The best camping near Empire Mine State Historic Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Empire Mine State Historic Park adventure.

Explore one of the oldest, largest, deepest, longest, and richest gold mines in California.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Empire Mine State Historic Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • Another view of the room with single bed for 3rd person
  • Garden Goddess Farm
  • Another view of the room with single bed for 3rd person
98%
(145)

Garden Goddess Farm

8 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Grass Valley, CA
Garden Goddess Farm is located in the Sierra Foothills on 6+ acres of organic edible gardens, manzanita, pines & oaks. The gardens and land help to support guests to unplug from business, bond with nature & learn how to grow their own food! Lots of wild medicinal & culinary herbs to discover. Individuals, Couples & Families love the farm because of the quiet surroundings, great food and opportunity to learn about sustainable living. Farm is conveniently located 20 minutes from Auburn, Nevada City & Grass Valley. 60-90 Minutes from Lake Tahoe, Donner Lake, Truckee & ski resorts. We have an on-site Personal Chef that is available to create Farm-Fresh Gourmet Meals, Culinary & Homesteading Classes, Private Garden & Foraging Tours. Celebrate a Special Occasion & try one of our Make & Take Classes, Mead Tasting or Romance Packages! Most guests opt in for farm-fresh meal packages, but feel free to bring your own camp stove & food to cook in the bbq area. Privacy & what to expect: Property is usually very quite & overlooks hundreds of acres of forest looking toward the Snow-capped Sierras in the Winter and Spring. We are located in a neighborhood (Alta Sierra- in between Auburn & Grass Valley). We ask that everyone uses soft voices since we are in a canyon and sound travels to a few houses that are our neighbors. There are 3 Hipcamp sites on property, so we could have up to 6 guests in a weekend. The main farmhouse is 4500 square feet and hosts 2-4 Culinary Students or Professionals that may be on site. There is a Culinary Classroom, Upper and Lower Deck & Gardens to enjoy. If you have teenagers, they love it here! 1/2 Basketball court, cooking & foraging classes. This Cozy Love Shack sleeps 2-4 adults/kids. (190 square feet) 1 King Bed with Floor Futon & single bed. It's about 200 feet from main farm house. The unit has basic electricity, a solar light & mini frig. Sun warmed (luke-Warm) camping shower available. Approx 190 square feet. Toilet is a composting bucket with wood chips. The main farmhouse (owner's residence) has a beautiful 75 x 15 foot redwood deck with views of the Sierras & Foothills. Enjoy a Happy Hour, Gourmet Farm-fresh meal, picnic or play a game in the shaded couch area. There are 2 large tables for dining & couches for relaxing. We have organic demonstration gardens & orchard that you can stroll or you can book an educational tour & tasting for a more in depth understanding of the culinary & medicinal plants. Fresh chicken & duck eggs are usually available. Great place for kids & adults to learn about organic gardening & sustainable living. Nearby Attractions to research: Historic Grass Valley, Nevada City and Auburn (Lots of Wine-tasting & Local Wineries). The Beautiful South Yuba River or Bear River is a must-experience (25 min drive), Scott's Flat Lake & Lakes off of Hwy 20 (30-60 minutes), Trails for Mountain Biking & Hiking, Lake Tahoe, Truckee and Donner Lake (1 hour 15 min drive). Empire Mine. Pet Policy: - If you'd like to bring along your pet, we are happy to accommodate. Please add on the "pets" extra when you are completing your booking. This covers our pet cleaning fee. This is a must in order to bring your pet. - Please keep your pet(s) on a leash at all times - we have ducks and chickens and don't want them harmed or bothered. - Please bring your own bedding if you will be bringing pets. Let us know if you have any questions and we look forward to your stay!
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from 
$59
 / night
  • Peace in the Pines
  • Peace in the Pines
  • Peace in the Pines
100%
(62)

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
 / night
  • Volunteers/#2
  • Waterfront
  • Volunteers/#2
97%
(75)

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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$50
 / night
  • Tent Platform and plum trees
  • Avian Acres
  • Tent Platform and plum trees
94%
(24)

