RUNNING DEER CAMPGROUND
federal · La Porte, CA
- fuel station4.0 mi

Feather River Ranger District · Data Source: Recreation.gov
About
Overview Running Deer Campground is located on the eastern shore of the Little Grass Valley Reservoir, giving visitors ample opportunity to fish, swim, boat and enjoy nature. It is one of eight campgrounds in the area, providing access to a beautiful mountain lake and various hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails that meander through the scenic hills and valleys. Recreation The 1,615-acre lake provides ample opportunities for visitors to fish, boat, swim and water ski. Anglers can expect a catch of a variety of trout and kokanee salmon, among other species of fish. The Lakeshore Trail, which loops 14.5 miles around the lake, is available for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The trail connects to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, which stretches from 2,650 miles from Canada to Mexico, across three states. A variety of day hikes can be done on portions of the trail. Facilities The campground offers dozens of single-family campsites, available for tent and RV camping. More than a handful of the sites overlook the beautiful lake, while others are surrounded by various trees and shrubbery. A boat ramp is available within the site. Campsites are equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Flush toilets and drinking water are provided. Utility hookups are not available and all sites have paved parking spurs. Trash collection bins are available throughout the campground. Natural Features The campground is located in the Northern Sierra Nevada Mountains of northern California at an elevation of about 5,000 feet. It is adjacent to the Little Grass Valley Reservoir, which was formed by flooding in the 1960s. The campground and the lake are surrounded by thick stands of pine and fir trees. There are multiple campgrounds located around the lake as well as cabins on the south side. The campground is also the center of a popular snowmobiling area during winter months. Nearby Attractions About 12 miles northeast of the lake lies a small, natural lily pond, called Fowler Lake. It sits at an altitude of 5,446 feet and is a beautiful sight. Charges & Cancellations $23/site per night
Around this stay
Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.
- 4.0 mi
fuel station
Fuel station
- 14 mi
propane
Eagle Energy
- 14 mi
grocery
Safeway
- 8.0 mi
trailhead
No Ear Bar/oddie Bar Trailhead
- 4.0 mi
attraction
Frank C. Reilly Museum
- 1.7 mi
recreation site
Pancake Beach
No dump station found within ~25 mi. Plan dump access before you arrive.
Contact & access
- OLD LITTLE GRASS VALLEY ROAD · La Porte, CA
- 530-534-6500
Reservations & demand
August weekends are typically reserved about 30 days ahead.
Based on 62 Recreation.gov reservations (Oct 2023–Sep 2024). Historical demand — not live availability.
Outbound provider links only. Roam Atlas does not book sites or show live availability.
Source and verification
Last verified: 10/5/2026
See the Sources tab for provenance detail.

