The best camping near Donner Memorial State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Donner Memorial State Park adventure.

The best camping near Donner Memorial State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Donner Memorial State Park adventure.

Camping near Donner Memorial State Park

97% (16 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Donner Memorial State Park adventure.

A gripping piece of history meets up with a mountain lake and spectacular mountain views.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Donner Memorial State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • Sierra Sol Camp
  • Communal kitchen and bar open till 10 on school nights:)
  • Sierra Sol Camp
96%
(429)

Sierra Sol Camp

11 sites · Lodging18 acres · Camptonville, CA
Welcome to Sierra Sol Camp! We have 9 different sites available to book as well as the option to book the entire property. Please scroll down to see all of the available options. Here are the sites we offer: -Sierra Sol Diva Den (cabin) -Water Tower (cabin) -Daisy Belle (canvas tent) -Rise and Shine (canvas tent) -Sierra Sol Camp Lotus (cabin) -Sierra Sol Vintage Trailer (onsite trailer) -Sierra Shipping Container Retreat (cabin) -Sierra Sol Main Cabin (cabin) -Sierra Sol Camp Whole Property (all sites) The Sierra Sol Camp project has been hosting community events and friend gathering for years. We take great pride in extending a warm and welcoming space for all our visitors and extending the invitation to campers was a great next step. We have listings ranging from yurts to shipping containers, an old water tower converted to a mini suit to a vintage trailer and canvas tents. The diva den was my old music studio and the main cabin is our family cabin. This is a magical and sacred space filled with a ton of memories please come join our community and nook in the sierras and make some more. We are based in between the middle fork of the Yuba river right where it meets up with Oregon Creek. If you like a long walk it is 2.5 miles down the dirt road to Oregon Creek and the middle fork of the Yuba. Driving takes 5 to 10 mins. The other direction is the largest lake in our county Bullards Bar Reservoir and Emerald Cove Marina. We are 1 mile down Marysville Rd. from a launch called dark day. There is a trailhead at the top of overflow boat parking for a public swimming hole on the lake. On our property, we have a main house with its own private facilities such as a kitchen, shower, and bath. On the land, we have 9 total unique cabin and canvas tent structures converted into boutique-like campsites. We have an epic outdoor entertaining kitchen and patio with an outdoor pizza oven and a little dog rinse behind the outdoor shower. The bathhouse is right across the way and provides a private but shared guest shower house, tub and sink. The sauna and fenced-in dog area are near the shipping container site. The sauna has just been remodelled with a shower and bathtub right outside the sauna house. Like anywhere in the woods there is an hour at sunset when you may have mosquitoes down near the sites in the spring and some of the summers depending on the year. We have a natural spray for that or fans in the kitchen. Off the path, you may find poison oak in the thick of the woods. So please stay on the marked trails.
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from 
$100
 / night
  • Volunteers/#2
  • Waterfront
  • Volunteers/#2
97%
(91)

Camp Watanda at Lake Vera

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Nevada City, CA
FYI: WE ARE EXPERIENCING LOW LAKE LEVELS THIS JULY (2024) AND IS UNLIKELY TO IMPROVE IN AUIGUST. Camp Watanda is a retired resident camp that we have converted to a vacation rental. We have 10 acres of wooded property, with the 4 camping kiosks close to the waterfront and 1 RV site on the waterfront. The camping kiosk all have 8-10 mattresses, grilling table, picnic table, cooler, smoke alarms, rake, broom and fire extinguishers. We are pet friendly with 1 dog per kiosk. Tents can be pitched on the elevated decks. Our waterfront has a large fire ring, 2-covered pergolas, canoes, kayaks, life jackets and charcoal grill. Lots of fish in the lake, since this is a private lake, no license is required. There is also a bathhouse (very primitive and in serious need of remodel) close by with 3 showers, 3 toilets and 3 sinks. Up by the lodge is a cell phone charging station and Wi-Fi, while we do have Wi-Fi, is not guaranteed, we are in the mountains with inconsistent connection. Lodge is not available to campers as this is rented separately. NOTE: Lake levels begin to drop in August and can be quite low in drought years. RV CAMPING: Because of the steep driveway and blind curve, we limit the vehicle length to 25 overall length. Our driveway is more suitable for RV's and Camper Vans and not Travel Trailers being towed. If you rent a kiosk, all campers must be on the same kiosk unless you rent a second kiosk. If you have a camping van and plan on using the van and the kiosk, then that is a second site. You cannot tailgate on a reservation just because the party only has 2 people on the kiosk, and you have 2 in the Van to make 4 people. These are tents sites on a Kiosk, there is parking for cars or trucks at the kiosk, not suitable for RV or Travel Trailers. Those vehicles will have to park at the waterfront parking lot. There are no refunds for cancellations within 72 hours of arrival. Camp Watanda is private property, campers assume all liability for being on site. There is no lifeguard present. This is a natural habitat for woodland animals, there is an associated risk for camping in their home. Slips, trips and falls can occur on trails, camping structures and waterfront.
Pets
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Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
  • Garden Goddess Farm
  • Garden Goddess Farm
  • Garden Goddess Farm
97%
(158)

