Forest camping near Grass Valley
Explore mining history and the outdoors near this Northern California Gold Country town.
96% (6343 reviews)
- Grass Valley
96% (6343 reviews)
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95%
(1725)
Finnon Lake Recreation Area
39 sites · RVs, Tents140 acres · Placerville, CA
*BOOK EARLY* **NO FIREWORKS OF ANY KIND ALLOWED***** DINER CLOSED EFFECTIVE JULY 5TH***
**TRAILERS AND RVs
MUST USE ROCK CREEK ROAD**
From Sacramento on Hwy 50:
At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile.
Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road.
Turn right onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Frank's Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER IS CLOSED.
Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe:
make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions.
Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area!
Our lovely lake offers serenity in a beautifully unique setting, nestled deep into the forest. Enjoy the scenic and exhilarating drive to our hidden gem along the South Fork of the American River- this is all for you to discover.
The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in most parts of California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky.
This private lake supports the fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District and the firefighters of this community. The lake is managed by volunteers of the community for the benefit of the residents
The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website.
Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 18-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Frank's Diner. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking during your stay.
Potable water, picnic tables, campfire rings, and toilets on site. The property can not accommodate horses. 2 dogs per site limit.
Our property is located in Placerville, California. Placerville is a charming California gold rush town named after the placer gold deposits found in its riverbeds and hills in the late 1840s.
PLEASE NOTE, there is construction on the Mosquito Bridge. Expect delays, RVs/trailers must use Rock Creek Road (even if your GPS says Mosquito Road). Please message me with any questions.
Please see our website: finnonrecreationarea.com for full directions.
NO FIREWORKS OF ANY KIND ARE ALLOWED.
Smoking is only allowed in an enclosed vehicle.
Pets
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from
$30
/ night
100%
(49)
Windsong Ridge Village
5 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · North San Juan, CA
Welcome to Windsong Ridge, an evolving homestead on 25 acres of oak, pine, and manzanita woodland about 30 minutes outside of the historic gold rush towns of Grass Valley and Nevada City in Nevada County, CA. The property overlooks the iconic South Yuba River canyon and is 100% solar-powered and off grid with excellent cell coverage (Verizon and T-Mobile). Come be serenaded by the wind chimes throughout the property. Enjoy sitting by a fire and you may hear the coyotes in the distance after a day of swimming, hiking, paddling, site-seeing or attending one of the many festivals held throughout the year in town.
We are at 1800 feet, therefore the summers are hot (sometimes in the triple digits), and winters are mild (snow is a surprising event at this elevation).
We have developed an RV/tent site called Manzanita Rock Meadow (includes a wood-burning chiminea, composting toilet, trash, grill, and tables), with a pad for a van, RV and/or tent and plenty of room to spread out and set up camp.
Hike the adjacent trails on public lands or enjoy hiking trails in the state park along the Yuba River.
Bring your kayak or paddle board to Englebright Lake at any time of year.
In less than two hours, you can visit Truckee, Lake Tahoe, or the Sierra Buttes/Lakes Basin areas and much more.
In town you will find a variety excellent restaurants, farmers markets, live entertainment and wildly popular events throughout the year.
We’ll be happy to help you plan your visit! (Start by checking out https://www.nevadacountygold.com/)
We keep bags of instant light charcoal available for sale if you need it for $5. A bundle of firewood is available for $5 as well.
Pets
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from
$55
/ night
99%
(279)
TerraSol
2 sites · Lodging40 acres · 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 8-10 miles from Yuba River Trailheads.
Firewood bundles are $15 per bundle (2+ hours of campfire when campfires 🔥 are allowed).
There is a $10.00 dog fee per dog/per stay.
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!"
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from
$80
/ night
100%
(12)
In Town Camping
1 site · RV2 acres · Grass Valley, CA
Enjoy a nice nature spot close to town. The property is minutes away from Downtown Grass Valley. It’s a great spot to spent the night after a show in town, or to explore the area for a few days.
If you need water and electric hookups it’s best to park near or on the cement pad. Otherwise feel free to park anywhere in the back yard.
There is a small creek which is an NID ditch and chairs set up there for relaxing. For being close to town the spot has a lot of beautiful nature!
It's an easy 15 minute drive to multiple lakes and river spots of Nevada County. Enjoy the beautiful nature of this area while being close to town!
