Camping near the Pony Express National Historic Trail

Explore campsites within 5 miles of the trail.

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Follow the legendary route once used by riders carrying the nation’s mail, and find incredible campsites all along the way. This trail stretches across Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and California, with camping opportunities near historic stations and sweeping western landscapes.
Follow the legendary route once used by riders carrying the nation’s mail, and find incredible campsites all along the way. This trail stretches across Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and California, with camping opportunities near historic stations and sweeping western landscapes.

40 campgrounds

Camp Nauvoo

1. Camp Nauvoo

98%
(1213)
Placerville, CA · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are a small privately owned campground ( on the outskirts of Placerville. The property features 86.5 secluded Tahoe like acres with beautiful year-round Weber Creek. The camp sites are placed along the creek or the bluff overlooking the creek. We have traditional dirt camping, canvas tents on platforms, teepees and glamping tents for those that want the comforts of home. We are tent camping only with only one site that allows a small travel trailer or van. (#14) . We are dog friendly and allow dogs in all but 5 glamping sites. We do enforce camp rules especially our quiet time between 10 PM and 7 AM We’ve been told that we have a “family camp” vibe. We are a great place for families wanting a safe environment for their kids but also several group sites for those that want to hang out together with multiple families. We are also a great base site for those wilderness enthusiasts with access to all the El Dorado National Forest including Desolation but want a hot shower at the end of the day. We have a lodge that is stocked with games and a ping pong table. The lodge has a microwave, Keurig machine and a hot water kettle for those hot drinks (BYO Cups).We have several tables set up for those that want to eat inside as well as multiple picnic tables along the side of the lodge with overhead protection. We have electricity at the at the lodge for small appliances and charging phones. We have a compressor on site to blow up your air mattresses or float toys. We’ve been told that our bathrooms are the “cleanest” ever and have changing tables and diaper pails. We offer nice flushing toilets and hot showers! We have many extra amenities including a compressor to use for your air mattresses, For outdoor activities we have basketball, volleyball, pickleball and cornhole not to mention the playground with swing set . We have hiking trails throughout the property. Our highlight is a camp fire bowl with bench seating with a stage to display camper talent which is perfect for the evening fire and roasting s’mores (bring the fixings). The creek starts out in spring looking like a rushing river featuring many fishing and swimming holes. As the summer progresses the water level falls but is still great for water play and fishing. We have propane BBQs (we provide the propane for BBQs) located throughout the property. We also have a propane grill and charcoal BBQ located in the common area for all to use. There is a dutch oven pit also in the fire bowl area. We do not allow wood fires at the individual sites but each site has a propane firepit for ambiance (not cooking) that requires you to purchase a 20 lb. propane cannister on site (add in extras) or pay cash on site. No internet service. There is limited internet only available for purchases at the setore. We require a 3 night minimum for the major holidays - Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day. We do exclusive events so you may need to explore multiple weekends to find the right reservation. We are located in the foothills so we are a short hop to many local attractions that include river rafting, gold mines, wineries and historical towns with great eating establishments. Tahoe is less than an hour away and there a many hiking trails within 20-30 minutes. We have a limited number of items to rent i.e, tents, cots, camp stoves, etc. We rent a battery pack for those that use a cpap. We also have a small store on site for those items you forgot and a good selection of ice cream and ice. We take venmo or cash.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Harris Family Farm and Forest

2. Harris Family Farm and Forest

95%
(795)
Pollock Pines, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Peaceful Prairie Campsites