Garden Goddess Farm

8 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Grass Valley, CA
Garden Goddess Farm is located in the Sierra Foothills on 6+ acres of organic edible gardens, manzanita, pines and oaks. The gardens and land help to support guests to unplug from business, bond with nature, explore homesteading practices, herbs and get inspired to learn how to grow your own food! (We can host up to 20 guests for reunions, anniversaries, birthdays and special celebrations. Message us to inquire! 100% of proceeds go to our youth program run by Honey Bee Foundation) Individuals, Couples and Families love the farm because of the quiet surroundings, great food and opportunity to learn about sustainable living. Farm is conveniently located 20 minutes from Auburn, Nevada City and Grass Valley. You do drive through a residential neighborhood to get to this unique location that has views of the forest, valley and Sierras. We are 60-90 minutes from Lake Tahoe, Donner Lake, Truckee and ski resorts. We have an on-site Personal Chef that is available to create Farm-Fresh Gourmet Meals, Culinary Homesteading Classes, Private Garden and Foraging Tours. We love celebrations and many guests come here to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, personal retreats and special occasions. Most guests opt in for farm-fresh meal samplers, but feel free to bring your own camp stove, ice chest and food to cook. Privacy and what to expect: Property is usually very quite and overlooks hundreds of acres of forest looking toward the Snow-capped Sierras in the Winter and Spring. We are located in a neighborhood (Alta Sierra- in between Auburn and Grass Valley). We ask that everyone uses soft voices since we are in a canyon and sound travels to a few neighboring houses. There are 5 Hipcamp sites on property, so we could have up to 20 guests in a weekend. There is a main farmhouse where the manager and culinary students reside. Chef Susan mentors teens at the local highschools and homeschools and loves to share her knowledge about the land. There is a Culinary Classroom, Upper Deck and Gardens to enjoy. If you have teenagers, they love it here! 1/2 Basketball court, cooking and foraging classes. Accommodations 1. The Enchanted Meadow Love Shack (sleeps 3) (190 square feet) 1 King Bed and 1 twin. It's about 200 feet from main farm house and traditional bathroom. The path to and from this unit is steep and a dirt path with many stairs. If you have a 4 wheel drive you can drive right up to the unit. Bring your own sleeping bag or sleeping gear. 2. The Love Shack Tree House and Tent site (sleeps 2) 1 queen bed and balcony that overlooks garden. There is a tree growing inside this unit. There are table and chairs so you can cook on the balcony or the bbq area about 30 feet from unit. So cool! Bathroom and cool shower are 50 feet down a dirt path. Additionally, there is an area to pitch a tent. For example if a family of 4 wanted to split up and 2 in treehouse, 2 in the tent area. There is an additional $18 per guest if you want to use the campsite in addition. Please bring your own sleeping bag or sleeping gear. 3. The Sunrise Suite (sleeps 2) 1 loft twin bed (must climb a ladder ) and 1 couch futon. There an area in front of the unit for 2 people to eat and sit. Common bathroom and shower are 20 feet away. 4. Enchanted Meadow with 3 Serenity Tent sites (max capacity 6) This beautiful spot is great for groups, couples and families. To access this serene, private, nature-rich area, be prepared to walk down a steep path. It only takes 5 minutes to walk down which is the easier part. Walking back up the trail you may feel winded since we are at 2,250 elevation. Best to pack a backpack with your gear if you don't want to make too many trips back and forth to your car unless it's part of your workout :) . There is an activity Teepee / Tipi and we encourage you to participate in the writing, arts and crafts projects! We have wildlife and bears may visit if you have accessible food. So bear-proof your food if at campsite or best to leave in car or farmhouse kitchen. When available, farm-fresh meals can be ordered and delivered to campsites. Otherwise you can prepare cooked meals up near main farmhouse. Other guests may be passing through on the nature trail during your stay but you have the ability to reserve the area as "Private" so no other guests will be visiting. $150/night for the 3 sites or $200/night to block off the entire meadow area for privacy. 