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WANDER YOUR WAY

In a world of packed itineraries, crowded attractions, and destinations that seem designed for everyone else, Plumas County offers something increasingly rare: the opportunity to wander. Here, wild forests, winding roads, hidden lakes, and small mountain towns still reward the curious. With minimal crowds and countless miles between one discovery and the next, Plumas invites travelers to choose their own adventure — unscripted.

Lake Almanor Basin, Ca.

Your gateway to Lake Almanor, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and small town charm.

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Belden, Ca.

A hidden canyon gem worth the wander.

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Indian Valley, Ca.

Where resilience meets wide-open spaces.

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Quincy, Ca.

Historic charm in the heart of Plumas County.

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Portola, Ca.

Railroad history meets wide-open mountain adventure

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Graegle, Ca.

Mountain charm with adventure in every direction

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plumas county map
plumas county map
map of northern california with plumas county highlighted

Getting Here is Easy.

Whether you come for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, escaping from it all is a lot closer than you think. Plumas County is the perfect place to effortlessly explore the natural beauty of Northern California.

City & Distance

Chico                                  1.5 Hours

Reno                                   1.5 Hours

Sacramento                  2.5 Hours

San Francisco             4.5 Hours

South Lake Tahoe      2.5 Hours

City

 
Chico

Reno

Sacramento

San Francisco

South Lake Tahoe

DISTANCE

 
1.5 Hours

1.5 Hours

2.5 Hours

4.5 Hours

2.5 Hours

PLACES TO STAY

Find the perfect place that fits all your needs

BED & BREAKFAST

FAMILY FRIENDLY

PET FRIENDLY

WATERFRONT

CABINS | COTTAGES

VACATION RENTALS

Featured Events

Carey Candy Co. (Quincy)

Holiday Shopping Tour

Lake Almanor Area Holiday Shopping Tour November 13–14, 2026 Gather your favorite shopping partner or make it a weekend getaway with friends at the Lake Almanor Area Holiday Shopping Tour! Explore our mountain communities and discover unique gifts, local boutiques, handcrafted treasures,...

Chester Community Tree Lighting

Community Tree Lighting

Chester Christmas Village Tree Lighting 📅 Friday, November 27, 2026📍 Chester Park, Chester, CA🕔 5:00 PM Welcome Ceremony🎶 Candlelight Carols🎄 5:30 PM Tree Lighting Celebrate the start of the holiday season at Chester’s annual Christmas Village Tree Lighting! Gather with friends, family, and...

Visit Santa at Sparkle

Sparkle

Enjoy the official Christmas tree lighting, photos with Santa, live performances from local talent, and Quincy’s annual Light Parade. Bring the family, explore downtown shops, and enjoy a festive evening celebrating the season and the local community. Keep the holiday spirit going after Quincy...

Find Your Wander

Inspiring guides for you to Find Your Wander in Plumas County

Wander guides

Winter Weekend Ideas in Northern California

Winter in Plumas County is quiet and magical. The region offers everything from cozy cabins and backcountry skiing to family activities like Christmas tree cutting and holiday events. Beat the crowds at Tahoe and other popular winter destinations for your own serene and charming Lost Sierra seasonal adventure.
A backcountry skier climbing Mt Lassen in Northern California
Wander guides

Summer Vacation Ideas in Northern California

Plumas County is a summer wonderland of outdoor activities with over a hundred lakes, music festivals, world-class hiking, and mountain town events. Plan your perfect summer vacation high in the Sierra Nevada of Northern California.
arrowleaf balsamroot in Northern California
Wander guides

The Best Lakes in Northern California

With over 100 lakes to choose from, Plumas County offers visitors an opportunity to soak up some of the most beautiful lakes in Northern California. Whether you’re looking to enjoy water sports with a group or relax and unplug on a solo adventure, the diversity of our lakes offers something for everyone. We invite you to unplug and feel the magic of our mountain lakes and the vast forests that surround them.
canoes on lake with sunset
Wander guides

The Best Lakes in Northern California

With over 100 lakes to choose from, Plumas County offers visitors an opportunity to soak up some of the most beautiful lakes in Northern California. Whether you’re looking to enjoy water sports with a group or relax and unplug on a solo adventure, the diversity of our lakes offers something for everyone. We invite you to unplug and feel the magic of our mountain lakes and the vast forests that surround them.
canoes on lake with sunset
Wander guides

Where to See Fall Colors in Northern California

In early October, the leaves in Plumas County begin transforming to create stunning natural beauty. From creek beds to mountaintops, vibrant leaves contrast brilliantly against the dark green pines and firs that dominate the landscape. We’ve pulled together the best routes that offer an abundance of color and adventure. Our fall foliage guide gets you off the beaten path and into the heart of Plumas County.
Fall foliage in Plumas County
Wander guides

The 9 Best Museums in Plumas County

Highlights of the 9 best museums in Plumas County.
Plumas County Museum
Wander guides

Waterfalls, Wildflowers, and Wildlife

If you love birding, waterfall hikes, and wildflowers without the crowds, this four day road trip will take you from one end of the Lost Sierra to the other. Plumas County is beautiful all year-round but late spring and early summer offer some incredible nature-based experiences for the intrepid traveler.
Burney Falls in Northern California
Wander guides

Spring Weekend Trip Ideas in Northern California

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Plumas County– the valleys are verdant, rivers are rushing, and snow is still on the high mountains. Spring weather is perfect for activities like hiking, birding, wildflower watching, kayaking, and more.
Clouds and reflections on Manzanita Lake