RVParks.us
Federal Parks State Parks Private Resorts Top Picks Travel Guides Trip Planner Search All Parks
Frenchman lake campground
Public Campground

Frenchman lake campground

Doyle, California
4.5 (141 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Frenchman lake campground

Campground in California.

Nestled in the scenic landscapes of northeastern California, Frenchman Lake Campground offers RV travelers an authentic outdoor escape surrounded by natural beauty. This public campground provides an ideal basecamp for exploring one of California's hidden gems, where the Sierra Nevada mountains create a stunning backdrop and pristine waters invite recreation and relaxation.

The campground's location positions visitors perfectly for a variety of outdoor activities. Frenchman Lake itself is the centerpiece, offering excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating during warmer months. The crystal-clear waters are home to rainbow trout, making it a favorite destination for anglers seeking a rewarding day on the water. For those who prefer land-based adventures, the surrounding area features numerous hiking trails that wind through pine forests and alpine meadows, revealing wildflowers, wildlife, and panoramic vistas at every turn.

The northeastern California region where Frenchman Lake Campground is situated appeals to travelers seeking solitude and authentic wilderness experiences. This is a landscape where you can disconnect from the hustle of urban life and reconnect with nature at a meaningful pace. The crisp mountain air, star-filled night skies, and peaceful mornings create the kind of restorative atmosphere that makes RV camping so rewarding.

This campground attracts a diverse range of visitors throughout the year. Adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts find plenty to explore, while families appreciate the safe, scenic environment for creating lasting memories. Anglers return year after year to test their skills, while hikers and nature photographers come to capture the region's wild beauty. Those simply seeking a quiet retreat find Frenchman Lake Campground to be the perfect antidote to everyday stress.

The surrounding region offers additional exploration opportunities beyond the immediate campground area. The mountains and forests of northeastern California showcase the raw, unspoiled character that makes this corner of the state special. Whether you're planning a long weekend or an extended stay, Frenchman Lake Campground serves as an excellent home base for discovering what makes this region so compelling to outdoor enthusiasts.
4.5

Rating

141

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Doyle is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Doyle.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Doyle. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Frenchman lake campground Reviews

Sign in to Review
G
Glen San Marcos

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Glen San Marcos

Let me start by saying that I live in my RV - at campgrounds, so my needs may be different than yours. For $34 you really don't get much. A picnic table and fire ring. There are quite a few vault toilets around, but when I was there they desperately needed pumping. No hookups in any site, but water spigots were available. My site, 14, was about as far away from the water as any site in that CG, b... Let me start by saying that I live in my RV - at campgrounds, so my needs may be different than yours. For $34 you really don't get much. A picnic table and fire ring. There are quite a few vault toilets around, but when I was there they desperately needed pumping. No hookups in any site, but water spigots were available. My site, 14, was about as far away from the water as any site in that CG, but the walk to the water isn't bad. It's very easy to get to the shore. I'm a decent fisherman, and the fishing was horrible (I was there in July). Even though the cell coverage maps say there is Verizon coverage - there is not. None, zero. I was not able to even send a text while I was there. The sites were very small. I have a 25 foot Class C and I cannot imagine fitting much bigger rigs in most of these sites. I am also not a fan of the 'parallel parking' camp spots, and there are a few in this CG. Make sure you check the map (which is HORRIBLE on their site) as best you can before you make a reservation. One other thing I found strange is how far the picnic tables are away from the parking spot. If you are in a rig like me, and you use the picnic table...you may be in for a hike every time you go back and forth. And that hike may be relatively steep. Also, the area is in the burn area of the Beckwourth fire, and it shows. Just don't be surprised. Still, there are quite a few trees that provide ample shade in most sites. All in all, this place didn't really work for me, but I can see it as being a nice place for a family outing.

G
Glen San Marcos

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Glen San Marcos

Let me start by saying that I live in my RV - at campgrounds, so my needs may be different than yours. For $34 you really don't get much. A picnic table and fire ring. There are quite a few vault toilets around, but when I was there they desperately needed pumping. No hookups in any site, but water spigots were available. My site, 14, was about as far away from the water as any site in that CG, b... Let me start by saying that I live in my RV - at campgrounds, so my needs may be different than yours. For $34 you really don't get much. A picnic table and fire ring. There are quite a few vault toilets around, but when I was there they desperately needed pumping. No hookups in any site, but water spigots were available. My site, 14, was about as far away from the water as any site in that CG, but the walk to the water isn't bad. It's very easy to get to the shore. I'm a decent fisherman, and the fishing was horrible (I was there in July). Even though the cell coverage maps say there is Verizon coverage - there is not. None, zero. I was not able to even send a text while I was there. The sites were very small. I have a 25 foot Class C and I cannot imagine fitting much bigger rigs in most of these sites. I am also not a fan of the 'parallel parking' camp spots, and there are a few in this CG. Make sure you check the map (which is HORRIBLE on their site) as best you can before you make a reservation. One other thing I found strange is how far the picnic tables are away from the parking spot. If you are in a rig like me, and you use the picnic table...you may be in for a hike every time you go back and forth. And that hike may be relatively steep. Also, the area is in the burn area of the Beckwourth fire, and it shows. Just don't be surprised. Still, there are quite a few trees that provide ample shade in most sites. All in all, this place didn't really work for me, but I can see it as being a nice place for a family outing.

