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98% (425) • 865 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Placer County
Alta Pines Camp
1. Alta Pines Camp
92%
(31)
Dutch Flat, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Tucked away in the heart of the Northern Sierra, this private three-acre campsite offers a peaceful escape from the noise of everyday life. Surrounded by towering trees and fresh mountain air, it’s the perfect spot to unplug, recharge, and reconnect with nature.
Set up your tent and settle into the quiet. Whether you’re here for a quick overnight or a weekend reset, you’ll enjoy the simplicity and serenity this hidden gem has to offer.
Conveniently located just minutes off I-80 in the small town of Alta, you get the best of both worlds—easy access with a true off-the-grid feel.
A clean port-a-potty is available on site for your convenience.
Dog-friendly 🐾 (2 friendly property dogs may come say hi)
Fire pit available 🔥 (fires allowed in designated area)
If you’re looking to explore, you’re right in the middle of some amazing spots:
• Euchre Bar Trail (Alta) – A steep, rewarding hike for experienced hikers with incredible river views
• Stevens Trail (Colfax) – Scenic trail with historic charm and great swimming spots
• Rollins Lake (Colfax) – Perfect for swimming, kayaking, or relaxing by the water
• Pennyweight Trail (Colfax) – A shorter, peaceful hike along the Bear River
• Lake Valley (Emigrant Gap) – Quiet forest setting, great for exploring
• Emerald Pools (Emigrant Gap) – Crystal-clear swimming holes and waterfalls (a must-see!)
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Lazy Bear Cabin
2. Lazy Bear Cabin
95%
(50)
Alta, CA · 1 site
Minutes from highway 80 in quietly beautiful Blue Canyon, come relax in your very own Lazy Bear Cabin. This off the grid cabin features solar power with backup power being provided by generator. Enjoy the crackle of a camp fire,, plenty of parking for a few camper vans, and a large porch for all your fresh air desires. We have equipped our small cabin with a sleeper sofa, 42” tv, wood stove, full kitchen and running water for a full bathroom. Minutes from Yuba Gap, Lake Valley Reservoir, Boreal, Donner Ski Ranch and Sugar Bowl. Enjoy a 30 minutes drive to Truckee for shops and eats. We look forward to hosting your next vacation
Cabin is equipped with sofa bed along with a comfortable mattress.
***Please bring your preferred sheets, blankets, and pillows. You’ll also want to bring your own firewood, toilet tissue and paper towels . Feel free to gather wood from the forest bed through out the property while the burn ban is lifted.
Places to check out. Euchra bar hiking trail in Alta(experience hiker) Steven trails in Colfax Rollin lake in Colfax. Pennyweight trail in Colfax Lake valley in Emigrant Gap Emerald Pools in Emigrant Gap
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Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
3. Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
98%
(153)
Nevada City, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bright Bear Camp is a private two-acre property bordering Tahoe National Forest. We are located at 4300' elevation down a mostly dirt road along the beautiful Bear River and Bear Valley. This is a very peaceful spot among the trees with a small meadow and creek on the property.
As our name suggests, bears are occasionally in the area so keep an eye out. You may also see the spotted owls that live nearby - listen closely for their calls (https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Spotted_Owl/overview).
There is much to explore in the area and more with only a short drive to the South Yuba River, Emerald Pools, Lake Spaulding, Donner Pass, Donner Lake, and Truckee.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Tahoe National Forest
4. Tahoe National Forest
93%
(256)
National forest in California · 1382 sites
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
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Auburn State Recreation Area
5. Auburn State Recreation Area
92%
(12)
State park in California · 61 sites
Gold panning, whitewater rafting, and dirt-bike riding are just a few of the unique activities here.
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Campfires
The Cotten Farm
6. The Cotten Farm
100%
(1)
Auburn, CA · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
Beautiful farm location on the Wise Road Wine Trail. Minutes from historic downtown, the Auburn State Recreation Area, and Hidden Falls Regional Park. Quiet property with stunning sunsets.
This is a working farm with cattle, sheep, livestock guardian dogs, chickens, and one goat (yes, just one goat!). Great location for access to hiking, cycling, and river activities.
The tiny home features a full kitchen with a coffee bar and a full bathroom. A queen-size bed is available in the sleeping area, along with a reclining sofa in the living area that could sleep one to two children.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Private River Oasis
7. Private River Oasis
95%
(84)
Lake Of The Pines, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
If you're looking for a quiet and peaceful retreat, "Private River Oasis" is the perfect place for you. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo trip, this property offers everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay. With its stunning natural surroundings and modern convenient amenities "Private River Oasis" promises to be your perfect camping experience! So why wait? Book your stay today and start planning your dream vacation!
