Private lakeside camping near Alta Sierra

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98% (356 reviews)

United States
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California
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Alta Sierra

98% (356 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Alta Sierra

Star Hosts in Alta Sierra

Animal Lovers Paradise

1 site · Tent30 acres · Greenwood, CA

Pitch your tent smack dab in the middle of HartSong Ranch Animal Sanctuary - some of the most beautiful acreage in the Sierra Nevada Foothills. Cook a delicious, campfire meal - kick up your heels "a bit" after a long, hard day and then - Whew! Cop a squat, sit back, exhale and prepare yourself to take it all in. Silence is golden around here and once here, you will soon come to know – that if you blend in, be quiet, listen and observe – NATURE, in all its glory, will reveal its majesty - right before your very eyes. The 2 acre pond reflects the brilliance of “harmony” in nature. The water is pure, clean and abundant with life yet, HartSong Ranch is a pesticide free facility. Nature, taking care of itself, is truly a beautiful thing. Yellow Water Iris are in full bloom, spring through early summer. Dragonflies and butterflies sparkle in the sunshine. Frogs croak, bats dart here and there and big mouth bass become airborne in search of dinner in the early evening hours. Blue and White Heron visit the pond often – gracefully soaring over the pastures and pond in search of a safe place to land among the Iris. Watching them calculate a strategy to catch a meal, while appearing to stalk in slow motion – FASCINATING! Upwards of 40 Canada Geese goslings are hatched yearly on the grounds of HartSong. It’s absolutely adorable to watch the little ones as they frantically paddle along behind their moms. In addition and if you’re an early riser, you will most certainly feel blessed to observe the loving, yet stern, communications between Canada Goose parents (life- long mates) as they teach their young to fly - every morning at sunrise in the spring. Fire head of cattle (that have never known anything other than kindness), graze the pastures beyond the pond. Yes, they all have names and yes, they are all as sweet as can be. Their tranquility is contagious. The "one and only" ALP campsite is large enough to accommodate 9+ large tents. Only one camping group occupies this campsite. Amenities at the site include... *Porta Potty/Outhouse *Hand washing station - hand soap, hand sanitizer and hand towels provided *3 Picnic Tables with table cloths *Extra Large Dining Tent with Screened Sides for Ventilation *Wood Rounds for Seating, Lighter, Fire Starter Sticks and filled Water Buckets *Warming propane fire box (4' long). This unit is approved to use during high fire season and provides enough of a flame to roast marshmallows, make s'mores and provides incredible ambiance at the campsite during the nighttime hours. *Propane BBQ Grill - available to use during high fire season *BBQ Utensils - Large Spatula/Turner, Large Pronged Fork, Wire Bristle Grill Cleaner/Scraper *Shade sail - 1 *Life Jackets (2 child) *Row Boat with oars *Coleman Heavy Duty Water Jug (5 Gallon) *Clean, Fresh Drinking Water from HartSong's Well *4 Adirondack Chairs with Side Table *Hammock *Swing *Emergency First Aid Kit *Fire Extinguisher *Solar in Ground Lights for easy navigation during the nighttime hours There is an old gold mine on the back side of the property as well as a 30' waterfall. The canal (said to have been built by the Chinese workers during the Gold Rush) winds through the entire property. HartSong Ranch Animal Sanctuary, a 30-acre facility, is a 100% volunteer, 501(c)(3) non- profit organization and home to 60+ rescue animals. Some are blind - others have physical challenges - most are trauma survivors. Our mission is to provide a landscape of quiet and tranquility for the animals that live within our gates – a sanctuary where they can enjoy nature, peace of mind and suffer no more. There is an old gold mine on the back side of the property as well as a 30' waterfall. Off the ranch adventures are also abundant in the Sierra Nevada foothills surrounding HartSong Ranch. *The Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park – a 14 mile drive from your campsite, features a museum, restored historic buildings and costumed volunteers. Gold was discovered here at Sutter’s Mill in 1848, sparking the California Gold Rush. *The American River Confluence (North Fork and Middle Fork merge) – a 10 mile drive from your campsite. The drive down the canyon to the American River is beautifully picturesque. Over 100 miles of hiking trails, pristine swimming holes and white water opportunities are available for those of you in search of adrenaline laced activities. *Coloma, California – world famous for its white water rafting excursions – a 14 mile drive from your campsite. *Lotus, California - The Coloma-Lotus Valley is the major destination of the South Fork, shaped by the American River today as in 1848. Three riverfront parks provide opportunities for family picnics and wading, and Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park brings California’s history to life. While in Lotus, please make a point to stop in at Sierra Rizing Bakery, Coffeehouse and Cafe – located in the beautiful Coloma & Lotus river valley just steps from the South Fork of the American River. They feature small-batch local artisan-roasted coffees, fresh bakery goods, breakfast and lunch fare, as well as specialty drinks, beer, and local wines. They also offer a beautiful outdoor patio that is dog friendly. Dogs are also welcome inside the cafe. For those interested to tour the sanctuary grounds, meet many of the rescue animals living within our gates and, take a short hike to the secret, glorious waterfall, please be certain to book a tour (see EXTRAS to book a private tour). HartSong co-founders, Jim and Kathy Hart, are both former professional musicians so there’s nothing more delightful to our ears than to hear acoustic kumbaya moments around a campfire. We do, however, most graciously request “quiet time” at the campsite after 10PM.