5. The Big Deck Experience! (sleeps 2-4 adults. No children due to the height of deck and hot/cold tub) Enjoy breathtaking views of the Sierras, valley and forest from the balcony. Couch turns into a comfortable bed for 2. For additional adults, you need to bring sleeping pads for on the deck. Enjoy meals at 1 or both of the large dining tables. Play the gong and do some sound healing! This space is part of the main farmhouse (owner's residence) and has a beautiful 75 x 15 foot redwood deck with views of the Sierras. This area can be blocked off for privacy from 7pm-10am. At 10 some other guests may come to the area for brunch. Manager and 2 other guests live in the main farmhouse, so this area is considered "semi-private" Other guests may access deck during the day (this is negotiable depending on situation) $ 225/night includes up to 4 adults and 1 Farm-fresh Happy Hour. Sample appetizers and beverages from the farm! Upper Deck/Balcony: If not reserved for a private party, you may enjoy the gongs, meals and play a game in the shaded sitting areas. There are 2 large tables for dining and a couch that seats 8 for relaxing. When not raining we have a rug out for yoga. Deck overlooks the organic demonstration gardens and fruit orchard. If available, you can book an educational or foraging tour with one of the farm volunteers. Fresh chicken eggs are usually available for purchase. Garden Goddess Farm is a great place for kids and adults to learn about nature, cooking, culinary arts, foraging, growing your own food, medicinal / culinary herbs and sustainable living. Manager, Chef Susan-Executive Director of the Honey Bee Foundation, is usually on-site is available to prepare meals. She graduated from UC Berkeley, is a Master Gardener and has additional certifications in Creating Sustainable Communities and Permaculture Design. She mentors teens in the culinary arts and entrepreneurship and is the author of 2 books available on Amazon. Nopales-No Problema - The Joy of Cooking with Cactus and Recipes from the Garden Goddesses for Cuisine, Health and Beauty. Nearby Attractions to research: Historic Empire Mine, Grass Valley, Nevada City, Truckee and Auburn. Wine-tasting and local wineries. The beautiful South Yuba River or Bear River is a must-experience with their granite rocks and emerald pools. Scott's Flat Lake and other Fishing Lakes off of Hwy 20 (30-60 minutes), Trails for Mountain Biking and Hiking. Lake Tahoe, Truckee and Donner Lake (1 hour 15 min drive). What to bring to all accommodations: *If you are interested in ordering farm-fresh meals prepared by Chef Susan or assistant chefs you can reserve or let us know when you arrive and we can bill your Hipcamp account. Gluten-free, Vegan and Plant-based options available! If you plan on eating in town or cooking your own food bring: *Camping Stove with pan and cooking utensils *Sleeping bags and/or bedding *Ice chest with ice and food Pet Policy: - If you'd like to bring along your pet, we are happy to accommodate. Please add on the "pets" extra when you are completing your booking. This covers our pet cleaning fee. This is a must in order to bring your pet. - Please keep your pet(s) on a leash at all times - we have chickens and don't want them harmed or bothered. - Please bring your own bedding for pets Let us know if you have any questions and we look forward to your stay!
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from 
$49
 / night
  • Private Yurts - Nevada City
  • Private Yurts - Nevada City
  • Private Yurts - Nevada City
98%
(62)