The Space:
A 13 ft Bell tent is setup for you with one queen bed and one single bed inside (beds are made with sheets and comforters). The tent sits approximately 75 ft above the river with breathtaking views of the river and canyon. If you are coming with a group, there is over an acre of flat land which is perfect for any type of tent setup.
At the tent site you’ll have access to a table and chairs, lounge chairs, picnic table, gas BBQ, basketball hoop and balls, rock campfire, kayaks, and a porta potty. A short 3-minute walk away from the tent you’ll find the shore of the Bear River.
Guest access:
The tent site is only accessible by 4-wheel drive vehicles. If you do not have a 4-wheel drive vehicle there is parking for up to four vehicles at the house. The tent site is less than a quarter mile walk downhill from the house.
River access:
If you’d like to visit the river to hang out, swim, or fish you can follow the dirt road next to the tent down to the river (3-minute walk). The riverfront has lounge chairs, a picnic table, and kayak's. The riverbank has small pebbles and rocks so water shoes are highly suggested for comfort when going into the water (recommended but not needed).
Come and enjoy the views of the river, forest, and wildlife!
This is a private tent site with one other listing on the property which is located at the house. You may rarely see other guests during your stay.
Check out is at 12pm. If you or anyone in your party stays past 12:30pm you will be charged for an extra night for your full party.
For guests that come for the day but do not stay the night there is a $25 fee per guest(s).
If your vehicle gets stuck on the property and you need a tow we may be able to accommodate for a $350 tow fee per vehicle.
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Sacred Valley Ranch Retreat
8. Sacred Valley Ranch Retreat
98%
(122)
North Auburn, CA · 2 sites
Learn more about this land:
Hiking on the 150 acres is available and we also are situated next to an 1100 acre park. There is a picnic area and a pond for seasonal swimming... We have boarding area if you are inclined to bring your horse. We have many amenities to help you relax while you adjust to our unique location. Rope chairs, hammocks, etc.
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Solstice Farms
9. Solstice Farms
98%
(20)
Loomis, CA · 2 sites
Escape to the charming town of Loomis, CA and experience a delightful farm stay at Solstice Farms. Nestled on a stunning 17-acre property, this is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Indulge in the peaceful ambiance as you spend your evenings on the deck, enjoying a BBQ feast or gathering around the inviting fire pit. Take leisurely strolls through the organic citrus orchard, breathing in the fragrant scents and immersing yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Don't forget to say hello to our friendly goats and adorable ducks, adding an extra touch of charm to your stay.
Make the most of your time in Loomis by planning a day trip to nearby Folsom Lake, where you can bask in the sun, swim, or engage in various water activities. If you're a wine enthusiast, be sure to explore the local wineries, where you can savor exquisite wines and soak up the serene vineyard views.
Solstice Farms offers a unique farm stay experience that combines relaxation, natural beauty, and the opportunity to connect with farm animals. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled exploration, you'll find it all here in Loomis, CA.
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Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
10. Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
94%
(125)
National forest in California · 933 sites
Beautiful lakeside views and endless exploration on the Nevada/California border.
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Eldorado National Forest
11. Eldorado National Forest
93%
(137)
National forest in California · 980 sites
Sierra Nevada gem offers lush forests, lakes, rivers, and peaks for year-round outdoor adventures.
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Martis Creek Lake
12. Martis Creek Lake
100%
(1)
Park in California · 25 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Martis Creek Lake.
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Campfires
Tahoe State Recreation Area
13. Tahoe State Recreation Area
State park in California · 1 site
The campground has 23 campsites with picnic tables, required-use food storage containers.
Folsom Lake
14. Folsom Lake
96%
(93)
Granite Bay, CA · 6 sites
PLEASE TAKE NOTE: THERE ARE 2 DIFFERENT CAMPGROUNDS AT 2 DIFFERENT LOCATIONS ON FOLSOM LAKE:
ONE LOCATION IS BEALS POINT CAMPGROUND IN GRANITE BAY. (HAS BOTH BASIC AND LUXURY GLAMPING)
THE 2ND LOCATION IS PENINSULA CAMPGROUND IN PILOT HILL (ONLY HAS BASIC GLAMPING)
Located at the base of the Sierra foothills, the lake and recreation area offers opportunities for hiking, biking, running, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, water-skiing and boating. Fishing offers trout, catfish, big and small mouth bass or perch. Visitors can also see the Folsom Powerhouse (once called "the greatest operative electrical plant on the American continent"), which from 1885 to 1952 produced 11,000 volts of electricity for Sacramento residents.
