93% (252 reviews)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Tahoe adventure.
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
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Top-rated campgrounds near Tahoe National Forest
89%
(36)
Sugarpine Slopes at Grouse Ridge
6 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Nevada City, CA
It is on this property that I saw my first grouse.
Also look for warblers-notably Audubon's and the Hermit Warblers- along with the White-headed Woodpecker.
You will likely hear a Pileated Woodpecker and if you are lucky you will see one
Learn more about this land:
Welcome to Sugarpine Slopes. The Sugarpine has the longest cones in the world and many birds and mammals like the pine nuts and use the tree for habitat. This is a spring through fall place only. There is no winter access. The property is at 5800 feet. Depending on the weather the road may close from Nov 15th to May 15th.
The road on the property is a dirt road. All wheel drive or 4WD vehicles recommended although the lower section could be accessed by most vehicles. Shorter trailers allowed at Site A. Site 3 can also accommodate a small teardrop-style trailer
The property is totally undeveloped at this time. It is a wildlife corridor for deer and bear (keep all food contained), the mountain quail and the blue grouse. Keep your eyes open for the Hermit Warbler, Audubon's Warbler, and our gorgeous visitor from the tropics the Western Tanager. You are likely to hear the Pileated Woodpecker and if you are lucky you will see it and its red crest in an undulating flight through the trees. The property has a lovely west facing slope which climbs gradually at first then more steeply to the top of the property. We have drive-in camping on the lower section. There is one walk-in site at the top of the property.
There is wonderful hiking nearby with several trailheads in the area within approximately 4 miles.
More information can be provided upon request.
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65%
(20)
Big Yeti Tiny Village
8 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Washington, CA
As you know Hipcamp lets you book and enjoy your travel plans seamlessly, So....We make every effort to be open year round, even in a blizzard. Please make sure you are equipped completely for your perfect stay over. This is a Mountain Location please check local weather conditions before you arrive.
This is located 25 minutes from Truckee.
Emigrant Gap has some hidden GEMS.
The State park at the end of the road hosts the North Fork of the North Fork of the American River and its water Fall.
Bowman Lake and Yuba Gap reservoir are one exit away.
This small camping area backs up to
100,000 acres of Tahoe National forest. You can walk to a restaurant with regular bathrooms and wifi. Here we have out door compost toilet and cold out door shower. ATM we are nothing special. Lots of cool things to do minutes from here, but we mainly boast a safe place to park on your journey. Historic and epic rock climbing is minutes from your campsite. Also there are 4 ski destinations less then 20 minutes from us. fishing lakes can be hiked to. Quads, snow mobiles, xcountry skiing, hiking, downhill and horse back riding can all happen without getting back on the freeway.
September 1, 2023. In and effort to make stayovers more comfortable, Site 4 and 5 are being removed and site 6 is being modified to host a full time 34Ft RV available for nightly use.
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$15
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(7)
Pequena Huts
3 sites · Lodging1 acre · Soda Springs, CA
Cute little cabin nestled in Tahoe National forest . This little gem is on an acre of land surrounded by national forest land. Close enough to Lake Tahoe to get to but also away from the Tahoe chaos.
Host lives on property , but will most likely be out and about most of the day. There are two neighbors but both own 20 acres so you can not see them, feels very private.
The front of the property where the cabin is located there will be some highway noise being close to highway 20 , especially during a busy weekend. you can’t hear highway noise while in the cabin and towards the back of the land.
However it is nice to be so close to highway 20 because it leads to several different destinations. ( west : Nevada city. east: towards Tahoe, and both directions there are soo many lakes/ rivers )
Tiny house: •Full sized futon downstairs and king sized mattress in loft. Electric fireplace, all the game boards , cards, chess, fire pit, projector for movies if requested!!!
•Additional guests are welcome to pitch a tent on the land if needed.
•Hot plate, toaster oven, mini fridge, kitchen appliances, coffee (French press, drip, mocha pot). Black stone grill outside. Fire pit , check if fires are allowed during booking
•Separate bathroom with compost toilet or a short walk to outhouse. Outdoor shower in the making, message if available.
FUN: •Lake Spaulding is about 1/4 mile hike down from the property. There is a boat launch and plenty of room to park it on the property if you want to bring a boat. Also have two paddle boards you are welcome to use.
Rivers/lakes/swimming holes: •emerald pools, crystal clear water , cliff jumping , waterfalls . 10 minute drive •south yuba river 5-15 minutes depending on the spot (ask for recommendations ) •bowman lake road connects to several lakes . 10 minute drive •lake valley reservoir , 10 minute drive •donner lake, rent kayaks, paddle boards or a boat. 20 minutes • eagle lakes rd swimming hole about 5 minutes •truckee, the cutest town with fun shops, restaurants and bars, 25 minutes . Truckee Thursdays start 6/22, live music &vendors!!!
