Lake Davis Recreation Area (Lightning Tree)

The Lightning Tree boat ramp provides convenient water access to Lake Davis, a popular recreational lake in the Northern Sierra region of California. Located next to the Lightning Tree Campground on the east side of the lake, this concrete boat ramp features a seasonal loading dock to assist with launching kayaks, canoes, and small motorized boats.

The ramp is situated in a large paved parking area and includes a vault toilet for visitor use. Paddlers and boaters can also access the 7-mile Lake Davis Trail from this location, offering opportunities to explore the scenic shoreline. Lake Davis was formed by damming Grizzly Creek in 1967, creating a 32-mile shoreline that is popular for fishing, with rainbow and brown trout, bass, and catfish commonly found in the lake's waters.

Nearby camping is available at the reservable Lightning Tree Campground, as well as the first-come, first-served Crocker Campground just 10 miles away. Visitors should check the Recreation.gov website for the latest information on facility openings, reservations, and any relevant fees or restrictions for using the boat ramp and surrounding recreation area.

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...

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. 
Recreation
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.
Facilities
The campground offers more than three dozen single and double capacity campsites, available for tent and RV camping. Some accessible campsites are available. Most sites are available on a first come basis and the rest are open for reservation up to six months in advance. Coin-operated showers are available 4 miles away at Grasshopper Flat Campground.
Natural Features
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.

Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (530) 836-2575.
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

Read More Read Less