For cyclists, there is a 32-mile long bicycle path at Beals Point that connects Folsom Lake with many Sacramento County parks before reaching Old Sacramento. The park also includes Lake Natoma, downstream from Folsom Lake, which is popular for crew races, sailing, kayaking and other aquatic sports.
At both locations, you will stay in 16ft deluxe tents. Each tent has 2 full beds in them.
At Beals Point we offer "Luxury" Glamping with real furniture, cozy bedding, and all the amenities you need for a relaxing and fun filled stay for up to 8 people (AT BEALS POINT ONLY!).
At both Beals Point and Peninsula, we also offer "Basic" Glamping, where we bring the tent and mattresses, and you bring the rest. This means that you need to bring your own sheets, pillows, sleeping bags, blankets and other camping essentials. Close by the sites are public restrooms with running water, drinking water, and showers. Hiking trails are found all around at both locations. At Beals Point you can rent kayaks, visit the snack bar, or take a dip in the lake- whatever suits your needs can be found close by!
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Manzanita Mountain
15. Manzanita Mountain
Colfax, CA · 5 sites
Our property boasts 10 acres of private land nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, while being conveniently located 7 minutes off highway 80. On a hillside full of mature oak, pine, and manzanita trees, Manzanita Mountain currently has five individual campsites, a community fire pit, and a bathhouse with two showers, sinks, and new porta-potties. Almost a mile of trails weave through a private forest on half of the property. Each spacious campsite has its own fire pit, water supply, food storage, and level surfaces to spread out your camp stove and gear. Or if you don’t feel like cooking, Auburn and Colfax are a 20 min drive or less with many great restaurant options. Manzanita Mountain is ideally located near excellent hiking and water activities too. Perfect for couples, families, or groups of families to enjoy the outdoors.
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Rollins Lake Retreats & Adventures
16. Rollins Lake Retreats & Adventures
97%
(119)
Colfax, CA · 3 sites
Our property is lakeside at Rollins Lake In Colfax.
We live on over 30 private, beautiful acres with footpath access to Rollins Lake. (3 minute walk from the dome or house, and 10-15 minutes from the cabin) where most summer days here, are spent swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing ect., down at the water. Please note the Cabin is set on a seasonal CANNABIS garden. All three sites are vacation spots with AC and WIFI, not just simple accommodations, but experiences. This will be your memorable stay for the year!
The remarkable property is very hilly with pines and oaks. You can follow our driveway to the bottom and access the beginning of The Bear River which has a nice hiking trail alongside it or drive 8 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 10 minutes to the town of Colfax where you will find gas, groceries, and restaurants. 10 minutes to Intersate 80 in Colfax. Feels far away, yet close to services and the interstate.
We have a beautiful spot where you will not see any neighbors, so it is peaceful and private with gorgeous 360-degree views. It is also very safe! Bask in nature, quiet, and privacy! You can hoot and holler and have a great time!
In summer there is a 3-night minimum for the cabin and dome. Occasionally a two day midweek will pop up on the schedule last minute. To see correct pricing, enter your dates and number of adventurers, as they can fluctuate with holidays, weekends. Prices are decreased midweek.
We have 3 accommodations on the property
-A GUEST SUITE (lakeside), up to 5 people.
-A CABIN (15 min walk or 3 min drive/5 min walk, up to 4 people.
-A GLAMPING DOME with an additional teepee tent site (lakeside)! Up to 6 people.
We have fishing boat, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent. You book, and we will deliver you and the equipment to the water!
If you want an epic stay in the forest, private and away from others, this is your place.
Also close to Grass Valley (15min), Nevada City (20 min), Colfax (less than 10), Chicago Park Store (5min)
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Boondok Farms
17. Boondok Farms
100%
(3)
Colfax, CA · 4 sites
Welcome to your perfect getaway nestled in the heart of nature. Whether you're looking to unplug and unwind, or explore hiking trails right from your doorstep, this charming retreat offers the best of both worlds. The property is centrally located at the base of the Sierra foothills. It sits on 17 acres that are shared with the landowners.