King Madrone

1 site · Tent280 acres · Placerville, CA

Learn more about this land: Tent site in the orchard with canyon views. Mule 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.

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.

Secluded + Peaceful Cozy Cabin

1 site · Lodging150 acres · Garden Valley, CA

Peaceful and private Bear Creek Lodge is tucked up against the El Dorado National Forest, surrounded by majestic oaks, pines, and cedars, in charming Garden Valley, CA. The 3,000-square-foot lodge is located on 150 acres, secluded from noise and light pollution, making for spectacular night skies. The park-like setting makes Bear Creek Lodge the perfect haven in the woods, while the beautifully-appointed four-bedroom home makes it the ideal place for rest, relaxation, & rejuvenation! Bear Creek Lodge has been carefully designed and appointed to help you rest and relax on your getaway to the woods. While you will likely spend evenings listening to nature’s symphony, there are plenty of activities in the house to keep you entertained. Bear Creek Lodge is 100% off the grid and utilizes an industrial generator that powers this large property. We are pet friendly, but you must register your pet on the site and there is a fee if you decide to bring your pet. Please let us know in advance. Max. Occupancy: 4 bedrooms; There is a maximum occupancy limit of 14 guests between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. WiFi: Bear Creek Lodge includes high-speed Wifi thanks to fast satellite Internet. Quiet Hours: While in a remote and secluded area, we must still abide by the local regulations. Quiet Hours must be observed between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. Wildlife: The peace and beauty of being tucked away into your own secluded retreat in the woods, comes with the additional steps of having to contend with wildlife and small critters. For your safety and enjoyment, it's important to be vigilant about keeping doors closed into the Lodge. It's also important to clean up ALL food debris at ALL times, both inside and outside the Lodge. Suggestion to Bring: Remember to bring all necessary medications, as the nearest pharmacy is 14-15 miles away in Cool, CA if needed. And we also recommend bringing flashlights for each guest for moving between the main, upper, and lower levels at night time. Always check the weather app ahead of your arrival for weather forecasts at Georgetown & Garden Valley CA. Here are only a few of the nearby adventures that Hipcampers can partake in: Skiing, snowboarding, white-water rafting, wine tasting, Apple Hill, Jeep Jamboree, Rubicon trail, El Dorado National Forest, Coloma gold discovery museum, Red Hawk Casino, antiquing, historic downtown Placerville, hidden local trails, hiking, fishing, water-sports and/or doing nothing but relaxing!