Avian Acres

6 sites · Lodging, Tents8 acres · Grass Valley, CA
Avian Acres has been our home for the past 11 years. We have given birth to our children here and are extremely lucky to call this land home. Our land is 8 acres with a significant buffer wild forest buffer on all sides giving it sense of privacy and wildness, yet just 10 minutes from town. We have a year round spring-fed creek running through the property, an abundance of flora and fauna, along with our own significant organic veggie garden and greenhouse. Historically this property was situated along the Narrow Gauge railroad track that ran from Nevada City to Colfax and there is still evidence of the raised berm that the track was on which is located at the bottom border of our property. Our property is located just 10 minutes to Bear River, 15 minutes to Rollins Lake, 10 minutes to Historic Downtown Grass Valley, 12 minutes to Historic Downtown Nevada City, and 25 minutes to the incredibly majestic Yuba River. We are also just 15 minutes off Hwy 80 from Colfax, enroute to Truckee and lake Tahoe. Learn more about this land: Our 16' diameter round level raised tent platform is just a few feet away from a burbling brook. Next to the tent platform is a shaded lounge area for relaxing to the sound of the water and numerous birds who call this spot home. The campsite is totally private, both visibly and audibly removed from our home and from neighboring properties.  Our Organic garden, seasonally stocked full of ripe veggies, is located just 60' feet away down a path through the forest where you are welcome to graze and munch upon checking in with us first to see what is available and ripe for the picking.  Next to the garden is a large propane barbque, sink (cold water), and table available for prepping meals.  The parking for this site is just 50' from the campsite, and we are happy to help get you settled in if you need assistance carrying your things.  Our property is located just 10 minutes to Bear River, 15 minutes to Rollins Lake, 10 minutes to Historic Downtown Grass Valley, 12 minutes to Historic Downtown Nevada City, and 25 minutes to the incredibly majestic Yuba River. We are also just 15 minutes off Hwy 80 from Colfax, enroute to Truckee and lake Tahoe.
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$55
 / night
  • The House of 13 Rainbows
  • El Bus
  • The House of 13 Rainbows
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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$36
 / night
  • Earth Castle Empower Retreat
  • The yurt lit up at dusk!
  • Earth Castle Empower Retreat
98%
(219)

Earth Castle Empower Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Grass Valley, CA
Gorgeous forested ten-acre land with great access to to the Yuba River, American River, hiking, biking, Historical Nevada City, Grass Valley, and more. Our charming and secluded retreat is nestled in the heart of nature, offering the perfect escape if you are seeking tranquility and a connection with the great outdoors. Bask under the breathtaking stars at night and feel the healing effect of nature all around you during your stay. You can visit the historical Empire Mine, The National Hotel, or the Nevada Theater (the first Theater in California). Or just chill up here. It's nice and quiet! Enjoy the simplicity and privacy that a public campground doesn't offer. Earth Castle is also a great place for groups! Plenty of space! We can support pull-through sites for RVs, space for Tents, and room for multiple cars. Your host is passionate about stewarding this beautiful land. She is an author and Evolutionary Astrologer. Interested in having an astrology reading while you are here? Message Anna-Thea and, schedule permitting, she would love to give you a reading!
Pets
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$47
 / night
  • Hilltop Acres Tipi Glamp Camp
  • Hilltop Acres Tipi Glamp Camp
  • Hilltop Acres Tipi Glamp Camp
98%
(32)

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.
Potable water
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$80
 / night
  • Camp Nauvoo
  • One of those late afternoons that you never want to end
  • Camp Nauvoo
98%
(934)

Camp Nauvoo

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents86 acres · Placerville, CA
Camp Nauvoo was originally bought by the LDS church in the 1960's for a girl's camp. The camp was owned by the Boy Scouts from 2011-2015. The Rose family bought the property in 2016 with the intent to continue the tradition of tent camping as well as creating opportunities for exclusive events i.e., group/family reunions, weddings and corporate events. We are a small privately owned small campground (20 sites only) located 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 (please review). 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 sets, seesaw and tractor play. 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 not do checkins on Sunday but do allow camping over Sunday night. 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. CHECKIN IS BETWEEN 4 AND 8. IF YOU ARE COMING FROM THE BAY ALLOW 4 HOURS - YOU MUST LEAVE BY 3:00 IN ORDER TO ARRIVE DURING CHECKIN. IF YOU GET DELAYED, FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF THE OTHER CAMPERS YOU MAY CONSIDER WAITING AND ARRIVING THE NEXT MORNING. THERE ARE NO CHECKINS AFTER 9:00.
Pets
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from 
$85
 / night