Private Yurts - Nevada City

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Nevada City, CA
Private Yurts in the woods -2 miles to town! Come experience the Beauty of the Sierra Foothills and the Yuba River in our Yurts tucked into the forest just 2 miles from downtown Nevada City. With a natural creek right outside your door and hiking trails right off the deck, this serene and beautiful yurt retreat awaits you. Nevada City is renowned for its excellent food, shopping, nightlife and farmer’s market. A leisurely walk into town takes 45 mins, bike in 15 or drive in 5. Grass Valley is 10 minutes away as well and has more food, shopping, and entertainment for you. Access to the Yuba River is as close as 20 mins to Edwards Crossing and 20 mins to Hoyts Crossing on Highway 49. We absolutely recommend trying to stay for two or more nights so that you can get accustomed to the space, learn the property, settle in, and relax. Each yurt has a wood-fired stove inside with plenty of wood stacked to keep you warm. Each yurt has a small functional kitchen with a hot plate, toaster oven, micro sink, and fridge. Each yurt has a Queen bed with a heating blanket to help keep you cozy throughout the night. Each yurt has its own dedicated wood-fired hot tub. It requires a fire to be lit and maintained to keep it hot.  Things you might like to bring: headlamps,  robe,  flip flops, slippers, hiking shoes. Water: we are on a well and provide fresh drinking water in a container for you. It’s fine to drink, cook, and bathe with the water from the tap but it can have a minerally quality to it. We test the well annually. We provide filtered water but if it runs out, the water out of the tap is safe and delicious. The hot tub: it’s wood fired. This means you have to heat it with a fire to get it hot. This can take many hours to get to the right temperature. It’s a good idea to start a fire right when you get there! This tub may have leaves in it (they fall from above) and cloudy water. The water should NOT smell, the cloudiness is a part of the cedar tubs charm- ash from the fire and particulate from the cedar mix together. We treat it between guests with natural products that maintain the wood (you can’t use chlorine in these tubs). We clean it regularly. Shower before using it to wash off any oils and sweat in your body please! The outdoor shower is lovely :) Fireplace: We will leave you a bundle of wood that comes with the rental. If you need more wood you can purchase it from us or from the grocery store. We have lots of wood at the yurt and we ask you to pay $10 per bundle if you use more then we leave you inside. This is on the honor system- It takes a lot of time and resources to keep wood stocked for the property. If you don’t know how to start a fire you may want to bring an instant log with you. Please leave the lighter behind for the next guest. Sleep: we have a heating blanket for cold nights, It’s about 10 degrees cooler on our land than in town. This is a real treat during our hot summers. There will be a fan for you as well during the warm season. We live in the woods, there are bugs (not many mosquitos thankfully) and wild animals such as bears, coyotes, skunks, raccoons, foxes, and mountain lions- we’ve seen them on/or near the property. This is part of the country charm and should be expected. Land acknowledgment: We acknowledge that our property is located on unceeded land. It is the traditional homeland of the Nisenan tribe. The Nisenan tribe is alive and active and continues to fight for federal recognition and compensation for land loss. We donate 10% of AIRBB proceeds between CHIRP which promotes the history and culture of the Nisenan tribe. https://chirpca .org/ And the Bear Yuba Land Trust which helps protect the fragile Yuba watershed. https:// www.bylt .org/is Thank you
Pets
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from 
$160
 / night
  • Gold Chain Getaway
  • Gold Chain Getaway
  • Gold Chain Getaway
Booked 10 times

Gold Chain Getaway

34 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Camptonville, CA
Incredible geologically active location that used to be host to a lot of mining. As a result there are large 100ft cliffs covered in crystals and rare gems. Gold mining was what the location was used for but diamonds & platinum have also been found there along with prehistoric fossils and extremely valuable meteorites. The ground is covered with a layer of courts crystal that reflects moonlight. Nights with a clear sky and a full moon will provide enough light to make your way around without a flashlight.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
  • The newly renovated covered bridge at the Bridgeport crossing of the South Yuba River
  • Windsong Ridge Village
  • The newly renovated covered bridge at the Bridgeport crossing of the South Yuba River
100%
(65)

