The best cave campgrounds near Lake Wildwood, California

You’ll find over 540 places to camp near Lake Wildwood if cave adventures are your thing. Here, limestone outcrops and hidden grottos set the scene. Average prices run about $120 a night, but you can score a spot for as low as $50. Most sites make things simple: pets allowed, toilets and showers on hand. You’ll run into fellow campers following deer trails, casting for trout, or listening for owls at dusk. The local favorites? Ascension Ranch (310 reviews) sits tucked in rolling hills, while Wisdom eco-preserv (166 reviews) keeps things quiet and wild. If you want river access, Private River Oasis (56 reviews) delivers. Bring a torch and your sense of exploration—these caves won’t explore themselves.

95% (591)

Top-rated campgrounds

You’ll find over 540 places to camp near Lake Wildwood if cave adventures are your thing. Here, limestone outcrops and hidden grottos set the scene. Average prices run about $120 a night, but you can score a spot for as low as $50. Most sites make things simple: pets allowed, toilets and showers on hand. You’ll run into fellow campers following deer trails, casting for trout, or listening for owls at dusk. The local favorites? Ascension Ranch (310 reviews) sits tucked in rolling hills, while Wisdom eco-preserv (166 reviews) keeps things quiet and wild. If you want river access, Private River Oasis (56 reviews) delivers. Bring a torch and your sense of exploration—these caves won’t explore themselves.

95% (591)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Wisdom eco-preserv

97%

(264)

19mi from Lake Wildwood · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nevada City, CA

This extraordinary 200 acres is magical and host a wildness which feels peaceful and secure. It is also the home of the developing Wisdom Retreat Center eco-preserve noted for quality of beauty and silence. Many Indian arrow heads have been found here indicating former residences of indigenous tribes. There are many open meadows and old growth forest to hike and explore.

2. Ascension Ranch

93%

(479)

33mi from Lake Wildwood · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Pilot Hill, CA

Ascension Ranch is an off-grid paradise with a unique and ever growing list of features and activities. Family owned and operated, we want to be that breath of fresh air from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life that everyone needs. With a serene environment, a healthy mix of farm animals, and good old fashion ranch activities, there's a little bit of something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the things you'll come across at Ascension Ranch include baby farm animals, sheep, goats, cattle, horses, ranch dogs, chickens, equestrian activities, hiking, biking, camping, archery, lake activities, amazing views, access to endless trails around Folsom Lake, grass-fed meats, fresh produce and of course, good company. Staying on the ranch can be as social, or as rural as guests choose. Camp alone, or bring others, whether it be your 4-legged companions or friends and family, we welcome all campers who respect and enjoy the great outdoors as much as we do.

3. Trank Family Farm and Gold site

94%

(54)

20mi from Lake Wildwood · 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!

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

Potable water

Toilets

5. Plumas Eureka State Park

100%

(9)

62 sites · Johnsville, California

Experience California history at an authentic, historic mining area.

6. 70+ Acre Historic Goldmine Mountain

19mi from Lake Wildwood · 2 sites · Lodging · Dutch Flat, CA

Scenic 70-Acre Campsite with Forest Trails, Cliffs, Lake Access, and Historic Gold Mine Caves Welcome to your next unforgettable camping adventure! Nestled in the heart of historic Dutch Flat, California, this private 70-acre paradise offers campers a rare chance to explore rugged forests, hidden trails, rocky cliffs, and real historic gold mine caves — all in total privacy and surrounded by untouched natural beauty. Wake up to the sound of rustling pines and birdsong, spend your day hiking winding trails or exploring the old gold mine entrances tucked into the hillsides, and cool off with a swim in our private lakefront area, complete with sunny rocks perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. This is a perfect spot for campers looking to truly disconnect and experience the raw beauty of Northern California’s mountain country — without the crowds. Whether you’re pitching a tent in a shady forest clearing, setting up camp by the water, or parking your van in one of our open meadow spots, you’ll have space to roam, explore, and make your own adventure. Amenities: • 70 acres of private land to explore • Forest trails, rocky cliffs, and mining caves • Lake/swimming hole with sunny shoreline • Designated campfire rings (where permitted) • Rustic outhouse-style restrooms available • Easy vehicle access to most sites • Pet-friendly — bring your adventurous dogs! • Stargazing at night with minimal light pollution Things to Know: • This is true back-to-nature camping — no hookups • 4WD not required, but recommended for adventurous spots • Pack it in, pack it out — help us keep the land beautiful • Quiet hours after 9PM to preserve the peacefulness of nature • Families, solo adventurers, and small groups welcome Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend getaway, a basecamp for Sierra Nevada adventures, or a unique group camping experience, our 70-acre property invites you to slow down, explore, and reconnect with nature. Book your stay with us today — your next great story starts here!

