The best yurt rentals near Carnelian Bay, California

Six yurt camps dot Carnelian Bay, offering a mix of woodsy seclusion and access to Lake Tahoe’s rugged trails. Prices start at $85 a night, with an average stay running $135. You’ll find yurts clustered among tall pines, some with private decks for wildlife-watching at dawn. Pets are welcome. Campfires are allowed—ideal for those crisp Sierra evenings—and every site provides a toilet. Fishing and hiking are right outside your door, with trailheads minutes away. Top picks include Private Yurts - Nevada City (74 reviews), Homestead Hideaway (19 reviews), and Luxury Yurt @ Lazy Dog Ranch (16 reviews). Each spot gives you a different take on Tahoe—some closer to quiet creeks, others tucked deeper into the forest. Bring your boots, your binoculars, and settle in for a proper yurt adventure.

97% (142)

Top-rated campgrounds

Six yurt camps dot Carnelian Bay, offering a mix of woodsy seclusion and access to Lake Tahoe’s rugged trails. Prices start at $85 a night, with an average stay running $135. You’ll find yurts clustered among tall pines, some with private decks for wildlife-watching at dawn. Pets are welcome. Campfires are allowed—ideal for those crisp Sierra evenings—and every site provides a toilet. Fishing and hiking are right outside your door, with trailheads minutes away. Top picks include Private Yurts - Nevada City (74 reviews), Homestead Hideaway (19 reviews), and Luxury Yurt @ Lazy Dog Ranch (16 reviews). Each spot gives you a different take on Tahoe—some closer to quiet creeks, others tucked deeper into the forest. Bring your boots, your binoculars, and settle in for a proper yurt adventure.

97% (142)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

100%

(34)

48mi from Carnelian Bay · 1 site · Lodging · Nevada City, CA

**UPDATE: we've installed a couple new things for the 2025 summer season to keep things cool. A mesh screen door to catch that Westerly breeze, and a Hessaire evaporator cooler to keep you chill on hot afternoons!** Welcome to Lazy Dog Ranch! We only have one Yurt/rental on the property, but it is not your average yurt; this is glamping at its best. Set on 3 pristine acres in an open meadow surrounded by pine and cedar, our Yurt offers incredible views with a serene peaceful setting. This is the only rental on the property, so it is super private. You have your own separate driveway, and the owner's home is on the other side of the land, ensuring a very private stay. This is luxury yurting! The owner spared no expense in the buildout and furnishings. Every detail has been considered to make your stay unforgettable, including fast WiFi, well equipped kitchen & bath, high-end furniture and bedding, epic sunset patio views, great recommendations in town, and close proximity to the Yuba river (7 min drive to Edwards Xing) and all that Nevada City / Grass Valley has to offer.

2. Private Yurts - Nevada City

98%

(97)

