Lake Camping Near Herlong, California, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Set your sights on lakeside camping in Herlong, where over 1,200 options put you steps from the water. Sites cluster around lakes large and small, with views that shift from glassy dawns to breezy afternoons. Average prices run about $40 a night, with basic spots starting at $15. If you’re after a spot with showers, pet access, and campfires allowed, you’re in luck—these are common features. Bring your hiking boots for trails that wind through pines, or pack a swimsuit and plunge in. Winter sees snow-sport action nearby, so don’t forget your layers if you’re headed up in the colder months. Top picks include Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude (114 reviews), Genesee Camp (71 reviews), and TURNER BEACH AT LAKE ALMANOR (17 reviews)—all favorites with locals and travelers alike. Arrive early if you want prime shoreline.

99% (294)

Top-rated campgrounds

Set your sights on lakeside camping in Herlong, where over 1,200 options put you steps from the water. Sites cluster around lakes large and small, with views that shift from glassy dawns to breezy afternoons. Average prices run about $40 a night, with basic spots starting at $15. If you’re after a spot with showers, pet access, and campfires allowed, you’re in luck—these are common features. Bring your hiking boots for trails that wind through pines, or pack a swimsuit and plunge in. Winter sees snow-sport action nearby, so don’t forget your layers if you’re headed up in the colder months. Top picks include Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude (114 reviews), Genesee Camp (71 reviews), and TURNER BEACH AT LAKE ALMANOR (17 reviews)—all favorites with locals and travelers alike. Arrive early if you want prime shoreline.

99% (294)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

97%

(200)

36mi from Herlong · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Reno, CA

Please note: We have two 'Overnighter' sites these are instant book for weary travelers and not meant as full on camping sites. Site 1 and site 2 or Antelope please refrain from booking unless you are traveling through - All other camp sites require a minimum of 24 hours notice this allows for getting the sites ready - so if you want to camp here please note this requirement If you are traveling w a bumper pull of any type you need to book Big Rig ( soon to be named Art Camp) this is our only pull through camp site all others only tiny teardrops, cassettes, tents, vans, cars, or cab overs. Bobcat is great for tents, cars, vans, small trucks, no bumper pulls Camping here is low activity experience as in there is hiking up in the National Forest or just hanging out in your camp site, or bring your camera, notebook and binoculars, or road bike. When you come to camp here you are on a farm in transition. Girlfarm has been a local food go to for restaurants, farm family members, and regenerative agriculture interests. Today, the farm is looking forward to a new course in agri tourism as we begin planning walking gardens, art installations in the landscape, and interactive classes. If you would like fresh veggies contact Prema Farm one day BEFORE arrival - Please come visit in April May and June it is some of the most green and lush times in the high desert. It can also bring snow, winds, and rain. Be prepared- look at the forecast and contact me directly if you have concerns We are looking for a seasonal self contained camper to do campground maintenance and upkeep. trade Only NO PETS SELF CONTAINED and background check Its been a huge water season so SKEETERS are around we also recommend tents have a rain fly and ground cloth. Welcome It was important to choose a partner like Hipcamp to invite like minded individuals who respect both the natural environment and the idea of less is more. At any time you may encounter farming activities, building out of tiny houses, gardens in the process of creation, snakes, bugs, ticks, and wild animals. As we move toward offering the land as a place to both find solitude or chosen participation our Flyte and Sparrow experience will hopefully be a place you will want to return to as your own tradition.

2. TURNER BEACH AT LAKE ALMANOR

99%

(49)