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from
$45
/ night
100%
(147)
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.
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from
$75
/ night
97%
(75)
Camp Watanda at Lake Vera
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Nevada City, CA
Camp Watanda is a retired resident camp that we have converted to a vacation rental. We have 10 acres of wooded property, with the 4 camping kiosks close to the waterfront and 1 RV site on the waterfront. The camping kiosk all have 8-10 mattresses, grilling table, picnic table, cooler, smoke alarms, rake, broom and fire extinguishers. Tents can be pitched on the elevated decks. Our waterfront has a large fire ring, 2-covered pergolas, canoes, kayaks, life jackets and charcoal grill. Lots of fish in the lake, since this is a private lake, no license is required. There is also a bathhouse (very primitive and in serious need of remodel) close by with 3 showers, 3 toilets and 3 sinks. Up by the lodge is a cell phone charging station and Wi-Fi, while we do have Wi-Fi, is not guaranteed, we are in the mountains with inconsistent connection. Lodge is not available to campers as this is rented separately. NOTE: Lake levels begin to drop in August and can be quite low in drought years.
RV CAMPING: Because of the steep driveway and blind curve, we limit the vehicle length to 25 overall length. Our driveway is more suitable for RV's and Camper Vans and not Travel Trailers being towed.
If you rent a kiosk, all campers must be on the same kiosk unless you rent a second kiosk. If you have a camping van and plan on using the van and the kiosk, then that is a second site. You cannot tailgate on a reservation just because the party only has 2 people on the kiosk, and you have 2 in the Van to make 4 people.
These are tents sites on a Kiosk, there is parking for cars or trucks at the kiosk, not suitable for RV or Travel Trailers. Those vehicles will have to park at the waterfront parking lot.
There are no refunds for cancellations within 72 hours of arrival.
Camp Watanda is private property, campers assume all liability for being on site. There is no lifeguard present. This is a natural habitat for woodland animals, there is an associated risk for camping in their home. Slips, trips and falls can occur on trails, camping structures and waterfront.
Pets
Potable water
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from
$50
/ night
98%
(33)
Rollins Lake Retreats with A/C!!!
3 sites · Lodging31 acres · Colfax, CA
We live lakeside at Rollins Lake In Colfax.
We live on a beautiful 30 acres with foot path access to Rollins Lake. (3 minute walk from the dome or house and 10-15 minutes from the cabin) where most summer days here are spent swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing ect., down at the water.
The remarkable property is very hilly with pines and oaks. You can follow our driveway to the bottom and access the beginning of The Bear River that has a nice hiking trail along side of it or 8 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 10 minutes to the town of Colfax.
We have a nice spot where you do not see any neighbors so it is peaceful and private with gorgeous 360 degree views. It is also very safe!
We have 3 accommodations on the property A guest suite, a cabin, and a glamping dome!
We have fishing boat, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent.
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$145
/ night
100%
(64)
Peace in the Pines
1 site · Lodging15 acres · Nevada City, CA
Peace in the Pines is a quiet oasis located 5 minutes from Nevada City and less than 10 minutes from the Yuba River. The pictures speak for themselves. We have one campsite that includes a place for a tent, and there's an outside shower, the trailer has a stove, refrigerator, cooking equipment, a bed and flush toilet. If you're looking for a place to escape and relax with beautiful views, this is the place for you.
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from
$100
/ night
97%
(29)
Oracle Oak Grove
5 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Nevada City, CA
Welcome to Oracle Oak Grove
Oracle Oak is located in the Oak Savannas, in Nisenan territory, in Nevada City California.
Home of the Nisenan Rancheria Natives as well as Maidu', located at the heart of the Deer Creek Watershed.
Currently stewarding these lands are some very hand crafty & gardening witches.
We are stewards of this land, graciously grateful to grow food such as corn, broomcorn, pumpkins, flowers, and watermelons under the sun.
This land is located less than 20 mins to multiple different Yuba River access points. We are also located in the Armpit of Nevada county with 3 access ways 15 mins each way to Grass Valley, Nevada City or Penn Valley.
The neighborhood of this area is also one of the more safer bike friendlier places, you can ride into town along the NID trails, or set up camp and head up the 20HWY less than 20 mins to enjoy Epic Mountain Biking Trails.