7. BALI HUTS ON PRIVATE YUBA

93%

(21)

4.6mi from Lake Wildwood · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · North San Juan, CA

*\\_PRIVATE SOUTH YUBA BEACHES_//* En bref, It's like a mini state park. An epic 400ac property with access to 1.2 mile of private South Yuba River frontage. Endless deep swimming holes and beaches and jumping rocks in one of the most dramatic stretch of the wild and scenic South Yuba canyon. 6 miles of roads on the property to hike, bike on so bring your Mtn bike and explore this magical property. With 900 feet elevation change throughout the land makes for very dramatic views but makes for an exerting 30min hike down the canyon so not appropriate for people with low mobility. Come prepared for a rugged but exclusive experience. When it's to busy at the Bridgeport state parks, keep going 2 miles and come here. This really is a Yuba lover's Shangri-La. Stay in one of our 3 teak wood Bali huts, bring your Sprinter van or pitch a tent in one our our numerous scattered camping spots by the big meadow. This is dry camping so bring water and your kitchen. A porta party is provided near the yurt. Be mindful of poison oak and please dive 10mph on the gravel road to keep dust down for my neighbors and enjoy the only privets south yuba river access in Hipcamp responsibly. Pack out what you lack in and absolutely no open fire on the property. Propane grill are fine. If you’re adventurous minded this doesn’t disappoint.

8. Private Disc Golf Course Camp

100%

(1)

12mi from Lake Wildwood · 1 site · Tent, RV · Grass Valley, CA

Learn more about this land: Our property is completely cleared of thick vegetation and poison oak. There’s a 25 basket Disk Golf Course on the property. An additional $10 per person for unlimited golf during stay. $20/person if you don’t have your own discs. There’s plenty of property and miles of dirt road to ride bicycles.

Public campgrounds near Lake Wildwood

100%

(7)

Sly Creek Campground

24mi from Lake Wildwood · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

Strawberry Campground

25mi from Lake Wildwood · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

100%

(2)

Golden Trout Campground

26mi from Lake Wildwood · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

100%

(2)

Feather Falls Trailhead Campground

27mi from Lake Wildwood · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

Peninsula Tent Campground

36mi from Lake Wildwood · 25 sites · in Plumas National Forest

100%

(1)

Black Rock Campground

36mi from Lake Wildwood · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

Little Beaver Campground

36mi from Lake Wildwood · 120 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

100%

(5)

Red Feather California Campground

37mi from Lake Wildwood · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

100%

(1)

Running Deer Campground

37mi from Lake Wildwood · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

100%

(1)

Rogers Cow Camp

37mi from Lake Wildwood · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

Horse Campground

38mi from Lake Wildwood · 9 sites · in Plumas National Forest

Little North Fork Campground

38mi from Lake Wildwood · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plumas National Forest

Stories from the community

A

Ana

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ascension Ranch

I am writing this review to warn everyone that there is no longer a tent/yurt set up at Lovers Creek. When I asked the man about it, he said that a guest had brought the tent it wasn't included in the site, which is a lie if you look at all the reviews and pics there used to be a tent that stayed on the wooden platform. Luckily I brought my tent just in case so we didn't need to leave. The road getting onto his property is very narrow and beautiful and I wouldn't have been comfortable taking my car, I was glad to have a truck. The restroom is down at the "entrance" and a 10 min walk to the Lovers Creek site. We took the truck each time. There were cute animals to see on the property. Roads are very dusty! The best part about this place and the main reason I might come back is for the privacy. After check in, no one bothered us and the nearest campsite maybe 500 feet away across the other side.

n

nik

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserv

I loved staying on Adam's land. The property was gorgeous and Adam was attentive to any needs I had.

Walking on the property- lots of big trees!

L

Leah

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserv

We had a great time at the Shamballa cabin over the weekend! It’s a beautiful rustic cabin in the middle of nature. You’ll get the feel of glamping (only wood burning stove for heat, no bathrooms in the cabin or running hot water (but flush toilet and hot water sink and shower in main house)), but you’ll be staying in a beautiful cabin with comfortable beds, a kitchen to prepare meals and a cozy place to relax. We enjoyed exploring the area and hiking the Dragons nest trail (get ready for some exercise as you go up to the top!). There is so much land to see and we only saw a little bit! I imagine it’s beautiful in the Winter months also! Thank you Adam and we hope to visit another time!

M

Mark

September 2025

3 nights at Wisdom eco-preserv

Adam has created a magical, sacred and powerful property in the forest. The cabins and structures are gorgeously crafted, and integrated with the forest. Adam was a very gracious, kind and the instructions on how to arrive to the property we very clear.

A

Alexandra

September 2025

4 nights at Wisdom eco-preserv

This land is magical. It has the most beautiful trees and spring and variety of landscape to plant your tent. I stayed in a cabin that was huge with two very comfortable bedrooms and beds and a kitchen. It’s an eco lodge so electricity is solar and toilets are compost so be mindful of that but there’s also a guest flush toilet if really needed. So many trails to hike on. A real treat to be staying in Adam’s land.

S

Spencer

September 2025

3 nights at Wisdom eco-preserv

THIS PLACE IS AWESOME! Beautiful. The nature is so nice. The steward is kind and helpful.