This retreat has access to unlimited activities in both Nevada and Placer counties. It is in an excellent location close to many activities, attractions & happenings in Nevada & Placer Counties. Equestrian ranches, wineries, breweries, live music, nightlife, kayaking, hiking, fishing, mountain biking, fine dining, community events, farmers markets, boutique shopping, & more. There is an abundance of trails, lakes, and rivers to enjoy nearby (Yuba, Bear & American). Enjoy the peace & quiet and take in the sunset views through the oaks and pines, with glimpses of wildlife passing through. On those hot summer days the North Fork American river is a short (5 min-3 mile) drive for a cool, refreshing dip.
There is ample parking on the property. NO pets are allowed and NO Wood or Charcoal fires.
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Wifi
Coldstream Ice Haus
18. Coldstream Ice Haus
100%
(2)
Truckee, CA · 1 site
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.
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Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf
19. Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf
94%
(45)
Norden, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
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Potable water
Benson Hut
20. Benson Hut
100%
(1)
Soda Springs, CA · 2 sites
Benson Hut is a historic Sierra Club stone refuge built in 1939, tucked beneath the north face of Anderson Peak at roughly 8,350 ft. Set along the Pacific Crest Trail, it offers extraordinary views to the east, north, and west—and a true high-Sierra hut experience for experienced, well-prepared groups.
Access varies by season: in summer, Benson Hut is reachable by vehicle, while in winter it requires a ~5.5-mile hike or ski approach (expect roughly 1,800 ft of elevation gain on the typical route). Many guests use it as an overnight stop as part of more advanced backcountry routes and multi-day traverses.
This is serious mountain terrain. Please use extra caution: surrounding slopes are steep, avalanche hazard can be frequent, and conditions can become dangerous quickly when weather turns.
Inside the hut you’ll find:
• Upstairs sleeping loft accommodating up to 12 people
• Main room on the ground floor with wood-burning stove, table, & kitchen area.
• (Six fold-down bunks can be used when the main room isn’t crowded)
• Side rooms for firewood and limited maintenance supplies
• A two-story outhouse approximately 100 ft west of the hut.
By booking Benson Hut, you’re helping support the Sierra Club’s ongoing stewardship of these historic huts so they can continue welcoming visitors for generations to come.
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Cooking equipment
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Joanna
4 days ago
15 ft campervan
Very cool winery and property! Ryan was friendly and helpful.
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B
Brad
4 days ago
With pets
My three young boys, our dog, and I just got back from a truly unforgettable trip! This spot is an absolute gem, nestled in a really pretty valley that feels secluded and peaceful. It’s an incredible spot that you simply cannot miss.
We had an amazing time playing in the creek, and the boys spent hours splashing around, racing their homemade boats, and playing hide-and-go seek in the surrounding woods. There are great hiking trails right nearby that were perfect for exploring together. In the evenings, we had the best time cooking dinner in the well-appointed cabin, and of course, roasting marshmallows under the stars. It's really nice having the option to either camp outside in a tent, or enjoy the comfortable and cozy cabin. The boys are already asking when we can go back.
This was the perfect escape. If you’re looking for a beautiful and family-friendly outdoor adventure, this is it!
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I
Isiah
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
My partner & I rented out the tent which was super spacious. Two queen beds, we let our dog use the 2nd bed and he slept like a king. There were some holes in the tent which made me feel paranoid the bugs were going to get me throughout the night. It wasn’t too bad, BRING LOTS OF BUG SPRAY. The grill worked amazing and the water was perfect all weekend. My man loves to fish so this was perfect for us. He caught blue gill, bass, trout and a lobster! Which was super dope and unusual for us.
It was pretty quiet and private, you do share the river area with others which wasn’t too bad.
There were other couples and a family with three kids who did wine a lot, kinda messing with my quiet get away for my birthday but other than the kids crying I really have no complaints.
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Jennifer
2 weeks ago
With pets
We loved staying at the Riverside Retreat and exploring the river with our dogs. The kayaks were so fun and a generous addition to the beach. We stayed in the sheds and they can get warm on summer days so bring a portable fan if you want to help clear out the heat!
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A
Alyssa
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Boondok Farms
As someone who goes between camping, cabins and hostels to luxury hotels this place was a dream setup for me. Steffany the property owner was easy to communicate with and responded quickly. The cabin was ready to go when I arrived, bathroom onsite with a light at night time, no check in issues. The view in the morning was beautiful and had me feeling like I was waking up in a mini oasis away from the world.
The drive from Sacramento area to the property was easy to find with the Boondok Farm sign leading the path up to the property. As long as you have good tires and your car isn't lowered you'll be able to drive straight up to your cabin.
