Mountainous camping near Topaz Lake

Topaz Lake is a high desert border lake town offering fantastic fishing, water sports, and land-based fun.

96% (860 reviews)
96% (860 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Topaz Lake

Available this weekend

Under $50

11 top mountainous campgrounds near Topaz Lake

90%
(928)

Bridgeport Reservoir Campground

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · CA
Bridgeport Reservoir is a lake at the lower end of Bridgeport Valley in Mono County, California. Its earth-filled dam was constructed in 1923 by the Walker River Irrigation District, along the East Walker River. The campground and marina was built I-don't-know-how-long ago, but it sure is nice! About Us: Welcome to Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground. Join us for the classic camping and fishing experience with unique views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Within the Toiyabe National Forest, Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground is conveniently located near two distinct hot spring areas. A true angler's paradise, the Reservoir has excellent trout fishing from spring through fall and is close by to multiple rivers for incredible fly fishing. A short 30-minute drive to Tioga pass will bring you straight into the heart of Yosemite National Park. Off-road enthusiasts will have a heyday will the plethora of 4x4 trails in the area as well as the famous trail that brings you right to the Bodie Ghost Town. Climate & Ecosystem: At 6,400 feet (1,950 meters), this high desert climate has little to moderate tree coverage and gets hot during the days and cool at night. The conditions are much like Joshua Tree National Park or Alabama Hills camping area. During your visit, you will notice many flying insects that resemble mosquitos. These Chironomid are harmless and do not bite. On the contrary, the mosquito presence is very minimal. Swimming in the lake is possible usually between April to July.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$27
 / night
99%
(861)

Paradise Shores Camp

46 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Bridgeport, CA
We're a family owned RV Park & Campground located on the shores of Bridgeport Reservoir. Together with our crew, we're excited to welcome you into our newly adopted home. We believe in campfires, starry nights, good laughs, exploration, a deep sleep and an early rise. The mountains are a place to get back to basics, a place to explore, to breathe. So turn off your phone and turn on your senses. It’s important to us that our guests don’t feel they are renting a tent/RV site or a camper as much as they’re immersing themselves into the outdoor experience. You may just want to sit outside and read for days, enjoy campfires and eat s'mores. For more adventurous, there's a full slate of self-guided recreational activities, such as hiking, kayaking, fishing, ATVing, rock climbing, biking, natural water slides, stand up paddle boards, bird watching, available in the area. We do have modern conveniences such as wifi internet; however, we encourage our guests to “unplug” and immerse in the slow paced life instead. At Paradise Shores, we believe in protecting people, animals and the planet. We make sure that the majority of products we use at our camp is recycled, composted, or re-used. We prefer to use products that are produced in a sustainable way and avoid those that aren't. We are continuously reducing the amount of waste we generate and actively promote recycling of aluminum, plastic, glass, and cardboard. We pack our own recycling and haul it to the nearest recycling facility which is an hour away. We co-opt the drive with other activities to reduce waste. We don’t use individually packaged toiletries or one-use products. We use plant and planet friendly detergent. We're based in a desert. We share our precious water with the entire planet. With only 326 million cubic miles of water on the earth, the decreasing amounts of access to quality fresh water is alarming to us. We monitor how we use water in our day-to-day activities and are constantly working on ways to reduce our consumption of fresh water resources. We hope you can help us maintain this greener camping! We hope Paradise Shores Camp becomes your home as it is ours. It’s located in one of the most spectacular areas in the world. We’re surrounded on three sides by the high Sierra Nevada Mountains. Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne Meadows, Mono Lake, June Lake, Virginia Lakes, and Twin Lakes, as well as the historic gold-mining town of Bodie, CA are all within a short drive from our place. We're proud to know this area intimately and are excited to share the secret spots with you. The excellent hiking/running trails including the Pacific Crest Trail, thousands of miles of ATV, dirt bike and mountain bike trails are accessible right from our camp or within a short drive from here. The surrounding terrain offers endless activities and unbelievable scenery in remote wilderness settings.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$36
 / night

