The best bell tent rentals near Grass Valley, California

In California’s Sierra Nevada foothills, Grass Valley was once the “Gold Capital of America.” Campers rarely want to miss exploring the area’s rich mining history at the Empire Mine State Historic Park or stopping into the historic downtown (or that of nearby Nevada City). Outside of downtown, Grass Valley offers easy access to incredible outdoor recreation, with the Tahoe National Forest, numerous lakes, and the Yuba and American rivers nearby. Grass Valley camping options are plentiful, and include everything from RV parks and private campgrounds to forest service, riverside, and lakeside campsites.

97% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

In California’s Sierra Nevada foothills, Grass Valley was once the “Gold Capital of America.” Campers rarely want to miss exploring the area’s rich mining history at the Empire Mine State Historic Park or stopping into the historic downtown (or that of nearby Nevada City). Outside of downtown, Grass Valley offers easy access to incredible outdoor recreation, with the Tahoe National Forest, numerous lakes, and the Yuba and American rivers nearby. Grass Valley camping options are plentiful, and include everything from RV parks and private campgrounds to forest service, riverside, and lakeside campsites.

97% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. TerraSol~ "Earth Under the Sun"

99%

(355)

4.8mi from Grass Valley · 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!"

2. Starry Hot Tub/Cold Plunge Glamping

100%

(132)

5.4mi from Grass Valley · 4 sites · Lodging · Nevada City, CA

Soak in a cedar hot tub and Renu cold plunge nestled in an oak grove, then sleep in our A Frame or one of our two luxurious yurt-like tents. Venture into the clearing with open skies for truly amazing starry views at night. It's a peaceful retreat surrounded by pines and oaks, yet is still less than 15 minutes from the historic Gold Mining towns of Nevada City and Grass Valley. A composting toilet is housed in a beautiful, well maintained outhouse and a heated outdoor shower is located next to the hot tub and cold plunge. These as well as the hot tub/cold plunge area are shared between our two sites. PLEASE NOTE: While many guests have found each spot to feel private, it's important to mention that these are located in a large clearing behind our house. You'll have ample space and privacy, with the added convenience of having someone nearby if you need anything. Distance to local attractions: Nevada City (11 minutes) Grass Valley (14 minutes) Yuba River (25 minutes) Scott’s Flat Lake (10 minutes) Cascade Canal Hiking (3 minutes) Hoot’s Trail epic mountain biking (17 minutes)

3. Pleasant Valley Creekside Ranch LLC

94%

(32)

7.9mi from Grass Valley · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Penn Valley, CA

Nestled within five beautifully fenced and gated acres. Secluded and surrounded by a serene year-round running creek with swimming holes and mature oak trees. Our camp sites offer ample shade and tranquility. Near to the lovely, quaint and historical mining towns of Grass Valley and Nevada City. These cute little downtowns boast several unique boutique shops, local wine tasting, theaters, festivals and more. We are also near to the Yuba River, Lake Englebright, Scotts Flat Lake, several hiking trails, rafting, fishing, museums and the famous Nevada County Fair. Plus so many other sites and activities! Another bonus, just 1.5 hour scenic drive to North Lake Tahoe! Our amenities include an indoor restroom area where you will also find water shoes, natural bug sprays, sunscreen and a large sink for washing dishes. Hot tub, seasonal pool (May-Oct) area w/ seating and a Ninja electric pellet BBQ. Gazebo covered decks, two propane firepits (wood burning fires not permitted). Bluetooth speakers, solar lighting all around property, cornhole, kiddy play area, several coolers for drinks and food. Sand beach equipped with toys, seasonal paddle boards, water floats, kayaks. Additional conveniences include a new “Welcome Shed” supplied with all your camp cooking needs as well as cold/hot water dispenser, Keureg with coffee pods/creamer, hot cocoa, cold drinks and games. **Adjacent to bell tent; outdoor dry flush toilet, outdoor hot shower w/ Celtic Rose Apothecary soups and body cream. For those guests camping with furry companions we offer doggie life jackets in various sizes, treats, water toys, towels and doggie bath area with organic oatmeal soothing shampoo. Please note that while we strive to maintain your privacy, the property owners and their furry companions reside on-site and may occasionally be visible to guests. Therefore, we cannot accommodate campers with reactive or aggressive dogs. We also suggest only booking if your dog(s) have a good recall. Our furry friends are friendly to all, but we prioritize safety and cannot permit any aggression issues from reactive dogs. Keep in mind when booking, we ask you to show respect for the environment and our property. We do not allow large groups or parties of any kind on our site unless prearranged with owner.

