The best campgrounds near Sparks, Nevada with wildlife watching

East of Reno, Sparks offers a central location to surrounding state parks and lavish lakes. Take a short scenic drive to Lake Tahoe for clear waters, rugged trails, and iconic views—here, Lake Tahoe campers can pitch a tent waterside and then hike or bike along the crest of the Carson Mountain Range which connects to the 170-mile trail wrapping the lake. Between Tahoe and Sparks, Washoe Lake State Park features another pristine waterway in Washoe Valley wrapped with views of multiple mountain ranges. Journey north of Sparks to the picturesque Pyramid Lake, home to unique rock formations and unique Nevada history as well as lakefront camping accommodations for those who want to stay for a few days.

97% (243)

Top-rated campgrounds

$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$

4. 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)

5. 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.

6. Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%

(37)

12mi from Sparks · 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!

East of Reno, Sparks offers a central location to surrounding state parks and lavish lakes. Take a short scenic drive to Lake Tahoe for clear waters, rugged trails, and iconic views—here, Lake Tahoe campers can pitch a tent waterside and then hike or bike along the crest of the Carson Mountain Range which connects to the 170-mile trail wrapping the lake. Between Tahoe and Sparks, Washoe Lake State Park features another pristine waterway in Washoe Valley wrapped with views of multiple mountain ranges. Journey north of Sparks to the picturesque Pyramid Lake, home to unique rock formations and unique Nevada history as well as lakefront camping accommodations for those who want to stay for a few days.

97% (243)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

97%

(199)

16mi from Sparks · 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. 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.

3. Sierra Farms Meadow View Camp Sites

100%

(3)

39mi from Sparks · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Beckwourth, CA

Sierra Valley Farms is an organic farm nestled in majestic Sierra Valley at 5000 ft. Come and enjoy our organic farm setting and be involved in our farm harvests or operation, or enjoy our Friday Farmers Market, Saturday night Barn Dinners, or Sunday Brunches. Visit our adjacent Sierra Valley Nature Center and trails. (No dogs allowed on nature trails due to affects to wildlife).

$Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs$

4. 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)

5. 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.

6. Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%

(37)

12mi from Sparks · 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!

Public campgrounds near Sparks

100%

(1)

Lookout Campground

20mi from Sparks · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

100%

(2)

Mount Rose Campground

20mi from Sparks · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

100%

(1)

Washoe Lake Campground

21mi from Sparks · 49 sites · Tents, RVs · in Washoe Lake State Park

Took amazing photos here and made some great s'mores!

100%

(2)

Boca Spring Campground

22mi from Sparks · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tahoe National Forest

Pardon the mess. Site 9 had a decent tent site.

Boyington Mill Campground

22mi from Sparks · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tahoe National Forest

Saw really cool stars at night and great hikes during the day!

Boca Rest Campground

23mi from Sparks · 34 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tahoe National Forest

100%

(3)

Emigrant Group Campground

23mi from Sparks · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tahoe National Forest

Dayton Campground

23mi from Sparks · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dayton State Park

Logger Campground

24mi from Sparks · 201 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tahoe National Forest

Incredible views, the water was a little low but still had a great time with the kids!

100%

(4)

Boca Campground

24mi from Sparks · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tahoe National Forest

Prosser Ranch Group Campground

27mi from Sparks · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Tahoe National Forest

100%

(2)

Prosser Family Campground

28mi from Sparks · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tahoe National Forest

Stories from the community

S

Sean

2 weeks ago

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

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.

D

Daniel

2 weeks ago

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

2 weeks ago

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

3 weeks ago

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.

R

Robert

September 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Sierra Farms Meadow View Camp Sites

Gary's direction to the farm were simply & exact. He has 4 camp sites, each with extensive & beautiful views over the Sierra Valley. He was very helpful and informative about the area. We were there for the last of the Farmers Markets. Great produce & ready to eat foods available. We had purchased tickets to the Sunday brunch as well - delicious & extensive menu. We couldn't stop eating. It was well worth it!

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.

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.

M

Michael

September 2025

22 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sierra Farms Meadow View Camp Sites

Very friendly host. Wide open meadow easy to set up trailer. Great views, beautiful sunset. Peaceful nights with only the occasional sounds of singing coyotes.

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.

