The best campgrounds near Sparks, Nevada with climbing

Sparks sits in striking distance of some of the Sierra’s best climbing, and you’ll find over 2,600 camping spots geared to those who want chalk on their hands and granite under their boots. Prices hover around $180 a night, but you can snag a site for as little as $89. Look for campsites that welcome pets, allow campfires, and offer showers—a rare trio when you’re this close to true vertical adventure. The top picks? Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs (39 reviews) puts you minutes from classic trad routes. The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek (15 reviews) lines you up for early-morning bouldering and late-night swims. For something quirky, Magical Lost Sierra Bungalow! (2 reviews) mixes rustic charm with quick access to the best cracks. Between climbs, keep an eye out for wildlife or cool off in a creek—Sparks camping is anything but routine.

96% (69)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

98%

(26)

44mi from Sparks · 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.

$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$

2. Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

89%

(57)

18mi from Sparks · 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)

3. Magical Lost Sierra Bungalow!

100%

(5)

48mi from Sparks · 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.

Sparks sits in striking distance of some of the Sierra’s best climbing, and you’ll find over 2,600 camping spots geared to those who want chalk on their hands and granite under their boots. Prices hover around $180 a night, but you can snag a site for as little as $89. Look for campsites that welcome pets, allow campfires, and offer showers—a rare trio when you’re this close to true vertical adventure. The top picks? Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs (39 reviews) puts you minutes from classic trad routes. The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek (15 reviews) lines you up for early-morning bouldering and late-night swims. For something quirky, Magical Lost Sierra Bungalow! (2 reviews) mixes rustic charm with quick access to the best cracks. Between climbs, keep an eye out for wildlife or cool off in a creek—Sparks camping is anything but routine.

96% (69)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

98%

(26)

44mi from Sparks · 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.

$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$

2. Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

89%

(57)

18mi from Sparks · 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)

3. Magical Lost Sierra Bungalow!

100%

(5)

48mi from Sparks · 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.

Public campgrounds near Sparks

100%

(1)

Stories from the community

C

Charles

2 weeks ago

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.

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

Anthony

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

Great space. Comfortable bed. Everything you need to make your stay easy and enjoyable, The stream and the property are beautiful.

E

Emily

August 2025

2 nights at The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

Loved the property! Perfect little getaway, so peaceful.

m

malori

August 2025

Weekend Trip to The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

Amazing! Just amazing :) we had the best time, perfect amount of calm and seclusion.

E

Eric

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

Perfect little campsite! My 4 year old loved it. Beautiful spot and great to fall asleep to the sound of the gurgling creek.

M

Molly

July 2025

With kids

3 nights at Magical Lost Sierra Bungalow!

The cabin is beautiful, comfortable and had everything we needed. We loved dinners on the back deck and coffee in rocking chairs on the front deck. Incredible nearby walkable swimming hole and short drive to beautiful alpine lakes. Thank you so much Rachel. Your place gave our little friend group such a nice place to be together.

Melissa

July 2025

3 nights at The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

My husband and I had such a beautiful stay at Dan’s property! We loved how private it was and enjoyed a romantic holiday weekend! We loved all the thoughtful touches around camp including the tent and bathroom! It perfectly fit our needs and we can’t wait to return to take in the spectacular views another time! We enjoyed the drive to the camp as well and feel that it would be fun to bring our kids and their dog next time! We loved the creek and took and dip and fished a little as well! We can tell that they put love into what they do and we are looking forward to the next time we get to stay again!

Viewing mountain peaks from the Alpine Valley floor

B

July 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

We've been to this campsite multiple times. We love the solitude and peacefulness of the property. We appreciate the responsiveness of the host. It's truly an off-the-grid adventure and we look forward to coming back next year!

K

Kate

June 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

Great spot with a thoughtful setup! It was cooler down in the canyon by the creek than elsewhere in the area, which was nice when it started getting hotter! We decided to use the heater the second night and it warmed up the tent FAST, even on the lowest setting. We had to turn it off after 5 minutes not to overheat! Not as buggy as I'd assumed, given how close it is to the water (still a bit, but that's nature, folks!). The outhouse, lights, and dining table setup are all well thought out and nicely done. There is a trek up and down the hill from the car, so be warned if you might struggle on a very short but steep hill with loose dirt, but it was fine for us. I think we'll probably come back!

A

Abigail

June 2025

With kids

2 nights at The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

What a slice of heaven on earth this enchanting glampsite was! My husband, toddler and I enjoyed our stay so much and it was a nice break not to have to set up our own tent/toilet. The sound of the creek was absolutely heavenly and made this site especially tranquil. We appreciated the excitement directions given to get here, comfortable bed set up to sleep on, and convenient saw dust toilet with the provided bags/sawdust.

K

Kiara. A

June 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

Very lovely and secluded location. Would definitely recommend.

J

Juliana

May 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Retreat on Big Grizzly Creek

This was my first time using Hipcamp, and it completely exceeded my expectations. I usually tent camp and always hope to find a spot that feels more remote than a typical campground—this place delivered. It was elevated, peaceful, private, and surrounded by nature, with the relaxing sounds of the creek and birdsong all around. The site was clean, well-maintained, and had thoughtful amenities. Dan provided detailed directions, making everything super easy. It’s close to Lake Davis and town, yet feels like a true escape. Do come prepared for bugs this time of year—it’s nature, after all! There was a provided citronella candle, but it wouldn’t hurt to bring your favorite mosquito repellent. This is exactly what I hoped Hipcamp would offer: a chance to camp in beautiful, respectful spaces you wouldn’t otherwise be able to access.