6 top lakeside campgrounds near Alta Sierra

King Madrone

1 site · Tent280 acres · Placerville, CA

Learn more about this land: Tent site in the orchard with canyon views. Mule 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.

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.

Frolic Gatherin'Ground

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · CA

Located in the Sierra Nevada Foothills in Gold Country~ 15 min from Grass Valley, Nevada City or Colfax. Frolic has been an adventure for me in Saying Yes to life and the rewarding challenges it brings. I fell in love with the big oak, the pristine pond and the feral overgrown everything. It has been a workin' progress and lots of time to pause and listen. Frolic has been a great teacher in reminding me to PLAY, relax and go with the flow. I hope you can find the same joy and rejuvenation here.

Animal Lovers Paradise

1 site · Tent30 acres · Greenwood, CA

Pitch your tent smack dab in the middle of HartSong Ranch Animal Sanctuary - some of the most beautiful acreage in the Sierra Nevada Foothills. Cook a delicious, campfire meal - kick up your heels "a bit" after a long, hard day and then - Whew! Cop a squat, sit back, exhale and prepare yourself to take it all in. Silence is golden around here and once here, you will soon come to know – that if you blend in, be quiet, listen and observe – NATURE, in all its glory, will reveal its majesty - right before your very eyes. The 2 acre pond reflects the brilliance of “harmony” in nature. The water is pure, clean and abundant with life yet, HartSong Ranch is a pesticide free facility. Nature, taking care of itself, is truly a beautiful thing. Yellow Water Iris are in full bloom, spring through early summer. Dragonflies and butterflies sparkle in the sunshine. Frogs croak, bats dart here and there and big mouth bass become airborne in search of dinner in the early evening hours. Blue and White Heron visit the pond often – gracefully soaring over the pastures and pond in search of a safe place to land among the Iris. Watching them calculate a strategy to catch a meal, while appearing to stalk in slow motion – FASCINATING! Upwards of 40 Canada Geese goslings are hatched yearly on the grounds of HartSong. It’s absolutely adorable to watch the little ones as they frantically paddle along behind their moms. In addition and if you’re an early riser, you will most certainly feel blessed to observe the loving, yet stern, communications between Canada Goose parents (life- long mates) as they teach their young to fly - every morning at sunrise in the spring. Fire head of cattle (that have never known anything other than kindness), graze the pastures beyond the pond. Yes, they all have names and yes, they are all as sweet as can be. Their tranquility is contagious. The "one and only" ALP campsite is large enough to accommodate 9+ large tents. Only one camping group occupies this campsite. Amenities at the site include... *Porta Potty/Outhouse *Hand washing station - hand soap, hand sanitizer and hand towels provided *3 Picnic Tables with table cloths *Extra Large Dining Tent with Screened Sides for Ventilation *Wood Rounds for Seating, Lighter, Fire Starter Sticks and filled Water Buckets *Warming propane fire box (4' long). This unit is approved to use during high fire season and provides enough of a flame to roast marshmallows, make s'mores and provides incredible ambiance at the campsite during the nighttime hours. *Propane BBQ Grill - available to use during high fire season *BBQ Utensils - Large Spatula/Turner, Large Pronged Fork, Wire Bristle Grill Cleaner/Scraper *Shade sail - 1 *Life Jackets (2 child) *Row Boat with oars *Coleman Heavy Duty Water Jug (5 Gallon) *Clean, Fresh Drinking Water from HartSong's Well *4 Adirondack Chairs with Side Table *Hammock *Swing *Emergency First Aid Kit *Fire Extinguisher *Solar in Ground Lights for easy navigation during the nighttime hours There is an old gold mine on the back side of the property as well as a 30' waterfall. The canal (said to have been built by the Chinese workers during the Gold Rush) winds through the entire property. HartSong Ranch Animal Sanctuary, a 30-acre facility, is a 100% volunteer, 501(c)(3) non- profit organization and home to 60+ rescue animals. Some are blind - others have physical challenges - most are trauma survivors. Our mission is to provide a landscape of quiet and tranquility for the animals that live within our gates – a sanctuary where they can enjoy nature, peace of mind and suffer no more. There is an old gold mine on the back side of the property as well as a 30' waterfall. Off the ranch adventures are also abundant in the Sierra Nevada foothills surrounding HartSong Ranch. *The Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park – a 14 mile drive from your campsite, features a museum, restored historic buildings and costumed volunteers. Gold was discovered here at Sutter’s Mill in 1848, sparking the California Gold Rush. *The American River Confluence (North Fork and Middle Fork merge) – a 10 mile drive from your campsite. The drive down the canyon to the American River is beautifully picturesque. Over 100 miles of hiking trails, pristine swimming holes and white water opportunities are available for those of you in search of adrenaline laced activities. *Coloma, California – world famous for its white water rafting excursions – a 14 mile drive from your campsite. *Lotus, California - The Coloma-Lotus Valley is the major destination of the South Fork, shaped by the American River today as in 1848. Three riverfront parks provide opportunities for family picnics and wading, and Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park brings California’s history to life. While in Lotus, please make a point to stop in at Sierra Rizing Bakery, Coffeehouse and Cafe – located in the beautiful Coloma & Lotus river valley just steps from the South Fork of the American River. They feature small-batch local artisan-roasted coffees, fresh bakery goods, breakfast and lunch fare, as well as specialty drinks, beer, and local wines. They also offer a beautiful outdoor patio that is dog friendly. Dogs are also welcome inside the cafe. For those interested to tour the sanctuary grounds, meet many of the rescue animals living within our gates and, take a short hike to the secret, glorious waterfall, please be certain to book a tour (see EXTRAS to book a private tour). HartSong co-founders, Jim and Kathy Hart, are both former professional musicians so there’s nothing more delightful to our ears than to hear acoustic kumbaya moments around a campfire. We do, however, most graciously request “quiet time” at the campsite after 10PM.

