The best forest camping near Minden

35mi from Minden · 1 site · Lodging · Truckee, CA

Located on 20 acres in Tahoe Wilderness, this is a cool off the grid, solar-powered, rustic cabin situated next to a stream. Sleeps 6-8 people. There is running hot and cold water, shower and a plumbed toilet. Kitchen with refrigerator, propane powered stove/oven, toaster, coffee maker. One bedroom on first floor. Dining/hang out area with firebox and cubbies for hanging/drying outdoor clothing. Upstairs loft has 5 single beds divided by 'pony' walls with shelving and 1 full bed. For winter use, there is a generator when needed. Heat from firebox will keep entire cabin warm. For winter, access provided by snowcat; guided trips only.

12. Sunset Serenity Ridge

49mi from Minden · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Somerset, CA

A peaceful ridgeway camp nestled high above the city lights overlooking a tranquil river canyon with incredible sunrises and sunsets - the perfect place to rest and recharge your natural soul batteries. Come stay and enjoy 11 acres with a flowing creek, ridge trail and National Forest for you to explore just beyond your campsite. The Consumnes River is just 3.8 miles from camp and has a great swimming and fishing. Just ask your host for directions! We have an organic farm just down the street called Mama Earth Farm where you can stop and grab fresh produce and eggs on the way up or down the mountain.

Looking to pitch your tent or park your camper among the pines near Minden? With over 4,100 forest campsites, you've got options ranging from quiet clearings to sites tucked deep in the woods. Average nightly rates hover around $48, but you’ll find spots starting at just $15 if you’re watching your budget. Forest campers here typically have access to toilets, can build a campfire, and bring pets along. The trails cut through thick woods—expect plenty of hiking, some rugged climbing, and swimming holes if you want to cool off. Local favorites include Harris Family Farm and Forest (303 reviews), Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude (114 reviews), and 160 Acres amid National Forest (63 reviews). You’ll find campsites just off the main roads, but the best ones are often a short hike or rough drive in. Don’t forget to pack sturdy boots and your sense of adventure.

92% (708)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

97%

(199)

48mi from Minden · 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. Harris Family Farm and Forest

95%

(762)

47mi from Minden · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Pollock Pines, CA

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our cherished historic family farm, spanning 160 years and 7 generations. Nestled in the serene surroundings of an Apple Hill™ Grower farm, our property offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Choose to camp amidst the lush woods or in our enchanting apple orchard. Spend your days engaging in farm activities, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply unwinding in this idyllic setting. During the harvest season, delight in the experience of hand-picking a variety of fruits and vegetables at their peak of ripeness. Participate in our popular jam making classes held in August, and September for $55 per person, or indulge in a delightful High Tea in the Orchard, hosted on Mother’s Day weekend and June spring afternoons for $45 per person. Be sure to secure your spot early for these sought-after activities, as they tend to fill up rapidly. Our farm is conveniently located near picturesque mountain lakes and charming historic towns, offering ample opportunities for further exploration and discovery. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you to our farm, where you can enjoy invigorating woodland hikes, lend a hand with farm chores, and partake in our weekend bonfire gatherings featuring s'mores and delectable treats from our pie shop. Don't miss the chance to harvest blackberries, apples, and pumpkins during their respective seasons, adding a touch of seasonal magic to your visit.

3. 160 Acres amidst National Forest

98%

(95)

50mi from Minden · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Placerville, CA

Welcome to Slate Mountain where you have access to 160 acres of gated, private wilderness with 360 degree mountain views and exclusive waterfront on Slab Creek. There are two choices of sites to camp: At Site 1 you can park an RV or pitch a tent where you have access to a picnic table, fire pit, vault toilet, and amazing sunset views. At Site 2 you can pitch a tent and have access to a picnic table, fire pit, rocking chairs, and a hammock. Bring your hiking boots or your off-road toys and explore 160 acres of secluded forest filled with wildflowers, butterflies, ancient Pines and Cedars, wild berries, and wild game. Spend the day relaxing, picnicking, and try your luck at gold panning on pristine Slab Creek where not a single human or road exists for miles. Bring your paddle boards and kayaks and spend an afternoon at Stumpy Meadows, a beautiful mountain reservoir a 25 minute drive from the property. Apple Hill wineries and farms are a 40 minute drive. If you bring the off-road toys you also have access to miles of trails throughout hundreds of acres of national forest. Don’t feel like cooking? Smoke on the Water restaurant at Finnon reservoir in Swansboro is a quick 20 minute drive from the property. If you need supplies, a nice restaurant, or a day of wine tasting to break up the grit, downtown Placerville and Georgetown are both a 45 minute scenic drive. IMPORTANT NOTES: 1) To get the most out of your experience, we highly recommend a 4WD or vehicle, ATVs or eBikes. 2) The creek is at the bottom of the canyon, 1.5 miles from the gate at the entrance, and the road down is very steep and lined with blackberry bushes. We highly recommend an off-road vehicle/ATV or eBikes for easy access to creek. 3) Be aware you are in the middle of the forest and wildlife such as bear, mountain lions, rattlesnakes, and tics have been spotted on the property. Poison Oak is also common. 4) The property has cell service in the upper quadrant, however once you drop below the tree line toward the creek there is no service. 5) We highly recommend bringing a chainsaw or hatchet. There is an abundance of dead wood on the property that can be gathered for camp fires. Trees also occasionally fall on the trail which can impede access to the creek.