4. Trank Family Farm and Gold site

94%

(54)

27mi from Grass Valley · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Oroville, CA

We have lived on the farm now for over 21 years. The back part of the property was a stop point for the stage line between Oroville and Bangor during the 1880, Then gold was discovered on the property. There were multiple Gold claims on this property. The Old rock pilings are still there to explore. It is a favorite spot for finding Jasper, some Agates and quartz. Campers are welcome year-round to this tent site on the old Gold Claim of our 20-acre family farm! Drive right up to this fun-filled, family-friendly campsite, easily accessible by cars and SUVs alike - though 4WD is helpful during the rainy season. This site features two seasonal streams that cross on the property, as well as bushes full of ripe blackberries - if you catch them at the right time, help yourself. You'll enjoy hearing the birds echoing through the trees and could easily see deer tip toeing through the woods. Dogs on leash only. We raise 4H and FFA show and market goats, llamas, and a donkey and a cow, all of whom are very friendly! You'll also see our chickens, ducks, peacocks, and guinea hens. Rock pilings are on the island between the two seasonal streams that cross our land. Gold panning, hiking and creek walking is available on the property. Campers are welcome to stargaze in the field, create scavenger hunts for the kids, or simply sit back and enjoy the tranquility. The streams dry up in late June and fill up in November when the rains start. Trank Family Farm is 30 minutes from Lake Oroville, 20 minutes from Oroville Wildlife Area and the Feather River - great for kayaking, swimming, and fishing! Be sure to check out the trails and seasonal waterfalls at Table Mountain, 35 minutes away. There are 2 Indian Casinos & Hotels in Oroville, as well as 2 golf ranges - and all with in 20 minutes of the camp site. The college town of Chico is about 30 minutes outside of Oroville. If you want to explore farther, Butte Mountain range and the city of Paradise, CA is 45 minutes away. We can't wait for you to come visit!

5. Solstice Farms

97%

(17)

29mi from Grass Valley · 2 sites · Lodging · Loomis, CA

Escape to the charming town of Loomis, CA and experience a delightful farm stay at Solstice Farms. Nestled on a stunning 17-acre property, this is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. Indulge in the peaceful ambiance as you spend your evenings on the deck, enjoying a BBQ feast or gathering around the inviting fire pit. Take leisurely strolls through the organic citrus orchard, breathing in the fragrant scents and immersing yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Don't forget to say hello to our friendly goats and adorable ducks, adding an extra touch of charm to your stay. Make the most of your time in Loomis by planning a day trip to nearby Folsom Lake, where you can bask in the sun, swim, or engage in various water activities. If you're a wine enthusiast, be sure to explore the local wineries, where you can savor exquisite wines and soak up the serene vineyard views. Solstice Farms offers a unique farm stay experience that combines relaxation, natural beauty, and the opportunity to connect with farm animals. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled exploration, you'll find it all here in Loomis, CA.

6. Camp Nauvoo

98%

(1173)

39mi from Grass Valley · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Placerville, CA