Top-rated campgrounds near Empire Mine State Historic Park

  • Finnon Lake Recreation Area
  • Finnon Lake Recreation Area
  • Finnon Lake Recreation Area
95%
(1687)

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.
Pets
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$30
 / night
  • Lake Lane Waterfront Camping
  • Breathtaking unobstructed view of the lake and sunset
  • Lake Lane Waterfront Camping
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.
Pets
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from 
$135
 / night
  • Shared Abundance Organic Farm
  • Shared Abundance Organic Farm
  • Shared Abundance Organic Farm
98%
(252)

Shared Abundance Organic Farm

5 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Auburn, CA
I bought the deserted kiwi orchard in 1997, thinking it would be a place of healing. As the days and weeks progressed, I felt that all I wanted to do was to learn what the land had to teach me. So I turned all my attention and intention toward Nature, and began to reclaim the orchard from the blackberry overgrowth. As the years have gone by, I have added many other crops. Now we produce fruits, flowers, herbs, Microgreens & Vegetables... & I am still learning!! We would be happy to create a cleansing refreshment or meal for campers if notified in advance. We are happy to host campers who have a passion for Nature and are interested in sustainable living and seeing the beauty of the Sierra Foothills.
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$55
 / night
  • The whole tent area
  • Great spot to do yoga in the morning.
  • The whole tent area
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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from 
$80
 / night
  • RockNWater Cove Camping
  • RockNWater Cove Camping
  • RockNWater Cove Camping
99%
(378)

RockNWater Cove Camping

8 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Lotus, CA
If you’re looking for a quiet getaway with a few close friends or your family, this option is for you. Tucked in along the South Fork of the American River, this beautiful campsite features picnic benches, a propane fire pit with propane included (fire pits help prevent wildfires), and a prep table for fixing up those tasty fireside meals. Guests also have access to shared bathroom facilities (and yes, there are showers!), volleyball, ping pong, communal benches, a sink and dishwashing station, and a common swimming area along the river. Most sites are within a very short walking distance to the banks of the South Fork of the American River, this place is ideal for anyone interested in experiencing the beauty of the foothills and the rush of the river. We offer both tent and RV sites. Each RV site includes its own picnic table, water and (30Amp) power hookups. Guests will also have access to our volleyball court, ping pong, communal benches, and a common area with a sink and dishwashing station. Additionally, you can access the swim area and go for a dip to cool off on a hot day. If you're looking to steal some time away to reconnect and camp, this is the place for you. People of all ages can camp out, swim, and play. We offer toilets, showers, trash disposal, potable water and more depending on the site you chose. Pets are allowed as well. Enjoy biking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, paddling, climbing, swimming, whitewater rafting, and wildlife watching all nearby, or on site.
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from 
$85
 / night
  • The newly renovated covered bridge at the Bridgeport crossing of the South Yuba River
  • Windsong Ridge Village
  • The newly renovated covered bridge at the Bridgeport crossing of the South Yuba River
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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from 
$40
 / night
  • Your private Yurt in the woods
  • Your private Yurt in the woods
  • Your private Yurt in the woods
100%
(43)

Your private Yurt in the woods

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Nevada City, CA
Your private Yurt in the woods -2 miles to town! Come experience the Beauty of the Sierra foothills and the Yuba river in our Yurt tucked into the forest just 2 miles from downtown Nevada city. With a natural creek right outside your door and hiking trails right off the deck, this serene and beautiful yurt retreat awaits you. Claw foot bath tub, fire pit and large deck to relax on. Wood fired stove inside with plenty of wood stacked to keep you warm. Small functional kitchen with a hot plate, toaster oven, micro sink and fridge. We have a wood fired hot tub on-site. It requires a fire to be lit and maintained to keep it hot. During the winter the yurt is heated with a wood fired stove. It takes a few hours to warm up, and needs to be maintained during your stay to keep the place toasty. There is a lovely wood stove and plenty of firewood for you to use! The Queen bed has a heating blanket to help keep you cozy throughout the night. The hot tub Is wonderful in the winter, it is wood fired and takes several hours to heat as well.
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$130
 / night
  • Comfortable full size bed in a small but efficient space with closets and drawers.
  • Beautiful Clipper Creek can be seen and heard from the RV.
  • Comfortable full size bed in a small but efficient space with closets and drawers.

