Camping near Grass Valley
Explore mining history and the outdoors near this Northern California Gold Country town.
96% (7263 reviews)
- Grass Valley
96% (7263 reviews)
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12 top campgrounds near Grass Valley
95%
(1686)
Finnon Lake Recreation Area
39 sites · RVs, Tents140 acres · Placerville, CA
*BOOK EARLY* The campground is closed until April 1st. **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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$30
/ night
100%
(47)
Windsong Ridge Village
5 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · North San Juan, CA
Welcome to Windsong Ridge, an evolving homestead on 25 acres of oak, pine, and manzanita woodland about 30 minutes outside of the historic gold rush towns of Grass Valley and Nevada City in Nevada County, CA. The property overlooks the iconic South Yuba River canyon and is 100% solar-powered and off grid with excellent cell coverage (Verizon and T-Mobile). Come be serenaded by the wind chimes throughout the property. Enjoy sitting by a fire and you may hear the coyotes in the distance after a day of swimming, hiking, paddling, site-seeing or attending one of the many festivals held throughout the year in town.
We are at 1800 feet, therefore the summers are hot (sometimes in the triple digits), and winters are mild (snow is a surprising event at this elevation).
We have developed an RV/tent site called Manzanita Rock Meadow (includes a wood-burning chiminea, composting toilet, trash, grill, and tables), with a pad for a van, RV and/or tent and plenty of room to spread out and set up camp.
Hike the adjacent trails on public lands or enjoy hiking trails in the state park along the Yuba River.
Bring your kayak or paddle board to Englebright Lake at any time of year.
In less than two hours, you can visit Truckee, Lake Tahoe, or the Sierra Buttes/Lakes Basin areas and much more.
In town you will find a variety excellent restaurants, farmers markets, live entertainment and wildly popular events throughout the year.
We’ll be happy to help you plan your visit! (Start by checking out https://www.nevadacountygold.com/)
We keep bags of instant light charcoal available for sale if you need it for $5. A bundle of firewood is available for $5 as well.
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$40
/ night
99%
(279)
TerraSol
2 sites · Lodging40 acres · Nevada City, CA
I’ve had the pleasure to be the “caretaker” of this special land once inhabited by the Maidu Indians for the past 43 years. This is SPECIAL ground here and I’m sure you will feel the MAGIC!!!
This 40 acres sits on the Yuba River Ridgetop. At the "Platform of Pleasure" you will enjoy 100,000+ acre views of protected land looking North to the High Sierra, minutes away from downtown Nevada City and 8-10 miles from Yuba River Trailheads.
Firewood bundles are $15 per bundle (2+ hours of campfire when campfires 🔥 are allowed).
There is a $10.00 dog fee per dog/per stay.
On our property like anywhere in the woods
there are mosquitos, so you should bring bug spray.
We offer a tent platform, as well as a canvas tent listing.
Guests love staying here: "From the moment we arrived Chris was nothing but amazing. He helped us get settled in and even recommended some beautiful spots to hike/sight see. They are both so generous! The campsite beautiful and they did a very nice job supplying us with any materials we may need. Definitely coming back during the summer!"
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$80
/ night
Booked 7 times
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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99%
(686)
Love Creek Sanctuary!
6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Grass Valley, CA
Love creek sanctuary was founded in 2016. It all started with Stu the steer and his best friend Petey the goat, from there we have rescued over 90 animals, 45 make their home here at the sanctuary. Our camping areas are fenced from the animals but you are free to explore our 12 acres and interact with the animals during your stay here. We ask that children under 10 stay outside the animal areas and children over 10 are accompanied by a grownup. We have plenty of art and child friendly activities, just ask and we can set you up. We have a no dog policy because the chickens and birds are free ranging, unfortunately we have had several bad experiences with dogs attacking the birds and other animals. If you have a dog that has been around farm animals and is well behaved, let's talk about it. We have 5 dogs so the birds have NO FEAR of them.