Windsong Ridge Village

5 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · North San Juan, CA
Welcome to Windsong Ridge, an LGBTQ-friendly evolving homestead on 25 acres of oak, pine, and manzanita woodland about 30 minutes outside of the historic gold rush towns of Grass Valley and Nevada City in Nevada County, CA. The property overlooks the iconic South Yuba River canyon and is 100% solar-powered and off grid with excellent cell coverage (Verizon and T-Mobile). Come be serenaded by the wind chimes throughout the property. Enjoy sitting by a fire (when it's not wildfire season) and you may hear the coyotes in the distance after a day of swimming, hiking, paddling, site-seeing or attending one of the many festivals held throughout the year in town. We are at 1800 feet, therefore the summers are hot (sometimes in the triple digits), and winters are mild (snow is a surprising event at this elevation). We have developed an RV/tent site called Manzanita Rock Meadow (includes a wood-burning chiminea, composting toilet, trash, grill, and tables), with a pad for a van, RV and/or tent and plenty of room to spread out and set up camp. Our more developed site, called Laughing Buddha, is closer to our residents’ compound and welcomes vans, RVs or tents and has a gorgeous large deck with a fire pit and two outdoor rocking chairs. Hike the adjacent trails on public lands or enjoy hiking trails in the state park along the Yuba River. Bring your kayak or paddle board to Englebright Lake at any time of year. In less than two hours, you can visit Truckee, Lake Tahoe, or the Sierra Buttes/Lakes Basin areas and much more. In town you will find a variety excellent restaurants, farmers markets, live entertainment and wildly popular events throughout the year. We’ll be happy to help you plan your visit! (Start by checking out https://www.nevadacountygold.com/ and https://gonevadacounty.com/) We keep bags of instant light charcoal available for sale if you need it for $5. A bundle of firewood is available for $5 as well.
Pets
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from 
$55
 / night
  • You can see a long way from up here!
  • Lot behind the building for camping as well closer to the road compared to the main lot
  • You can see a long way from up here!
93%
(7)

sierra Tahoe moutain bike adventure

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Reno, NV
Welcome to sierra tahoe moutain bike adventure, your perfect mountain escape nestled right next to 11000 Mt. Rose Hwy! Our scenic campsite offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. With complimentary bike rentals for 1 hour - 1 day and a discounted rates there after. Shower,restroom,and bike repairs during business hours Experience the Best of Mountain Living **Breathtaking Scenery:** Wake up to panoramic views of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and breathe in the crisp, fresh alpine air. Our campsite provides a serene backdrop with stunning vistas that change with every season, offering a unique and beautiful experience year-round. **Outdoor Activities Galore:** Situated just a short drive from Lake Tahoe, you can spend your days swimming, kayaking, or simply lounging by the crystal-clear waters. For those who crave a bit more excitement, Mt. Rose is right at your doorstep, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, climbing, and exploring the rugged terrain. **Mountain Biking Trails:** Take advantage of our complimentary short-term bike rentals and explore the exhilarating mountain biking trails nearby. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you'll find trails that cater to all skill levels, ensuring a thrilling ride through the wilderness. **Modern Amenities:** Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi available for all campers. After a day of adventure, share your photos and experiences with friends and family or simply unwind with your favorite streaming service. **Nearby Attractions:** - **Mt. Rose Summit Trail:** A challenging but rewarding hike to the summit for breathtaking views. - **Tahoe Rim Trail:** Perfect for both hiking and biking, offering miles of scenic trails. -** Sky tavern bike park right next door with so amazing repeatable trails - **Diamond Peak Ski Resort:** Just a short drive away for winter sports enthusiasts. Join us in tahoe for an unforgettable camping experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Book your spot today and start planning your mountain getaway!
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Trash
from 
$45
 / night
  • Big Yeti Tiny Village
  • Big Yeti Tiny Village
  • Big Yeti Tiny Village
78%
(34)

