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The best camping near Emerald Bay State Park

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

The best camping near Emerald Bay State Park

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

Camping near Emerald Bay State Park

100% (14 reviews)

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

Ripples of water and spirals of clouds merge at Emerald Bay at this national natural landmark.  

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Community favorites near Emerald Bay State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Emerald Bay State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Emerald Bay State Park

95%
(1686)

Finnon Lake Recreation Area

39 sites ¡ RVs, Tents140 acres ¡ Placerville, CA
*BOOK EARLY* The campground is closed until April 1st. Campfire Ban in effect during extreme fire contions***********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.
from 
$30
 / night
89%
(9)

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.
from 
$70
 / night
98%
(181)

Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

6 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres ¡ Somerset, CA
A six acre organic vineyard & natural winery on 21 acres awaits you at Gold Dust Vineyard. A working natural winery and cidery, come enjoy a glass, relax in the breezes at 2’700 feet. Decomposed granite soils and high elevation make for sweeping views and even better natural wine and cider! We welcome guests year round! Surrounded by nature, there is so much to do! Up in the Foothills, we experience all four seasons! Come relax☮️ March - May 🌸Don’t miss the wildflowers & babbling brooks, steams & rivers June - September 🏞Swimming in the Consumnes River or paddle boarding at Jenkinson Lake September - December 🍂🍁Fall foliage, wine harvest, apple picking and alpaca petting December - March ❄️⛷Snowy hikes, mushroom hunting and quick trips to South Lake Tahoe We accept reservations for wine and cider tastings and typically host guests between the hours of 11 am and 5 pm. Occasionally, during very hot and busy holiday weekends, we will host an evening tasting. Please note, we are a mom and pop shop with just two of us and our young son running the show. We live on site in a tiny house and use the tasting area as our 'back yard' during off hours. We ask that guests please respect our area and off hours requests. We do not permit live fires or generators.
from 
$35
 / night
95%
(172)

Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

9 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents23 acres ¡ Grizzly Flats, CA
This land was home to the Miwok, then European and Chinese miners, then a cattle rancher. It was also home to a former nun who quit the dominican order to purchase this land for inner city kids to have a chance to ride, swim, hike and fish. There is NOTHING like being in the wilderness of this area for a good re-centering of the soul! We feel certain you will not be disappointed with this beautiful river canyon. Our property is situated right on the middle fork cosumnes river. We have 2 sleeping cabins and several tent sites (can be rented separately). The cabins offers a rustic/minimalist type vibe - bring your own bedding/pillows to sleep on the comfy futon. A table and chairs are provided for the cabins. Tent sites have a wood table (bring your camp chairs) and a fire pit when the season is open for burning. The swimming is awesome and the stars at night will put you into a state of awe! Many family owned wineries in the area, most of them offering free tasting. It’s a short drive to Tahoe and the Marshall gold discovery site as well as the historic hangtown Placerville. The recent Caldor Fire was VERY close to our property and a back burn was initiated nearby the cabins. It is still as beautiful as ever but please know there are lots of slash piles. Falling trees and burned up stump holes are also a risk and it is presumed campers will be cautious and at their own risk. Please don't hesitate to shoot us a message if you have any questions!
from 
$45
 / night
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!!
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(35)

Sierra Escape at Camp Schmac

1 site ¡ RV, Tent5 acres ¡ CA
Welcome yourself to our slice of heaven in the Sierra Foothills and a perfect PIT STOP on your way to Tahoe. Camp Schmac (pronounced ssshhh, MACK.. a combination of our last names that stuck when we first got married 🤣) Pull yourself in for a night or two among the pines and oaks to admire our clear night sky paired with perfectly fresh air. We're a family operated, private campground available for guests year-round! Nestled at 3,000 ft elevation, our property sits right below the regular snow line and can have light to moderate snow during the winter, and then beautiful greenery and wildflowers springing during Feb-May months. Summer months make for a perfect time to dip into the Consumnes River or Sly Park lake. Make sure to bring shade with you! Minutes from wineries, and a hop skip and a jump to Apple Hill, our property makes the perfect place to stay for the weekend, or pit stop on your way to South Lake Tahoe. Pull-in to your graveled spot, complete with a fire pit and solar string lights that come on at dusk and enjoy relaxing in the quiet of the pine trees. We're happy to assist you as much as you need or stay out of your way as much as you desire! STRICT QUEIT HOURS: 10pm-7am please :) Although our property feels secluded, we have neighbors to respect a few acres away. Enjoy hanging around our "Stump" leaning bar, with a complete hospitality shed coming SOON! Firewood available upon request at times of the year when burning is allowed. Our first bundle is complimentary, and each bundle is $6 after that. Propane stoves OK year-round. The closest trail to hike near us is the Consumnes River Gorge, a beautiful day hike where you can watch rock climbers and high liners or jump in for a climb yourself. (Our spot is also a perfect destination for climbers to stay and pull-in for a quiet safe spot, well off the main road). Grab a BBQ dinner at our favorite local spot, The Grizzly Den, book a tasting at our favorite winery, Saluti Cellars (Only a 9 min drive from your campsite), or enjoy Sly Park Recreation Area for a day outing. Lots to enjoy in our neck of the woods! Consumnes River Gorge- 8.4 miles Sly Park Recreation Area - 18 miles Saluti Cellars - 3.4 miles Grizzly Den - 1.2 miles Gold Vine Bistro & Polynesian Girl Wine Tasting- 7 miles Apple Hill - 20 miles South Lake Tahoe - 68 miles
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(55)