---- We are a working farm - PLEASE READ-----
There are donkeys, roosters, dogs and peacocks that make noise, sometimes at night and always early in the morning. Please be aware that you may hear the donkeys bray (usually lasts about 30 seconds), roosters crow, guinea fowl chirp. It is startling and will wake you up. We do our best to keep the dogs hushed but we cannot stop the donkeys, roosters and peacocks from doing their thing. If you are a light sleeper, please bring earplugs or select another wonderful Hipcamp in our area, thank you!
In addition to the interesting sounds you will hear, you will encounter dirt, poop and spiders. Since we are a working farm, things get dirty. We spray all high traffic surfaces twice a day but things get dirty and when it rains it is muddy. Please plan accordingly.
We are centrally located between Grass Valley and Auburn, giving you access to endless recreational activities, wineries, breweries and restaurants.
We have 50 or so rescued farm animals, you can interact with our pig Hank, Mojo the goat or Teddy the alpaca.
NOTE: Starting Memorial Day each year, we have replaced all of our wood fire pits with gas fire pits. We have increased our prices to help cover the costs of propane.
Thank you for choosing us!
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$50
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98%
(31)
Rollins Lake Retreats with A/C!!!
3 sites · Lodging31 acres · Colfax, CA
We live lakeside at Rollins Lake In Colfax.
We live on a beautiful 30 acres with foot path access to Rollins Lake. (3 minute walk from the dome or house and 10-15 minutes from the cabin) where most summer days here are spent swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing ect., down at the water.
The remarkable property is very hilly with pines and oaks. You can follow our driveway to the bottom and access the beginning of The Bear River that has a nice hiking trail along side of it or 8 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 10 minutes to the town of Colfax.
We have a nice spot where you do not see any neighbors so it is peaceful and private with gorgeous 360 degree views. It is also very safe!
We have 3 accommodations on the property A guest suite, a cabin, and a glamping dome!
We have fishing boat, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent.
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$145
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93%
(34)
Lake Lane Waterfront Camping
8 sites · RVs1 acre · Nevada City, CA
Our lake property is situated directly adjacent to Scott's Flat Reservoir without any other properties between you and the lake! Enjoy the surrounding fir, cedar, and madrone trees as you watch the sunset over the water! Our property consists of 2 separate lots. The upper lot includes water, power, sewer hookups, WiFi and off street parking. The lower lot (closest to the water) does not have any hookups but has plenty of room for tent campsites.
PREMIUM RV: "Lakeview Terrace": This RV Site is the larger of the 2 RV Sites. It offers a lot more open space for camp set up (table, chairs, cooking, etc.) This is the property where we keep our family's 5th wheel year round (as seen in some pictures, although we make it policy NOT to visit when RV Site #2 is booked in order to protect your privacy).
STANDARD RV: "Starling's Nest": This is the smaller of the 2 RV Sites. The entire space is approximately 60'x15'. Depending on the size of your RV/Camper there is room enough to accommodate additional campsite set up. Full hookups (city water, electrical outlet (110), and sewer connection) are available beside the gravel parking pad and WiFi is provided. The lake view is filtered because of the many trees but there is easy access to the water via trails from the property or along Lake Lane. NOTE: Per Hipcamp restrictions this site is only available as an "add on" to the Premium RV: "Lakeview Terrace" to accommodate multi-family camping.
LAKESIDE TENT CAMPSITES: "Halcyon Cove" consists of 3 separate tent campsites and guests are able to set up camp wherever they like on a first come basis. There is over 1/2 acre of land adjacent to the lakeshore. City water is provided but no power or sewer hookups at this time. NOTE: Per Hipcamp restrictions these sites are only available as an "add on" to the Premium RV: "Lakeview Terrace" to accommodate multi-family camping.
Come see one of the most beautiful waterfront lake spots in the Sierras.
