Cities and Towns in Plumas County, California

Founded in 1854, Plumas County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. Historically, Plumas County was formed from Butte. The city of Quincy is the county seat. With FIPS code of 63, Plumas County has a population of 19,915 and area of 2,554 square miles (6,615 km²).

List of all cities in Plumas County, CA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Almanor, CA	95947	530
Beckwourth, CA	96129	530
Belden, CA	95915	530
Blairsden, CA	96103	530
Blairsden-Graeagle, CA	96103	530
Blrsdn-Greagl, CA	96103	530
Bucks Lake, CA	95971	530
Canyon Dam, CA	95923	530
Canyondam, CA	95923	530
Caribou, CA	95915	530
Chester, CA	96020	530
Chilcoot, CA	96105	530
Clio, CA	96106	530
Crescent Mills, CA	95934	530
Cromberg, CA	96103	530
Delleker, CA	96122	530
East Quincy, CA	95971	530
Ganser Bar, CA	95915	530
Genesee, CA	95983	530
Graeagle, CA	96103	530
Greenville, CA	95947	530
Johnsville, CA	96103	530
Massack, CA	95971	530
Meadow Valley, CA	95956	530
Oroville, CA	95915	530
	95980	530
Portola, CA	96122	530
	96129	530
Prattville, CA	95923	530
Quincy, CA	95971	530
Rock Creek, CA	95980	530
	95980	530
Rogers Flat, CA	95980	530
Seneca, CA	95923	530
Spanish Ranch, CA	95956	530
	95971	530
Spring Garden, CA	95971	530
Storrie, CA	95980	530
Taylorsville, CA	95983	530
Tobin, CA	95980	530
Twain, CA	95984	530
Vinton, CA	96135	530
Virgilia, CA	95984	530

Major Cities and Towns in Plumas County, California

Quincy

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 4.2 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,700 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 95971
• Latitude: 39.9363° N
• Longitude: 120.9475° W

City Location and History

Quincy, the county seat of Plumas County, is nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains along the Feather River. Founded during the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century, Quincy was named after Quincy, Illinois, the hometown of one of its early settlers. The town grew as a center for mining and later for logging, both of which became central to the local economy. Quincy’s location along the historic Feather River Route of the Western Pacific Railroad also contributed to its development as a transportation hub. Today, Quincy retains much of its historic charm with its well-preserved 19th-century buildings and serves as a gateway to the nearby Plumas National Forest, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Quincy is served by the Plumas Unified School District, with Quincy Junior-Senior High School being the primary educational institution in the area. The town’s major landmarks include the Plumas County Courthouse, a beautiful example of Classical Revival architecture that has been in continuous use since its construction in 1921. Another significant site is the Plumas County Museum, which offers exhibits on the region’s history, including its Native American heritage, gold mining past, and logging industry. Quincy is also home to the annual High Sierra Music Festival, a major event that draws visitors from across the country. The nearby Bucks Lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking, adding to Quincy’s appeal as a destination for those seeking both history and natural beauty.

Portola

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 5.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 96122
• Latitude: 39.8102° N
• Longitude: 120.4697° W

City Location and History

Portola is located in the northeastern part of Plumas County, along the Middle Fork of the Feather River. The city was founded in the late 19th century as a railroad town, serving as a major hub for the Western Pacific Railroad. Portola was named after the Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portolá, who led the first European expedition through California. The city’s economy has traditionally been tied to the railroad industry, which played a crucial role in its development. In the 20th century, Portola also became known for its logging and timber industries, which contributed to the growth of the community. Today, Portola is known for its scenic beauty and access to outdoor recreational activities, particularly in the nearby Plumas National Forest and the Lakes Basin Recreation Area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Portola is served by the Plumas Unified School District, with Portola Junior-Senior High School being the main educational institution. The city’s major landmarks include the Western Pacific Railroad Museum, one of the largest railroad museums in the United States, which offers visitors the chance to explore historic locomotives and railroad equipment. The museum also hosts the popular “Run-A-Locomotive” program, where visitors can operate a real locomotive under supervision. The city’s downtown area features several historic buildings, reflecting its railroad heritage. The nearby Lake Davis offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Portola’s combination of historical significance, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm makes it a key city in Plumas County.