Camp Nauvoo was originally bought by the LDS church in the 1960's for a girl's camp. The camp was owned by the Boy Scouts from 2011-2015. The Rose family bought the property in 2016 with the intent to continue the tradition of tent camping as well as creating opportunities for exclusive events i.e., group/family reunions, weddings and corporate events. We are a small privately owned small campground (20 sites only) located on the outskirts of Placerville. The property features 86.5 secluded Tahoe like acres with beautiful year-round Weber Creek. The camp sites are placed along the creek or the bluff overlooking the creek. We have traditional dirt camping, canvas tents on platforms, teepees and glamping tents for those that want the comforts of home. We are tent camping only with only one site that allows a small travel trailer or van. (#14) . We are dog friendly and allow dogs in all but 5 glamping sites. We do enforce camp rules especially our quiet time between 10 PM and 7 AM (please review). We’ve been told that we have a “family camp” vibe. We are a great place for families wanting a safe environment for their kids but also several group sites for those that want to hang out together with multiple families. We are also a great base site for those wilderness enthusiasts with access to all the El Dorado National Forest including Desolation but want a hot shower at the end of the day. We have a lodge that is stocked with games and a ping pong table. The lodge has a microwave, Keurig machine and a hot water kettle for those hot drinks (BYO Cups).We have several tables set up for those that want to eat inside as well as multiple picnic tables along the side of the lodge with overhead protection. We have electricity at the at the lodge for small appliances and charging phones. We have a compressor on site to blow up your air mattresses or float toys. We’ve been told that our bathrooms are the “cleanest” ever and have changing tables and diaper pails. We offer nice flushing toilets and hot showers! We have many extra amenities including a compressor to use for your air mattresses, For outdoor activities we have basketball, volleyball, pickleball and cornhole not to mention the playground with swing set . We have hiking trails throughout the property. Our highlight is a camp fire bowl with bench seating with a stage to display camper talent which is perfect for the evening fire and roasting s’mores (bring the fixings). The creek starts out in spring looking like a rushing river featuring many fishing and swimming holes. As the summer progresses the water level falls but is still great for water play and fishing. We have propane BBQs (we provide the propane for BBQs) located throughout the property. We also have a propane grill and charcoal BBQ located in the common area for all to use. There is a dutch oven pit also in the fire bowl area. We do not allow wood fires at the individual sites but each site has a propane firepit for ambiance (not cooking) that requires you to purchase a 20 lb. propane cannister on site (add in extras) or pay cash on site. No internet service. There is limited internet only available for purchases at the setore. We require a 3 night minimum for the major holidays - Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day. We do exclusive events so you may need to explore multiple weekends to find the right reservation. We are located in the foothills so we are a short hop to many local attractions that include river rafting, gold mines, wineries and historical towns with great eating establishments. Tahoe is less than an hour away and there a many hiking trails within 20-30 minutes. We have a limited number of items to rent i.e, tents, cots, camp stoves, etc. We rent a battery pack for those that use a cpap. We also have a small store on site for those items you forgot and a good selection of ice cream and ice. We take venmo or cash. CHECKIN IS BETWEEN 4 AND 8. IF YOU ARE COMING FROM THE BAY ALLOW 4 HOURS - YOU MUST LEAVE BY 3:00 IN ORDER TO ARRIVE DURING CHECKIN. IF YOU GET DELAYED, FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF THE OTHER CAMPERS YOU MAY CONSIDER WAITING AND ARRIVING THE NEXT MORNING. THERE ARE NO CHECKINS AFTER 9:00.

7. Camp Shady Meadow

93%

(206)

45mi from Grass Valley · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Blairsden, CA

There are so many fun activities available in the nearby Blairsden/Graeagle area (golfing, biking, hiking, fishing, swimming, spring flowers and autumn foliage...just to name a few). We are next to the Brewing Lair and Everstoke Mountain biking. We have added two pre-set up bell tents and one pre-set up tent to our already unique RV, travel trailer, and tent sites.

8. Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

97%

(355)

48mi from Grass Valley · 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.

9. Om Sweet Om Farm

100%

(6)

8.4mi from Grass Valley · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Grass Valley, CA

Welcome to Om Sweet Om Farms. We are a local couple who have moved away from Los Angeles and come to the country to start our homestead. We offer a forest escape and farm experience with goats, chickens, ducks and more. If you don't have room to bring food, no problem, you can add on Plant Based Ayurvedic catering during your stay. whether you are looking to stay a week in our premium glamping tent and experience Rollins lake and the Yuba River, or stoping through and need a camping spot for the night; we offer a clean, private and spiritual space to restore your senses. Lastly stop by the ceremony space and meditate among the pines and oaks or take a dip in the cold plunge while overlooking the scenic ridge lines over Rollings Lake.

10. El Niños Oaks

45mi from Grass Valley · 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!

11. Guesthouse or Glamping Gold Country

100%

(9)