K

Kristiana

August 2025

17 ft campervan

With kids

2 nights at Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

Beautiful spot, wonderful hosts, very well marked camping that’s spread out, and feels private. Composting bathrooms and neat outdoor shower is a plus!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

92%

(69)

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Mono City, California

100%

(1)

Washoe Lake State Park

Washoe Valley, Nevada

93%

(255)

Tahoe National Forest

Graniteville, California

Dayton State Park

Silver City, Nevada

Fort Churchill State Historic Park

Silver Springs, Nevada

95%

(67)

Plumas National Forest

Little Grass Valley, California

Donner Memorial State Park

Truckee, California

Lahontan State Recreation Area

Silver Springs, Nevada

94%

(122)

Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

South Lake Tahoe, California

Other options near Sparks

Meeks Bay Resort & Marina

43mi from Sparks · 1 site · Tahoma, CA

Meeks Bay Resort stands out as a unique family vacation destination, steeped in history and surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe (Da ow aga). Nestled on the western shore of this iconic lake, the resort offers a serene escape from the fast-paced city life. The rich heritage of the Washoe Tribe, who have called this area home for thousands of years, adds to the charm and cultural significance of Meeks Bay, making it an ideal place to rejuvenate and connect with nature. Visitors can enjoy the sandy shores of Meeks Bay beach, or take to the crystal-clear waters by renting a kayak or paddleboard. For those who love hiking, the area boasts numerous trails that meander along the lake, as well as the Meeks Bay Trail, which ascends into the stunning Sierra Nevada Desolation Wilderness Area, leading to Phipps Pass and beyond. For additional information, guests can download resources from the US Forestry Service. The resort features ample Day-Use parking and a grill for those looking to satisfy their appetites after a day of adventure. Guests are encouraged to visit the main building for supplies, recreational gear, and clothing, and to engage in conversation with members of the Washoe Tribe. Accommodations at the resort cater to a variety of

Pets

Toilets

Lake Davis Campground

45%

(10)

46mi from Sparks · 8 sites · Portola, CA

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Clio’s Rivers Edge RV Park

48mi from Sparks · 179 sites · Clio, CA

Clio’s River’s Edge RV Park stands out as an award-winning mountain retreat, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Nestled near over 100 pristine lakes and 1,000 miles of fishing streams, this RV resort is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and families alike. With seven golf courses nearby, horseback riding opportunities, and a variety of recreational activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The Lakes Basin Recreation Area, located in the southeastern part of the county near Clio’s RV Park, boasts hundreds of scenic hiking trails. Adventurous hikers can tackle the challenging climbs to the summits of Sierra Buttes, Mt. Elwell, or Eureka Peak. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the picturesque Madora Lake within Plumas Eureka State Park offers a tranquil hiking option. Just north of Portola, the Lake Davis Recreation Area features a 5.1-mile hiking trail along the lake's east shore, providing access to beautiful campgrounds. An additional four miles of trails were added last year, enhancing the area's appeal. Dog lovers will be pleased to know that leashed pets are welcome on all National Forest hiking trails, although within Plumas-Eureka State Park, dogs are restricted to the Grass Lake trail. In Lassen Volcanic

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Sparks with wildlife watching guide

Where to go

Lake Tahoe

An hour south of Sparks sits Lake Tahoe-Nevada State Park. It features crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, boat launches, and renowned skiing hills. Sand Harbor, Memorial Point, Hidden Beach, and Spooner Lake provide convenient on-site camping with picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Choose from frontcountry, backcountry, RV camping, or cabin rentals at other private campgrounds around the lake. Check out Flume Trail above Sand Harbour for a challenging yet stunning point-to-point mountain bike ride. Or hike a portion of the 170-mile Tahoe Rim Trail.

Pyramid Lake

On the Paiute Tribe Reservation, Pyramid Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Nevada with deep blue waters and unique rock formations. Known for fishing, swimming, picnicking, and camping, the lake also offers two on-site campgrounds, Pelican Point and Shot Dog, with restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. Primitive campers can also try dry camping by the beach. Pyramid Lake Marina and Beach offers boat rentals, beach access, and a convenience store.

Washoe Lake State Park

Step into the scenic valley of Washoe Lake State Park with surrounding views of the Carson, Virginia, and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges. Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and water sports along sandy beaches and shady trees. On-site tent and RV camping are available year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with access to restrooms, showers, a dump station, water/utility hookups, and paid wifi. Hikers can then trek along the American Discovery Trail to experience the rugged landscapes of Nevada’s beautiful backcountry.

When to go

Camping near Sparks is a year-round activity with activities in every season. Summers are hot and arid with average temperatures in the 90s, while winters drop below freezing bringing moisture and snow. Summers are perfect for days out on the lake, while winter campers can cross-country ski, snowboard, or ice fish.