Cooking equipment

The Yuba Yurt

1 site · Lodging5 acres · North San Juan, CA

The Yuba Yurt is "glamping", or an idyllic remote working location, at its best. Carefully appointed "simplicity" immersed in Nature, but with stable high speed internet, situated equidistantly between the three forks of the "wild and scenic" Yuba River. Enjoy! THE SPACE Venture to the heart of Yuba river country and experience the rustic comfort of glamping in a 30’ pacific yurt. A remedy for “Nature Deficit Disorder”, this is your opportunity to taste the magic of simple living in the round. Located on the North San Juan ridge at the edge of Tahoe National Forest, endless outdoor activities abound. Enjoy incredible hiking, crystal-clear swimming holes and world-class mountain biking trails during summer and pristine snow-play areas away from the crowds during winter. Take in gorgeous scenic drives and numerous points of historical interest--including Malokoff Diggins--from California gold rush period. Discover the active gold mining town of Allegheny, the scenic beauty of Downieville or soak the afternoon away at Sierra Hot Springs in Sierraville. The village of Nevada city--with all it has to offer--is just 20 minutes away. Or simply relax... As much a nature blind as a dwelling, the yurt is located on 5 peaceful acres of mixed oak and madrone woodland with a filtered view of the Sierra foothills, a claw foot bath tub under the stars and much more. Light and airy with both propane and wood heat, the well-designed interior features a spacious kitchen, a comfy queen bed and a full bathroom. The kitchen is stocked for a cook with quality cooking equipment and is supplied with oils, sauces and spices. Tranquil and rustic, but with WiFi and a small streaming set-up, there are also games and plenty of good books. A perfect anytime retreat! THE AREA RiverSea East is located on the San Juan Ridge, an area near Nevada City and Grass Valley that extends about 24 miles between the south and middle forks of the Yuba River. A small Nevada County community far removed from town, modern day North San Juan is part hippie, part isolationist, part new age and part conservative.It's only a 20 minute drive from downtown Nevada City, but since you have to drive up and down the heavily forested, windy river-canyon road, it feels rather remote. When you get there, it consists of less than ten businesses scattered around the mountains, a bushel of dreadlocked hippies, a bunch of pot farms, a vineyard, and LOTS of empty, undeveloped wood, making North San Juan a really beautiful place, surrounded, as it is, by forested mountains and rivers. North San Juan is a great place to explore. There's all kinds of hidden spots, neat places to go, river access with good swimming holes and little stores and cafes. This area is spotted with little organic farms, beautiful little houses and the occasional run-down looking trailer.Farm, house OR trailer, because North San Juan and the Ridge are so sparsely populated, every residence seems to have acres of property that the people are free to plant, enjoy or neglect at will. OTHER IMPORTANT STUFF PETS: Your well-behaved dog is welcome with advanced permission and agreement to our pet policy for an additional $10.00 per night. As this is a wilderness area with abundant wildlife, do not let your dog wander outside at night unattended. NEVER leave your dog unattended at the yurt or let them roam unleashed in the woods. Neighbors will report dogs who bark incessantly. PARTIES and extra visitors are not allowed. Quiet time in the neighborhood is 10pm SAVE OUR ROAD SPEED is 10mph at all times.

