Camping near Donner Memorial State Park

97% (16 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Donner Memorial adventure.

A gripping piece of history meets up with a mountain lake and spectacular mountain views.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Donner Memorial State Park

$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$
$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$
$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$
$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$

88%

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Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Verdi, CA

Find privacy, seclusion and solitude in nature at Alpine Valley Camp /|\. Encompassed by Tahoe & Toiyabe National Forests, this Alpine Valley rolls across 10,000 acres at approximately 5,500 feet with towering mountainous peaks on three of its sides rising above 8,000 feet. A meadow with creeks and wildlife lines the Valley floor. Depending on location, distant peaks in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range rise into view. The private and secluded Camp sits at the edge of the meadow on 40 acres. It offers multiple sites for vista viewing, camping and fire pits set along two seasonal creeks. Available for one camping party's exclusive use, basic camping comforts include picnic tables, metal and stone fire pits, and an out house with a view. Follow the lower creek out from the Camp into the meadow and Valley floor to find a damned swimming hole. Off-road vehicles, dirt bikes, hiking, fishing, water sports, golf, skeet, and the like are available at or near the Camp, as is LTE cellphone and data services. Alpine Valley Campsite is a short distance to Reno, Truckee, Stampede and Boca Reservoirs, and Lake Tahoe. It is located approx. 4.5 miles from Stampede Reservoir, 5.4 miles from the Truckee River in Verdi, and 17 miles from the Boca Reservoir and Truckee River in Truckee. Host highly recommends 4x4/AWD vehicle OR at least 7" of ground clearance, driving slow on dirt and rocky roads (approximately a 25-minute drive from entrance of Toiabye National Forest-Verdi, CA entrance at 5-10 mph), and experience with pack-in, pack-out camping. Detailed welcome letter with local destinations, GPS coordinates, Valley map and links provided upon booking. Nightly rate is for up to two campers; any camping party is limited to eight (8) campers and each additional camper is assessed a guest fee of $44/nt If you'd like to collect wood from the property, simply purchase a bundle of wood when completing your booking. This is a pack-in, pack-out camp. Cabela's located in Verdi for all camping needs. Eats, drinks, market, gas, et cetera, are conveniently located in Verdi, too. Alpine Valley Camp /|\ appreciates the outdoor enthusiasts who have come for one or more adventures. (Note price include 12.5% Sierra County Transient Occupancy Tax)

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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!"

100%

(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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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Donner Memorial State Park

83%

(3)

Ridge Campground

46 sites · RVs, Tents In Donner Memorial State Park

100%

(5)

Splitrock Campground

41 sites · RVs, Tents In Donner Memorial State Park

100%

(8)

Creek Campground

136 sites · RVs, Tents In Donner Memorial State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Donner Memorial State Park

92%

(13)

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.

98%

(89)

Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

12 sites · RVs, Tents96 acres · Reno, CA

When you come to camp here you are on a working farm in transition. Girlfarm has been a local food go to for restaurants, farm family members, and regenerative agriculture interests. Today, the farm is looking forward to a new course in agri tourism as we begin planning walking gardens, art installations in the landscape, and interactive classes. If you would like a list of grass fed meats available, veggies, or herbs just text your host before arrival. We are looking for a seasonal self contained camper who we could offer trade for camp care - text host directly. Its been a huge water season so skeeters are around we also recommend tents have a rain fly and ground cloth. Welcome It was important to choose a partner like Hipcamp to invite like minded individuals who respect both the natural environment and the idea of less is more. At any time you may encounter farming activities, building out of tiny houses for future bookings, or gardens in the process of creation. As we move toward offering the land as a place to both find solitude or chosen participation our Flyte and Sparrow experience will hopefully be a place you will want to return to as your own tradition.

95%

(21)

L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

1 site · RV, Tent130 acres · Washoe Valley, NV

We sit on 130 acres of primarily pasture over looking Washoe Valley and Washoe Lake. Olde LYFE Alpacas offers visits with the animals, including an organized 60 min Peaceful Walk with an alpaca where you’ll experience them up close. To book an experience, go to www.oldelyfealpacas.com. There is a small retail store on site with a variety of products made with alpaca fiber, including the most delightful alpaca socks!!

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.

Twin Pines Cabin, Truckee

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Truckee, CA

Indulge in the ultimate mountain and lake retreat right in the heart of Truckee! Location, Location, Location: Revel in the perfect setting, just 5 minutes from downtown and a mere 5 minutes from the stunning Donner Lake. For your winter adventures, it's a quick 12-minute drive to Northstar and a scenic 16-minute journey to Palisades (Squaw). Newly Remodeled: Our cozy 4-bed, 2-bath cabin accommodates 10 guests comfortably. Enjoy updated amenities, a convenient washer/dryer, central heating for warmth, a delightful gas fireplace, and additional entertainment with a pool table and shuffleboard. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills or a peaceful escape, this cabin offers the ideal blend of comfort and convenience for your Truckee getaway.

95%

(145)

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!

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.

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...

61%

(18)

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.