Camp Markley

20 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Markleeville, CA
Nestled in Alpine county, the ranch is located 30 min from South Lake Tahoe, 20 min from Kirkwood, and 15 min from the Carson River. The county is a haven for fishing, hunting, mountain biking, river rafting, hiking, and skiing. The 35-acre property offers ponds, creeks, natural springs, meadows, pines, aspens, trails, and abundant wildlife.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
$50
 / night

VintageTrailer Vineyard

4 sites · RVs10 acres · Topaz Ranch Estates, NV
The Vintage Trailer Vineyard was born of Susan’s love for all things vintage, nature and hospitality. "We once spent a romantic weekend in a Stone House in the middle of a Napa Valley Vineyard." That distant memory, and the beauty that surrounds the Walker River Estate inspired us to create our own version of a unique and special Vintage Vineyard Getaway. We also do a select and limited number private events, retreats, celebrations and wine tastings. Planting & cultivating vineyards and making wine at 5400 foot elevation in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, Greg is living a lifelong dream after 30 years as a wine importer. Currently at 900 vines and growing, we have had success in bottling award winning "Garage wines" with an eye toward going commercial one day. The vineyards surround the house and winery, sitting on a bench above the Walker River in Southern Douglas CountyLearn more about this land:Imagine your own private vineyard RV space with gorgeous Mountain and vineyard views. Relax, unwind, uncork! Enjoy beautiful Sierra sunsets & starry nights. Sip our estate wine, hike, bike, fish nearby Walker River E Fork, swim or kayak. Just 8 miles to lake Topaz, 45 min to LakeTahoe and much more.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
$65
 / night
95%
(21)

L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

1 site · RV, Tent130 acres · Washoe Valley, NV
We sit on 130 acres of primarily pasture over looking Washoe Valley and Washoe Lake. Olde LYFE Alpacas offers visits with the animals, including an organized 60 min Peaceful Walk with an alpaca where you’ll experience them up close. To book an experience, go to www.oldelyfealpacas.com. There is a small retail store on site with a variety of products made with alpaca fiber, including the most delightful alpaca socks!!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$25
 / night

Hartman Family Farm

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Wellington, NV
Small Family Farm, including Sheep, Goats, Alpacas, Chickens and a large garden. Guests can feed animals, tend stalls and help mange the farm. We offer a small gift shop of local hand made goods. Location is 1 hour from South Lake Tahoe, including excellent fishing by Walker River and Topaz Lake. If you are interested in booking horse riding during your stay please message before booking.
Trash
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(6)

ELEMENTS LODGE

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Camp Connell, CA
You get the entire lodge! Whether you have a large family, belong to a social or recreational group, or celebrating a holiday/event, this dorm-style lodge provides the perfect location and amenities. Approximately 5,400 sqft of open living space.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from 
$850
 / night

Fairyland West

1 site · Tent10 acres · Virginia City, NV
This property is located near The Tahoe National Forest and is in the northern Sierra Nevadas. On the west side, the forest is characterized by steep, rugged canyons and amidst dense pines and firs. Lofty peaks along the Sierra crest provide 5 miles from Virginia City for special events or tourism.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
96%
(37)

Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

1 site · RV, TentReno, 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!  
Pets
from 
$153
 / night
Booked 4 times

Whites Creek Grounds

1 site · RV2 acres · Reno, NV
2.5 acres of square land near the edge of town. The area is mostly dirt with scattered large rocks. The property has paved access from the road but no power/water/utility hookups just yet. Situated 4 minutes from freeway I-580 (395), this campsite is close enough to town for convenience, yet distant
Pets
from 
$35
 / night
Saved 13 times