Cooking equipment

Secluded + Peaceful Cozy Cabin

1 site · Lodging150 acres · Garden Valley, CA

Peaceful and private Bear Creek Lodge is tucked up against the El Dorado National Forest, surrounded by majestic oaks, pines, and cedars, in charming Garden Valley, CA. The 3,000-square-foot lodge is located on 150 acres, secluded from noise and light pollution, making for spectacular night skies. The park-like setting makes Bear Creek Lodge the perfect haven in the woods, while the beautifully-appointed four-bedroom home makes it the ideal place for rest, relaxation, & rejuvenation! Bear Creek Lodge has been carefully designed and appointed to help you rest and relax on your getaway to the woods. While you will likely spend evenings listening to nature’s symphony, there are plenty of activities in the house to keep you entertained. Bear Creek Lodge is 100% off the grid and utilizes an industrial generator that powers this large property. We are pet friendly, but you must register your pet on the site and there is a fee if you decide to bring your pet. Please let us know in advance. Max. Occupancy: 4 bedrooms; There is a maximum occupancy limit of 14 guests between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. WiFi: Bear Creek Lodge includes high-speed Wifi thanks to fast satellite Internet. Quiet Hours: While in a remote and secluded area, we must still abide by the local regulations. Quiet Hours must be observed between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. Wildlife: The peace and beauty of being tucked away into your own secluded retreat in the woods, comes with the additional steps of having to contend with wildlife and small critters. For your safety and enjoyment, it's important to be vigilant about keeping doors closed into the Lodge. It's also important to clean up ALL food debris at ALL times, both inside and outside the Lodge. Suggestion to Bring: Remember to bring all necessary medications, as the nearest pharmacy is 14-15 miles away in Cool, CA if needed. And we also recommend bringing flashlights for each guest for moving between the main, upper, and lower levels at night time. Always check the weather app ahead of your arrival for weather forecasts at Georgetown & Garden Valley CA. Here are only a few of the nearby adventures that Hipcampers can partake in: Skiing, snowboarding, white-water rafting, wine tasting, Apple Hill, Jeep Jamboree, Rubicon trail, El Dorado National Forest, Coloma gold discovery museum, Red Hawk Casino, antiquing, historic downtown Placerville, hidden local trails, hiking, fishing, water-sports and/or doing nothing but relaxing!

Dog-friendly getaways

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.