3. Peaceful Prairie Campsites

96%
(503)
NE · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Visit us and discover why Hipcamp named this property the best Hipcamp to visit in Nebraska for the past three years. Bordering the South Bluff of Scotts Bluff National Monument, with private hiking access to the park, we are located within 2 miles from Hwy 71, making us easy to find, easy to love, and easy to leave, according to hundreds of guests who have left positive recommendations... Peaceful Prairie Campsites consists of 200+ acres of prairie pasture bordering the south side of Scotts Bluff National Monument. Under the care of third generation steward, Lisa Betz-Marquez, the beautiful bluffs feature a stunning backdrop to a those seeking a private and peaceful experience, birding, wildlife-spotting, or an adventure-seeking hike. Rustic Tent sites (allowing cars, vans, rooftop tents, truck campers, and motorcycles, but not RVs or pull-behind trailers) are located directly on the prairie. The prairie is a fragile environment. To preserve its beauty and health, trailers and RVs must book the RV sites. We appreciate your cooperation. RV sites 50 amp electricity and a rustic experience on crushed concrete near our corral. You'll have foot access just steps from the prairie. All sites share access to delicious potable water, a clean porta potty, and a funky outdoor camp shower (with unheated water), as well as private foot access to hiking at various levels of challenge to the south side of our nation's Scotts Bluff National Monument. A small group of yearling cattle are at home on the prairie in summer months, and may share you the prairie tent area with campers in the months of May and June. Prairie guests have relished the feeling of having the place to themselves to enjoy the majesty of the landscape, the magic of our starry night skies and the soulful communion with the land. Lisa is the fourth generation of her family to live on Valley View Farm, located directly south of the prairie. Her family has been steward of these lands since 1925. Lisa is a member of a pioneer family. Ancestor, Martin Gering, came to the valley in 1887. As an early investor in the fledgling town, the town of Gering was named for him. If you're a history buff, ask Lisa to tell you more...
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pinecone

4. Pinecone

Pollock Pines, CA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to a peaceful retreat where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of nature. Whether you're looking for a quiet overnight stop or a peaceful nature getaway, you'll find plenty of space.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Echo Island

5. Echo Island

88%
(64)
Coalville, UT · 23 sites · Tents, Lodging
Echo Island features RV sites, NEW Glamping tents, and cabins. Resort amenities include WiFi hot spots, modern restrooms, swimming pools, and hot tubs. Also on site are volleyball, and basketball courts. From sunny days to snow days, every season is a stunner at Echo Island. On the banks of the Weber River and located so close to Echo and Rockport Reservoirs, within an hour of Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Provo. Want a sophisticated night or day out? Drive just 30 minutes to Park City. Bring the kids and swim, or head out for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, boating, and horseback riding in the Wasatch Back. We are a pet friendly campground.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Teton Painted Tipi

6. Teton Painted Tipi

100%
(13)
Wilson, WY · 1 site
This is a 16 foot traditional style tipi, facing east, with two sleeping platforms and a Solo fire container. The National Park is 20 minutes away, the Town of Jackson is about 8 miles away, Teton Pass is just up the road. Right now the Elk are bugling in the field right across from us. Jackson Hole is a place that many people prize for its adventure, wildlife, scenery, and friendly tipi owners. Hope to see you here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Once Upon a Ranch

7. Once Upon a Ranch

93%
(146)
Dixon, CA · 8 sites
The Once Upon a Ranch consists of 32 acre of flat land located approximately 30 minutes from Sacramento, 35 minutes from Napa, and 40 minutes from San Francisco. It has a beautiful sunset of view of the Vacaville hills. Once Upon a Ranch is our farm that we continue to add animals to it. The 32 acre Ranch has plenty of room for you and your family to enjoy. Park your RV or pitch your tents throughout the designated sites on Once Upon a Ranch. You can choose to sit back, relax, and enjoy the country life. Once Upon a Ranch is located near lots of attractions, golf courses, wineries, and performing arts. From shopping at Vacaville Premium Outlets to entertainment at the Mondavi Center for Arts to the Dixon Fairgrounds, you'll find fun things to do in and around The Ranch. Take a Travis Air Force Base tour, which has one of the largest collections of warbirds in the west. Explore the area's old historic towns and more than 50 wineries in scenic Solano County. Or visit the campus of UC Davis. Food and Drink Package available: if you do not want to pack drinks and food, we have a food and drink package you can purchase. Reach out to us once you have book for selections and pricing. Rules and Safety: no littering, remove and pack out your own trash and wastes, provide your own self contained black and gray waste system, pets are allowed however they have to be on a leash at all time and all pet wastes are to be removed and packed out at the end of your stay, no fire works or gun allow on Once Upon a Ranch, quiet hours are Mon-Sun 10pm-7am.
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Campfires
Toilets
Hidden Pearl Pasture