Big Yeti Tiny Village

8 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Washington, CA
As you know Hipcamp lets you book and enjoy your travel plans seamlessly, So....We make every effort to be open year round, even in a blizzard. Please make sure you are equipped completely for your perfect stay over. This is a Mountain Location please check local weather conditions before you arrive. This is located 25 minutes from Truckee. Emigrant Gap has some hidden GEMS. The State park at the end of the road hosts the North Fork of the North Fork of the American River and its water Fall. Bowman Lake and Yuba Gap reservoir are one exit away. This small camping area backs up to 100,000 acres of Tahoe National forest. You can walk to a restaurant with regular bathrooms and wifi. Here we have out door compost toilet and cold out door shower. ATM we are nothing special. Lots of cool things to do minutes from here, but we mainly boast a safe place to park on your journey. Historic and epic rock climbing is minutes from your campsite. Also there are 4 ski destinations less then 20 minutes from us. fishing lakes can be hiked to. Quads, snow mobiles, xcountry skiing, hiking, downhill and horse back riding can all happen without getting back on the freeway. September 1, 2023. In and effort to make stayovers more comfortable, Site 4 and 5 are being removed and site 6 is being modified to host a full time 34Ft RV available for nightly use.
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from 
$21.88
 / night
Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in Donner Memorial State Park

Creek Campground
100%
(8)

Creek Campground

136 sites · RVs, Tents In Donner Memorial State Park
Splitrock Campground
100%
(5)

Splitrock Campground

41 sites · RVs, Tents In Donner Memorial State Park
Ridge Campground
83%
(3)

Ridge Campground

46 sites · RVs, Tents In Donner Memorial State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Donner Memorial State Park

  • Information booth
  • Tents setup
  • Information booth
95%
(1912)

Finnon Lake Recreation Area

39 sites · RVs, Tents140 acres · Placerville, CA
MOSQUITO ROAD WILL BE CLOSED FROM MAY 28TH TO AUGUST 4TH. ALL VEHICLES PLEASE USE ROCK CREEK ROAD - DIRECTIONS BELOW. Use caution - twisty narrow country road. If it's your first time you might want to check out the route ahead of time. From Sacramento on Hwy 50: At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile. Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road. Turn right onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER "Smoke on the Water" is open only Saturday- Sunday. Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe: make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions. Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area! Our lovely lake offers serenity in a beautifully unique setting, nestled deep into the forest. Enjoy the scenic and exhilarating drive to our hidden gem along the South Fork of the American River- this is all for you to discover. The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in most parts of California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky. This private lake supports the fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District and the firefighters of this community. The lake is managed by volunteers of the community for the benefit of the residents The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website. Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 18-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, "Smoke on the Water" Diner. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking during your stay. Potable water, picnic tables, campfire rings, and toilets on site. The property can not accommodate horses. 2 dogs per site limit. Sites are from post to post. Our property is located in Placerville, California. Placerville is a charming California gold rush town named after the placer gold deposits found in its riverbeds and hills in the late 1840s. PLEASE NOTE, there is construction on the Mosquito Bridge. Expect delays, RVs/trailers must use Rock Creek Road (even if your GPS says Mosquito Road). Please message me with any questions. Please see our website: finnonrecreationarea.com for full directions. Diner: https://www.facebook.com/smokeonthewaterplacervilleca NO FIREWORKS OF ANY KIND ARE ALLOWED. Smoking is only allowed in an enclosed vehicle.
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from 
$40
 / night
  • L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas
  • L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas
  • L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas
96%
(36)

L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

3 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Carson City, 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!!
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from 
$35
 / night
  • Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf
  • Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf
  • Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf
96%
(14)

Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf

12 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Norden, CA
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.
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from 
$50
 / night
  • Camp Shady Meadow
  • Camp Shady Meadow
  • Camp Shady Meadow
94%
(176)

Camp Shady Meadow

34 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Blairsden, CA
There are so many fun activities available in the nearby Blairsden/Graeagle area (golfing, biking, hiking, fishing, autumn foliage...just to name a few). We have added two beautiful glamping tents to our already unique RV, travel trailer, and tent sites. The glamping tents are complete with carpet, a comfortable queen size mattress, luxurious linens, two homemade benches, and two camping chairs to enjoy a cool evening campfire with a view of the mountains. Please note: these glamping tents are for adults only; no children or pets. Thank you for understanding!
Pets
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Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
  • Harris Family Farm and Forest
  • Harris Family Farm and Forest
  • Harris Family Farm and Forest
96%
(642)