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C
Colleen
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Cotten Farm
The tiny house farm is relaxing, beautiful, and cozy! We were visiting family in Lincoln and looking for alternatives to a hotel. This was perfect! The day we left, we were able to buy fresh eggs, vegetables, and fruit! No need to stop at the grocery store- thank you!!
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G
Gerrit
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
The campsite is clean and well maintained, and we enjoyed a clear night with great stargazing. We also appreciated that the four sites are relatively spread out and that the owner has provided campfire rings. Rollins Reservoir is only 10-15 minutes away, and we liked the fact that this site is relatively close to Sacramento, making it a great destination for a quick camping trip. While not a criticism, the “facilities” are limited to a single porta potty so just know that prior to booking. With that said, there are a couple highway rest stops just 2 miles down the road if you want to use a real toilet.
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L
Laura
June 2026
With pets
Jeff's cabin was great - super cool location and clean and cozy, and a very good value. We loved exploring the areas around the cabin and there is so much to do. Jeff was a helpful host and a cool guy. Definitely recommend a stay to anyone in the area.
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M
Melissa
May 2026
Group trip
Beautiful place! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would come back in a heartbeat. Hot tub worked well and was so relaxing. The lake was gorgeous and only 10 minute drive away. We had such a relaxing weekend!!! Came here to celebrate my birthday and we want to make it an annual trip now. My friends said the futon was very comfortable. Plenty of extra blankets to use as well.
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M
Michiko
May 2026
Weekend Trip to Solstice Farms
Great location! Super cute! Lovely outdoor setting. Would stay again!
See moreE
Edward
May 2026
Weekend Trip to Lazy Bear Cabin
As my first Hipcamp stay, it was perfect. Perfect location, easy to find. The surrounding forest was beautiful. The cabin itself set was very nice and cozy. We did our best to keep it the way we found everything. We couldn’t find a sponge so we weren’t able to the dishes but not many were left. It was a great experience.
See moreC
Carly
May 2026
1 night at Boondok Farms
My boyfriend and I had a great weekend getaway here! The cabin is very comfy and the bathroom was nice as well. The property is beautiful, and a short drive to Grass Valley and Nevada City. A great spot for a getaway to the mountains! :)
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S
Shannon
May 2026
Weekend Trip to Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
Kelley has a cool spot about 40 min from
Downtown Nevada City! We loved the cabin- it was modern, SPOTLESSLY clean, and had everything you could need without extra clutter. We were looking to get out of the city, get into nature and do so with minimal packing of gear on our part. This cabin provided the perfect middle-ground experience for us. The bed was super comfortable, we were able to cook a great meal with the kitchen set up, and we enjoyed the luscious green views from inside the cabin. We also loved that Kelley provided coffee grounds and a pour over set up for guests- this felt generous with coffee prices these days. Kelley was friendly, responsive and helpful- she offered to refill the water when we were out for the day which was appreciated. There was an outdoor shower on site, but it’s closer to the main campers set up and we didn’t end up using it for that reason. Try out Kelleys spot and be sure to get some sun and swimming in at the Yuba River nearby!
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D
Daniel
May 2026
16 ft car
We had such an awesome stay at Mount Vernon Winery. My girlfriend and I camped there in our Tesla, and we ended up being the only campers, which made the whole experience feel super private and special.
When we arrived, we stopped by the tasting room and were immediately welcomed with a free tasting and a quick tour of the winery from Ryan, the owner’s son. He was really friendly and made the whole place feel warm and welcoming right away.
After the tasting, we bought a bottle of their bubbly rosé, which was incredible. It smelled and tasted almost like a brut strawberry shortcake, honestly something really unique that I haven’t had before. We took it down by the creek and had the entire little island area to ourselves, just hanging out, listening to music, and enjoying the setting.
While we were enjoying our time, the owner, Jim, came by and introduced himself. He was also super nice and welcoming, and even gave us his number in case anything came up or we needed anything, which was a really thoughtful touch.
The atmosphere was peaceful, romantic, and way cooler than we expected. The bathrooms were in a trailer-style setup, like the nicer portable restrooms you see at events, but they flushed and were clean, so no complaints there at all.
Overall, this was a really memorable stay. The hospitality, the wine, and the private creekside setting made it feel like a hidden gem. We’d absolutely come back.
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A
Amelie
May 2026
Tent
I thought this site was the best one our of the 4. It had more space.
It was a lovely weekend, we couldn't have asked for better.