49mi from Carnelian Bay · 2 sites · Lodging · Nevada City, CA

This magical and private Yurt in the woods are just 2 miles from Nevada City Come experience the Beauty of the Sierra Foothills and the Yuba River in our Yurts 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. Nevada City is renowned for its excellent food, shopping, nightlife and farmer’s market. A leisurely walk into town takes 45 mins, bike in 15 or drive in 5. Grass Valley is 10 minutes away as well and has more food, shopping, and entertainment for you. Access to the Yuba River is as close as 20 mins to Edwards Crossing and 20 mins to Hoyts Crossing on Highway 49. We absolutely recommend trying to stay for two or more nights so that you can get accustomed to the space, learn the property, settle in, and relax. Each yurt has a wood-fired stove inside with plenty of wood stacked to keep you warm. Each yurt has a kitchen that is fully equipped with a hot plate, toaster oven, microwave, refrigerator, cutlery, pots and pans, grill, etc. Each yurt has a Queen bed with a heating blanket to help keep you cozy throughout the night. Each yurt has its own dedicated wood-fired hot tub. It requires a fire to be lit and maintained to keep it hot. Things you might like to bring: headlamps, robe, flip flops, slippers, hiking shoes. Water: we are on a well and provide fresh drinking water in a container for you. It’s fine to drink, cook, and bathe with the water from the tap but it can have a minerally quality to it. We test the well annually. We provide filtered water but if it runs out, the water out of the tap is safe and delicious. The hot tub: it’s wood fired. This means you have to heat it with a fire to get it hot. This can take many hours to get to the right temperature. It’s a good idea to start a fire right when you get there! This tub may have leaves in it (they fall from above) and cloudy water. The water should NOT smell, the cloudiness is a part of the cedar tubs charm- ash from the fire and particulate from the cedar mix together. We treat it between guests with natural products that maintain the wood (you can’t use chlorine in these tubs). We clean it regularly. Shower before using it to wash off any oils please! The outdoor shower is lovely :) Fireplace: We will leave you a bundle of wood that comes with the rental. If you need more wood you can purchase it from us or from the grocery store. We have lots of wood at the yurt and we ask you to pay $10 per bundle if you use more then we leave you inside. This is on the honor system- It takes a lot of time and resources to keep wood stocked for the property. If you don’t know how to start a fire you may want to bring an instant log with you. Please leave the lighter behind for the next guest. Sleep: we have a heating blanket for cold nights, It’s about 10 degrees cooler on our land than in town. This is a real treat during our hot summers. There will be a fan for you as well during the warm season. We live in the woods, there are bugs and wild animals on/or near the property. This is part of the country charm and should be expected. Please don't leave food outside. Land acknowledgment: We acknowledge that our property is located on unceeded land. It is the traditional homeland of the Nisenan tribe. The Nisenan tribe is alive and active and continues to fight for federal recognition and compensation for land loss. We donate 10% of AIRBB proceeds between CHIRP which promotes the history and culture of the Nisenan tribe. https://chirpca .org/ And the Bear Yuba Land Trust which helps protect the fragile Yuba watershed. https:// www.bylt .org/is Thank you

3. Foothills Yurt Glamping

97%

(19)

48mi from Carnelian Bay · 1 site · Lodging · Colfax, CA

Escape to a unique retreat in our brand-new yurt, nestled in a serene location perfect for relaxation and adventure. This spacious and cozy yurt features a comfortable bed, modern amenities, and charming rustic decor that blends seamlessly with nature. You might even spot deer roaming the property adding a touch of magic to your stay. The 24 ft. Modern Yurt can sleep up to 4 people with a queen bed, a sofa bed. A queen air mattress is available upon request for additional 2 guests. Other amenities include a sauna, an (unheated) swimming pool with swim-up bar, outdoor kitchen stocked with dishes, large decks and patios, lounges and deck chairs, shade umbrellas, hammock, horseshoe pit and giant chess board. It is the perfect destination for a special occasion, an overnight stop on a long trip, an extended retreat, or just a chance to get away from it all. Guests have access to the yurt, pool area, outdoor kitchen, horseshoe pit and fire pit/chess board area. Do not wander around the property beyond these specified areas, up the stairs or ramp leading to the house, and do not go to the house on site. Home is usually vacant but it is a private vacation home. Colfax is a quaint, historic railroad town with lots of charm and plenty to do in the great outdoors. We are located about two hours from the Bay Area, just 45 minutes from Sacramento and only 45 minutes east on I-80 will bring you to world class skiing on Donner Summit and lots of other activities in the mountains. Colfax offers many restaurants, shops, stores and nearby Rollins Lake is great for boating, fishing, water skiing or swimming. The American River canyon offers kayaking, white water rafting, mountain biking, hiking and fishing. In the surrounding countryside, one can find many small vineyards & wineries, an occasional brewery or roadside fruit stand. It can be both sunny and cool here since we are located in the foothills, above the fog and at snowline. The Colfax Amtrak stop is only a 10 minute walk from the house, there's also a Greyhound line that stops in town.

4. Homestead Hideaway

88%

(25)

