A Quiet Mountain Lake
Antelope Lake lies above Indian Valley in the Plumas National Forest, about 30 miles northeast of Taylorsville. It is a quiet and remote mountain lake making it a favorite spot for fishermen, families, and those who want to escape the bustle of busier lakes. The elevation of the lake is 5,069 feet and it has nearly 15 miles of shoreline to explore by boat, kayak, or paddle board.
The drive from Taylorsville up to Antelope Lake is beautiful with wildflowers, craggy mountains, and big views of the valley below. Make sure to stop in at Young’s Market in Taylorsville for supplies and special items for a picnic. Antelope Lake is in a remote and special corner of the Lost Sierra–perfect for intrepid explorers and nature lovers.
Antelope Lake SpillwayAntelope Lake has a good population of rainbow trout, and small and largemouth bass. The lake is planted with Eagle Lake Rainbows and Brookies. The lake also contains Kokanee Salmon and Browns. Fish can be caught by fly-fishing, baitcasting, and or spinning. The lake has weed beds close to shore, making it difficult to wade. Float tubing or a small boat would be the best way to fish in this lake. Lake access can be found on the North side of the lake at Lost Cove.
Antelope Lake and the surrounding areas are great for birding. In the spring and summer months grebes and white pelicans can be seen on the lake. Look for songbirds, ducks, woodpeckers, and raptors too. Learn more about birding in Plumas County.
There is an 11-mile paved loop around the Antelope Lake Recreation Area. Points of interest include the Pioneer Cabin, picnic areas, beaches, lake view vistas, and bird and wildlife viewing. The Janesville Grade and the Antelope Road from Genesee Valley are also beautiful and challenging road bike rides for those who like climbing and big mountain views.
Seven miles below Antelope Lake is the Middle Creek Trail which is a great trail for horseback riding. There are several places in the county to camp with your horse or a few locations that offer overnight horse boarding if needed.
Camping is available at three campgrounds around the lake, perfect for your quiet mountain getaway. They are Long Point Campground, Lone Rock Campground, and Boulder Creek Campground. These Plumas National Forest campgrounds can be reserved ahead of time, but often they are open during the week or on non-holiday weekends for a quick getaway.