Not only are we crafty, but also nature enthusiasts to feel free to reach out and ask about fun things to do here, if you are looking to stay busy exploring the nature. We also have a beautiful sunset hike that overlooks some beautiful views.
Oracle Oak Grove has a wide variety of camping options.
We have a camp grounds on the lower end of the property that currently hosts 4 different camp sites. the 3 May Pole zone, and 1 Faerie fields.
There is one shared Bonfire zone that can be used for friends camping together during the spring and late fall months when we are not in fire season.
We love hosting groups and birthday parties. Also individual campers as well.
We have two yurts available if you are more into the Glamping experience or especially if camping in the winter.
The Witches Hut and The Hobbit Hut!
The Witches Hut which is larger and can fit a family of 3 or 4.
This hut includes a patio, grill, and Private entrance.
The Hobbit Hut is smaller and more suitable for a couple or a single person wanting some solo retreat time. This one does not have cooking amenities accessible to it, but does have a water kettle so you can make tea or coffee. This one also gets better access to the Starlink available on the property.
Both yurts have the ability to park fairly close to them and both are fully furnished. The Yurts are available for a higher expense than the camping of course.
We are sorry to say that Hot tub season is now closed.
We do have a wood-fired Cedar Hot tub, she is our Cauldron she is only available during winter and very early spring visits. I am sorry, but due to fire season and her being wood-fired she is not available outside hot tub season.
If you are interested in the experience it requires advanced noticed as well as an extra charge for wood, cleaning, and tending. She is a labor of love, and such a unique experience. Enjoy the smell of cedar, chlorine free waters under the stars.
Enjoy and hopefully you come and experience the Magic we have made Stewarding these acres.
PLEASE come check in before DARK. We are in a very Rural Area and it can be difficult to see a night where to park and camp. We have pathways and lights to guide, but there is a DESIGNATED parking zone and a cart available to carry your stuff to your CAMPSITE. This is not a CAR Camping spot there is ONE car camping site and the rest you is a very short walk to your site. Thank you.
Pets
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from
$65
/ night
93%
(34)
Lake Lane Waterfront Camping
8 sites · RVs1 acre · Nevada City, CA
Our lake property is situated directly adjacent to Scott's Flat Reservoir without any other properties between you and the lake! Enjoy the surrounding fir, cedar, and madrone trees as you watch the sunset over the water! Our property consists of 2 separate lots. The upper lot includes water, power, sewer hookups, WiFi and off street parking. The lower lot (closest to the water) does not have any hookups but has plenty of room for tent campsites.
PREMIUM RV: "Lakeview Terrace": This RV Site is the larger of the 2 RV Sites. It offers a lot more open space for camp set up (table, chairs, cooking, etc.) This is the property where we keep our family's 5th wheel year round (as seen in some pictures, although we make it policy NOT to visit when RV Site #2 is booked in order to protect your privacy).
STANDARD RV: "Starling's Nest": This is the smaller of the 2 RV Sites. The entire space is approximately 60'x15'. Depending on the size of your RV/Camper there is room enough to accommodate additional campsite set up. Full hookups (city water, electrical outlet (110), and sewer connection) are available beside the gravel parking pad and WiFi is provided. The lake view is filtered because of the many trees but there is easy access to the water via trails from the property or along Lake Lane. NOTE: Per Hipcamp restrictions this site is only available as an "add on" to the Premium RV: "Lakeview Terrace" to accommodate multi-family camping.
LAKESIDE TENT CAMPSITES: "Halcyon Cove" consists of 3 separate tent campsites and guests are able to set up camp wherever they like on a first come basis. There is over 1/2 acre of land adjacent to the lakeshore. City water is provided but no power or sewer hookups at this time. NOTE: Per Hipcamp restrictions these sites are only available as an "add on" to the Premium RV: "Lakeview Terrace" to accommodate multi-family camping.
Come see one of the most beautiful waterfront lake spots in the Sierras.
Pets
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from
$135
/ night
100%
(1)
Mosaic Farm
1 site · RV, Tent120 acres · Nevada City, CA
Mosaic is a former horse ranch turned art and science community. We are on a mountain ridge in the middle of Tahoe National Forest, and have gorgeous views.