8. Hidden Pearl Pasture

100%
(7)
Placerville, CA · 1 site
4 MINUTE DRIVE TO DOWNTOWN PLACERVILLE! And a 5 min walk to the bike path that leads to downtown. The French Pasture is a beautiful campsite surrounded by an oak, plum and apricot tree. There is a small 1 minute hike through the land from the parking spot to the campsite. The camp has a wooden picnic table with a canopy. The photo shows a two person tent but the site can fit a 10x10 foot tent. A few things to consider: 1. We do have a fire pit, but the area for the fire is not leveled yet (as the camp and table section is). Coming soon! 2. There is a portable shower and portable toilet option. Hot water is not available. (See photos). 3. The freeway can be heard from the campsite. The positives: 1. Downtown Placerville is only a 3 -5 minute drive. There is also a bike trail walking distance from the campsite to downtown that is an approximate 15 minute walk. 3. Morning coffee will be provided by hosts. We have a Golden Doodle Dog that may greet you at your campsite. Enjoy your stay at the French Pasture Campsite!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Better Food Farm

9. Better Food Farm

100%
(5)
Huntsville, UT · 4 sites
Escape to the Farm – Scenic RV Sites in Ogden Valley Park your RV on our working farm and wake up to breathtaking mountain views! Nestled near our lush greenhouses, our spacious sites offer a unique farmstay experience where you can reconnect with nature. Wander through hay field, walk along a peaceful canal, meet our friendly Scottish Highland cattle, and enjoy the peaceful rhythms of rural life. Whether you're looking to relax under starry skies or explore the beauty of Ogden Valley, our farm is the perfect home base for your adventure. Book your stay and experience farm life up close!
Pets
Gold Ridge Forest

10. Gold Ridge Forest

95%
(57)
Pollock Pines, CA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Private campground with five different levels, private hike to the the lake
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Tiny Shiny Escape, River Runs Thru!

11. Tiny Shiny Escape, River Runs Thru!

91%
(32)
Salt Lake City, UT · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable Airstream Basecamp escape with a river-front parking spot, clean air, bright stars access to trials out the back door! Just 20 min from Salt Lake City Center in one of Salt Lake City’s most desirable zip codes! Trailer has hot water, stove top, mini fridge/freezer, heated, AC. Cute outdoor area off my front street but not many cars up here! Access to my grill down by the magical fairyland mini water fall. Take your love up here and connect (even if that means yourself) ❤️ Fill you water bottle at the natural spring down the road! Multiple hiking trails trailheads are walking distance! Wild Turkey are abundant! Moose, Deer, Coyotes! Come reconnect to nature 🍄 : ) Meet me if you want but i can also keep to myself!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
High Heaven

12. High Heaven

98%
(72)
Evanston, WY · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Big Sky Country with fabulous sunrises and sunsets everyday. My 35 acres sit at 7500 ft elevation with 360-degree views for miles around, including view of the snow-capped Uintas. No neighbors (unless you count the occasional cattle or sheep as it is open range). Starry skies, red cliffs, sage seas, junipers, howling coyotes: the Wild West at its best. Pull in your RV or pitch a tent. Lots to see and do in the area. The Piedmont ghost town and kilns are 15 minutes away. The majestic Uinta mountains are 30 minutes to the southeast on the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. Check out the local bison herd (including its famous white bison) at Bear River State Park in Evanston. While there, walk around the Historic Depot Area and the Union Pacific Roundhouse and Railyards further to the west. The downtown stretch along Main St. is step back in time and the site of our local brewery (Suds). Up the road on I-80 is historic Fort Bridger. Fishing available at local reservoirs and Bear River.
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Campfires
River Camping Near I-80

13. River Camping Near I-80

100%
(6)
Maxwell, NE · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to NC River Ranch — your quiet getaway just off I-80 in central Nebraska! Horse boarding available !! 📍 Located only about 3 miles off I-80 📍 14 miles to North Platte 📍 22 miles to Gothenburg 📍 Close to Fort McPherson National Cemetery and great local dining options Come enjoy our little slice of heaven and relax in the great outdoors. Explore 45 acres of beautiful nature filled with wildlife, river access, trails, trees, and peaceful scenery. Enjoy watching Highland cattle, horses, and other wildlife while soaking in the quiet country atmosphere. We offer: * RV rental options * Tent camping * RV camping near the river or tucked into the trees * Spacious, secluded campsites * Pet-friendly stays * Vehicle access to camping areas Enjoy the shallow river, sandy areas, walking trails, wildlife, and wide-open skies. Spend your evenings around a campfire under the stars with no traffic, no crowds, and no nearby houses — just the peaceful sounds of nature. A washer and dryer room is available about a 10-minute walk from the camping area. We also have many horses and cattle on the property. Guests are welcome to pet animals when the host is present. Come explore, adventure, and experience ranch life at NC River Ranch! 🌾🔥🐴
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Folsom Lake