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.
from 
$75
 / night

Camp Markley

20 sites ¡ RVs, Tents35 acres ¡ Markleeville, CA
Nestled in Alpine county, the ranch is located 30 min from South Lake Tahoe, 20 min from Kirkwood, and 15 min from the Carson River. The county is a haven for fishing, hunting, mountain biking, river rafting, hiking, and skiing. The 35-acre property offers ponds, creeks, natural springs, meadows, pines, aspens, trails, and abundant wildlife.
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(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
from 
$150
 / night
92%
(33)

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. 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. Come see one of the most beautiful waterfront lake spots in the Sierras.
from 
$125
 / night
97%
(250)

Sierra Camping Experience

11 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres ¡ Placerville, CA
Come experience our majestic pine and oak wilderness, all with beautiful vista of Cosumnes River Valley and mountains for miles & miles. Lounge in the peace and quiet. Hang out with our goats, sheep, dogs, chickens, guineas, and ducks during the day! Plus 2 miles of beautiful wilderness trails. Our site is close to many attractions in the area. The area abounds with famous California gold country sites, museums, and historic Downtown Placerville. We are positioned about 20-30 minutes from some of the state's most beautiful swimming, kayaking, and hiking locations. Shenandoah Valley Wineries are a wonderful stop just 30 minutes South of us, and Apple Hill orchards are 30-40 minutes North-East of us. And of course, the ever-popular Lake Tahoe is 1 hour North-East on Hwy 50. We aim to create a peaceful, welcoming, and safe environment. We believe in diversity, inclusion, and equity for all people! PLEASE NOTE before you book: - Please book all extras through the Hipcamp App. If you decide later to add on anything after arrival, you can change your reservation to reflect. - All sites come with a picnic table and fire pit. If this is during our dry season with high fire danger, we do not allow open wood or charcoal fires. This is usually between June and October. If you have any questions about fires, please feel free to reach out to us. During fire season, propane fires are permitted and we rent them out in the extras section. - We cannot accommodate camping vehicles larger than 20 feet and trailers. We have a very small turnaround and it is difficult to maneuver larger vehicles and trailers in these areas. Site #1 is the only site that you can park at with a vehicle within the site. - Refunds are honored if you cancel before 72 hours prior to your check-in time. If your reservation starts at 2pm on Friday, you will need to cancel by 2pm on Tuesday. We do not refund for late cancellations due to unfavorable weather. Please do your diligence by checking weather reports early and cancel early if you believe you will not want to camp in those conditions. - Because we are in a natural mountain environment, we do have to deal with pests from time to time. During hotter months, bees, ants, and wasps will often frequent our campsites, attracted by food. We do what we can to keep them away, but mid-Summer months especially are more difficult. If you feel like this will bother you, please consider booking with us Fall through Spring.
from 
$58
 / night

Cabin On Lake Tahoe

1 site ¡ Lodging3 acres ¡ Tahoe Vista, CA
2 separate 1 bedroom cabins (sleeps up to 8 people) ON THE LAKE at the Tahoe Sands Resort for NYE!! Open from Dec 30 to Jan 5th -- prices vary from $100/night to $400/night Tahoe Sands Resort boasts an unusual Tahoe history. The cottages, built in the 1930s and 40s were once military training barracks, while the lodge was built in the 1960s to accommodate Winter Olympians. Now a comfy basecamp for your Sierra adventures, Tahoe Sands Resort offers an array of suites, 1- and 2- bedroom stand-alone cottages. We are a beachfront property so our units feature some of the best views in Tahoe Vista along with fully stocked kitchens or kitchenettes! The stand-alone cabin was recently updated and is a one bedroom (queen) with a fold out couch in the living room. It has a kitchenette with everything you need to prepare your meals there (all you need is the food). The resort is on the Lake and features a hot tub and sauna for cold snowy nights, as well as a friendly lodge atmosphere. This is a great opportunity to get away with your family or friends.
from 
$350
 / night

The best camping near Emerald Bay State Park guide

Overview

About

This California State Park is the land of the sheer Sierras, a maze of coves and lakeside campsites. This is one of Lake Tahoe's secrets that's impossible to keep to yourself. Situated right off highway 89, this park covers more than six miles of Lake Tahoe's west shore.

This national landmark includes one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture. The enchanted Vikingsholm Castle sits on an island in Emerald Bay and it looks like a wizard lives there. Dive even deeper in the surreal at the haunted tea house on Fannette Island, located in South Lake Tahoe.

Summer in Lake Tahoe is practically synonymous with watersports and you can also find boat-in camping at Emerald Bay. Even for explorers that prefer foot to paddle, this lush area has plenty to hike to. Try Eagle Falls, Maggie's Peaks, or just wander down to the lake from the parking area.

Notable campgrounds

  • Boat-In Campground: Accessible only by water or foot, offering a serene lakeside camping experience.
  • Eagle Point Campground: A family-friendly campground with easy access to the Rubicon trailhead and stunning lake views.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, as reservations can be made six months in advance from the current date.
  • Consider off-peak times for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Have flexible dates ready in case your first choice is not available.
  • Explore nearby camping options if Emerald Bay State Park is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Emerald Bay State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and all facilities are open. Winter offers a quiet, snowy retreat, but be prepared for cold temperatures and limited access due to snow.

Know before you go

  • Check weather updates and bring layered clothing to adapt to the High Sierra's changing conditions.
  • Be aware of park hours, open from sunrise to sunset, and plan your visit accordingly.
  • Note that dogs are not allowed in most areas of the park, so plan for pet care if needed.
  • Remember that parking is limited; arrive early or later in the day to secure a spot.
  • For those interested in scuba diving, explore the underwater trail showcasing Lake Tahoe's historic watercraft.

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