We have a sauna, heated private outdoor showers, sinks, and bougie composting toilets. Also an inside flush toilet if you're into that kind of thing.
The campground has a shared kitchen area with BBQ's, refrigerators, sinks, etc...
Pets
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from
$25
/ night
98%
(145)
Garden Goddess Farm
8 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Grass Valley, CA
Garden Goddess Farm is located in the Sierra Foothills on 6+ acres of organic edible gardens, manzanita, pines & oaks. The gardens and land help to support guests to unplug from business,
bond with nature & learn how to grow their own food!
Lots of wild medicinal & culinary herbs to discover.
Individuals, Couples & Families love the farm because of the quiet surroundings, great food
and opportunity to learn about sustainable living.
Farm is
conveniently located 20 minutes from Auburn, Nevada City & Grass Valley. 60-90 Minutes
from Lake Tahoe, Donner Lake, Truckee & ski resorts. We have an on-site Personal Chef that
is available to create Farm-Fresh Gourmet Meals, Culinary & Homesteading Classes, Private Garden & Foraging Tours.
Celebrate a Special Occasion & try one of our Make & Take Classes, Mead Tasting or Romance Packages! Most guests opt in for farm-fresh meal packages, but feel free to bring your own camp stove & food to cook in the bbq area.
Privacy & what to expect: Property is usually very quite & overlooks hundreds of acres of forest looking toward the Snow-capped Sierras in the Winter and Spring.
We are located in a neighborhood (Alta Sierra- in between Auburn & Grass Valley). We ask that everyone uses soft voices since we are in a canyon and sound travels to a few houses that are our neighbors.
There are 3 Hipcamp sites on property, so we could have up to 6 guests in a weekend. The main farmhouse is 4500 square feet and hosts 2-4 Culinary Students or Professionals that may be on site.
There is a Culinary Classroom, Upper and Lower Deck & Gardens
to enjoy. If you have teenagers, they love it here! 1/2 Basketball court, cooking & foraging classes.
This Cozy Love Shack
sleeps 2-4 adults/kids. (190 square feet) 1 King Bed with Floor Futon & single bed. It's about 200 feet from main farm house.
The unit has basic electricity, a solar light & mini frig. Sun warmed (luke-Warm) camping shower available. Approx 190 square feet. Toilet is a composting bucket with wood chips.
The
main farmhouse (owner's residence) has
a beautiful 75 x 15 foot redwood deck with views of the Sierras &
Foothills. Enjoy a Happy Hour, Gourmet Farm-fresh meal, picnic
or play a game in the shaded couch area. There are 2 large tables
for dining & couches for relaxing.
We have organic demonstration gardens & orchard that you can stroll or you can book an educational tour & tasting for a more in depth understanding of the culinary & medicinal plants.
Fresh chicken & duck eggs are usually available.
Great place for kids & adults to learn about organic gardening & sustainable living.
Nearby Attractions to research: Historic Grass Valley, Nevada City and Auburn (Lots of Wine-tasting &
Local Wineries). The Beautiful South Yuba River or Bear River is a must-experience
(25 min drive), Scott's Flat Lake & Lakes off of Hwy 20 (30-60 minutes),
Trails for Mountain Biking & Hiking,
Lake Tahoe, Truckee and Donner Lake (1 hour 15 min drive). Empire Mine.
Pet Policy:
- If you'd like to bring along your pet, we are happy to accommodate.
Please add on the "pets" extra when you are completing your booking. This covers our pet cleaning fee. This is a must in order to bring your pet.
- Please
keep your pet(s) on a leash at all times
- we have ducks and chickens and don't want them harmed or bothered.
- Please
bring your own bedding
if you will be bringing pets.
Let us know if you have any questions and we look forward to your stay!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
Trash
from
$59
/ night
Available this weekend
Under $50
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Forest camping near Grass Valley guide
Overview
Looking for a camping adventure in a forested wonderland near Grass Valley, California? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1700 options to choose from, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're pitching a tent, parking your RV, or looking for a cozy cabin, there's something for everyone. Check out top-rated campsites like Finnon Lake Recreation Area (780 reviews), Mill Creek Resort (638 reviews), or Camp Nauvoo (546 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like showers, potable water, and pet-friendly sites. And if you're up for some adventure, you can go whitewater paddling, biking, or even surfing nearby. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!
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