Chester

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 7.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,100 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 96020
• Latitude: 40.3085° N
• Longitude: 121.2327° W

City Location and History

Chester is located in the northern part of Plumas County, near the shore of Lake Almanor and at the base of the Lassen Peak. The town was established in the late 19th century, originally as a logging community, due to its proximity to vast forests. Chester was named after the hometown of one of its early settlers, Chester, Vermont. The town grew as the logging industry expanded, and it became a center for timber production in the region. Chester’s location near Lassen Volcanic National Park has made it a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The town serves as a gateway to some of Northern California’s most scenic and rugged landscapes.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Chester is served by the Plumas Unified School District, with Chester Junior-Senior High School being the primary educational institution. The town’s major landmarks include the Collins Pine Museum, which offers exhibits on the history of logging in the area and the sustainable forestry practices used by the Collins Pine Company, a major local employer. Another significant site is the Seneca Healthcare District, which provides medical services to the surrounding communities. Chester’s proximity to Lake Almanor, a large reservoir that offers a range of recreational activities, makes it a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports. The nearby Lassen Volcanic National Park, with its geothermal features and volcanic landscapes, draws visitors from around the world. Chester’s blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and logging heritage makes it a unique and vibrant community in Plumas County.

Greenville

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 4.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,100 (2023 estimate, pre-fire)
• Zip Codes: 95947
• Latitude: 40.1427° N
• Longitude: 120.9519° W

City Location and History

Greenville is located in the northern part of Plumas County, in the scenic Indian Valley. The town was originally founded in the mid-19th century during the California Gold Rush and was named after Green, a settler who built a boarding house in the area. Greenville grew as a mining and logging town, with its economy heavily reliant on the timber industry. The town’s location in the fertile Indian Valley also supported agriculture, particularly cattle ranching. Greenville’s historic downtown featured well-preserved 19th-century buildings that reflected its rich history. Unfortunately, much of the town was destroyed in the 2021 Dixie Fire, one of the largest wildfires in California’s history, which caused significant damage to homes, businesses, and landmarks.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Before the Dixie Fire, Greenville was served by the Plumas Unified School District, with Greenville Junior-Senior High School being the main educational institution. The town’s landmarks included the Greenville Cy Hall Memorial Museum, which showcased the history of the Indian Valley and its communities, and the historic downtown area with its old-time charm. The nearby Plumas National Forest offered numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The Indian Valley area, with its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, remains an important part of Plumas County’s history. Despite the devastating impact of the fire, efforts to rebuild and restore Greenville are ongoing, reflecting the resilience and determination of its residents.

Graeagle

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 11.1 square miles
• Population: Approximately 700 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 96103
• Latitude: 39.7660° N
• Longitude: 120.6166° W

City Location and History

Graeagle is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Plumas County, near the Feather River and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The town was originally established in the early 20th century as a company town for the Graeagle Lumber Company, which operated a sawmill in the area. The town’s distinctive red buildings, which once housed workers and company facilities, are a reminder of its logging past. After the sawmill closed in the 1950s, Graeagle transitioned into a resort community, attracting visitors with its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and relaxed atmosphere. Today, Graeagle is known for its picturesque setting and serves as a gateway to the Lakes Basin Recreation Area and the surrounding wilderness.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Graeagle is served by the Plumas Unified School District, with nearby schools in the town of Portola serving the educational needs of local children. The community’s major landmarks include the Graeagle Meadows Golf Course, a popular destination for golfers, and the nearby Lakes Basin Recreation Area, which offers hiking, fishing, and camping in a pristine alpine environment. The town’s historic red buildings, now housing shops, restaurants, and galleries, are a central feature of Graeagle’s charm. The Mill Pond, located in the heart of the community, is a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and paddle boating. Graeagle’s blend of history, outdoor activities, and small-town charm make it a unique and inviting destination in Plumas County.

Map of Cities in Plumas County, CA