Lake with rocky shoreline

Bucks Lake Vacation Rentals

Bucks Lake

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Bucks Lake
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Why Rent On Bucks Lake

Tucked into Plumas National Forest, Bucks Lake is a high-country retreat at 5,200 feet, known for its crystal-clear waters and surrounding pine forests. Just 17 miles from Quincy, the lake spans over 1,800 acres and is a hub for boating, sailing, and fishing. Kokanee salmon, lake trout, and brown trout thrive in these cold, deep waters. The Bucks Lake Lodge offers cozy cabins and a marina, while campgrounds like Sandy Point and Mill Creek provide a rustic alternative. In summer, hikers can connect to the Pacific Crest Trail nearby, and in winter, snowmobilers and cross-country skiers take over the meadows. For a hearty mountain breakfast, The Caribou Café down the road is a local favorite. Bucks Lake is that quintessential Sierra hideaway—peaceful, pristine, and perfect for unplugging.

Best time to go
Embrace the serene beauty of Bucks Lake in late summer, particularly August. With clear azure skies, tranquil waters perfect for kayaking, and the joyful hum of the annual Lake & Pines Festival, it’s an idyllic escape with fewer crowds and abundant sunshine.
Water Quality
Bucks Lake's water is a deep blue, crystal-clear reservoir nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California.
Surface area (mi)
4.6
Max depth (ft)
89.99
Elevation (ft)
5160.76
Shoreline length (mi)
14

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Fly Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Jet Skiing
  • Cross-country Skiing
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Marinas on Bucks Lake

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Bucks Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Bucks Lake. The lake has sandy, uncrowded beaches and warmer water in the summer, making it a favorite for swimmers. However, swimming is not permitted in designated boat launching areas.

  • Bucks Lake is a popular destination because it offers a variety of outdoor activities. It provides opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking, and hiking, with amenities like boat rentals, campgrounds, and picnic areas. The lake’s warm summer water and sandy beaches also make it a favorite for locals and visitors.

  • Fishing at Bucks Lake in California is allowed from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. There are no specific night fishing restrictions mentioned for Bucks Lake. General California fishing hours apply here.

  • Indian Rock Beach at Bucks Lake is best for families and allows dogs. This beach has forest-shaded picnic tables, a roomy beach, and hulking boulders in the water, making it a scenic and pet-friendly area. Most trails and beaches around Bucks Lake are also pet-friendly.

  • The closest towns to Bucks Lake, California, are Quincy and Oroville. Bucks Lake is 13 miles west-southwest of Quincy and 32 miles northeast of Oroville, located within the Plumas National Forest.