Secluded + Peaceful Cozy Cabin

1 site · Lodging150 acres · Garden Valley, CA

Peaceful and private Bear Creek Lodge is tucked up against the El Dorado National Forest, surrounded by majestic oaks, pines, and cedars, in charming Garden Valley, CA. The 3,000-square-foot lodge is located on 150 acres, secluded from noise and light pollution, making for spectacular night skies. The park-like setting makes Bear Creek Lodge the perfect haven in the woods, while the beautifully-appointed four-bedroom home makes it the ideal place for rest, relaxation, & rejuvenation! Bear Creek Lodge has been carefully designed and appointed to help you rest and relax on your getaway to the woods. While you will likely spend evenings listening to nature’s symphony, there are plenty of activities in the house to keep you entertained. Bear Creek Lodge is 100% off the grid and utilizes an industrial generator that powers this large property. We are pet friendly, but you must register your pet on the site and there is a fee if you decide to bring your pet. Please let us know in advance. Max. Occupancy: 4 bedrooms; There is a maximum occupancy limit of 14 guests between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. WiFi: Bear Creek Lodge includes high-speed Wifi thanks to fast satellite Internet. Quiet Hours: While in a remote and secluded area, we must still abide by the local regulations. Quiet Hours must be observed between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. Wildlife: The peace and beauty of being tucked away into your own secluded retreat in the woods, comes with the additional steps of having to contend with wildlife and small critters. For your safety and enjoyment, it's important to be vigilant about keeping doors closed into the Lodge. It's also important to clean up ALL food debris at ALL times, both inside and outside the Lodge. Suggestion to Bring: Remember to bring all necessary medications, as the nearest pharmacy is 14-15 miles away in Cool, CA if needed. And we also recommend bringing flashlights for each guest for moving between the main, upper, and lower levels at night time. Always check the weather app ahead of your arrival for weather forecasts at Georgetown & Garden Valley CA. Here are only a few of the nearby adventures that Hipcampers can partake in: Skiing, snowboarding, white-water rafting, wine tasting, Apple Hill, Jeep Jamboree, Rubicon trail, El Dorado National Forest, Coloma gold discovery museum, Red Hawk Casino, antiquing, historic downtown Placerville, hidden local trails, hiking, fishing, water-sports and/or doing nothing but relaxing!

The Yuba Yurt

1 site · Lodging5 acres · North San Juan, CA

The Yuba Yurt is "glamping", or an idyllic remote working location, at its best. Carefully appointed "simplicity" immersed in Nature, but with stable high speed internet, situated equidistantly between the three forks of the "wild and scenic" Yuba River. Enjoy! THE SPACE Venture to the heart of Yuba river country and experience the rustic comfort of glamping in a 30’ pacific yurt. A remedy for “Nature Deficit Disorder”, this is your opportunity to taste the magic of simple living in the round. Located on the North San Juan ridge at the edge of Tahoe National Forest, endless outdoor activities abound. Enjoy incredible hiking, crystal-clear swimming holes and world-class mountain biking trails during summer and pristine snow-play areas away from the crowds during winter. Take in gorgeous scenic drives and numerous points of historical interest--including Malokoff Diggins--from California gold rush period. Discover the active gold mining town of Allegheny, the scenic beauty of Downieville or soak the afternoon away at Sierra Hot Springs in Sierraville. The village of Nevada city--with all it has to offer--is just 20 minutes away. Or simply relax... As much a nature blind as a dwelling, the yurt is located on 5 peaceful acres of mixed oak and madrone woodland with a filtered view of the Sierra foothills, a claw foot bath tub under the stars and much more. Light and airy with both propane and wood heat, the well-designed interior features a spacious kitchen, a comfy queen bed and a full bathroom. The kitchen is stocked for a cook with quality cooking equipment and is supplied with oils, sauces and spices. Tranquil and rustic, but with WiFi and a small streaming set-up, there are also games and plenty of good books. A perfect anytime retreat! THE AREA RiverSea East is located on the San Juan Ridge, an area near Nevada City and Grass Valley that extends about 24 miles between the south and middle forks of the Yuba River. A small Nevada County community far removed from town, modern day North San Juan is part hippie, part isolationist, part new age and part conservative.It's only a 20 minute drive from downtown Nevada City, but since you have to drive up and down the heavily forested, windy river-canyon road, it feels rather remote. When you get there, it consists of less than ten businesses scattered around the mountains, a bushel of dreadlocked hippies, a bunch of pot farms, a vineyard, and LOTS of empty, undeveloped wood, making North San Juan a really beautiful place, surrounded, as it is, by forested mountains and rivers. North San Juan is a great place to explore. There's all kinds of hidden spots, neat places to go, river access with good swimming holes and little stores and cafes. This area is spotted with little organic farms, beautiful little houses and the occasional run-down looking trailer.Farm, house OR trailer, because North San Juan and the Ridge are so sparsely populated, every residence seems to have acres of property that the people are free to plant, enjoy or neglect at will. OTHER IMPORTANT STUFF PETS: Your well-behaved dog is welcome with advanced permission and agreement to our pet policy for an additional $10.00 per night. As this is a wilderness area with abundant wildlife, do not let your dog wander outside at night unattended. NEVER leave your dog unattended at the yurt or let them roam unleashed in the woods. Neighbors will report dogs who bark incessantly. PARTIES and extra visitors are not allowed. Quiet time in the neighborhood is 10pm SAVE OUR ROAD SPEED is 10mph at all times.