Food: •rustic table, 10 minutes •subway . 10 minutes •Burger King, 10 minutes •soda springs market , 15 minutes •truckee , 25 minutes •Nevada city, 35 minutes
@lil_pequena_huts
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100%
(32)
Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Nevada City, CA
Bright Bear Camp is a private two-acre property bordering Tahoe National Forest. We are located at 4300' elevation down a mostly dirt road along the beautiful Bear River and Bear Valley. This is a very peaceful spot among the trees with a small meadow and creek on the property.
As our name suggests, bears are occasionally in the area so keep an eye out. You may also see the spotted owls that live nearby - listen closely for their calls (https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Spotted_Owl/overview).
There is much to explore in the area and more with only a short drive to the South Yuba River, Emerald Pools, Lake Spaulding, Donner Pass, Donner Lake, and Truckee.
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95%
(149)
Camp Shady Meadow
32 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Blairsden, CA
There are so many fun activities available in the nearby Blairsden/Graeagle area (golfing, biking, hiking, fishing, autumn foliage...just to name a few).
We have added two beautiful glamping tents to our already unique RV, travel trailer, and tent sites.
The glamping tents are complete with carpet, a comfortable queen size mattress, luxurious linens, two homemade benches, and two camping chairs to enjoy a cool evening campfire with a view of the mountains. Please note: these glamping tents are for adults only; no children or pets. Thank you for understanding!
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$45
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(3)
Mosaic Farm
1 site · RV, Tent120 acres · Nevada City, CA
Mosaic is a former horse ranch turned art and science community. We are on a mountain ridge in the middle of Tahoe National Forest, and have gorgeous views.
We have a sauna, heated private outdoor showers, sinks, and bougie composting toilets. Also an inside flush toilet if you're into that kind of thing.
The campground has a shared kitchen area with BBQ's, refrigerators, sinks, etc...
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$25
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95%
(74)
Sacred Hidden Treasure with Creek
7 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Nevada City, CA
Learn more about this land:
The 20 acre property with a creek is close to town yet feels far from civilization. Nestled among the trees and open to the sky. Hear wolves howling in the near distance and the frogs croaking. A quiet, secluded place to get back to nature, have fun, relax or meditate.
A great place for families, spiritual seekers, individuals, adventurers, couples, groups and mountain bike enthusiasts.
After driving less than one and a third mile down a gravel road, a sense of awe arises at the openness and offerings of this space.
Activities: include Mini Golf, Double Horseshoe Pit, Disc Golf, half Basketball Court, Volleyball/Badminton Court, a Sacred Circle, private trail, creek, and miles of mountain biking trails from property,
The creek on the property is a 10 minute walk on an enchanting intermediate trail through the forest. The pristine waters offer several 3 feet deep dipping holes.
The property is also used to support people in healing. Guided spiritual journeys and on-site life and business coaching are available by prearrangement.
Privacy and what to expect: The property is secluded and typically very quiet. Other guests may be staying here. There are three drive-in (parking next to) tent sites nestled in the trees and three walk in sites. The neighbors appreciate their privacy and on occasion they may have music at night.
The road: Trailers not recommended but perfect for those seeking a bit of adventure and enjoy driving back roads. Smaller trailers welcome but be advised of possible pot holes, semi-steep grades, one-way traffic, and limited road signs. Please make sure that all drivers read driving directions.
Tent Spaces - 6 tent spaces with 4 person capacity. Parking next to sites 1-3 available for small vehicles. Tent sites 4 -6 are walk in sites. Parking for these sites is approximately a 3-5 minute walk. Prearranged small tent set up is available for all sites.
Spaces 1-3 combined work well for a group. Please include all individuals in your booking headcount including all children over the age of 1 year old.
Dogs are welcome. Please remember to pay $5 per dog/ per night in the extras. Dog sitting available for 1 - 2 dogs at a time. Must meet dog first.
Be sure to bring flashlights and lanterns, it does get dark at night!
Bring mosquito repellent.
We are at 4000-foot elevation so it can be cooler here than in lower areas.
Fire ban is in affect and therefore No fires are allowed in camp sites.
Feel free to bring your own camp stove and food to cook.
So many wondrous nearby attractions. Just a few miles away: Scott’s Flat Lake, Pioneer Trail (mountain biking), the historic Little Town of Washington next to the Yuba River, Historic Nevada City and Grass Valley, and the Yuba River. The Harmony Ridge Market is just a 10 minute drive.
In about an hour’s drive you can be at Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park, Donner Lake, Tahoe National Forest, the majestic Sierra Buttes, Lakes Basin, Sacramento and Reno.
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$48
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95%
(1764)
Finnon Lake Recreation Area
39 sites · RVs, Tents140 acres · Placerville, CA
*BOOK EARLY* **NO FIREWORKS OF ANY KIND ALLOWED***** DINER CLOSED EFFECTIVE JULY 5TH***
**TRAILERS AND RVs
MUST USE ROCK CREEK ROAD**
From Sacramento on Hwy 50:
At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile.
Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road.
Turn right onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Frank's Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER IS CLOSED.
Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe:
make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions.
Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area!