50mi from Herlong · 1 site · Tent, RV · Westwood, CA

Turner Beach At Lake Almanor is a privately owned vacant lakefront lot. The property is wide enough to accommodate 3 RV's/camp trailers end to end, ensuring no blocked views of the lake. You will be camping along Lake Almanor's East Shore on your own private campground instead of "combat camping" in the popular public campgrounds nearby. Additionally, the property can accommodate numerous smaller vans and tents. We have 2 mooring buoys and a large dock. (Dock may no longer be in the water after September) There is a sani-hut potty which is maintained/cleaned weekly. The property is located between the lake and the highway, so there will be road noise. Some guests have been bothered by the traffic and some have not. We have 2 SUP boards, 3 kayaks, and a canoe as well as a 5-person pedal boat that can be borrowed while renting our beach. Doing so will be at your own risk and you are required to wear personal floatation devices (lifejackets). Lifejackets are not provided, so you will need to bring your own. We ask that you please respect our toys and take care not to damage them or lose any parts/pieces. ALL RENTERS MUST TAKE THEIR OWN TRASH WITH THEM WHEN THEY DEPART No Fireworks, No firearms, No drugs allowed. Dogs are allowed and we do have a 10 x 10 x 6 kennel onsite. Campers are responsible for minding their pet's safety, politeness, and picking up their poo-poo's. Marshmallow roasting/cooking fires must be kept small and are only allowed in the provided fire ring. There is some small firewood onsite, and if you need more you can purchase nearby at Almanor Landscape Supply or bring your own. The early mornings are tranquil, and the sunsets are STUNNING! We hope you enjoy your stay! **Please understand, if you private message us asking to pay us directly to avoid the HIPCAMP fees, the answer will be a resounding NO! This is the platform we have chosen for our beach rental and we are not willing to skirt around it. Thank you for your understanding. :) **Thank you everyone for a great 2025 season. The beach is closed for winter and will re-open May, 2026.......BUT.........You can book now for next year! THANK YOU FOR LOOKING!

3. The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

98%

(26)

26mi from Herlong · 1 site · Lodging · Beckwourth, CA

Unique and peaceful Lost Sierra retreat within feet of Big Grizzly Creek. 5 minutes from Lake Davis. Minutes from Grizzly Ranch Golf Club. 1 hour from Reno, and 2.5 hours from Sacramento. Nestled among towering trees and serene natural surroundings, The Retreat at Big Grizzly Creek is a tranquil haven located within feet of a gently flowing creek. As you enter the campsite, the refreshing sound of water trickling over smooth rocks immediately captures your attention, creating a symphony of nature's melodies. The Retreat is located within minutes of the small railroad town of Portola, CA, 5 minutes from the boat launch at Lake Davis, and a couple of minutes from the public golf course, Grizzly Ranch. The property the campsite is on is over 3 acres with the creek being the western border. The property has numerous overlooks of the creek and surrounding fauna with a short hike. Currently, I am building a trail and a sitting area over the most perfect view atop a rock outcropping, perfect for sipping coffee in the morning or beer. No judgment here! We have big plans for this little piece of the earth we own and are excited the share it with you.

4. Plumas National Forest

95%

(67)

821 sites · Little Grass Valley, California

Hike, cross-country ski, or even drive into the deep wilderness of this Sierra Nevada forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Tahoe National Forest

93%

(255)

1382 sites · Graniteville, California

Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Genesee Camp

98%

(108)

34mi from Herlong · 1 site · Tent, RV · Taylorsville, CA

I fell in love with this piece of property years ago, and finally was able to build my dream home here. I rescue unwanted dogs from certain euthanasia who have been abandoned or abused, and provide them a forever home.  Now I want to share my beautiful wooded property where they can run, swim, investigate, play, and enjoy a free-range lifestyle. Campers and their canine family members are welcome to come and enjoy the outdoors.

7. Lost Arrow Ranch Retreat

100%

(2)

37mi from Herlong · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Calpine, CA

Pond fishing, private land, family-friendly, great views, and great adventures. Welcome to Lost Arrow 89 Retreat, a one-of-a-kind camping experience on 26.5 acres of open ranch land with stunning views of the Sierra Valley and surrounding mountains. This is a peaceful, private escape where guests can spread out, unplug, and enjoy a true connection to the land. Each campsite offers a spacious cleared area with two leveled tent pads, a picnic table, and more. Water access is available nearby via hose. The setup is ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking for extra room and privacy with access to the Sierra Mountains and all its attractions. Our property features an 800,000 gallon private pond that has been carefully managed over the years with multiple generations of healthy largemouth bass. Guests have exclusive access to this catch-and-release fishing spot, offering a rare opportunity to fish a rare species in the Sierras, and a beautiful setting. Rod rentals are available if needed. Lost Arrow 89 is also a working ranch. As you enter, you’ll pass a dirtbike track, a large white ranch house, and a barn full of horses. Two friendly donkeys, goats, and more than 40 free-range chickens roam the property. The ranch also includes large horse pastures and arenas. This is the kind of place where you wake up to fresh mountain air, with a view of the valley, spend the day fishing or exploring, and end the evening by the fire under a sky full of the brightest stars.