46mi from Grass Valley · 2 sites · Lodging · River Pines, CA

We have owned our 20 acre ranch for 12 years. We enjoy the peace and quiet and beautiful views surrounded by oak trees. We love hiking down to the river. Very private; seldom do you come across other people. Amador brewing, Solid Ground brewing and the world famous Poor Reds are about 30 minutes away. Learn more about this land: Renovated guesthouse on 20 acres in the gold country. 1900 feet elevation. 30 minute hike to the Consumnes River, with beaches and swimming. Great sunrises, sunsets and stars. Mountain biking available. Rock outcroppings for climbers. About a 30 minute drive to numerous wineries and the foothill towns of Plymouth and Placerville. The kitchen has a vintage stove with four burners and two ovens, microwave, toaster oven, and sink. You will also have access to a full size refrigerator. Outside is a propane bbq with two side burners for your use. There is one bedroom with a full bed and in the living room is a trundle bed that converts to two twins. We have installed hardwood laminate flooring throughout guesthouse; some of the pictures show the prior cement floor. There is wifi, Verizon and At&t get good reception. We use our phones for internet and streaming. There is a 50 inch TV and dvd player. Bring your own hardware/cords if you want to stream from your phone. We have goats if you would like to feed or with. My wife and I live on the property in a house about 200 feet away. You will have as much privacy/interaction as you desire. Our garage is attached to the guesthouse, so I may need to access it occasionally during your stay. We also travel so you may have the property to yourself. We do have two dogs on the property. The Australian healeris very friendly. The Anatolian shepherd is a watch dog so he will bark at you upon arrival and then settle down and leave you alone. You may hear him barking at night at any moving wildlife (deer, turkey, etc.). The last 4.5 miles of the drive to the property is on a winding road. Please drive carefully.

Camper favorites near Grass Valley

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Camp Shady Meadow

93%

(206)

45mi from Grass Valley · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Blairsden, CA

There are so many fun activities available in the nearby Blairsden/Graeagle area (golfing, biking, hiking, fishing, swimming, spring flowers and autumn foliage...just to name a few). We are next to the Brewing Lair and Everstoke Mountain biking. We have added two pre-set up bell tents and one pre-set up tent to our already unique RV, travel trailer, and tent sites.

Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

97%

(355)

48mi from Grass Valley · 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.

Om Sweet Om Farm

100%

(6)

8.4mi from Grass Valley · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Grass Valley, CA

Welcome to Om Sweet Om Farms. We are a local couple who have moved away from Los Angeles and come to the country to start our homestead. We offer a forest escape and farm experience with goats, chickens, ducks and more. If you don't have room to bring food, no problem, you can add on Plant Based Ayurvedic catering during your stay. whether you are looking to stay a week in our premium glamping tent and experience Rollins lake and the Yuba River, or stoping through and need a camping spot for the night; we offer a clean, private and spiritual space to restore your senses. Lastly stop by the ceremony space and meditate among the pines and oaks or take a dip in the cold plunge while overlooking the scenic ridge lines over Rollings Lake.

El Niños Oaks

45mi from Grass Valley · 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!

Guesthouse or Glamping Gold Country

100%

(9)

46mi from Grass Valley · 2 sites · Lodging · River Pines, CA

We have owned our 20 acre ranch for 12 years. We enjoy the peace and quiet and beautiful views surrounded by oak trees. We love hiking down to the river. Very private; seldom do you come across other people. Amador brewing, Solid Ground brewing and the world famous Poor Reds are about 30 minutes away. Learn more about this land: Renovated guesthouse on 20 acres in the gold country. 1900 feet elevation. 30 minute hike to the Consumnes River, with beaches and swimming. Great sunrises, sunsets and stars. Mountain biking available. Rock outcroppings for climbers. About a 30 minute drive to numerous wineries and the foothill towns of Plymouth and Placerville. The kitchen has a vintage stove with four burners and two ovens, microwave, toaster oven, and sink. You will also have access to a full size refrigerator. Outside is a propane bbq with two side burners for your use. There is one bedroom with a full bed and in the living room is a trundle bed that converts to two twins. We have installed hardwood laminate flooring throughout guesthouse; some of the pictures show the prior cement floor. There is wifi, Verizon and At&t get good reception. We use our phones for internet and streaming. There is a 50 inch TV and dvd player. Bring your own hardware/cords if you want to stream from your phone. We have goats if you would like to feed or with. My wife and I live on the property in a house about 200 feet away. You will have as much privacy/interaction as you desire. Our garage is attached to the guesthouse, so I may need to access it occasionally during your stay. We also travel so you may have the property to yourself. We do have two dogs on the property. The Australian healeris very friendly. The Anatolian shepherd is a watch dog so he will bark at you upon arrival and then settle down and leave you alone. You may hear him barking at night at any moving wildlife (deer, turkey, etc.). The last 4.5 miles of the drive to the property is on a winding road. Please drive carefully.