4. Chris Haven RV And MH Park

13mi from Minden · 1 site · RV · South Lake Tahoe, CA

Chris Haven RV Park is a peaceful, pet-friendly retreat in the heart of South Lake Tahoe. With roughly 100 paved, full-hookup sites (30/50 amp), laundry, showers, and easy big-rig access, it’s the perfect basecamp for your Tahoe adventure. Relax under the pines, then head out to explore nearby beaches, trails, Emerald Bay, and local dining. A quiet, secure stay with all the essentials—just minutes from the best of Tahoe.

5. Cook's Station Campground

47mi from Minden · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · Pioneer, CA

At Cook’s Station Campground & Restaurant we do things the old-school way—with a side of comfort. Established way back in 1863, this place is packed with history and mountain grit. We’ve got 16 RV spots with hookups for those who like a few modern touches, and 10 dry camping sites for the folks who prefer it raw and rugged. Here's why you should camp with us: Full hookups and dry camping spots Restaurant and Saloon on site Close to lakes and trails Fresh air and good water at 5,000 feet elevation

6. Sugar Pine Springs Resort

93%

(14)

48mi from Minden · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Somerset, CA

Get back to nature at our campground located in the El Dorado forest amongst towering evergreen pine, fir and cedar trees. Bordered by a stream, the Sopiago. Natural pools to cool down in during the hot Summer months. Natural Springs. Equipped campsites include a tent area, picnic table, BBQ. Spring water. Gold Pan in this central Gold Rush area. Nearby attractions include Gold Rush towns, Shanadoah Valley Wineries, Bear Lake River Reservoir, Silver Lake.

7. Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf

44mi from Minden · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Norden, CA

(45)

300 acres at 6200’ elevation. Located on donner summits west slope. Great views and easy access. The sites are spaced very well from each other to give great privacy. Nestled among large pines and granite boulders. Union Pacific tracks at the southern edge of the property. Developed camp sites with no hookups. 36 holes of Disc golf on property. Seasonal creeks and South Yuba river very close. 20 mins to Kidd lake, cascade lake and donner lake. 5 mins from Donner Summit and miles of hiking. 20 minutes from Truckee. 45 mins from lake Tahoe. Great on site pizzeria. Please no check-ins after 10pm.

8. Jason R.’s Land

45mi from Minden · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pollock Pines, CA

(51)

$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$

9. Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

89%

(57)

45mi from Minden · 1 site · Tent, RV · Verdi, CA

Find privacy, seclusion and solitude in nature at Alpine Valley Camp /|\. Encompassed by Tahoe & Toiyabe National Forests, this Alpine Valley rolls across 10,000 acres at approximately 5,500 feet with towering mountainous peaks on three of its sides rising above 8,000 feet. A meadow with creeks and wildlife lines the Valley floor. Depending on location, distant peaks in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range rise into view. The private and secluded Camp sits at the edge of the meadow on 40 acres. It offers multiple sites for vista viewing, camping and fire pits set along two seasonal creeks. Available for one camping party's exclusive use, basic camping comforts include picnic tables, metal and stone fire pits, and an out house with a view. Follow the lower creek out from the Camp into the meadow and Valley floor to find a damned swimming hole. Off-road vehicles, dirt bikes, hiking, fishing, water sports, golf, skeet, and the like are available at or near the Camp, as is LTE cellphone and data services. Alpine Valley Campsite is a short distance to Reno, Truckee, Stampede and Boca Reservoirs, and Lake Tahoe. It is located approx. 4.5 miles from Stampede Reservoir, 5.4 miles from the Truckee River in Verdi, and 17 miles from the Boca Reservoir and Truckee River in Truckee. Host highly recommends 4x4/AWD vehicle OR at least 7" of ground clearance, driving slow on dirt and rocky roads (approximately a 25-minute drive from entrance of Toiabye National Forest-Verdi, CA entrance at 5-10 mph), and experience with pack-in, pack-out camping. Detailed welcome letter with local destinations, GPS coordinates, Valley map and links provided upon booking. Nightly rate is for up to two campers; any camping party is limited to eight (8) campers and each additional camper is assessed a guest fee of $44/nt If you'd like to collect wood from the property, simply purchase a bundle of wood when completing your booking. This is a pack-in, pack-out camp. Cabela's located in Verdi for all camping needs. Eats, drinks, market, gas, et cetera, are conveniently located in Verdi, too. Alpine Valley Camp /|\ appreciates the outdoor enthusiasts who have come for one or more adventures. (Note price include 12.5% Sierra County Transient Occupancy Tax)

10. Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%

(37)

31mi from Minden · 1 site · Tent, RV · Reno, NV

We love to pass our free time here in the sunshine and juniper drafts overlooking the Sierras. Some days we watch the electric storms across the valley, other afternoons we picnic and nap while listening to the birds and wind. We love the peace and silence, which feels remarkably remote and only 20 minutes from Reno. Learn more about this land: We would love to share our 12 junipered acres with nature enthusiasts like ourselves. Bring your tent or camper and spend afternoons watching beautiful sunsets and wildlife from our land. Spectacular expansive views across the valley to the Sierras and Mount Rose. Conveniently 15 minutes from South Reno (40 minutes from North Lake Tahoe), the silence and absolute privacy here are restorative and replenishing. We do not have trash collection services available and we ask all guest to practice a “leave no trace” philosophy. **Because of extreme fire risk in our area we ask guests to refrain from having campfires for now. As this area is home to beautiful wildlife (and a few other distant homeowners) please visit with an intent to respect the quiet and privacy that makes this area so pleasurable for us all. Thanks for visiting and enjoy your time!

11. Coldstream Ice Haus

35mi from Minden · 1 site · Lodging · Truckee, CA

Located on 20 acres in Tahoe Wilderness, this is a cool off the grid, solar-powered, rustic cabin situated next to a stream. Sleeps 6-8 people. There is running hot and cold water, shower and a plumbed toilet. Kitchen with refrigerator, propane powered stove/oven, toaster, coffee maker. One bedroom on first floor. Dining/hang out area with firebox and cubbies for hanging/drying outdoor clothing. Upstairs loft has 5 single beds divided by 'pony' walls with shelving and 1 full bed. For winter use, there is a generator when needed. Heat from firebox will keep entire cabin warm. For winter, access provided by snowcat; guided trips only.

12. Sunset Serenity Ridge

49mi from Minden · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Somerset, CA

A peaceful ridgeway camp nestled high above the city lights overlooking a tranquil river canyon with incredible sunrises and sunsets - the perfect place to rest and recharge your natural soul batteries. Come stay and enjoy 11 acres with a flowing creek, ridge trail and National Forest for you to explore just beyond your campsite. The Consumnes River is just 3.8 miles from camp and has a great swimming and fishing. Just ask your host for directions! We have an organic farm just down the street called Mama Earth Farm where you can stop and grab fresh produce and eggs on the way up or down the mountain.

Camper favorites near Minden

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf

44mi from Minden · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Norden, CA

(45)

300 acres at 6200’ elevation. Located on donner summits west slope. Great views and easy access. The sites are spaced very well from each other to give great privacy. Nestled among large pines and granite boulders. Union Pacific tracks at the southern edge of the property. Developed camp sites with no hookups. 36 holes of Disc golf on property. Seasonal creeks and South Yuba river very close. 20 mins to Kidd lake, cascade lake and donner lake. 5 mins from Donner Summit and miles of hiking. 20 minutes from Truckee. 45 mins from lake Tahoe. Great on site pizzeria. Please no check-ins after 10pm.

Jason R.’s Land

45mi from Minden · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pollock Pines, CA

(51)

$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$
$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$
$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$
$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$
$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$

Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

89%

(57)

