Ackerman sits on the western shore of Lewiston Lake, a cold, clear reservoir below Trinity Dam that draws anglers and paddlers to its 610-acre expanse. The campground runs mostly unshaded with lake access, making it a straightforward base for fishing trips and quiet water activities. Open year-round for walk-ins, it's particularly popular with those chasing kokanee salmon and trout.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Primitive
- 💵Fee per Night
- $30
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 📍GPS
- 40.78556, -122.77167
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- spring, summer, fall, winter
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- Yes
- 📞Phone
- 530-275-8113
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The 66 sites spread along Lewiston Lake's western shore at 1,900 feet elevation, with Trinity Dam providing the backdrop. Most sites sit in the open with scattered deciduous and conifer trees — shade is limited, so plan accordingly for summer visits. Each spot comes with a picnic table and fire ring with grill, plus grass or gravel parking spurs that can handle RVs up to 40 feet.
The lakefront setting means you're steps from the water, though the mostly unshaded layout can feel exposed during peak summer heat. Cold, crystal-clear Lewiston Lake stretches roughly five miles long and half a mile wide, with mountainous shoreline that shifts from marshlands to dense forest as you move around the water.
What to Know
Reservations are accepted May 21st through September 10th, but the campground stays open year-round for walk-ins. This makes it a solid shoulder season option when other area campgrounds close. The 10 mph speed limit on Lewiston Lake keeps things relatively peaceful for paddlers and swimmers.
Two boat ramps serve the area: Pine Cove sits 2 miles south for Lewiston Lake access, while Fairview ramp 3 miles north gets you onto Trinity Lake. Both are accessible, making launching straightforward for various watercraft.
Nearby
The 2-mile North Lakeshore Trail follows the water and works as an easy leg-stretcher from camp. Lewiston Lake produces good fishing for kokanee salmon, rainbow, brown, and brook trout — the cold, clear water keeps fish active through much of the year. Kayakers particularly favor the lake's protected waters and scenic shoreline.
The Trinity Lake/Weaverville area offers additional recreation opportunities, though the campground's lakeside position means water activities dominate most visits.