14. Folsom Lake

96%
(94)
Granite Bay, CA · 6 sites
PLEASE TAKE NOTE: THERE ARE 2 DIFFERENT CAMPGROUNDS AT 2 DIFFERENT LOCATIONS ON FOLSOM LAKE: ONE LOCATION IS BEALS POINT CAMPGROUND IN GRANITE BAY. (HAS BOTH BASIC AND LUXURY GLAMPING) THE 2ND LOCATION IS PENINSULA CAMPGROUND IN PILOT HILL (ONLY HAS BASIC GLAMPING) Located at the base of the Sierra foothills, the lake and recreation area offers opportunities for hiking, biking, running, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, water-skiing and boating. Fishing offers trout, catfish, big and small mouth bass or perch. Visitors can also see the Folsom Powerhouse (once called "the greatest operative electrical plant on the American continent"), which from 1885 to 1952 produced 11,000 volts of electricity for Sacramento residents. For cyclists, there is a 32-mile long bicycle path at Beals Point that connects Folsom Lake with many Sacramento County parks before reaching Old Sacramento. The park also includes Lake Natoma, downstream from Folsom Lake, which is popular for crew races, sailing, kayaking and other aquatic sports. At both locations, you will stay in 16ft deluxe tents. Each tent has 2 full beds in them. At Beals Point we offer "Luxury" Glamping with real furniture, cozy bedding, and all the amenities you need for a relaxing and fun filled stay for up to 8 people (AT BEALS POINT ONLY!). At both Beals Point and Peninsula, we also offer "Basic" Glamping, where we bring the tent and mattresses, and you bring the rest. This means that you need to bring your own sheets, pillows, sleeping bags, blankets and other camping essentials. Close by the sites are public restrooms with running water, drinking water, and showers. Hiking trails are found all around at both locations. At Beals Point you can rent kayaks, visit the snack bar, or take a dip in the lake- whatever suits your needs can be found close by!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Vineyard Camping with Dome Access

15. Vineyard Camping with Dome Access

92%
(53)
Hopland, CA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our peaceful, organically farmed vineyard, Duncan Peak Vineyards, conveniently located just off Highway 101 for easy access, yet surrounded by nature’s quiet charm. Use of Dome: We have a dome located next to the pond, with a table, chairs, air mattress, and couch inside. You’re welcome to use it during your stay. The dome is shared by all campers on the property and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please clean up after yourself and make sure the curtains and zip door are fully closed when you leave. Our vineyard is entirely free of herbicides and chemical pesticides, so you can relax knowing you're camping in a clean, eco-friendly environment. You'll be staying on a working vineyard where a few full-time residents (both human and animal!) live on site. Pets are welcome! We have a few friendly resident dogs who roam freely during the day. They may bark when unfamiliar vehicles arrive, but they’re good with both people and other animals. Once they’ve had a chance to get familiar, they settle down quickly and usually go about their day. For everyone’s comfort, they’re brought indoors at night. Potable water is available on site for your convenience. We kindly ask that all guests remain fully self-contained throughout their stay, meaning you’ll need to use your own toilet and shower facilities. If needed, restrooms are also available at a nearby gas station. Looking forward to hosting you, feel free to reach out if you have any questions!
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
King Madrone

16. King Madrone

93%
(37)
Placerville, CA · 3 sites
Learn more about this land: Tent sites are next to the pear orchard. Choose any site. There is no need to meet with the host when you arrive. Follow the red arrows. Do not proceed the home located at 1071 Fruitridge. Look for the Hipcamp sign and red arrow markers and turn left into the orchard lane. Check in is 4pm. You need to check in by 7pm during the summer. Or pay the Flex fee. Use google maps and locate 1071 Fruitridge Rd in Placerville, CA. When you get to 1071, which is a house on the right side of the paved driveway, look for our Hipcamp sign in red, turn hard right into the orchard and follow the red arrows past a wood barn, and up to a small red shed. At this point you may camp in the meadow next to the shed or you may proceed to the next meadow over to the left (follow red arrows and look for umbrellas). We normally only have one site occupied per evening. Ocaisonally two sites will be occupied. The sites are very private and quiet as this is a large, private ranch. You can park close to your tent site. 2WD / 4WD access weather permitting. We offer 3 sites in a large meadow area. Max of 4 persons per site. RV's welcome but we do not have hookups. RV's will be parked next to our barns surrounded by pear orchards. Fresh drinking water is available in the tent meadow area. Hot showers are now available at $10 extra per nite per site (two people). Late check in after 6pm, $10 flex fee. A gas BBQ is now available at a common area. Please don't move the BBQ. Deer, wild turkeys, geese aplenty. Ample walking opportunities on our ranch and wild forestlands and amazing granite rock outcrops. Visit the South Fork of the American River (you can raft in summer!) Hunt for old gold mines on our place and, maybe, find some new ones! Go wine tasting very close by (Lava Cap, Madrone, Boeger) and visit Sutter's Mill in Coloma, where gold was discovered back in 1848. If you arrive late check in at night, scope out the area with a flashlight first and know how you will drive down thru the orchard to the campsite area in the meadow. People have gotten stuck at night turning the wrong way, especially in the wet season. Follow the red arrows to the campsite area. Stay on the pavement until you know where you are driving!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Delta Meadows River Camp

