrounds 38 campsites can be reserved during peak camping season. All other campsites may be taken on a 'First Come' basis. The campground remains open throughout the years. However, most winters include enough snow to keep the road closed.
Each site is equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Vault toilets and drinking water are also provided.Natural Features
As part of California's Plumas National Forest, the campground is located in northern California, between the rugged Sierra Nevada and the fringes of the Cascade ranges. The forest is home to hundreds of high alpine lakes and thousands of miles of clear-running streams. Pine trees provide moderate to good shade in most sites. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area.

Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (530) 836-2575.
Nearby Attractions
Little Last Chance Canyon Scenic Area
Sierra Valley - Largest valley in the Sierra nevada
Stores and services in the towns of Chilcoot and Loyalton
many forest roads to explore - take along a map, full tank and dependable vehicle

Read More Read Less
Nearby Campgrounds (1 within 10 miles)
Meadow View Family Campground
On-site Reservable
Nearby Recreation Areas
Fort Sage Off-Highway Vehicle Area Located within