- Hot Spring Camping
The best hot spring camping near Carnelian Bay
82% (200) • 15 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Carnelian Bay
Wisdom eco-preserve
1. Wisdom eco-preserve
96%
(268)
46mi from Carnelian Bay · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Toilets
Campfires
from
$80
/ night
Natural Time Retreat Center...
2. Natural Time Retreat Center...
30mi from Carnelian Bay · 1 site
Gardnerville Ranchos is a desert oasis located at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains forty minutes from Lake Tahoe. Our property is biking distance from the East Fork Carson River.
The Ranchos is a small retirement community within walking distance of our local bowling alley where you can take (free) transit to Lake Tahoe, Carson City, and Reno. Carons Hotsprings and Wally's Hotsprings are both accessible through community (Dart) Transit as well.
With the help of my Father Steve, Sandy Gibson built the House of Gibson in 1983/1984. We are on one acre with an orchard, trees, and a pond. My parents (Steve and Sandy) passed in 2021; We are currently busy with restoring the property.
Our neighborhood is safe and quiet. Drop in and stay for a spell...
Highland Regards,
Jason G. Gibson
Gibson Core Family
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$40
/ night
Lake Davis Campground
3. Lake Davis Campground
45%
(10)
49mi from Carnelian Bay · 8 sites
The Forest Service decided they couldn't serve the public. Nothing has changed.
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
4. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
92%
(69)
National forest 97mi from Carnelian Bay · 868 sites
Explore the largest national forest in the lower 48 with trails, fishing spots and hot springs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grover Hot Springs State Park
5. Grover Hot Springs State Park
100%
(14)
State park 39mi from Carnelian Bay · 72 sites
Ease the tension out of your muscles and your mind with a soak at Grover Hot Springs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
82% (200) • 15 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Carnelian Bay
Wisdom eco-preserve
1. Wisdom eco-preserve
96%
(268)
46mi from Carnelian Bay · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Toilets
Campfires
from
$80
/ night
Natural Time Retreat Center...
2. Natural Time Retreat Center...
30mi from Carnelian Bay · 1 site
Gardnerville Ranchos is a desert oasis located at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains forty minutes from Lake Tahoe. Our property is biking distance from the East Fork Carson River.
The Ranchos is a small retirement community within walking distance of our local bowling alley where you can take (free) transit to Lake Tahoe, Carson City, and Reno. Carons Hotsprings and Wally's Hotsprings are both accessible through community (Dart) Transit as well.
With the help of my Father Steve, Sandy Gibson built the House of Gibson in 1983/1984. We are on one acre with an orchard, trees, and a pond. My parents (Steve and Sandy) passed in 2021; We are currently busy with restoring the property.
Our neighborhood is safe and quiet. Drop in and stay for a spell...
Highland Regards,
Jason G. Gibson
Gibson Core Family
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$40
/ night
Lake Davis Campground
3. Lake Davis Campground
45%
(10)
49mi from Carnelian Bay · 8 sites
The Forest Service decided they couldn't serve the public. Nothing has changed.
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
4. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
92%
(69)
National forest 97mi from Carnelian Bay · 868 sites
Explore the largest national forest in the lower 48 with trails, fishing spots and hot springs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grover Hot Springs State Park
5. Grover Hot Springs State Park
100%
(14)
State park 39mi from Carnelian Bay · 72 sites
Ease the tension out of your muscles and your mind with a soak at Grover Hot Springs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
I
Israel
February 2026
With kids
Great experience at Wisdom Reserve with our family! Adam was great in answering all of our questions prior to arriving. The Cabin was nicely equipped with everything we needed. Plenty of firewood to keep the cabin nice and warm. Our daughters loved hiking, making smore's around the fire, and just hanging out in nature. Thank you Adam for your hospitality!
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B
Benjamin
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserve
Awesome property. Serene cabin with beautiful wood framing.
Host is very hospitable and interesting.
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nik
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserve
I loved staying on Adam's land. The property was gorgeous and Adam was attentive to any needs I had.
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L
Leah
October 2025
Group trip
We had a great time at the Shamballa cabin over the weekend! It’s a beautiful rustic cabin in the middle of nature. You’ll get the feel of glamping (only wood burning stove for heat, no bathrooms in the cabin or running hot water (but flush toilet and hot water sink and shower in main house)), but you’ll be staying in a beautiful cabin with comfortable beds, a kitchen to prepare meals and a cozy place to relax.
We enjoyed exploring the area and hiking the Dragons nest trail (get ready for some exercise as you go up to the top!). There is so much land to see and we only saw a little bit! I imagine it’s beautiful in the Winter months also! Thank you Adam and we hope to visit another time!