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$135
/ night
100%
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Peace in the Pines
1 site · Lodging15 acres · Nevada City, CA
Peace in the Pines is a quiet oasis located 5 minutes from Nevada City and less than 10 minutes from the Yuba River. The pictures speak for themselves. We have one campsite that includes a place for a tent, and there's an outside shower, the trailer has a stove, refrigerator, cooking equipment, a bed and flush toilet. If you're looking for a place to escape and relax with beautiful views, this is the place for you.
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$100
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98%
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Hilltop Acres Tipi Glamp Camp
2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Penn Valley, CA
Nestled in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Foothills. Make Hilltops Acres the hub for your Nevada County adventure! There are so many things to do and places to explore, all within 30 minutes of our camp. Take a dip in the South Yuba River, visit Empire Mine State Historic Park, check out one of the many wineries, or stroll along historic downtown Grass Valley and Nevada City.
A great place to relax, play fun outdoor games, take in the breathtaking sunrise/sunset views, and simply enjoy our beautiful surroundings. Song birds and wildlife will narrate your stay on our 10+ acre property.
Time takes on a different meaning out here. You’ll feel yourself relax into a slower pace-into the here and now. If you sit still, you can observe the wild flock of quail, the occasional pheasant, wild turkeys, and deer passing through on their daily routes.
You can also check out our growing little farm. Visit with our little lawn mower goats, Flower, Pig (yes, a goat) and UniHorn. Snuggle with the two lady pigs, Pickles and Pepper. And play around with our people loving livestock guardian dogs Ari and Diesel.
Unwind with a day at the river or lake, take a road or mountain bike ride, or a hike on one of the many local trails. You’ll be staying just 25 minutes away from the pristine South Yuba River.
Wanna shop or check out a part of the Gold Rush history? The historic downtown Grass Valley and Nevada City are just 15 minutes away as well. There is so much local history and many cultural activities to enjoy in our area, boasting a variety of mom and pop shops, delicious eateries, and eclectic "watering holes" featuring craft brews, local wines and tasty cocktails. Live music in many locations adds an upbeat and lively ambiance.
No matter what you choose to do on your stay, we know you’ll enjoy every minute of it here at Hilltop Acres.
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$80
/ night
100%
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In Town Camping
1 site · RV2 acres · Grass Valley, CA
Enjoy a nice nature spot close to town. The property is minutes away from Downtown Grass Valley. It’s a great spot to spent the night after a show in town, or to explore the area for a few days.
If you need water and electric hookups it’s best to park near or on the cement pad. Otherwise feel free to park anywhere in the back yard.
There is a small creek which is an NID ditch and chairs set up there for relaxing. For being close to town the spot has a lot of beautiful nature!
It's an easy 15 minute drive to multiple lakes and river spots of Nevada County. Enjoy the beautiful nature of this area while being close to town!
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Camp Watanda at Lake Vera
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Nevada City, CA
Camp Watanda is a retired resident camp that we have converted to a vacation rental. We have 10 acres of wooded property, with the 4 camping kiosks close to the waterfront and 1 RV site on the waterfront. The camping kiosk all have 8-10 mattresses, grilling table, picnic table, cooler, smoke alarms, rake, broom and fire extinguishers. Tents can be pitched on the elevated decks. Our waterfront has a large fire ring, 2-covered pergolas, canoes, kayaks, life jackets and charcoal grill. Lots of fish in the lake, since this is a private lake, no license is required. There is also a bathhouse (very primitive and in serious need of remodel) close by with 3 showers, 3 toilets and 3 sinks. Up by the lodge is a cell phone charging station and Wi-Fi, while we do have Wi-Fi, is not guaranteed, we are in the mountains with inconsistent connection. Lodge is not available to campers as this is rented separately. NOTE: Lake levels begin to drop in August and can be quite low in drought years.
RV CAMPING: Because of the steep driveway and blind curve, we limit the vehicle length to 25 overall length. Our driveway is more suitable for RV's and Camper Vans and not Travel Trailers being towed.
If you rent a kiosk, all campers must be on the same kiosk unless you rent a second kiosk. If you have a camping van and plan on using the van and the kiosk, then that is a second site. You cannot tailgate on a reservation just because the party only has 2 people on the kiosk, and you have 2 in the Van to make 4 people.