43mi from Carnelian Bay · 2 sites · Lodging · Nevada City, CA

Welcome to Homestead Hideaway, an off-grid home site adjacent to the Tahoe National Forest. A mile and a half down a dirt road and 20 minutes to downtown Nevada City. Easy access to the Yuba River, Scotts Flat Lake, world class mountain biking trails, and rock climbing off Bowman lake road. Homestead Hideaway is a six acres of secluded forest living. Its home to an array of wildlife including owls, foxes, bears, coyote and dear as well as an abundance of trees and flora. The property is also our home. We, along with our dogs, live in the green Quonset hut that you will drive past on your way in. We steward the land and live simply to reduce our impact on this wild place. At 3,600ft and amongst the trees, you can expect much milder temperatures than in Nevada City- making for a pleasant respite during the heat of summer. Little Dear Creek is a 5 minute walk and has bathtub size pools to soak in. The yurt was made locally by Living Intent Yurt Co and installed in 2021. Inside you will find two twin beds that can be combined to make a king, a giant pillow lounge, dining table, games, and some tableware for eating and drinking. Attached to the yurt is a large heptagonal deck perfect for lounging and yoga. On the deck there is a foot-pump sink for handwashing and dishes, a counter for cooking and a propane BBQ. There is no electricity or traditional running water and plumbing. Expect a rustic camping experience with the luxury of a new yurt to stay in. This means no electricity, no shower and a simple compost toilet in an outhouse. There will be a 55 gallon drum full of water for the foot-pump sink to wash your hands and dishes. Pack out your trash and leave food scraps in the compost.

Stories from the community

T

Tracy

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

David's yurt is beautiful and has absolutely everything you need for a very comfortable glamping experience! The land is picturesque and David is a very attentive and kind host. I traveled with a friend and the yurt was plenty big for both of us - even with a couple of very rainy days we felt like we had plenty of space, and my friend was happy to report that the blow up mattress was very comfortable. I will definitely be back!

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Alyssa

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Private Yurts - Nevada City

This place is magical. We loved every aspect of it, including the hiking trails straight from the property. I highly recommend staying here.

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Arielle

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

The yurt is beautiful and comfortable, the location is great, and David is a welcoming host!

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Angela

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

We had such a wonderful time staying at David’s luxurious yurt! It had all the amenities, was clean, beautifully furnished and decorated, and kept us comfy and happy for our 3-night stay. Thank you so much for having us, David! Can’t wait to come back.

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Elizabeth

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

Our stay was amazing! The yurt was quite and beautifully decorated and spotless. The view was so peaceful, especially for morning coffee from the porch. And it’s located close to the river and town. Will stay here again!

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Grappling

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

Excellent stay!! All the comforts of home close to some great swimming hole's!!

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Shana

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

The yurt.bathroom is exactly as shown in the photos. Comfy bed with clean sheets, reliable wi-fi, good circulation and cooling, good kitchen facilities for light cooking, mini speaker to pair with, great shower, nice seating areas inside and outside the yurt, easy to locate, lockbox made entry/exit smooth and great restaurant options in Nevada City. Highly recommend Stone House for dinner and South Yuba State Park for a day trip. Minor downsides: pillows were all way too dense and kitchen counter/stove/sink cleaning was overlooked. Dogs greet you upon arrival (we love dogs!) We would happily stay here again. Thanks, David!

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melina

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Homestead Hideaway

We loved our stay. Don’t forget your bug spray!!! This location is deep into the forest so lots of bugs. I would definitely book again!!

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carissa

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

Fantastic all around! I would absolutely recommend staying here to my friends and family. The yurt is cozy, cute and has everything you need. The property is private and peaceful. Driving to town is quick and Nevada city is definitely worth the visit. I hope to make it to the river during my next stay here. Highly recommend

Chelsey

August 2025

3 nights at Private Yurts - Nevada City

The short walk to the yurt felt like wandering into an enchanted forest, where the air is fresh and the world slows down. Inside, dimmable lights set a warm and welcoming glow, the kitchen held everything we needed, and a basket under the coffee table offered books and a coloring book (bring colored pencils) for quiet moments. We loved reading the heartfelt notes from previous guests and gathering fresh eggs for breakfast, a simple joy that made our mornings feel special. The cedar tub was pure relaxation, and the nearby rivers invited us to bask in the sun and cool our feet in the water. Every detail here feels thoughtfully placed, creating a space that restores and inspires. Our stay was far too short, and we are already looking forward to returning.

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Faith

August 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Foothills Yurt Glamping

It's my 2nd time coming and it was great! There was some small issues like the bathroom light not working and some skunks at night wanting to hang out, but nothing to spoil a great time. I will say bring extra toilet paper if it's more than 4 people. 2 rolls go by quickly! As well there are some meat wasps that were there both times, they look scarier than they are. They didn't sting us, but rather wanted out food. I loved the manual thatwba left behind that explained everything.

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Christi

August 2025

With pets

3 nights at Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

Amazing place. Great host. Lovely property. Can't give it enough of a positive review. Also, the whole area is just gorgeous. HIGHLY recommend.

