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Recreation Region: Beckwourth Ranger District

Gold Lake in Lakes Basin

Gold Lake is the largest lake in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area. Its clear blue water spills into Frazier Creek and down to the Middle Fork of the Feather River. Native Americans came into the area for hunting and gathering and left no traces of permanent settlement. Gold Lake got its name from a story in the early days of the gold rush by Thomas Robertson Stoddard. His story included finding a lake with shores lined with gold before being driven away by hostiles. Today the lake and surrounding area is known for its abundant recreation opportunities. The lake has two boat launch areas, two campgrounds, equestrian trail rides.

Nearby are dozens of glacially carved alpine lakes and connecting trails. There are additional campgrounds, rustic lodges, world class mountain biking, 4X4 roads, waterfalls and fire lookouts.

Current Conditions
Campground and main boat ramp scheduled to close for the season October 12, 2025. Cartop boat launch and day use area open.

General Information

Open 24 hours/day

No fees are required for this site

Gold Lake Cartop Lunch & Day Use Area does not have a fee

Gold Lake Boat Launch Facility has a two lane concrete ramp seasonal loading dock and large parking area. Daily launch fee and day use fee is $10, annual pass is available from campground hosts for $85

Swimming and fishing are not allowed near the boating facilities.

USDA Forest Service Logo

Address: 23 Mohawk Highway Blairsden, CA 96103
Phone: 530-836-2575
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Closed Midday for Lunch (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 39.89348

Longitude: -120.42364

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Last updated September 29, 2025