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Loon Lake Campground

In
Eldorado National Forest
·
97%
·
5 reviews
65 sites · RV, Tent

Loon Lake Campground is perched at 6,500 feet in the Crystal Basin section of the Eldorado National Forest, close to the northwest corner of the Desolation Wilderness. It’s right on the shore of Loon Lake, a 76,200-acre reservoir ringed with boulders, fir trees, and rolling peaks in classic High Sierra fashion. Campsites have picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and bear-proof containers, plus water and bathroom access. Some sites feature views of the lake, and excellent hiking and mountain biking trails can be found close by. This campground is also popular with OHV drivers due to its proximity to the Rubicon Trail.

 

Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation

  • Loon Lake Campground has both reservable and first-come, first-served sites. 
  • Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance online. 
  • If you’re trying to get a walk-in site, arrive early or shoot for Monday to Thursday when the campground is less busy.  

    •  

    When to Go

    This campground typically opens in June and closes sometime in September, depending on the snowpack. You can call the Placerville Ranger Station at 530-644-2324 for current season information. Although the campground is closed during the off season, winter visitors come to Loon Lake for skiing and hiking. The Loon Lake Chalet, a separate campground adjacent to Loon Lake Campground, offers winter lodging options, too. Roads to the Chalet are plowed during the winter. Contact the Placerville Ranger Station for current road and weather conditions prior to your winter trip.

    What this place offers
    Campfire allowed
    Pets allowed
    No showers
    Toilets
    Potable water
    Picnic tables
    No sewage hookups
    No electric hookups
    65 sites
    RV, Tent
    Explore 624 campgrounds near Eldorado National Forest
    Scanning sold-out campgrounds every 15 seconds. Get notified the moment Loon Lake Campground becomes available.

    Available campgrounds nearby

    Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Eldorado National Forest

    • Information booth
    • Tents setup
    • Information booth

    Finnon Lake Recreation Area

    95%
    (2328)
    27mi from Loon Lake Campground · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · Placerville, CA
    ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). These vehicles will not fit and cannot cross the single-lane suspension Mosquito Bridge. These vehicles and trailers will be forced to turn around or back up to take Rock Creek Road. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060. Hours are limited. Use caution - twisty, narrow country road If it's your first time, you might want to check out the route beforehand. 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 onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER "Smoke on the Water" is open only Saturday and Sunday. 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 to discover. The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in 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. Community volunteers manage the lake for the residents and the Fire Station. 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, Smoke on the Water Diner, which is open on weekends only 530-622-1060. During your stay, you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking. Sites are from post to post. Our property is located in Placerville, California.
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $40
     / night
    • Roughlands
    • Roughlands
    • Roughlands

    Roughlands

    92%
    (43)
    36mi from Loon Lake Campground · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nevada City, CA
    Escape to 38 serene acres of forested beauty in Nevada City, CA. Enjoy two cozy glamping platforms, a peaceful tent site, or an RV spot. Unwind in our charming bath house with a flushing toilet, steam shower, and outdoor hot tub. Nature, comfort, and tranquility await your perfect getaway.
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $40
     / night
    • L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas
    • L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas
    • L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

    L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

    96%
    (255)
    31mi from Loon Lake Campground · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carson City, 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. There is a small retail store on site with a variety of products made with alpaca fiber, including the most delightful alpaca socks!! The ranch store is self serve mostly. There are price sheets and payment methods listed!
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $40
     / night
    • El Niños Oaks
    • El Niños Oaks
    • El Niños Oaks

    El Niños Oaks

    34mi from Loon Lake Campground · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · River Pines, CA
    Camp in the midst of oaks and granite near the middle fork and north fork Consume river. With water and power you just need to bring your own hose and extension cord. Some spots have both so check in first. This property has great energy! Spend all day at the river to avoid the heat or use the sprinklers at the property and cool off under the oaks. Read a book in the hammock. Enjoy!
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $36
     / night
    • One of the best perks is fresh water and an electrical outlet! (The porta potty is also super clean!)
    • Amazing vineyard with a great sunset overlook.
    • One of the best perks is fresh water and an electrical outlet! (The porta potty is also super clean!)

    Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

    97%
    (355)
    31mi from Loon Lake Campground · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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. We have running water on the side of the winery building. 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.
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $32
     / night
    • Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude
    • Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude
    • Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

    Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

    97%
    (199)
    48mi from Loon Lake Campground · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Reno, CA
    Please note: We have two 'Overnighter' sites these are instant book for weary travelers and not meant as full on camping sites. Site 1 and site 2 or Antelope please refrain from booking unless you are traveling through - All other camp sites require a minimum of 24 hours notice this allows for getting the sites ready - so if you want to camp here please note this requirement If you are traveling w a bumper pull of any type you need to book Big Rig ( soon to be named Art Camp) this is our only pull through camp site all others only tiny teardrops, cassettes, tents, vans, cars, or cab overs. Bobcat is great for tents, cars, vans, small trucks, no bumper pulls Camping here is low activity experience as in there is hiking up in the National Forest or just hanging out in your camp site, or bring your camera, notebook and binoculars, or road bike. When you come to camp here you are on a 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 fresh veggies contact Prema Farm one day BEFORE arrival - Please come visit in April May and June it is some of the most green and lush times in the high desert. It can also bring snow, winds, and rain. Be prepared- look at the forecast and contact me directly if you have concerns We are looking for a seasonal self contained camper to do campground maintenance and upkeep. trade Only NO PETS SELF CONTAINED and background check 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, gardens in the process of creation, snakes, bugs, ticks, and wild animals. 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.
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $15
     / night
    • Water front on Topaz Lake
    • Water front on Topaz Lake
    • Water front on Topaz Lake

    Water front on Topaz Lake

    95%
    (88)
    46mi from Loon Lake Campground · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Topaz, CA
    Learn more about this land:Beautiful lake front property on Topaz Lake , we have 6 rv sites to choose from on 4 acres .First come first serve . Bring your Rv or pitch a tent . Bring your whole family. We have kayaks and paddle boards . Fishing boat available to rent . Life jackets available and a peddle boat too ! Lots of float toys !!
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $50
     / night
    • Rollins Lake Retreats, A/C & WIFI
    • Rollins Lake Retreats, A/C & WIFI
    • Rollins Lake Retreats, A/C & WIFI

    Rollins Lake Retreats, A/C & WIFI

    96%
    (110)
    36mi from Loon Lake Campground · 3 sites · Lodging · Colfax, CA
    Our property is lakeside at Rollins Lake In Colfax. We live on over 30 private, beautiful acres with footpath access to Rollins Lake. (3 minute walk from the dome or house, and 10-15 minutes from the cabin) where most summer days here are spent swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing ect., down at the water. Please note the Cabin is set on a seasonal CANNABIS garden. All three sites are vacation spots with AC and WIFI, not just simple accommodations, but experiences. The remarkable property is very hilly with pines and oaks. You can follow our driveway to the bottom and access the beginning of The Bear River which has a nice hiking trail alongside it or drive 8 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 10 minutes to the town of Colfax where you will find gas, groceries, and restaurants. We have a beautiful spot where you will not see any neighbors so it is peaceful and private with gorgeous 360-degree views. It is also very safe! Bask in nature, quiet, and privacy! In summer there is a 3-night minimum for the cabin and dome. Occasionally a two day midweek will pop up on the schedule last minute. To see correct pricing, enter your dates as they can fluctuate with holidays, weekends. Prices are decreased midweek. We have 3 accommodations on the property -A GUEST SUITE (lakeside), up to 5 people. -A CABIN (15 min walk or 3 min drive/5 min walk, up to 4 people. -A GLAMPING DOME with an additional teepee tent site (lakeside)! Up to 6 people. We have fishing boat, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent. If you want an epic stay in the forest, private and away from others, this is your place. Also close to Grass Valley (15min), Nevada City (20 min), Colfax (less than 10).
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $113
     / night
    • Great spot to do yoga in the morning.
    • PlatForm of Pleasure
    • Great spot to do yoga in the morning.