L

Laneya

September 2025

35 ft Class A

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Trank Family Farm and Gold site

We enjoyed our time at the camp. Robert was really awesome with showing us to the camp site and making sure we had everything we needed. The animals were so sweet. Be careful driving on the gravel roads if you have a low vehicle. The speed limit is 15, but in our Prius we went probably 5 mph.

L

Larelle

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserv

Had a wonderful time the cabin was great and plenty of privacy. The dogs had a great time exploring.

leif

August 2025

Weekend Trip to BALI HUTS ON PRIVATE YUBA

We loved staying in one of the Bali huts. Very special property with access to some phenomenal river spots. We will definitely be back!

Amy

August 2025

Weekend Trip to BALI HUTS ON PRIVATE YUBA

serene campground, secluded access to the yuba, and a host with great communication. it's a great time.

C

Casey

August 2025

12 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to BALI HUTS ON PRIVATE YUBA

Had a great stay. Their river spot was amazing. It was a challenging trek but was worth it. The host would shuttle you back and forth when he was available.

J

Jacek

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ascension Ranch

Lots of cool animals and right by the lake. Lots of cool stuff here and rick was a nice guy. Got some good eggs and took a day at the lake

H

Harry

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to BALI HUTS ON PRIVATE YUBA

Akhi outdid our last trip by improving amenities, welcoming our friends, and proactively reaching out with that personal touch. Can’t recommend this place enough.

M

Mr.

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserv

We had an incredible stay at the cabin on the campgrounds. The experience was more than just a getaway,it was deeply spiritual. Being surrounded by nature gave us space to slow down, reflect, and connect with one another in a meaningful way. From the stillness of the trees to the night skies filled with stars, every moment reminded us of the beauty and balance of creation. One of the things we appreciated most was not having Wi-Fi. Instead of screens, we had conversations. Instead of scrolling, we shared laughter, cooked together, played games, and had real heart-to-heart talks. That absence of constant distraction allowed us to create a stronger bond as a family and be fully present with each other. We left the cabin not just refreshed, but spiritually renewed. This was more than a stay it was an experience of connection, peace, and gratitude. Highly recommend for anyone looking to reconnect with themselves, their loved ones, and the power of nature. 🌿✨ RaMean Maat

Arianna

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to BALI HUTS ON PRIVATE YUBA

I came to get away from a busy city life and to celebrate opening a restaurant. This property allowed me to completely disconnect, center and ground myself. As much as a wanted to get away from people and the world I soon realized that what I needed was to meet some truly amazing people who aligned with my core values on nature and passion. Akhi, Borro and Aldo were beyond warm and welcoming to us. They made us feel like family and I soon looked forward to bumping into them. He mentions this place to be Shangri-La and that is spot on the most perfect description of our experience on their land. Surrounded by rugged nature and wildlife with a trail walk to crystal clear sanctuary of river full of adventure and exploration. I stumbled upon this site and now am making it my regular space to recharge.

Geoffrey

August 2025

18 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to BALI HUTS ON PRIVATE YUBA

Quiet, expansive open camping area with beautiful views of the hills. We had a full moon which was beautiful. The walk down to the river (about 2m and 900 vertical feet) is not easy but the payoff is very handsome. Gorgeous swimming holes all to yourself. Akhi was a great host, very communicative. 🙏

Arianna

August 2025

With kids

3 nights at BALI HUTS ON PRIVATE YUBA

Truly amazing, exciting, relaxing and perfect! If you like seclusion, enjoy nature and appreciate raw nature with some comforts of home sprinkled throughout this is the place for you.

A

Andrew

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserv

The Shambala cabin in a word : Awesoem! The campsite and area to explore was huge peaceful, and a perfect place to let the kids roam free without worry. It felt so good to get them outside, breathing fresh air and exploring nature. The cabin itself was spacious, pretty stocked with essentials (super helpful if you forget a few things), and had everything we needed for a great stay. Adam and Holly were kind and informative, and everyone we met was friendly. It was the kind of trip that reminds you why the outdoors matter. We had a blast. Will be back! Thanks guys

J

Jordan

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserv

We just went last minute on a mini vacation we needed to reset from the city. It was absolutely beautiful. We stayed in the Geronimo cabin. Adam, the owner is such an amazing person and so is Holly that works there as well. Everything was so clean. The beds were really comfy. It was just absolutely beautiful. We cooked dinner dinners, and had the fire going in in the morning and at night. There’s so much to do around the area, hiking, swimming, bonfires. I am so glad that we went and we will definitely be back. It was an amazing time with the family and a great experience. Thank you, Adam and Holly so much that was just what we needed!!!

P

Paul

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserv

Really enjoyed staying at the Radiance Cabin. Beautiful and secluded little spot right near the fresh spring and the hike up to the Dragon’s Nest which is a neat lookout. Outdoor shower wasn’t functioning at this time but had a great bathtub with plentiful hot water.