8. Magical Lost Sierra Bungalow!

100%

(5)

47mi from Herlong · 1 site · Lodging · Sierra City, CA

Step back in time at the Lost Sierra Bungalow, a cozy riverside retreat built in the 1960s using reclaimed timbers from 1800s Sierra Valley barns. Nestled where the Yuba River meets Haypress Creek, this peaceful hideaway opens to the sound of rushing water and birdsong. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the deck, cooking a meal with friends, or stargazing under string lights, this cabin invites you to slow down and reconnect with nature. The heart of the cabin is the spacious great room — perfect for curling up by the wood-burning stove, playing games, dancing, or gathering for shared meals. The country kitchen is fully stocked with everything you need to cook: a four-burner stove, fridge, coffee maker, pots, pans, dishes, utensils, spices, oils, and more. Step out to the large deck with BBQ grill and outdoor dining area — magical at dusk under the twinkle lights and stars. 🛏️ Sleeping arrangements: Downstairs: 1 queen bedroom + 1 bathroom (clawfoot tub & shower) Upstairs: 3 bedrooms (1 queen, 1 full, 1 twin room for kids) + 1 bathroom 🌿 Year-round adventure: Spring–Fall: Hiking & biking trails for all levels, Yuba River fishing & swimming nearby. Winter: Borrow our sleds and explore by snowshoe, ski, or snowmobile. 📶 Connectivity: No TV, but great Wi-Fi — stream, work remotely, or unplug and enjoy the quiet. 💫 What makes it special This is a true Lost Sierra retreat — cozy, rustic, and deeply relaxing. The perfect mix of nature, comfort, and nostalgia. Watch the light move through the pines, listen to the creek, and reconnect with what matters. Guests have full access to the home and plenty of parking for cars, bikes, and even snowmobiles in winter. The bungalow is all yours — a private, peaceful mountain retreat. Our cabin is old-fashioned and full of charm — the upstairs can be chilly in winter and warm in summer. We provide extra blankets for cool nights, and suggest opening windows after sunset during summer to let in the mountain air. Please treat our home and the surrounding land with care. A light tidy-up (dishes, vacuuming if needed) helps us keep this place special for years to come. No need to do laundry or take out ashes — we’ll handle that. This is a true Lost Sierra experience: cozy, rustic, and rooted in nature.

9. Lake Davis Campground

45%

(10)

26mi from Herlong · 8 sites · Portola, CA

The Forest Service decided they couldn't serve the public. Nothing has changed.

10. Lassen National Forest

96%

(67)

412 sites · Old Station, California

Crossroads of California offers year-round recreation in volcanic, alpine, and wilderness terrain.

Pets

Toilets

Full Hookups

11. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

92%

(69)

868 sites · Mono City, California

Explore the largest national forest in the lower 48 with trails, fishing spots and hot springs.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Plumas Eureka State Park

100%

(9)

62 sites · Johnsville, California

Experience California history at an authentic, historic mining area.

Camper favorites near Herlong

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Genesee Camp

98%

(108)

34mi from Herlong · 1 site · Tent, RV · Taylorsville, CA

I fell in love with this piece of property years ago, and finally was able to build my dream home here. I rescue unwanted dogs from certain euthanasia who have been abandoned or abused, and provide them a forever home.  Now I want to share my beautiful wooded property where they can run, swim, investigate, play, and enjoy a free-range lifestyle. Campers and their canine family members are welcome to come and enjoy the outdoors.

Lost Arrow Ranch Retreat

100%

(2)

37mi from Herlong · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Calpine, CA

Pond fishing, private land, family-friendly, great views, and great adventures. Welcome to Lost Arrow 89 Retreat, a one-of-a-kind camping experience on 26.5 acres of open ranch land with stunning views of the Sierra Valley and surrounding mountains. This is a peaceful, private escape where guests can spread out, unplug, and enjoy a true connection to the land. Each campsite offers a spacious cleared area with two leveled tent pads, a picnic table, and more. Water access is available nearby via hose. The setup is ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking for extra room and privacy with access to the Sierra Mountains and all its attractions. Our property features an 800,000 gallon private pond that has been carefully managed over the years with multiple generations of healthy largemouth bass. Guests have exclusive access to this catch-and-release fishing spot, offering a rare opportunity to fish a rare species in the Sierras, and a beautiful setting. Rod rentals are available if needed. Lost Arrow 89 is also a working ranch. As you enter, you’ll pass a dirtbike track, a large white ranch house, and a barn full of horses. Two friendly donkeys, goats, and more than 40 free-range chickens roam the property. The ranch also includes large horse pastures and arenas. This is the kind of place where you wake up to fresh mountain air, with a view of the valley, spend the day fishing or exploring, and end the evening by the fire under a sky full of the brightest stars.

Magical Lost Sierra Bungalow!