Stories from the community

G

Georgios

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Om Sweet Om Farm

Loved this spot! Super cozy and private, with cute farm animals around. Hosts were really friendly and made us feel welcome. Perfect little getaway.

Jessica

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Om Sweet Om Farm

Dustin and Om's land, farm, Glampgalore retreat was perfect for our 4 month old's first camping experience. The tent was so cozy, thoughtfully decorated and organized with string lights, a comfortable bed, dresser, side table, and cooking wares. Our dogs had a blast walking the beautiful trails all around and we had the best time feeding acorns to the goats and the cutest pigs you will ever meet. Being followed around by a gaggle of chickens, guinea hens, ducks, and one curious turkey made our trip all the more sweet. Dustin and Om are the best hosts we have ever had on Hipcamp and we will definitely be back in the spring!

E

Erin

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Solstice Farms

We absolutely loved clamping at Solstice Farms! We checked in easily, directions were great! All the amenities and facilities were as described and clean! Tent was amazing and we slept so well listening to all the farm sounds. Highly recommend staying here for a couples or family getaway!

T

Teresa

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Pleasant Valley Creekside Ranch LLC

This was my third time here and the site continues to get better. The second toilet they added is top notch as well as the outdoor shower. Can't wait to see how it continues to evolve. Will definitely be back, again!

Kay

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

Beautiful surroundings, this site was very private and peaceful. The host was very accommodating and the ability to order extras was much appreciated! We had an amazing breakfast with coffee and breakfast tacos as well as an awesome charcuterie board. We wished we could have stayed longer.

A

Aissa

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Starry Hot Tub/Cold Plunge Glamping

Great experience. Stayed in Ponderosa. Very comfy, intentional & clean set up. We were the only campers there which was nice. Would stay again. Thank you Ellie & Jack for the thoughtfulness with the little details. Our dog was in heaven too :)

L

Lauren

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pleasant Valley Creekside Ranch LLC

This space was amazing! Host was communicative, helpful and very intentional with everything available at the camp. Me, my parents and the kids had comfortable and wonderful time. Highly recommend!

N

Nitish

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Pleasant Valley Creekside Ranch LLC

We had an amazing time at this Hipcamp! The place was beautiful and had everything we needed for a perfect weekend getaway. We did BBQ, relaxed in the hot tub, and even went kayaking — it was such a fun and peaceful experience. The host was super friendly and made sure everything was well set up for us. Highly recommend this spot for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy nature with friends!

T

Teresa

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Pleasant Valley Creekside Ranch LLC

They continue to update the space which is a perfect place to unwind. Recommended!

A

Anna

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to TerraSol~ "Earth Under the Sun"

Chris and Rebecca are wonderful host. The property is amazing and very well kept. There is a giant 40 ft swing that we all (adults and child) had fun trying out. Chris took the time to answer all our questions and help find the best spots to go swimming. This will be our go to spot to go to Nevada City moving forward! We didn’t want to leave.

C

Chris

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Starry Hot Tub/Cold Plunge Glamping

Amazingly beautiful stay in Nevada city! The yurt and views were amazing! Very responsive and friendly hosts, amazing hip camp setup and we ended up having some great yurt neighbors from the Bay Area! Hot showers are a plus ! (might want to bring your own privacy curtain if you’re not a naturalist, lol) but can’t recommend this place enough!

M

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Om Sweet Om Farm

Dustin and Om’s land is so incredibly beautiful and well loved, they were such outstandingly caring hosts, and the attention to detail + comfort made this such a wonderful trip. The camping tent is beautiful, very clean and comfortable and the sweetie guard dog Billy made us feel so safe and welcome especially since we came in late at night. He keeps the bears and mountain lions away and very politely asks for morning pets in return. Dustin and Om communicated quickly and kindly, and really went above and beyond to help me replace my tire when it blew out on the road nearby- even coming out to meet us and sending us to a trusted nearby garage after. Truly dream hosts who helped make a very special trip go smoothly after some big unexpected hiccups. They really thought of everything you could need to stay comfy, the bed was so good for us, and even the hand built compost toilet was so ingenious- well ventilated, comfortable, clean. Light cooking was easy with the provided kitchen utensils and butane stove, and the dining area outside the tent is soooo peaceful. The area with the tent is private amongst some gorgeous trees, with solar lights that made the place feel magical at night. The ceremony tent is also a very beautiful and special place. All the animals are so well cared for and sweet, it’s truly a family full of love and many vibrant personalities. This place is such a peaceful haven in an unpredictable world, and we are so grateful. Will definitely be back!