Camp in the Woods

13 sites · RVs160 acres · Yerington , NV
160 acres in the woods with 2 natural springs or artesian wells - private secluded location - Lots of freedom - Beautiful views -  Douglas Fir - Pine - Oak -  Forest Land - Abundant wildlife including wild turkeys, wild pigs, black tail deer, and much more - Off the grid - Located approximately 35 miles due west of Red Bluff -  - Map Coordinates are → 40.160705 / -122.808948do NOT contact me with unsolicited services or offersLearn more about this land:Majestic desert and mountain views all around. This mini-ranch is located 5 minutes from the winding Walker River, 15 minutes from the beautiful Carson River and Fort Churchill State Historic Park, and 20 minutes from Lahontan Lake. If you have a fondness for farms, desert landscapes and rivers, then you'll enjoy the scenery and picturesque surroundings. The ranch is located around the heart of the farming sector of the Mason Valley and is surrounded by thousands of acres of lush, green farmland and quaint family cattle ranches nestled right smack in the middle of thousands upon thousands of acres of scenic nature. An hour's drive will take you to either Reno, Virginia City, or Carson City; take your pick. Lake Tahoe is about an hour and a half drive. The nearest town is Yerington Nevada, which is 10 minutes away (about ten miles). There are three casinos in Yerington, and there is also a well kept public pool. Yerington also has restaurants and a bowling alley. There are also many natural hot springs ALL OVER the area. The commercial hot springs resorts in Carson City seem to be quite a big attraction among travelers. Depending on the size of your RV, you do have the option of situating your RV inside of the metal barn (as an extra during booking, see details in the extras category), if you prefer a shaded/sheltered area. You may also purchase use of electricity, 110V, 12 amps (as an extra during booking, see details in the extras category). Expect to wake up to our crowing roosters because our chickens like to roam the ranch, so your pets must be contained so they won't try to eat our chickens. The chickens do get locked in their coop at night. Occasionally, we will give you free fresh eggs when our hens are laying. Here at the campsite, there is plenty of parking and space to maneuver.
Pets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
$49
 / night

Dog-friendly getaways

Value Prop
Value Prop

Mountainous camping near Topaz Lake guide

Overview

Located just north of the Nevada-California border along Highway 395, the small town of Topaz Lake is an ideal base for exploring the man-made lake of the same name that straddles the two states. With 25 miles of shoreline, Topaz Lake is a popular destination for boating, watersports, and fishing, particularly for trophy trout and bass. The surrounding high desert offers hiking, biking, horseback riding, and off-roading trails, with more rugged terrain to be found in the nearby Eastern Sierra Mountains. Enjoy car, tent, and RV camping around Topaz Lake, or additional options in the forests, lakes, and mountains nearby.

Where to go

Walker Lake

East of Topaz Lake, Walker Lake is a remnant of the ancient Lake Lahontan that used to cover most of western Nevada and eastern California. Fishing, swimming, water skiing, and speed boat races are popular here. Camping options can be found at Speedboat Beach north of Hawthorne and at the Walker Lake State Recreation Area.

Markleeville, Kirkwood, and Highway 4 Corridor

West of Topaz Lake, campers can find hot springs and camping at Grover Hot Springs State Park, near Markleeville. Additional campgrounds can be found along the west fork of the Carson River and several small lakes near Kirkwood, a popular outdoor recreation destination with a ski resort. Or head along Highway 4 towards Arnold and Calaveras Big Tree State Park and find numerous forest service campgrounds in the Stanislaus National Forest. For backcountry options, head into the Mokelumne or Carson-Iceberg Wilderness areas.

Lake Tahoe

Located just 40 miles northwest of Topaz Lake is the much larger Lake Tahoe with 72 miles of shoreline, which also straddles both Nevada and California. Dozens of beaches and campgrounds can be found around the lake, including at Nevada Beach Campground and Zephyr Cove on the Nevada side, and in South Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay State Park and D.L. Bliss State Park on the California side.

Highway 395 South

Heading south along Highway 395, campers will find plenty of camping tent and RV camping options, including Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest campgrounds along the highway just south of Topaz Lake. Further south, find cabins, tent, and RV camping options around Bridgeport, Lee Vining, the east side of Yosemite National Park, and around June Lake and Mammoth Lakes

When to go

Fishing season runs from January to September at Topaz Lake. Winter and early spring are the best times for fishing the lake, when other area lakes and rivers are frozen or covered with ice, though Topaz Lake does get some snow over the winter. Summer temperatures make boating and water sports like swimming, jet skiing, and water skiing especially pleasant. 

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Hipcamp is the most comprehensive resource for beautiful private campsites.

Discover and reserve tent camping, RV parks, cabins, treehouses, and glamping.

Download the Hipcamp App

Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.