100%

(5)

47mi from Herlong · 1 site · Lodging · Sierra City, CA

Step back in time at the Lost Sierra Bungalow, a cozy riverside retreat built in the 1960s using reclaimed timbers from 1800s Sierra Valley barns. Nestled where the Yuba River meets Haypress Creek, this peaceful hideaway opens to the sound of rushing water and birdsong. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the deck, cooking a meal with friends, or stargazing under string lights, this cabin invites you to slow down and reconnect with nature. The heart of the cabin is the spacious great room — perfect for curling up by the wood-burning stove, playing games, dancing, or gathering for shared meals. The country kitchen is fully stocked with everything you need to cook: a four-burner stove, fridge, coffee maker, pots, pans, dishes, utensils, spices, oils, and more. Step out to the large deck with BBQ grill and outdoor dining area — magical at dusk under the twinkle lights and stars. 🛏️ Sleeping arrangements: Downstairs: 1 queen bedroom + 1 bathroom (clawfoot tub & shower) Upstairs: 3 bedrooms (1 queen, 1 full, 1 twin room for kids) + 1 bathroom 🌿 Year-round adventure: Spring–Fall: Hiking & biking trails for all levels, Yuba River fishing & swimming nearby. Winter: Borrow our sleds and explore by snowshoe, ski, or snowmobile. 📶 Connectivity: No TV, but great Wi-Fi — stream, work remotely, or unplug and enjoy the quiet. 💫 What makes it special This is a true Lost Sierra retreat — cozy, rustic, and deeply relaxing. The perfect mix of nature, comfort, and nostalgia. Watch the light move through the pines, listen to the creek, and reconnect with what matters. Guests have full access to the home and plenty of parking for cars, bikes, and even snowmobiles in winter. The bungalow is all yours — a private, peaceful mountain retreat. Our cabin is old-fashioned and full of charm — the upstairs can be chilly in winter and warm in summer. We provide extra blankets for cool nights, and suggest opening windows after sunset during summer to let in the mountain air. Please treat our home and the surrounding land with care. A light tidy-up (dishes, vacuuming if needed) helps us keep this place special for years to come. No need to do laundry or take out ashes — we’ll handle that. This is a true Lost Sierra experience: cozy, rustic, and rooted in nature.

Lake Davis Campground

45%

(10)

26mi from Herlong · 8 sites · Portola, CA

The Forest Service decided they couldn't serve the public. Nothing has changed.

Public campgrounds near Herlong

One entrance to the park on the way to the campground. Gravel roads that were passable with a car pulling a pop-up.

Meadow View Equestrian Campground

8.3mi from Herlong · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

100%

(1)

Black Mountain Lookout

9.8mi from Herlong · 1 site · in Plumas National Forest

Laufman Campground

11mi from Herlong · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

Conklin Park Campground

14mi from Herlong · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

Big Cove Overflow

17mi from Herlong · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

So cool in the fall!! The trees were beautiful colors.

100%

(1)

Big Cove Campground

17mi from Herlong · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

Spring Creek Campground

18mi from Herlong · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

100%

(4)

Frenchman Campground

18mi from Herlong · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

Amazing hikes with some breathtaking sights!

Cottonwood Campground

18mi from Herlong · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

Such a chill campground, loved the vibes!

100%

(1)

Chilcoot Campground

19mi from Herlong · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

100%

(2)

Crocker Campground

23mi from Herlong · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

100%

(1)

Long Point Campground

23mi from Herlong · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

Stories from the community

M

Michael

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

1 night at Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

Exactly what you need for a quick pit stop and rest! The farm was really nice and tucked away. Felt private and safe.

S

Sean

November 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

Hard to beat the price and convenience of this site. Plus it's quiet and in a pretty area to boot. It was easy to find and communicate with our very helpful and friendly host.

C

Charles

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magical Lost Sierra Bungalow!

Staying at this magical little cabin in the woods was everything you could ask for and then some. We had a great time just enjoying the quietness of the area and just the sounds of the Yuba river. The cabin was beautiful and just felt like staying in a piece of history with how beautiful it was inside and out. Stay here and you wont regret it, only that you didnt book a longer stay.

D

Daniel

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

The camp host came out to meet each arriving party and guide them to their spot (as most of us rolled in after dark). Later she started a bonfire, and for the next couple of hours folks congregated in small groups talking about where they had been and where they were going. Very enjoyable social experience. Cooking facilities were excellent. They are outdoor, but it does not often rain here. Wind was moderate the night I was there. Two bathrooms (flush toilets and running water) quite close to the campsites.