G
Kenneth LaVere III

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Kenneth LaVere III

Beautiful and spacious campsites! Hosts were wonderful, no-since people that were very helpful and accommodating. We were informed there were bears but we did not see any. The chipmunks on the other hand will rob you blind! If you walk away from your campsite and stay still for a couple min they will come and see what you have left out for them. The deer were very tame and came within about 20’ of... Beautiful and spacious campsites! Hosts were wonderful, no-since people that were very helpful and accommodating. We were informed there were bears but we did not see any. The chipmunks on the other hand will rob you blind! If you walk away from your campsite and stay still for a couple min they will come and see what you have left out for them. The deer were very tame and came within about 20’ of us.

G
Kenneth LaVere III

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Kenneth LaVere III

Beautiful and spacious campsites! Hosts were wonderful, no-since people that were very helpful and accommodating. We were informed there were bears but we did not see any. The chipmunks on the other hand will rob you blind! If you walk away from your campsite and stay still for a couple min they will come and see what you have left out for them. The deer were very tame and came within about 20’ of... Beautiful and spacious campsites! Hosts were wonderful, no-since people that were very helpful and accommodating. We were informed there were bears but we did not see any. The chipmunks on the other hand will rob you blind! If you walk away from your campsite and stay still for a couple min they will come and see what you have left out for them. The deer were very tame and came within about 20’ of us.

G
Paul Brennan

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Paul Brennan

Me and son enjoy this place alot, definitely going to continue to come here and hopefully turn this into a seasonal location to visit every year.

G
Paul Brennan

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Paul Brennan

Me and son enjoy this place alot, definitely going to continue to come here and hopefully turn this into a seasonal location to visit every year.

G
John O'Neal

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by John O'Neal

Frenchmans campground had perfect conditions. The grass was green, the dirt was dry, the lake saw full and the sky was blue with amazing clouds passing by. It was very peaceful and relaxing.

G
John O'Neal

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by John O'Neal

Frenchmans campground had perfect conditions. The grass was green, the dirt was dry, the lake saw full and the sky was blue with amazing clouds passing by. It was very peaceful and relaxing.

G
Alex Filatov

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Alex Filatov

UPDATE FOR 2022! THE PLACE IS NOT THE SAME... When the fires came through it really did a number on Frenchman's. The real hazard is Widowmakers. Those are the branches that are dead and burned and will eventually break off and spear what ever is below them. Some people find spots where there was less damage from the fires. There aren't many sites that are free from burned trees. The water l... UPDATE FOR 2022! THE PLACE IS NOT THE SAME... When the fires came through it really did a number on Frenchman's. The real hazard is Widowmakers. Those are the branches that are dead and burned and will eventually break off and spear what ever is below them. Some people find spots where there was less damage from the fires. There aren't many sites that are free from burned trees. The water level is extremely low. It's down about 20 feet from last year. The east launch is in and accessable without issue. Not sure of the west launch. The scenery is nasty. Brown burned trees surrounded the lake. It's pretty depressing. Would I still suggest a boating trip there? ABSOLUTELY. Just be aware that it's going to be decades before the place is somewhat attractive. The burn scar is there for a generation which is sad. 2021 MAY REVIEW. Camped there, all the spots need grading, not terrible but the weather has worked the slopes down, they've all taken on a slight slope. Sites 23 and 24 have the best access to water though 22 and 25 also are quite good. The hosts as always are good people, met them also. Toilets were very clean. We did have one group there which was way too loud into the night, drunk, with a loud generator. Camp host took care of that. It's a great place for boating, and camping. But does need some attention to some details.

G
Alex Filatov

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Alex Filatov

UPDATE FOR 2022! THE PLACE IS NOT THE SAME... When the fires came through it really did a number on Frenchman's. The real hazard is Widowmakers. Those are the branches that are dead and burned and will eventually break off and spear what ever is below them. Some people find spots where there was less damage from the fires. There aren't many sites that are free from burned trees. The water l... UPDATE FOR 2022! THE PLACE IS NOT THE SAME... When the fires came through it really did a number on Frenchman's. The real hazard is Widowmakers. Those are the branches that are dead and burned and will eventually break off and spear what ever is below them. Some people find spots where there was less damage from the fires. There aren't many sites that are free from burned trees. The water level is extremely low. It's down about 20 feet from last year. The east launch is in and accessable without issue. Not sure of the west launch. The scenery is nasty. Brown burned trees surrounded the lake. It's pretty depressing. Would I still suggest a boating trip there? ABSOLUTELY. Just be aware that it's going to be decades before the place is somewhat attractive. The burn scar is there for a generation which is sad. 2021 MAY REVIEW. Camped there, all the spots need grading, not terrible but the weather has worked the slopes down, they've all taken on a slight slope. Sites 23 and 24 have the best access to water though 22 and 25 also are quite good. The hosts as always are good people, met them also. Toilets were very clean. We did have one group there which was way too loud into the night, drunk, with a loud generator. Camp host took care of that. It's a great place for boating, and camping. But does need some attention to some details.

Own or manage Frenchman lake campground?

Claim this listing for free to update info, respond to reviews, add real photos, and start accepting online bookings.

Claim This Listing — Free
RR

Ranger Rex

Your RV Park Expert

Online
RR

Howdy! I'm Ranger Rex, your RV park expert. Ask me anything about campgrounds, state parks, national parks, or planning your next adventure!

RR

Powered by AI · Responses may not be 100% accurate