J

Jay

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Camp Nauvoo

Loved our experience (2nd time) in the bell tent! All we needed to bring were (warm) sleeping bags. We found some plank wood pieces to prop up the cots as the ground is on a slightly incline and slept very comfortably once we got the set up right. Loved the proximity to bathroom, food storage, bbq, river, playground, etc. esp with young kids.

C

Cassaundra

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Om Sweet Om Farm

We had a great time at Dustin’s, it was the exact glamping experience I was hoping for. Dustin was helpful and friendly, and the animals were a big plus. The view from the plunge area was amazing! We hope to come back.

Elizabeth

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pleasant Valley Creekside Ranch LLC

This was my favorite hipcamp experience so far! There are so many small details that made a big difference: toys and treats for the dogs, paddleboards for everyone to play and lounge on, sunscreen and towels, a very comfortable bed and senior dog approved dog beds, the list goes on! It was the perfect way to spend a hot summer weekend and we can't wait to come back to this little paradise on the creek.

L

Lina

August 2025

Weekend Trip to TerraSol~ "Earth Under the Sun"

Chris and Rebecca are wonderful hosts! The site is easy to get to and it is near by Nevada city and the river. We enjoyed our love shack tent, the swing and the views. We will be definitely coming back sometime in the future and recommending others to visit.

J

Jordan

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to TerraSol~ "Earth Under the Sun"

This place was absolutely magical! My 3 year old daughter, dog, and I had the best time. Chris was such an amazing host and so helpful. We can’t wait to come back.

J

Jessica

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

Beautiful site with a great host! We learned so much during the wine tasting and loved getting to stay onsite and waking up next to the grape vines!

View of composting toilet from the outside. It has a view!

A

Amy

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Starry Hot Tub/Cold Plunge Glamping

My friend and I loved staying at Ponderosa! Ellie and Jack were very responsive to our questions. The tent was very clean and cozy. The composting toilet was an unexpected but very pleasant surprise (very clean and quite relaxing!). We got to enjoy the hot tub after a long hike and that was lovely as well. We would definitely stay here again!

C

Chloe

August 2025

With pets

1 night at Om Sweet Om Farm

This is a perfect getaway if you’re looking for solstice. The tent is very beautifully decorated, with a comfortable bed and everything you need for simple living. There are lights inside and candles outside which was nice! There’s loads of very cute goats on property, and really friendly dogs that won’t bother you. The cold plunge was a nice touch, and had a gorgeous view. We went into the ceremony space, which is really well done and you can feel the love and energy they put into it- a very peaceful tent indeed. The bathroom was clean, and the composting toilet was not scary at all lol. I would recommend this and the host are extremely easy to talk to and friendly.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best bell tents near Grass Valley guide

Where to go

Around Grass Valley

Campers can park their RV at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, which offers partial and full hookups, or head a bit outside of town for tent and RV camping near the fishing and water sports found at Englebright Lake. Rollins Reservoir, Scotts Flat Lake Recreation Area, and Collins Lake Recreation Area. New Bullards Bar Reservoir offers tent, RV, and boat-in camping options, and for more mining history and camping, head to Malakoff Diggins State Park.

Auburn, Sacramento, and Jackson Areas

Head south to the Auburn State Recreation Area for camping, hiking, and water sports along the North and Middle Fork of the American River. Near Sacramento, several campgrounds can be found around Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma, as well as further south near the Sacramento River at Sandy Beach Regional Park and Brannan Island State Recreation Area. More water fun and camping can be found further south near Jackson, around Lake Amador, Camanche Lake, and New Hogan Lake.

Tahoe National Forest

Within two hours of Grass Valley are a large number of campgrounds in the Tahoe National Forest. Find options along the Yuba River, the American River, and along the Lakes Basin Recreation Area. A string of lakes and campsites can be found along Highway 80 and in Truckee, and further east, several lakeside campsites sit on the northwest shore of Lake Tahoe.

When to go

Summer is the most popular season for time outdoors in Grass Valley, especially when it comes to water sports and pleasant camping weather.water Many area campgrounds are only open seasonally and fill up early for the peak summer season. Lake fishing is usually open year-round, while streams are limited from April to November. Visit in spring for wildflowers, or in fall for colorful foliage. Winter weather can affect roads and recreation options.