    TerraSol~ "Earth Under the Sun"

    99%
    (355)
    46mi from Loon Lake Campground · 3 sites · Lodging · 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 15 miles from Yuba River Trailheads. Firewood bundles are $1 per stick per stick, (when campfires 🔥 are allowed). There is a $15.00 dog fee per dog/per stay. You can add the dog fee to your booking or pay cash when you arrive. 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!"
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $80
     / night
    • Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
    • Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
    • Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF

    Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF

    98%
    (139)
    30mi from Loon Lake Campground · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nevada City, CA
    Bright Bear Camp is a private two-acre property bordering Tahoe National Forest. We are located at 4300' elevation down a mostly dirt road along the beautiful Bear River and Bear Valley. This is a very peaceful spot among the trees with a small meadow and creek on the property. As our name suggests, bears are occasionally in the area so keep an eye out. You may also see the spotted owls that live nearby - listen closely for their calls (https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Spotted_Owl/overview). There is much to explore in the area and more with only a short drive to the South Yuba River, Emerald Pools, Lake Spaulding, Donner Pass, Donner Lake, and Truckee.
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $45
     / night
    • RockNWater Cove Camping
    • RockNWater Cove Camping
    • RockNWater Cove Camping

    RockNWater Cove Camping

    98%
    (664)
    35mi from Loon Lake Campground · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 in group sites. 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. We offer toilets, showers, trash disposal, potable water and more depending on the site you chose. Leashed pets 45 pounds or less are allowed as well. Enjoy biking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, paddling, climbing, swimming, whitewater rafting, and wildlife watching all nearby, or on site. **Please read rules: 1. Use of or participation in any of the following while on camp grounds is prohibited during your stay: ● Illegal drugs ● Smoking ● Public intoxication ● Fireworks ● No Charcoal 2. Pets/Animals: Guests at our RV sites are permitted to have up to 1 small dog (under 40lbs). Dogs must be leashed at all times when outside the RV. As a courtesy to both staff and fellow guests, please pick up after your pets. 3. Noise Restrictions: Due to policies that govern campgrounds guests are asked to refrain from playing amplified music or running generators. 10PM-8AM quiet hours. 4. Please refrain from cursing or using obscene language, particularly while in the presence of minors. 5. Water Safety: There is no lifeguard on duty. Minors must be supervised by an adult AT ALL TIMES when near the water.
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $68
     / night
    • Wisdom eco-preserv
    • Geronimo handcrafted log Cabin
    • Wisdom eco-preserv

    Wisdom eco-preserv

    97%
    (264)
    43mi from Loon Lake Campground · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nevada City, CA
    This extraordinary 200 acres is magical and host a wildness which feels peaceful and secure. It is also the home of the developing Wisdom Retreat Center eco-preserve noted for quality of beauty and silence. Many Indian arrow heads have been found here indicating former residences of indigenous tribes. There are many open meadows and old growth forest to hike and explore.
    Pets
    Potable water
    Toilets
    from 
    $80
     / night

    More to explore nearby

    97%
    19 ratings · 5 reviews
    Recommends
    · August 2019
    Brought my kids here on our first camping trip. The fishing was fun, the site had great water access, secluded, and big enough for a couple of more tents. It might have been too rough for a first trip, but we still had fun. My daughter said she really missed flushing toilets. It is a half-hour to anything and an hour from anything other than a small store cafe. Not really a problem for us, but don't forget anything. The lake was beautiful and warm enough for swimming (it was August). The hikes were amazing. Overall we really enjoyed ourselves. It was a great camping spot.
    G
    Gerry D.
    2 reviews
    Recommends
    · October 2018
    Lots of campsites. Can be noisy during the busy season. The lake is very pretty
    R
    Rose H.
    3 reviews
    Recommends
    · February 2018
    Gorgeous!
    D
    Danielle W.
    7 years on Hipcamp
    September 2017
    Have been coming here several times a year since 1992. If you really want to get away, keep driving on Ice House road past the campsites until you get to the end of the road. Unload your canoe and paddle in or hike in. It's open wilderness and hopefully, you won't see another soul for a hundred yards. You'll discover spots that adventurous souls have pitched their tents in the past. Just look for the fire rings. I've been hoarding this jem to myself for the last 25 years. Hopefully, another generation will discover the awesomeness of Loon Lake.
    M
    Minh D.
    9 years on Hipcamp
    Recommends
    · July 2017
    Book it a week or two in advance
    A
    Abbey S.
    8 years on Hipcamp
    LocationLoon Lake Campground, Eldorado National Forest, California, United States
    Is anything missing?Suggest edits to improve this listing for fellow campers.
    What this place offers
    Campfire allowed
    Pets allowed
    No showers
    Toilets
    Potable water
    Picnic tables
    No sewage hookups
    No electric hookups

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