Harris Family Farm and Forest

7 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Pollock Pines, CA
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our cherished historic family farm, spanning 160 years and 7 generations. Nestled in the serene surroundings of an Apple Hill™ Grower farm, our property offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Choose to camp amidst the lush woods or in our enchanting apple orchard. Spend your days engaging in farm activities, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply unwinding in this idyllic setting. During the harvest season, delight in the experience of hand-picking a variety of fruits and vegetables at their peak of ripeness. Participate in our popular jam making classes held in August, and September for $55 per person, or indulge in a delightful High Tea in the Orchard, hosted on Mother’s Day weekend and June spring afternoons for $45 per person. Be sure to secure your spot early for these sought-after activities, as they tend to fill up rapidly. Our farm is conveniently located near picturesque mountain lakes and charming historic towns, offering ample opportunities for further exploration and discovery. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you to our farm, where you can enjoy invigorating woodland hikes, lend a hand with farm chores, and partake in our weekend bonfire gatherings featuring s'mores and delectable treats from our pie shop. Don't miss the chance to harvest blackberries, apples, and pumpkins during their respective seasons, adding a touch of seasonal magic to your visit.
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from 
$48
 / night
  • 200-acre developing eco-preserv
  • Geronimo handcrafted log Cabin
  • 200-acre developing eco-preserv
97%
(180)

200-acre developing eco-preserv

37 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Nevada City, CA
This extraordinary 200 acres is magical and host a wildness which feels peaceful and secure. It is also the home of the developing Wisdom Retreat Center eco-preserve noted for quality of beauty and silence. Many Indian arrow heads have been found here indicating former residences of indigenous tribes. There are many open meadows and old growth forest to hike and explore.
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from 
$80
 / night
  • Shower with tile splash zone
  • El Bus
  • Shower with tile splash zone
96%
(27)

The House of 13 Rainbows

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Nevada City, CA
Four acres nestled in the Sierra Nevada Foothills. We are located at 4200 Ft Elevation, just 3.5 miles from the top of the mountain with 360 degree lookouts. You're about 35 minutes from Historic downtown Nevada City, only 15 minutes from many Yuba River swimming holes, and about 6 miles to the Malakoff Diggins State Park. This property is fully off-grid, run on solar and back up generator. We are technically above snow line! So if you are trying to beat the heat it is about 5-10 degrees cooler at our location! This is a peaceful oasis for you to stay why explore the Sierra Nevada Mountains. We are creating a collective community vibe for nature lovers and explorers to have a safe and beautiful place to rest and share.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night
  • I could not get over the Grotto and how beautiful it was to relax in this little cove listing to the waterfall
  • Sunny Falls - easily a 25 ft. waterfall in full view from the platform!
  • I could not get over the Grotto and how beautiful it was to relax in this little cove listing to the waterfall
97%
(38)

The Waterfall Shire

3 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · CA
Heavily wooded 27 acres with a year-round babbling creek that cascades in waterfalls (one is a 25-foot drop!) across the property. During the rainy season the various waterfalls show off in dramatic fashion! Add to the magical sounds and marvelous setting a small Christmas tree grove, a smattering of goats and chickens, and two playful livestock guardian dogs who will become your best friends. Relax under the night stars, hike/bike the Sierra Nevada trails, or pop into a nearby winery with friends. OHV or horseback riding is also available along with river rafting during the summer months. You are limited only by your imagination!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$45
 / night
  • Village Camp Truckee
  • Discover the breathtaking beauty of North Tahoe's crystal-clear waters just a quick drive away from your stay at Coachland RV Park.
  • Village Camp Truckee
84%
(44)

