About GRIZZLY
Overview Grizzly Campground (5,777 feet) is one of three family-friendly campgrounds located in the Lake Davis Recreation Area. The recreation area and its namesake lake, Lake Davis provides the classic lake fishing experience. For example, there are four boat launching facilities and many fishing access points around the lake. Water skiing and jet skiing are not allowed on this lake. That makes it a quieter location for that peaceful leisurely camping experience you're looking for. 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 available a half-mile north of the campground. Mountain biking, hiking, hunting and wildlife viewing are also available in the area. Facilities The campground offers dozens of single-family sites, two of which are accessible, for tent and RV camping. A large portion of the campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Utility hookups are not provided.Each site is equipped with picnic table, campfire ring with grill, and can accommodate up to two vehicles. Campground host, accessible flush toilets, and drinking water are provided. Campers are welcome to take advantage of the coin-operated showers half a mile away at Grasshopper Flat Campground. Natural Features Lake Davis covers 4,000 acres and was created in 1967 for recreational opportunities, as well as to rejuvenate fish populations in nearby rivers and supply water to the town of Portola. The lake offers 32 miles of shoreline and is surrounded by tall pine trees. The campground is on the eastern shore and just a few campsites have lake views. The trees provide ample shade for the campground, however privacy is limited by a lack of understory. Smith Peak State Game Refuge borders the lake to the east and south, creating prime
How to Get There
From Reno, travel north on Highway 395 to Highway 70 and turn west to Portola. From Portola, take County Road 126 north for 7 miles, then County Road 112 to the east side of Lake Davis. Continue approximately 1 mile to the campground, which is on the left.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
- 🌡
Layers for swings
Daily temp range is wide (44°F low → 72°F high). Pack layers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to GRIZZLY
Heading to GRIZZLY? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for GRIZZLY?
No central reservation system listed for GRIZZLY. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232833) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to GRIZZLY?
From Reno, travel north on Highway 395 to Highway 70 and turn west to Portola. From Portola, take County Road 126 north for 7 miles, then County Road 112 to the east side of Lake Davis. Continue approximately 1 mile to the campground, which is on the left.
How do I contact GRIZZLY?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-836-2575 or email: james.bradeen@usda.gov.
References & Official Resources