45mi from Minden · 1 site · Tent, RV · Verdi, CA

Find privacy, seclusion and solitude in nature at Alpine Valley Camp /|\. Encompassed by Tahoe & Toiyabe National Forests, this Alpine Valley rolls across 10,000 acres at approximately 5,500 feet with towering mountainous peaks on three of its sides rising above 8,000 feet. A meadow with creeks and wildlife lines the Valley floor. Depending on location, distant peaks in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range rise into view. The private and secluded Camp sits at the edge of the meadow on 40 acres. It offers multiple sites for vista viewing, camping and fire pits set along two seasonal creeks. Available for one camping party's exclusive use, basic camping comforts include picnic tables, metal and stone fire pits, and an out house with a view. Follow the lower creek out from the Camp into the meadow and Valley floor to find a damned swimming hole. Off-road vehicles, dirt bikes, hiking, fishing, water sports, golf, skeet, and the like are available at or near the Camp, as is LTE cellphone and data services. Alpine Valley Campsite is a short distance to Reno, Truckee, Stampede and Boca Reservoirs, and Lake Tahoe. It is located approx. 4.5 miles from Stampede Reservoir, 5.4 miles from the Truckee River in Verdi, and 17 miles from the Boca Reservoir and Truckee River in Truckee. Host highly recommends 4x4/AWD vehicle OR at least 7" of ground clearance, driving slow on dirt and rocky roads (approximately a 25-minute drive from entrance of Toiabye National Forest-Verdi, CA entrance at 5-10 mph), and experience with pack-in, pack-out camping. Detailed welcome letter with local destinations, GPS coordinates, Valley map and links provided upon booking. Nightly rate is for up to two campers; any camping party is limited to eight (8) campers and each additional camper is assessed a guest fee of $44/nt If you'd like to collect wood from the property, simply purchase a bundle of wood when completing your booking. This is a pack-in, pack-out camp. Cabela's located in Verdi for all camping needs. Eats, drinks, market, gas, et cetera, are conveniently located in Verdi, too. Alpine Valley Camp /|\ appreciates the outdoor enthusiasts who have come for one or more adventures. (Note price include 12.5% Sierra County Transient Occupancy Tax)

Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%

(37)

31mi from Minden · 1 site · Tent, RV · Reno, NV

We love to pass our free time here in the sunshine and juniper drafts overlooking the Sierras. Some days we watch the electric storms across the valley, other afternoons we picnic and nap while listening to the birds and wind. We love the peace and silence, which feels remarkably remote and only 20 minutes from Reno. Learn more about this land: We would love to share our 12 junipered acres with nature enthusiasts like ourselves. Bring your tent or camper and spend afternoons watching beautiful sunsets and wildlife from our land. Spectacular expansive views across the valley to the Sierras and Mount Rose. Conveniently 15 minutes from South Reno (40 minutes from North Lake Tahoe), the silence and absolute privacy here are restorative and replenishing. We do not have trash collection services available and we ask all guest to practice a “leave no trace” philosophy. **Because of extreme fire risk in our area we ask guests to refrain from having campfires for now. As this area is home to beautiful wildlife (and a few other distant homeowners) please visit with an intent to respect the quiet and privacy that makes this area so pleasurable for us all. Thanks for visiting and enjoy your time!

Coldstream Ice Haus

35mi from Minden · 1 site · Lodging · Truckee, CA

Located on 20 acres in Tahoe Wilderness, this is a cool off the grid, solar-powered, rustic cabin situated next to a stream. Sleeps 6-8 people. There is running hot and cold water, shower and a plumbed toilet. Kitchen with refrigerator, propane powered stove/oven, toaster, coffee maker. One bedroom on first floor. Dining/hang out area with firebox and cubbies for hanging/drying outdoor clothing. Upstairs loft has 5 single beds divided by 'pony' walls with shelving and 1 full bed. For winter use, there is a generator when needed. Heat from firebox will keep entire cabin warm. For winter, access provided by snowcat; guided trips only.

Sunset Serenity Ridge

49mi from Minden · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Somerset, CA

A peaceful ridgeway camp nestled high above the city lights overlooking a tranquil river canyon with incredible sunrises and sunsets - the perfect place to rest and recharge your natural soul batteries. Come stay and enjoy 11 acres with a flowing creek, ridge trail and National Forest for you to explore just beyond your campsite. The Consumnes River is just 3.8 miles from camp and has a great swimming and fishing. Just ask your host for directions! We have an organic farm just down the street called Mama Earth Farm where you can stop and grab fresh produce and eggs on the way up or down the mountain.

Public campgrounds near Minden

95%

(10)

Nevada Beach Campground

10mi from Minden · 49 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

92%

(6)

Zephyr Cove Resort and Campground

10mi from Minden · 150 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

Slept so well underneath the shade of these trees!

14mi from Minden · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Crystal Springs Campground

14mi from Minden · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Kit Carson Campground

83%

(23)

Camp Richardson

15mi from Minden · 400 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

98%

(43)

Fallen Leaf Campground

15mi from Minden · 188 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

This is the view from Inspiration Point, across the road from Bayview Campground.

18mi from Minden · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

(3)

Bayview Campground

Hope Valley Campground

18mi from Minden · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

18mi from Minden · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

(3)

Markleeville Campground

18mi from Minden · 140 sites · Tents, RVs · in D.L. Bliss State Park

(12)

Pine Campground

You can hike directly from the Beach Loop sites at DL Bliss to Emerald Bay - a great hike!

18mi from Minden · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in D.L. Bliss State Park

(22)

Beach Camp