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Mark
September 2025
3 nights at Wisdom eco-preserve
Adam has created a magical, sacred and powerful property in the forest. The cabins and structures are gorgeously crafted, and integrated with the forest. Adam was a very gracious, kind and the instructions on how to arrive to the property we very clear.
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A
Alexandra
September 2025
4 nights at Wisdom eco-preserve
This land is magical. It has the most beautiful trees and spring and variety of landscape to plant your tent. I stayed in a cabin that was huge with two very comfortable bedrooms and beds and a kitchen. It’s an eco lodge so electricity is solar and toilets are compost so be mindful of that but there’s also a guest flush toilet if really needed. So many trails to hike on. A real treat to be staying in Adam’s land.
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S
Spencer
September 2025
3 nights at Wisdom eco-preserve
THIS PLACE IS AWESOME! Beautiful. The nature is so nice. The steward is kind and helpful.
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Larelle
September 2025
With pets
Had a wonderful time the cabin was great and plenty of privacy. The dogs had a great time exploring.
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Mr.
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserve
We had an incredible stay at the cabin on the campgrounds. The experience was more than just a getaway,it was deeply spiritual. Being surrounded by nature gave us space to slow down, reflect, and connect with one another in a meaningful way. From the stillness of the trees to the night skies filled with stars, every moment reminded us of the beauty and balance of creation.
One of the things we appreciated most was not having Wi-Fi. Instead of screens, we had conversations. Instead of scrolling, we shared laughter, cooked together, played games, and had real heart-to-heart talks. That absence of constant distraction allowed us to create a stronger bond as a family and be fully present with each other.
We left the cabin not just refreshed, but spiritually renewed. This was more than a stay it was an experience of connection, peace, and gratitude. Highly recommend for anyone looking to reconnect with themselves, their loved ones, and the power of nature. 🌿✨
RaMean Maat
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Andrew
July 2025
With kids
The Shambala cabin in a word : Awesoem! The campsite and area to explore was huge peaceful, and a perfect place to let the kids roam free without worry. It felt so good to get them outside, breathing fresh air and exploring nature. The cabin itself was spacious, pretty stocked with essentials (super helpful if you forget a few things), and had everything we needed for a great stay. Adam and Holly were kind and informative, and everyone we met was friendly. It was the kind of trip that reminds you why the outdoors matter. We had a blast. Will be back! Thanks guys
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J
Jordan
July 2025
With kids
We just went last minute on a mini vacation we needed to reset from the city. It was absolutely beautiful. We stayed in the Geronimo cabin. Adam, the owner is such an amazing person and so is Holly that works there as well. Everything was so clean. The beds were really comfy. It was just absolutely beautiful. We cooked dinner dinners, and had the fire going in in the morning and at night. There’s so much to do around the area, hiking, swimming, bonfires. I am so glad that we went and we will definitely be back. It was an amazing time with the family and a great experience. Thank you, Adam and Holly so much that was just what we needed!!!
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P
Paul
July 2025
With kids
Really enjoyed staying at the Radiance Cabin. Beautiful and secluded little spot right near the fresh spring and the hike up to the Dragon’s Nest which is a neat lookout. Outdoor shower wasn’t functioning at this time but had a great bathtub with plentiful hot water.
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Rich
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserve
My family and I had tons of fun here! It was convenient with enough amenities for the "first-timers" camping but still rustic enough that the experienced camper was very satisfied! Good driving distance to a beautiful swimming hole. Plenty of hiking to be had. 40 minute drive to nice restaurants and old western style town of Nevada City.
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Jasmine
July 2025
With pets
We loved the solitude! Great proximity to hiking, state parks and of course, plunging into the Yuba River.
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Kasie
July 2025
Group trip
Even better than the photos! This cabin felt like a slice of heaven, with easy access to the Yuba river. The kitchen was well equipped for our group dinners each night and the rooms were comfortable. We will absolutely be saving this spot for future trips!
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Jen
July 2025
With pets
Charming rustic cabin in a peaceful setting — a real treat, especially over the 4th of July weekend. We loved strolling the property and taking in the surroundings. The outhouses were clean, and it was a big plus to also have access to a flush toilet and a hot shower
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ronald
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserve
This is truly for those who are down to earthly goodness, very raw and alive, I loved it.
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Hannah
June 2025
4 nights at Wisdom eco-preserve
Most lovely cabin ever. Heavenly stay. Special lands. This slice of earth is so dear to me.
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C
Catlin
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserve
Stayed in the Serentity cabin and it was so nice. It was quiet and comfy with pretty much everything you would need is provided. Comfy beds, kitchen stuff and a wood stove for keeping warm. The shower and bathroom at the main house were definitely a huge plus after a dusty summer hike. I would stay here again for sure!
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Kyle
June 2025
With kids
The cabin provided a wonderful place for my family to play and explore while providing necessities for cooking and sleeping. The hikes around the nature preserve were beautiful and well-maintained.
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