These are tents sites on a Kiosk, there is parking for cars or trucks at the kiosk, not suitable for RV or Travel Trailers. Those vehicles will have to park at the waterfront parking lot.
There are no refunds for cancellations within 72 hours of arrival.
Camp Watanda is private property, campers assume all liability for being on site. There is no lifeguard present. This is a natural habitat for woodland animals, there is an associated risk for camping in their home. Slips, trips and falls can occur on trails, camping structures and waterfront.
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Manzanita Camping & Co
16 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Coloma, CA
Set up camp and relax in one of our private manzanita surrounded tent sites. A short three min walk to our cobble beach along the beautiful South Fork America River will keep you cool during this hot summer. Or use our sites as a base camp for the many hiking and biking trails in the area. Taste some local wines at one of the many wineries or grab a growler at a nearby brewery.
Propane fire pits are provided for your stay at your camp site, with one tank of propane included for your use... Because what is camping without looking at a fire and roasting marshmallows? Our fire pits sure help add to that *camping feel* but COOKING OVER FIRE PITS (OTHER THAN S'MORES) IS NOT PERMITTED, so please plan to bring your own camp stove or preferred camp-cooking appliances and the required fuel. We look forward to your stay with us!
FAQ: What should I bring?
For our standard tent or RV sites, the sites include a picnic table and a propane fire pit with propane for heating/ambiance only. You should plan to pack everything you would usually expect to bring with you to a typical Forest Service or State Park campground... For example: propane camp stove or equivalent with your own propane/fuel for cooking, extra tables for your personal camp set-up needs, shade tents or pop-ups, games or camp activities, camp cots/pads/air mattresses, camping bedding, tents, camp chairs, etc. We are happy to answer any question you may have!
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from
$60
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Available this weekend
Under $50
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Camping near Grass Valley guide
Overview
In California’s Sierra Nevada foothills, Grass Valley was once the “Gold Capital of America.” Campers rarely want to miss exploring the area’s rich mining history at the Empire Mine State Historic Park or stopping into the historic downtown (or that of nearby Nevada City). Outside of downtown, Grass Valley offers easy access to incredible outdoor recreation, with the Tahoe National Forest, numerous lakes, and the Yuba and American rivers nearby. Grass Valley camping options are plentiful, and include everything from RV parks and private campgrounds to forest service, riverside, and lakeside campsites.
Where to go
Around Grass Valley
Campers can park their RV at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, which offers partial and full hookups, or head a bit outside of town for tent and RV camping near the fishing and water sports found at Englebright Lake. Rollins Reservoir, Scotts Flat Lake Recreation Area, and Collins Lake Recreation Area. New Bullards Bar Reservoir offers tent, RV, and boat-in camping options, and for more mining history and camping, head to Malakoff Diggins State Park.
Auburn, Sacramento, and Jackson Areas
Head south to the Auburn State Recreation Area for camping, hiking, and water sports along the North and Middle Fork of the American River. Near Sacramento, several campgrounds can be found around Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma, as well as further south near the Sacramento River at Sandy Beach Regional Park and Brannan Island State Recreation Area. More water fun and camping can be found further south near Jackson, around Lake Amador, Camanche Lake, and New Hogan Lake.
Tahoe National Forest
Within two hours of Grass Valley are a large number of campgrounds in the Tahoe National Forest. Find options along the Yuba River, the American River, and along the Lakes Basin Recreation Area. A string of lakes and campsites can be found along Highway 80 and in Truckee, and further east, several lakeside campsites sit on the northwest shore of Lake Tahoe.
When to go
Summer is the most popular season for time outdoors in Grass Valley, especially when it comes to water sports and pleasant camping weather.water Many area campgrounds are only open seasonally and fill up early for the peak summer season. Lake fishing is usually open year-round, while streams are limited from April to November. Visit in spring for wildflowers, or in fall for colorful foliage. Winter weather can affect roads and recreation options.
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