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J
Jairo
May 2026
Weekend Trip to Benson Hut
Benson hut had the best views for Sunset, Moonset and Sunrise. If you like taking pictures great spot
The hut itself is nice and a great hike to get there
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Anna
May 2026
15 ft campervan
This is a beautiful site, surrounded by trees! It's very quiet and peaceful, and a perfect getaway not too far from Lake Tahoe. I definitely recommend staying here, for a peaceful getaway or as a home base for some adventures!
See moreN
Nicole
May 2026
Weekend Trip to Lazy Bear Cabin
Great cozy cabin. Very quiet and peaceful. Had everything needed. Jeff was great with communication and was very friendly and welcoming. My son was the one who stayed. I can't wait for my husband and I to go check it out ourselves. My son said he will definitely go back.
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Haley
May 2026
Tent
Beautiful spot, clean, well maintained, and the details have been thought of. Peaceful but close to amenities if you need anything. And the host is above and beyond kind and helpful!
See moreK
Kaylan
May 2026
With pets
The cabin is perfect size for a couple and had all the creature comforts you need. We brought our two dogs and they loved being outside and exploring in the woods while we enjoyed some porch reading. Host was responsive and friendly.
See morePlacer County camping guide
Where to go
Auburn
The historic heart of the California Gold Country, Auburn sits at the edge of the American River canyon where both forks of the river cut through dramatic gorge terrain. Most campers use it as a base for rafting, mountain biking, and hiking in the Auburn State Recreation Area. The town itself has solid gear shops and restaurants — useful if you're staging a longer Sierra trip.
Colfax
A smaller foothill town at roughly 2,400 feet, Colfax gives access to national forest camping along the Bear River and upper American River drainages. The elevation keeps temperatures more manageable in summer compared to Auburn. Less visited than the Tahoe corridor, it's a reasonable choice if you want dispersed camping without the competition.
Kings Beach
Kings Beach lines the north shore of Lake Tahoe with a broad sandy beach that gets genuinely warm in summer — by Tahoe standards, anyway. It's more laid-back than South Lake Tahoe, with a working-class character despite the prime real estate. State beach camping nearby books far in advance for July and August.
Lake Tahoe
The north and west shores of Lake Tahoe within Placer County include some of the most scenic waterfront camping in the Sierra. The lake sits at 6,225 feet and stays cold enough to require a wetsuit for extended swimming even in August. Campgrounds fill early — D.L. Bliss and Emerald Bay are in adjacent El Dorado County, but Sugar Pine Point and Tahoe State Recreation Area are nearby. Shoulder season in September and October offers the same scenery with far fewer people and surprisingly warm days.
Auburn State Recreation Area
The Auburn State Recreation Area covers 42,000 acres of canyon land along the north and middle forks of the American River, making it a large and popular recreation area in the state parks system. Primitive camping is available along the river corridors, and the trail network sees more mountain bikers and trail runners than casual hikers. Spring through early summer is the prime season, when the river is running and temperatures haven't yet peaked.
When to go
The best camping window in Placer County runs from late April through October, though the county's elevation range means different zones peak at different times. The Tahoe basin is best July through September, with July and August drawing the largest crowds. The lower foothill zone around Auburn is more comfortable in April–June and again in September–October, when triple-digit valley heat hasn't reached this high. Winters close many Tahoe campgrounds and bring significant snow above 5,000 feet.
Spring (March–May)
The foothills green up fast after winter rains, and the American River runs high and cold through April — prime season for whitewater. Temperatures in Auburn typically reach the mid-60s in April, climbing into the low 80s by May. Snow lingers at Tahoe elevations through April; Kings Beach campgrounds typically open in late May.
Summer (June–August)
Tahoe campgrounds hit their stride in July, with highs in the 70s and clear days topping 90% of the month. Down in Auburn, summer runs genuinely hot — highs regularly hit the low-to-mid 90s in July and August, which pushes most camping activity to morning and evening. The entire county is bone dry: July sees essentially no precipitation.
Fall (September–November)
September and October are arguably the best months to camp in Placer County. Tahoe campgrounds clear out after Labor Day but stay open through mid-October, with daytime highs in the mid-60s and clear skies over 80% of the time. Auburn cools down to pleasant hiking weather. The first significant rains usually arrive in November.
Winter (December–February)
Most high-elevation campgrounds close by November, but winter opens up Tahoe for a different kind of trip — ski camping and snowshoeing exist in the backcountry, and some lower-elevation sites near Auburn stay accessible. Temperatures in the foothill zone drop to lows in the low 30s and highs in the mid-50s most of the time. Snow at Tahoe can be heavy; check road conditions before heading up on CA-89 or I-80.