Cedar Glen

1 site · Lodging18 acres · Grass Valley, CA
Welcome to your vacation getaway in Gold Country! Situated on 18 acres of park-like, forested land, this site offers a serene retreat with views of Clipper Creek visible from both indoors and the private outdoor dining areas. Downtown Grass Valley's shops and restaurants are just a short 12-minute drive away, while Empire Mines State Historic Park is only 11 minutes from the site. Explore the charming and historic Nevada City, located a mere 15 minutes away. Discover numerous hiking trails in the Nevada County area, as well as crystal-clear swimming holes along the beautiful Yuba River, all within close proximity. Day trips to ski resorts, Lake Tahoe, and the Truckee area are easily navigable. The site features a newly remodeled camper with one bedroom, a bathroom with a shower, a living area, kitchen, and indoor dining areas. Smoking is permitted outside in a comfortable, designated area. Please note that cats and two dogs reside on the property. Rest assured, the owner lives on-site and will respect your space and property throughout your stay.
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from 
$85
 / night
  • In Town Camping
  • In Town Camping
  • In Town Camping
100%
(12)

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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$45
 / night
  • picnic table
  • Russtic Roadside Retreat (R3)
  • picnic table
100%
(147)

Russtic Roadside Retreat (R3)

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Nevada City, CA
Learn more about this land: R3 is a rustic studio/cabin located in a private corner of our half acre property, walking distance to historic Nevada City, CA. From its humble beginnings as a simple camping platform, R3 is now fully enclosed with a stunning glass front wall which preserves the great view from the site. A small kitchen area and bathroom with flush toilet and shower complete a private and cozy space. There is much local history and many cultural activities to enjoy in Nevada County. Outdoor pursuits include hiking, road and mountain biking, river and lake access, skiing, and many more, all nestled in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Foothills. Nevada City, and it's sister town, Grass Valley, are Gold Rush Victorian gems, boasting a variety of shopping venues, many fine eateries, and eclectic "watering holes" featuring craft brews, local wines and tasty cocktails. Live music in many locations adds an upbeat and lively ambiance. 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
  • Mosaic Farm
  • Mosaic Farm
  • Mosaic Farm
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...
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
  • Cosumnes River Ranch
  • Site 5
  • Cosumnes River Ranch
99%
(1192)

Cosumnes River Ranch

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Plymouth, CA
We are a family owned/operated ranch, located along the Cosumnes River, one of the last un-dammed rivers in California. As one of the last rivers flowing from the west slope of the Sierra without a major dam, the Cosumnes is a vital example of a healthy watershed. Our goal is to offer a unique outdoor experience for anyone looking for a place to spend time in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a single campsite, or a place for a larger gathering, we're excited to have you visit! Take your pick of activities available on site: swimming , gold panning, fishing, camp fires, wildlife watching, floating, hiking, and mountain biking to name a few. There are 3 miles of river to explore. Private and noise free. Porta potties on site.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$85
 / night

The best camping near Empire Mine State Historic Park guide

Overview

About

From 1850 to 1956, the Empire Mine produced 5.8 million ounces of gold, worth more than $8 billion dollars by today’s standards. Now, this park spans 856 acres and includes forested backcountry in addition to the centerpiece complex of mine buildings, the owner’s mansion and gardens, and the entrance to 367 miles of underground mine shafts. The park also offers 14 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Camping is not permitted inside the park, but options can be found at Malakoff Diggins State Park and at private campgrounds near area lakes.

When to go

The park can be visited year-round, with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. Spring and fall will be the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Spring is a good time to see wildflowers around the Union Hill trails and to see the garden in bloom. When available, guided tours of the owner estate are offered between May and September.

Know before you go

  • Not all buildings may be open to visitors. Check ahead to avoid disappointment.
  • Due to historically narrow doorway widths and steep stair wells, not all attractions are accessible. Wide-tire wheelchairs can be borrowed and alternative entries and lifts are available in limited areas.
  • Some trails are rocky and steep, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Also watch out for poison oak, ticks, and rattlesnakes while on trails.
  • Dogs are permitted in the park but not inside historic buildings or in mine shafts.

Top parks near Empire Mine State Historic Park

Yosemite National Park
Point Reyes National Seashore
Mount Tamalpais State Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Crater Lake National Park

Top cities near Empire Mine State Historic Park

San Jose
Sacramento
Reno
Oakland
Bakersfield
Santa Rosa
Fresno
Roseville

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