Frolic Gatherin'Ground

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · CA

Located in the Sierra Nevada Foothills in Gold Country~ 15 min from Grass Valley, Nevada City or Colfax. Frolic has been an adventure for me in Saying Yes to life and the rewarding challenges it brings. I fell in love with the big oak, the pristine pond and the feral overgrown everything. It has been a workin' progress and lots of time to pause and listen. Frolic has been a great teacher in reminding me to PLAY, relax and go with the flow. I hope you can find the same joy and rejuvenation here.

Animal Lovers Paradise

1 site · Tent30 acres · Greenwood, CA

Pitch your tent smack dab in the middle of HartSong Ranch Animal Sanctuary - some of the most beautiful acreage in the Sierra Nevada Foothills. Cook a delicious, campfire meal - kick up your heels "a bit" after a long, hard day and then - Whew! Cop a squat, sit back, exhale and prepare yourself to take it all in. Silence is golden around here and once here, you will soon come to know – that if you blend in, be quiet, listen and observe – NATURE, in all its glory, will reveal its majesty - right before your very eyes. The 2 acre pond reflects the brilliance of “harmony” in nature. The water is pure, clean and abundant with life yet, HartSong Ranch is a pesticide free facility. Nature, taking care of itself, is truly a beautiful thing. Yellow Water Iris are in full bloom, spring through early summer. Dragonflies and butterflies sparkle in the sunshine. Frogs croak, bats dart here and there and big mouth bass become airborne in search of dinner in the early evening hours. Blue and White Heron visit the pond often – gracefully soaring over the pastures and pond in search of a safe place to land among the Iris. Watching them calculate a strategy to catch a meal, while appearing to stalk in slow motion – FASCINATING! Upwards of 40 Canada Geese goslings are hatched yearly on the grounds of HartSong. It’s absolutely adorable to watch the little ones as they frantically paddle along behind their moms. In addition and if you’re an early riser, you will most certainly feel blessed to observe the loving, yet stern, communications between Canada Goose parents (life- long mates) as they teach their young to fly - every morning at sunrise in the spring. Fire head of cattle (that have never known anything other than kindness), graze the pastures beyond the pond. Yes, they all have names and yes, they are all as sweet as can be. Their tranquility is contagious. The "one and only" ALP campsite is large enough to accommodate 9+ large tents. Only one camping group occupies this campsite. Amenities at the site include... *Porta Potty/Outhouse *Hand washing station - hand soap, hand sanitizer and hand towels provided *3 Picnic Tables with table cloths *Extra Large Dining Tent with Screened Sides for Ventilation *Wood Rounds for Seating, Lighter, Fire Starter Sticks and filled Water Buckets *Warming propane fire box (4' long). This unit is approved to use during high fire season and provides enough of a flame to roast marshmallows, make s'mores and provides incredible ambiance at the campsite during the nighttime hours. *Propane BBQ Grill - available to use during high fire season *BBQ Utensils - Large Spatula/Turner, Large Pronged Fork, Wire Bristle Grill Cleaner/Scraper *Shade sail - 1 *Life Jackets (2 child) *Row Boat with oars *Coleman Heavy Duty Water Jug (5 Gallon) *Clean, Fresh Drinking Water from HartSong's Well *4 Adirondack Chairs with Side Table *Hammock *Swing *Emergency First Aid Kit *Fire Extinguisher *Solar in Ground Lights for easy navigation