Village Camp Truckee

134 sites · Lodging, RVs50 acres · Truckee, CA
Coachland RV Park is situated in the picturesque Sierra Nevada mountains in Northern California and is within close proximity to all the outdoor activities, shopping, and dining that Truckee, CA has to offer. Located at an elevation of 5,996 ft., Coachland RV Park welcomes visitors year-round and is a short distance from Northstar Ski Resort and Squaw Valley. During the summer, visitors can enjoy fishing and watersports on the nearby Truckee River. All the beauty that Lake Tahoe offers is just a short drive away from Coachland RV Park.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$70
 / night
  • Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
  • Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
  • Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
96%
(49)

Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Nevada City, CA
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
  • Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude
  • Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude
  • Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude
98%
(117)

Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents96 acres · Reno, CA
When you come to camp here you are on a working 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 a list of grass fed meats available, veggies, or herbs just text your host before arrival. We are looking for a seasonal self contained camper who we could offer trade for camp care - text host directly. 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 for future bookings, or gardens in the process of creation. 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night
  • Starry Hot Tub/Cold Plunge Glamping
  • Starry Hot Tub/Cold Plunge Glamping
  • Starry Hot Tub/Cold Plunge Glamping
100%
(66)

Starry Hot Tub/Cold Plunge Glamping

3 sites · Lodging7 acres · Nevada City, CA
Soak in a cedar hot tub and Renu cold plunge nestled in an oak grove, then sleep in one of our two luxurious yurt-like tents. Venture into the clearing with open skies for truly amazing starry views at night. It's a peaceful retreat surrounded by pines and oaks, yet is still less than 15 minutes from the historic Gold Mining towns of Nevada City and Grass Valley. A composting toilet is housed in a beautiful, well maintained outhouse and a heated outdoor shower is located next to the hot tub and cold plunge. These as well as the hot tub/cold plunge area are shared between our two sites. Distance to local attractions: Nevada City (10 minutes) Grass Valley (14 minutes) Yuba River (25 minutes) Scott’s Flat Lake (10 minutes) Cascade Canal Hiking (3 minutes) Hoot’s Trail epic mountain biking (17 minutes)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$85
 / night

The best camping near Donner Memorial State Park guide

Overview

About

We've all heard of the Donner Party. They're the pioneers who were stuck in the mountainous Donner Pass during the winter. You remember: They ended up eating their dead (ewww).

Well, here's where you can learn the real story. The Emigrant Trail Museum is fascinating. It helps you understand just what it meant to people in the past to come to California.

Exhibits also tell the stories of the Native-American Washoe tribe. You can also learn about the building of the transcontinental railroad, primarily by Chinese immigrants.

And when you're done with history, splash right into Donner Lake. This beautiful lake welcomes kayaker, windsurfers, and swimmers. You'll have to leave the park's boundaries if you need a boat ramp (and the fishing is only so-so).

Eight miles of hiking trails let you explore this patch of the Sierras. Three campgrounds are available (all with metal lockers to protect food from black bears).

Notable campgrounds

  • Ridge Campground: Offers a serene camping experience with easy access to hiking trails and lake views.
  • Splitrock Campground: Secluded spots nestled among towering pines, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
  • Creek Campground: Enjoy the soothing sounds of the nearby creek and the lush surroundings.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, as sites can be reserved up to six months in advance and fill up quickly.
  • Be flexible with your dates to increase your chances of securing a spot.
  • Check for cancellations regularly, as plans change and spots may open up.
  • Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan.

When to go

The best time to visit Donner Memorial State Park is during the summer for warm days and cool nights, perfect for camping and hiking. Winter offers a snowy wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Be mindful of seasonal closures and weather conditions before planning your trip.

Know before you go

  • Always check the park's current conditions and closures before visiting.
  • Remember to store food and toiletries in bear-resistant lockers provided at campsites.
  • Pets are welcome on certain trails and areas, but must remain on a leash at all times.
  • Day-use areas offer picnic spots and restrooms, with some facilities closed outside of peak season.
  • For safety, familiarize yourself with the park's rules and regulations, including fire restrictions.

Top parks near Donner Memorial State Park

Yosemite National Park
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sierra National Forest
Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park
Point Reyes National Seashore
Crater Lake National Park

Top cities near Donner Memorial State Park

Sacramento
Reno
Santa Rosa
Roseville
San Jose
Fresno
Bakersfield
Vallejo

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