K

Kathleen

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

The tent site was perfect; it was very peaceful, with wonderful views in all directions. Wendy was super and offered to get us extra wood for the fire since the wood on site was a bit moist from recent rain. We would definitely camp here again!

L

Laurel

November 2025

Tent

6 nights at Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

This is the most incredible property, with the most incredible host! A peaceful sanctuary that allows one to get back in alignment with their own self in a lovely natural setting. I HIGHLY recommend for women on a healing journey, artists and writers needing to clear out blocks, or spiritual seekers in need of some sanctuary! This place has all the "magicalness" of Sedona & Mt. Shasta! A yearly visit is now on my calendar in order to give myself a much needed retreat! Camping at Willow woods was beautiful and private and I loved watching the Beavers, Owls, and Hawks. I also stayed at Tiny Blue, which was so comfortable, had beautiful views, and lots of cool outdoor sitting areas. The tiny kitchen had everything I needed and gave me the luxury of staying for an entire week! You can tell that Wendy loves being a host and believes in the sanctity of what she has created here, and it's reflected in every detail of the property itself and within her personal enthusiasm! This truly is a "choose your own adventure" experience!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars!

W

William

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

Nice place to stop. Peaceful and quiet. They even provided some firewood.

G

Genevieve

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

This is a really great spot and we enjoyed our stay! We enjoyed the roaring creek next to us and hearing the water as we went to sleep and upon wake up! The tent was well built, felt cozy and secure. The propane heater provided was a MUST as we stayed mid-Oct and the nights were cold outside. It heated it up very quickly and we had to turn it down while we slept it got so toasty. While there are 2 options for parking, if we weren't able to park where we did (closer to the tent), it would have made for more difficult logistics. We just barely were able to get our full-sized truck backed down the path (between the posts) in order to park close to the tent. In muddy weather this might have been more challenging. FYI - you need to have some pretty decent backing up and maneuvering skills to back down through the gate, esp if you have a full sized truck like we did. We did navigate to this spot at night which was a bit challenging in the dark but everything worked out well. This is a nice, secluded and peaceful spot!

P

Paula

October 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Magical Lost Sierra Bungalow!

The cabin has a great speaker system for use with Bluetooth devices. October is a beautiful time of year in Sierra City mountains.

A

Andres

October 2025

18 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

I made a last minute booking for a quick stopover and was pleased beyond my expections. Though close to US 395 the camp was peaceful, serene, and beautiful. I would definitely return.

V

Vyacheslav

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

Good.

S

Skai

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

Wendy was very kind! Beautiful stars at night and amazing sunrises!!

Ellen

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

We needed a safe place to sleep, pitstop, on a road trip. This was a perfect spot for it. Space was clean. Wendy was responsive and thoughtful. Directions were clear.

Jessi

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to TURNER BEACH AT LAKE ALMANOR

I can’t say enough good things about this campsite. Privacy, space, views, cleanliness, a responsive and kind host…it really checks all the boxes. Our family can’t wait to book this spot again. The only downside might be the noise from the road, we are easy going and it didn’t phase us but if you’re someone who can’t handle a little road noise then this would probably bug you, to us it was well worth the incredible benefits the site provided. 10 out of 10 for sure!

J

Joanne

September 2025

34 ft fifth wheel

Group trip

Weekend Trip to TURNER BEACH AT LAKE ALMANOR

The property was great, perfect accommodations, lovely location, beautiful sunsets. Plenty of space & shade. Flexible host. If traffic noise bothers you, then this location might not be for you. We will definitely be back!

D

Dan

September 2025

22 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

I’ve been here before and I am sure I will be back. It’s a lovely spot.

T

Teryl

September 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

Since we were just passing through, it was a perfect spot for us. A private area in a field. We didn’t have time to check out the grounds.

J

Justin

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Genesee Camp

Awesome camp. Nice having the creek about 100 yards away. Quiet, flat location. Great basecamp to explore the area.

J

Justin

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Genesee Camp

Kristine’s land was amazing, precut fire wood, water and even fresh table cloth on the tables onsite. Private spacious and clean!!! Even had portable toilets. Made dry camping easy and comfortable. Plenty of space for tents. Would highly recommend to anyone!

J

Jessica

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to TURNER BEACH AT LAKE ALMANOR

Lynne’s land is such a peaceful and welcoming place to camp. The property is well cared for. The views are gorgeous, and it’s quiet enough . Lynne was responsive, and made sure we had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. If you’re looking for a spot that’s both serene and inviting, this is a wonderful choice. You can expect a safe, well-kept, and very relaxing experience here.