during the nighttime hours There is an old gold mine on the back side of the property as well as a 30' waterfall. The canal (said to have been built by the Chinese workers during the Gold Rush) winds through the entire property. HartSong Ranch Animal Sanctuary, a 30-acre facility, is a 100% volunteer, 501(c)(3) non- profit organization and home to 60+ rescue animals. Some are blind - others have physical challenges - most are trauma survivors. Our mission is to provide a landscape of quiet and tranquility for the animals that live within our gates – a sanctuary where they can enjoy nature, peace of mind and suffer no more. There is an old gold mine on the back side of the property as well as a 30' waterfall. Off the ranch adventures are also abundant in the Sierra Nevada foothills surrounding HartSong Ranch. *The Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park – a 14 mile drive from your campsite, features a museum, restored historic buildings and costumed volunteers. Gold was discovered here at Sutter’s Mill in 1848, sparking the California Gold Rush. *The American River Confluence (North Fork and Middle Fork merge) – a 10 mile drive from your campsite. The drive down the canyon to the American River is beautifully picturesque. Over 100 miles of hiking trails, pristine swimming holes and white water opportunities are available for those of you in search of adrenaline laced activities. *Coloma, California – world famous for its white water rafting excursions – a 14 mile drive from your campsite. *Lotus, California - The Coloma-Lotus Valley is the major destination of the South Fork, shaped by the American River today as in 1848. Three riverfront parks provide opportunities for family picnics and wading, and Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park brings California’s history to life. While in Lotus, please make a point to stop in at Sierra Rizing Bakery, Coffeehouse and Cafe – located in the beautiful Coloma & Lotus river valley just steps from the South Fork of the American River. They feature small-batch local artisan-roasted coffees, fresh bakery goods, breakfast and lunch fare, as well as specialty drinks, beer, and local wines. They also offer a beautiful outdoor patio that is dog friendly. Dogs are also welcome inside the cafe. For those interested to tour the sanctuary grounds, meet many of the rescue animals living within our gates and, take a short hike to the secret, glorious waterfall, please be certain to book a tour (see EXTRAS to book a private tour). HartSong co-founders, Jim and Kathy Hart, are both former professional musicians so there’s nothing more delightful to our ears than to hear acoustic kumbaya moments around a campfire. We do, however, most graciously request “quiet time” at the campsite after 10PM.

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Private lakeside camping near Alta Sierra guide

Overview

Looking to go camping near Alta Sierra, California? Hipcamp has over 1500 options available in the area, catering to all your accommodation and activity preferences. Whether you're into snow sports, paddling, or exploring historic sites, there's a campsite for you. With options as low as $20 per night and an average price of $60 per night, camping has never been more affordable. Check out the top campsites with hundreds of rave reviews: Finnon Lake Recreation Area (780 reviews), Camp Nauvoo (546 reviews), and The Meadows at Isleton (514 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and the option to bring your pets. Start planning your camping adventure today!

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