100%

(56)

160 Acres amidst National Forest

3 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Placerville, CA

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Slate Mountain where you have access to 160 acres of gated, private wilderness with 360 degree mountain views and exclusive waterfront year-round on Slab Creek. Bring your hiking boots or your off-road toys and explore 160 acres of secluded, magical forest filled with wildflowers, butterflies, ancient Pines and Cedars, wild berries, and wild game. Pitch a tent or park your RV at your choice of locations with amazing views and total seclusion. Spend the day relaxing, picnicking, and try your luck at gold panning on pristine Slab Creek where not a single human or road exists for miles. Pitch a tent next to Slab Creek and spend an entire night bathed in the sounds of the rushing water and enchanted forest surrounding you. Plan a retreat. Plan a family reunion. Plan a hunting trip with the boys. Bring your motorless watercraft and spend an afternoon at Stumpy Meadows, a beautiful mountain reservoir a 25 minute drive from the property. Apple Hill wineries and farms are a 40 minute drive. If you bring the off-road toys you also have access to miles of trails throughout hundreds of acres of national forest. Don’t feel like cooking? Frank’s Diner on Finnon reservoir in Swansboro is a quick 20 minute drive from the property. If you need supplies, a nice restaurant, or a day of wine tasting to break up the grit, Downtown Placerville and Georgetown are both a 45 minute scenic drive. **Coming Spring 2024 there will be three sites available to book on the property: (1) a drive-in tent/RV site, (2) a drive-in furnished bell tent, and (3) a hike-in furnished wall tent. If you are booking the main site for spring 2024 onward, please be aware that there may be up to two additional parties camping on the property at that time. However, the three campsites are each in separate areas so you will likely not encounter the other parties except in passing on the road to/from the creek.** IMPORTANT PLEASE NOTE: 1) For ease of access, and to get the most out of your experience, we highly recommend a 4WD vehicle with clearance. 2) The creek is at the bottom of the canyon, 1.3 miles from the gate at the entrance, and the road down is very steep in parts. We highly recommend an off-road vehicle/ATV for easy access to creek. If your vehicle is 4WD you can drive approximately 1 mile down, park and hike the remaining .3 mile to the creek. 3) Be aware you are in the middle of the forest and wildlife such as bear, rattlesnakes, etc have been spotted on the property. Poison Oak can also be spotted in certain areas. 4) The property has cell service on the upper quadrant, however once you drop below the tree line toward the creek there is no service.

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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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Harris Family Farm and Forest

7 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Pollock Pines, CA

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our cherished historic family farm, spanning 160 years and 7 generations. Nestled in the serene surroundings of an Apple Hill™ Grower farm, our property offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Choose to camp amidst the lush woods or in our enchanting apple orchard. Spend your days engaging in farm activities, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply unwinding in this idyllic setting. During the harvest season, delight in the experience of hand-picking a variety of fruits and vegetables at their peak of ripeness. Participate in our popular jam making classes held in August, and September for $55 per person, or indulge in a delightful High Tea in the Orchard, hosted on Mother’s Day weekend and June spring afternoons for $45 per person. Be sure to secure your spot early for these sought-after activities, as they tend to fill up rapidly. Our farm is conveniently located near picturesque mountain lakes and charming historic towns, offering ample opportunities for further exploration and discovery. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you to our farm, where you can enjoy invigorating woodland hikes, lend a hand with farm chores, and partake in our weekend bonfire gatherings featuring s'mores and delectable treats from our pie shop. Don't miss the chance to harvest blackberries, apples, and pumpkins during their respective seasons, adding a touch of seasonal magic to your visit.

The best camping near Donner Memorial State Park guide

Overview

About

We've all heard of the Donner Party. They're the pioneers who were stuck in the mountainous Donner Pass during the winter. You remember: They ended up eating their dead (ewww).

Well, here's where you can learn the real story. The Emigrant Trail Museum is fascinating. It helps you understand just what it meant to people in the past to come to California.

Exhibits also tell the stories of the Native-American Washoe tribe. You can also learn about the building of the transcontinental railroad, primarily by Chinese immigrants.

And when you're done with history, splash right into Donner Lake. This beautiful lake welcomes kayaker, windsurfers, and swimmers. You'll have to leave the park's boundaries if you need a boat ramp (and the fishing is only so-so).

Eight miles of hiking trails let you explore this patch of the Sierras. Three campgrounds are available (all with metal lockers to protect food from black bears).

Notable campgrounds

Ridge Campground: Offers a serene camping experience with easy access to hiking trails and lake views.
Splitrock Campground: Secluded spots nestled among towering pines, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
Creek Campground: Enjoy the soothing sounds of the nearby creek and the lush surroundings.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, as sites can be reserved up to six months in advance and fill up quickly.
Be flexible with your dates to increase your chances of securing a spot.
Check for cancellations regularly, as plans change and spots may open up.
Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan.

When to go

The best time to visit Donner Memorial State Park is during the summer for warm days and cool nights, perfect for camping and hiking. Winter offers a snowy wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Be mindful of seasonal closures and weather conditions before planning your trip.

Know before you go

Always check the park's current conditions and closures before visiting.
Remember to store food and toiletries in bear-resistant lockers provided at campsites.
Pets are welcome on certain trails and areas, but must remain on a leash at all times.
Day-use areas offer picnic spots and restrooms, with some facilities closed outside of peak season.
For safety, familiarize yourself with the park's rules and regulations, including fire restrictions.