Our lovely lake offers serenity in a beautifully unique setting, nestled deep into the forest. Enjoy the scenic and exhilarating drive to our hidden gem along the South Fork of the American River- this is all for you to discover.
The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in most parts of California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky.
This private lake supports the fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District and the firefighters of this community. The lake is managed by volunteers of the community for the benefit of the residents
The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website.
Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 18-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Frank's Diner. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking during your stay.
Potable water, picnic tables, campfire rings, and toilets on site. The property can not accommodate horses. 2 dogs per site limit.
Our property is located in Placerville, California. Placerville is a charming California gold rush town named after the placer gold deposits found in its riverbeds and hills in the late 1840s.
PLEASE NOTE, there is construction on the Mosquito Bridge. Expect delays, RVs/trailers must use Rock Creek Road (even if your GPS says Mosquito Road). Please message me with any questions.
Please see our website: finnonrecreationarea.com for full directions.
NO FIREWORKS OF ANY KIND ARE ALLOWED.
Smoking is only allowed in an enclosed vehicle.
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(16)
The House of 13 Rainbows
4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Nevada City, CA
Four acres nestled in the Sierra Nevada Foothills. We are located at 4200 Ft Elevation, just 3.5 miles from the top of the mountain with 360 degree lookouts. You're about 35 minutes from Historic downtown Nevada City, only 15 minutes from many Yuba River swimming holes, and about 6 miles to the Malakoff Diggins State Park. This property is fully off-grid, run on solar and back up generator. We are technically above snow line! So if you are trying to beat the heat it is about 5-10 degrees cooler at our location! This is a peaceful oasis for you to stay why explore the Sierra Nevada Mountains. We are creating a collective community vibe for nature lovers and explorers to have a safe and beautiful place to rest and share.
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$36
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90%
(15)
Coachland RV Resort
134 sites · Lodging, RVs50 acres · Truckee, CA
Coachland RV Park is situated in the picturesque Sierra Nevada mountains in Northern California and is within close proximity to all the outdoor activities, shopping, and dining that Truckee, CA has to offer.
Located at an elevation of 5,996 ft., Coachland RV Park welcomes visitors year-round and is a short distance from Northstar Ski Resort and Squaw Valley. During the summer, visitors can enjoy fishing and watersports on the nearby Truckee River.
All the beauty that Lake Tahoe offers is just a short drive away from Coachland RV Park.
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$70
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(51)
Starry Hot Tub/Cold Plunge Glamping
3 sites · Lodging7 acres · Nevada City, CA
Soak in a cedar hot tub and Renu cold plunge nestled in an oak grove, then sleep in one of our two luxurious yurt-like tents. Venture into the clearing with open skies for truly amazing starry views at night.
It's the dream forest getaway, yet is still less than 15 minutes from the historic Gold Mining towns of Nevada City and Grass Valley.
A composting toilet is housed in a beautiful, well maintained outhouse and a heated outdoor shower is located next to the hot tub and cold plunge. These as well as the hot tub/cold plunge area are shared between our two sites.
Distance to local attractions:
Nevada City (10 minutes)
Grass Valley (14 minutes)
Yuba River (25 minutes)
Scott’s Flat Lake (10 minutes)
Cascade Canal Hiking (3 minutes)
Hoot’s Trail epic mountain biking (17 minutes)
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$85
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(2)
mountain paradise
4 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Dutch Flat, CA
Beautiful 3 acres in Alta, California just off the i-80 of northern Sierras mountains. Has a mini fruit tree orchard on property. Year-round stream little bear creek. Truckee a quick 30 minutes up I-80, Tahoe 50 minutes an away to the ski slopes. Multiple hiking trails in the area. Close to Rolling Lake in Colfax.
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$45
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The best camping near Tahoe National Forest guide
Overview
About
Running along the crest of the Sierra Nevada lies 850,000 acres of forested wonderland. Ranging in elevation from 1,500 feet to 9,400 at the top of Mt. Lola, it’s easy to dial in a comfortable temperature whatever season it is.
Climbers will be delighted to pull on some of the best climbing this side of the Sierra. Classic crags like Donner Pass and Lover’s Leap offer abundant bouldering, sport, and trad in every grade imaginable.
One might argue there is no better swimming in Northern California than the majestic Yuba River. Its deep green pools are so clear you can see all the way to the bottom. This comes in handy when you are tempted to jump off the perfect granite cliffs that ring most of them.
Whitewater lovers will find their paradise at the American River. The South Fork is great if you’re just starting out. Experienced paddlers may want to try the Class III and Class IV rapids of the Middle Fork.
Don’t forget about Tahoe NF once the snow starts falling. There are miles of trails to cross-country ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile. Snowboarders will be psyched on the backcountry options at Donner Pass. You might even find a homemade jump or two.
Nearby attractions
Your North Fork of the American River camping trip will be one for the books. Nestled within the Sierra Nevada mountains, the pristine river and surrounding wilderness offer endless outdoor activities. Rafting, fishing, or simply relaxing by the riverside will fill your days with joy.
Top cities near Tahoe National Forest
- Tahoe National Forest
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