17. Delta Meadows River Camp

93%
(15)
Walnut Grove, CA · 5 sites
Delta Meadows River Camp is Nestled between Sacramento River and the Delta Meadows in the historical District of Locke (Est.1915) in Walnut Grove, Ca. Campsites are located in open flats surrounded by Beautiful old oak trees. We are backed up to the states 490 acre Delta Meadows River Park with many flat trails covered with shade trees this peaceful and serene park is a hidden treasure of the delta.. The park is open for walking along the levees, and fishing in the adjacent sloughs. Perfect place for paddle boards, kayaks and mountain bikes. This natural environment that has remained mostly undisturbed by human activity, allowing the ecosystems to thrive in its original state. #deltameadows #lockeca #visitcadelta #Paddleboardingbayarea #Kayaking #deltameadowsrivercamp
Pets
Meadowlark Hearth Farm Rustic Stay

18. Meadowlark Hearth Farm Rustic Stay

100%
(1)
Minatare, NE · 25 sites · Tents, RVs
These campsites are mainly for car campers and tent campers, although small RVs up to 20 ft are welcome as well. We invite you to enjoy our organic vegetable seed farm with its trees, nearby water, and abundant wildlife. You’ll see pelicans, turtles, herons, and other creatures, plus a few non-poisonous bullsnakes that help keep the mice at bay. From our property, you’ll have the opportunity to experience nature on a working farm. Scotts Bluff National Monument is visible from the land and just a 15-minute drive away, along with the extensive Legacy of the Plains Museum. And nothing compares to a Nebraska sunrise or sunset, with skies exploding in unforgettable colors. We are experienced farmers, and Nathan is a master naturalist who can lead hikes at nearby sites, including the Wildcat Hills. We also offer our farm products—grass-fed hamburger, garlic, and vegetable seeds—available for sale year-round. Seasonal vegetables and eggs may also be available. Throughout the year, we host special events through the Living Environment Foundation. Our largest gatherings include the Ancestral Skills Festival in August and the Seed Fest in autumn. This is a century farm, and the barn you’ll see on the property is over 100 years old and still in great condition. These are also the ancestral lands of the Lakota tribe. We are grateful for their stewardship and aim to honor their tradition of caring for the land through our certified organic and biodynamic farming practices.
Pets
Potable water
Fisher Family Farm and Ranch

19. Fisher Family Farm and Ranch

96%
(14)
Lingle, WY · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
We bought this land and built a 4000sqft barndiminiom to develop a therapeutic ranch, during COVID the vision had to be modified we still work with people at the ranch but in much smaller fashion than planned we are still wanting to privide opportunities for children and families within our community. We also take in rescue animals. We run this ranch as a family and bring in other family members to offer other opportunities. When we can we offer classes such as how to make goat cheese, soap, milk a goat etc... Learn more about this land: We have a wide array of animals. Our Ranch is used to help people so our animals are extremely friendly with many of them being rescues. We have a 4000sqft barndiminiom which is listed as Airbnb if not booked there will be access to facility if booked access will be closed off. We offer experiences too! We have horses, cows, goats, pony, chickens, great pyrenees, chickens, etc....
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Haven On The Comstock

20. Haven On The Comstock

94%
(8)
Silver City, NV · 1 site · Tent, RV
This gem of a spot is in the heart of the Comstock and perfectly placed at less than 5 miles from Virginia City and 45 minutes to Lake Tahoe.
Pets
Picnic table