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Eddy

August 2025

With pets

2 nights at Homestead Hideaway

We really enjoyed our 2 night stay at the Yurt. It was clean and orderly and thoughtfully furnished with utensils and bonus comforts. The deck, the sink, and the 2 burner propane stove were perfect for preparing meals. The tall trees kept it cool, and the sound of the breeze was soothing. I should add that it was enjoyable to be able to walk around inside the Yurt and not be stooped over inside of a tent. Totally worth it. Would recommend :)

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Dina

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

Hands down the best Yurt I’ve ever stayed at. This is glamping at its best. Comfortable bed, flushing toilet, nice shower & full kitchen which we used to cook our breakfast. Swamp cooler kept us cool on the hot afternoon & just use the fan at night. Excellent WiFi connection. I watched movies at my iPad & never buffered. It was a beautiful property. Well cared for. David was an amazing host! He welcomed us & our doggies & even gave us suggestions for good swimming spots which we enjoyed a lot. Close proximity to downtown Nevada City & Grass Valley. We go here every year & love eating at the breweries & walking around downtown. I highly recommend it & would definitely come back.

jill

July 2025

2 nights at Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

I didn't stay at the Yurt but helped my daughter and her boyfriend arrange their stay. They loved it - they hound it very comfortable and clean. They loved the natural beauty as well as the yurt's close location to the Yuba and town. They said it had everything they needed. Connecting with David was very straight forward. He was very responsive and helpful.

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Holly

July 2025

2 nights at Foothills Yurt Glamping

This property was beautiful and private! My first time using a Air BnB and it didn't disappoint. Single mom with two kids, one semi adult 😁and it was perfect for us. The yurt is beautiful and decorated so perfect. Incredibly cozy and the deck was a perfect place to drink my coffee in the morning. We had wild rabbits and baby foxes playing under us. The pool was our favorite spot as we swam for hours, relaxing and soaking up the sun. There were a lot of things not working and/or missing. The hammock, the music on hot tub, the sauna and no working light in shower all broken. The swim up pool bar area is nothing but a table with cobwebs. Those were disappointing. Lots of yellow jackets, my daughter got stung. Wasn't expecting that many especially since all cooking had to be done outside but I worked through it. The train rolling through town can be noisy for some but I found it soothing. Overall the property is just incredible and it is up for sale which could explain why so many things weren't working. If you want a private escape in nature but still glamorous, this is highly recommended. We all miss it! Thankful for the owner sharing this amazing place.

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kelly

July 2025

With pets

2 nights at Private Yurts - Nevada City

Beyond beautiful! My friend proclaimed from the hot tub “you know what I feel like — I think we’re fairies”. Would absolutely recommend!

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Anthony

July 2025

With pets

3 nights at Warm & Cozy Luxury Yurt

An incredibly charming and spacious luxury glamping experience set in the woods surrounded by trees and fields. It essentailly had all the amenities of home including a kitchenette, several appliances, a fridge, a bathroom, heating and cooling. One of the most wonderful things is opening up the front door in the early morning or early evening and seeing the sunlight beam down onto a butterfly field just outiside the front door patio view. The yurt is also located a quick 10 minute drive into Nevada City and just a few minutes from Yuba River and Scotts Flat. I would highly recommend staying for a long weekend.

Jenny

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Private Yurts - Nevada City

This site is so scenic when you first enter the yurt. Even though it isn’t far from the city, it definitely feels like an escape. The accommodation was full of trinkets and tools that we forgot or didn’t think to pack. I also love that the host seemed very earth conscious with every item. We spent one of the days walking the canal trail just a 4 minute drive away! Definitely recommend

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Andreina

July 2025

With pets

2 nights at Private Yurts - Nevada City

Book it! This place is such a treat. The yurt is a short & scenic walk from the parking lot so think about that when packing up heavier things. However, the yurt is FULLY stocked so you really don't need to pack much but food and clothes... and some bug spray. The outdoor shower was my personal favorite even though the hot tub was very nice. It took about 2 hours on a hot day from start to finish to get it to a hot hot hot temp (including chopping the wood that was provided). If you explore hard enough, you may even run into some twin hammocks (; *shout out to California Organics for the bug spray, great beers, and lovely deli)*