1 / 1

Onion Valley Campground

·
publicCampground.modules.title.recommendsPercentage
·
discover.modules.lands.sites.sitesWithCount · publicCampground.modules.title.accommodationTypes.rv, publicCampground.modules.title.accommodationTypes.tent

Onion Valley Campground sits near a creek in a remote meadow.

The campground is surrounded by cedar, pine, and fir. There is no water here, so bring your own or come prepared to filter creek water. Mountain biking is a popular activity here, so bring you bike if you got one!

discover.modules.lands.sites.sitesWithCountpublicCampground.modules.title.accommodationTypes.rv, publicCampground.modules.title.accommodationTypes.tent

Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Tahoe National Forest

More to explore nearby

100%
1 ratings · 2 reviews
Avatar
Thomas W.
July 8, 2019
We camped here on July 4th weekend after originally aiming to camp at North Fork campground about a half mile down the road. We arrived late on July 3rd at North Fork and all of the walk-in sites were taken and the campground was slammed. Just up the road Onion Valley's sites (all walk-in / first come, first served) were wide open. A few people came late on the 4th, but still was pretty quiet. The swimming hole that draws the crowds to North Fork is easily accessible from Onion Valley. Fill up your water at the running spring fountain there too as there's no running water at Onion Valley. There are vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables though. Great spot overall.
Avatar
Nicole P.
August 6, 2018
Arrived here on a Friday morning in July, the campground was essentially empty! We were able to pick a large campsite right next to the meadow with plenty of shade. We have a wonderful weekend camping here. We spent most of our days at the creek swimming, evenings were spent watching the hundreds of butterflies and dragonflies over the meadow. The campground did fill up later on Friday but even then there were empty spots on Saturday. I will definitely return!

Other campgrounds in Tahoe National Forest

Your guide to camping in Onion Valley Campground

Overview

Biking

Bikers will find Tahoe to be a mountain biking paradise, with rough roads and unforgettable views. The Downieville ranger district in particular is a dream come true. Gorp summarized some of the best trails in the forest, like the Butcher Ranch trail, a wildflower-blooming trail running along Pauley Creek. For a full list of trails, look here .

Boating

There are hundreds of lakes and many reservoirs within this forest, making motorized and non-motorized boating a go-to activity. Everything from waterskiing to SUPping is allowed here, so come prepared for fun times in the water!

Fishing

There are huge reservoirs, alpine lakes, rushing rivers, small pools, and everything in between, making this an excellent place for anglers. In fact, this is the most popular national forest in California for fishing! Here you will find all types of trout, particularly in the North Fork of the American Wild River, a designated wild trout stream. Don’t let the seasons limit you, either, you can go ice fishing in the winter! There’s a solid guide on what you can find and when, right here .

Hiking

Hikers searching for incredible views won’t leave disappointed: there are over 500 miles of trails, including the PCT. You can discover hidden lakes and waterfalls, and look out over the mountains from a lookout point. The Loch Leven Lakes Trail is a wonderful family-friendly hike to take your dog and go for a refreshing swim. You can find more trails here .

Horseback riding

If you have a horse, bring that fella over to these trails , and if you don’t, there are many local outfitters who can set you up with a horse friend.

Paddling

Kayakers and canoers have plenty of opportunities to row their little boats in the lakes, reservoirs, and streams of this national forest. Whitewater kayaking the north fork of the American River is popular, but those looking for a relaxing vacation should definitely try Jackson Meadow reservoir, Boca reservoir, or any of the other reservoirs.

Wind sports

Nothing beats that fresh mountain air blowing through your hair! Boca Reservoir, Jackson Meadow Reservoir, Stampede Reservoir, and Bowman Lake are some of your options to go windsurfing. With placid and expansive waters, this is the perfect way to cool off and have a ton of fun. Make sure to check with a ranger to see what the current water levels are like.

Off-roading (OHV)

Looking to take a spin in your off highway vehicle? The Little Truckee Summit trail has gentle slopes and Prosser Hill is an easily accessible riding area, slightly challenging, but worth it due to the views from the top of the hill. The Foresthill area has a 100-mile trail system worth checking out, and of course, there’s always the famous Rubicon trail in South Lake Tahoe.

Climbing

There isn’t much information about climbing, but Donner Summer has traditional and sport climbing areas to challenge all skill levels, and Granite Chief Wilderness and Bowman Lake are known for having climbing. Old Man Mountain , a mini Half Dome, has 360 degree views, but doesn’t see too many visitors, which means you’ll have that thing all to yourself. You can find a map of recommend peaks to climb here .

Snow sports

What better way to enjoy the wintertime than to go to Tahoe? Tahoe National Forest offers backcountry wilderness for you to explore, instead of heading to the traditional areas that get crowded during the season. There are many trails for snowmobiling in the Foresthill area and by Highway 89. You can also go xc skiing and snowshoeing on these ungroomed trails , or head to the Royal Gorge, one hell of a Nordic resort: flawless trails, gourmet meals at a backcountry lodge, four lifts, and the best rental equipment. Sign us up!

Swimming

There’s no shortage of swimming here: you’re welcome to splash in lakes, reservoirs, streams, rivers, and swimming holes under waterfalls! The Mushroom Hole is an excellent swimming hole that you jump right into. Check out a list of places to swim.

Whitewater paddling

If motor boats aren’t your thing, step up your game with a whitewater trip. The Yuba River and the American River offer amazing whitewater adventures, with rapids ranging from class II to V (holy smokes!).

Wildlife watching

Wildlife watchers won’t be disappointed with Tahoe National Forest. The wetland areas are great places for birding, especially during the spring and fall. Species include: white faced ibis, sandhill cranes, American bitterns, black crowned night herons, Canada geese, different ducks, songbirds, bald eagles, golden eagles, hawks, prairie falcons and kestrels. There are typical forest dwellers like bears, mountain lions, raccoons, squirrels, etc. You can learn more about the wildlife on a nature trail-- Rock Creek, Sierra Discovery, and Glacier Meadow are all interpretive trails.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

© 2024 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.