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The best camping in Washoe Lake State Park, NV

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Just a stone’s throw from Reno and Carson City, this park sits on a lake at the base of the Tahoe Range. 

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

Top-rated campgrounds in Washoe Lake State Park

Washoe Lake Campground

1. Washoe Lake Campground

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(1)
Campground in Washoe Lake State Park · 49 sites · Tents, RVs
Washoe Lake State Park is beckoning you for a visit
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Top-rated campsites near Washoe Lake State Park

Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

1. Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%
(37)
11mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
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!  
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Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

2. Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

97%
(253)
30mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 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.
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Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

3. Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

96%
(24)
35mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Lahontan Shores Ranch is a 20-acre high desert retreat overlooking Lake Lahontan in Silver Springs, NV. The site offers panoramic views across open deserts and distant mountains. From this elevated perch, a private hiking trail winds down to the lake, where you can swim, kayak, fish, or just relax by the water. Nested within public land to the west and across the lake, this site offers a true sense of seclusion, tranquility, and connection to nature. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the water, then relax under a blanket of stars as the desert sky turns pitch black. In the morning, start your day outdoors, savoring your coffee as you take in the uninterrupted views and dramatic desert terrain. Ideal for tents, rooftop campers, and self-contained RVs, Lahontan Shores Ranch is a peaceful high desert hideaway for those seeking raw, rugged Nevada beauty. Please note: The property is located approximately 2 miles off Highway 50 and is accessed via a dirt road. A 4x4 vehicle is required for safe access, especially in wet conditions. There are no street lights, so we strongly recommend arriving during daylight hours. A site map will be provided upon booking
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Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf

4. Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf

94%
(45)
37mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 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.
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Pequena Hut

5. Pequena Hut

98%
(27)
47mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 1 site
Tiny home nestled in Tahoe National forest . This little gem is on an acre of land surrounded by national forest land. Close enough to Lake Tahoe but away from the chaos. Host lives on property with 4 year old German shepherd. I typically leave for the weekend, however i will probably be there if booking during the week (Ill be gone most of the day though) . There are 4 neighbors but their properties are not visible, feels very private. Please be respectful of the neighbors property, they all have cameras :) The front of the property where the cabin is located there will be some highway noise being close to highway 20 , especially during a busy weekend. Tiny house: •Full sized futon downstairs, no bedding provided please bring your own if planning on using the futon. • King sized mattress in loft. Bedding provided but please try to bring your own!! • board games , cards, chess, fire pit, projector for movies if requested!!! • Hot plate, toaster oven, mini fridge, kitchen appliances, coffee . Black stone grill outside. Fire pit • Separate bathroom, outdoor sink and shower. *sink inside tiny home does not work* Additional guests are welcome to pitch a tent on the land if needed. ***Lake Spaulding is closed the rest of 2026 to the public!! ***No driving access however...the lake is a 1/4 mile hike down from the property. (bring good walking shoes) They are working on the lake so just be respectful and keep to yourself, go wherever they aren't working. Rivers/lakes/swimming holes: •emerald pools, cliff jumping , waterfalls . 10 min drive •south yuba river 5-15 min •bowman lake road connects to several lakes, blue lake is my favorite but its a very rocky road beware •lake valley reservoir , 10 min •donner lake, rent kayaks, paddle boards or a boat. 25 min •eagle lakes rd swimming hole. 5 min •Truckee: fun shops, restaurants/ bars, 30 min . Truckee Thursdays (every Thursday) until August 6 , live music & local vendors!!! •Nevada city/ Grass Valley - cute historic town, lots of nice boutiques / thrift shops Lastly, before booking keep in mind that wildlife is part of life here. Please be aware of your surroundings, respect the animals, and remember we're the guests in their home. @lil_pequena_huts
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Sugarpine Slopes at Grouse Ridge

6. Sugarpine Slopes at Grouse Ridge

94%
(98)
49mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
It is on this property that I saw my first grouse. Also look for warblers-notably Audubon's and the Hermit Warblers- along with the White-headed Woodpecker. You will likely hear a Pileated Woodpecker and if you are lucky you will see one Learn more about this land: Welcome to Sugarpine Slopes. The Sugarpine has the longest cones in the world and many birds and mammals like the pine nuts and use the tree for habitat. This is a spring through fall place only. There is no winter access. The property is at 5800 feet.  Depending on the weather the road may close from Nov 15th to May 15th.  The road on the property is a dirt road.  All wheel drive or 4WD vehicles recommended although the lower section could be accessed by most vehicles. Shorter trailers allowed at Site A. Site 3 can also accommodate a small teardrop-style trailer The property is totally undeveloped at this time. It is a wildlife corridor for deer and bear (keep all food contained), the mountain quail and the blue grouse. Keep your eyes open for the Hermit Warbler, Audubon's Warbler, and our gorgeous visitor from the tropics the Western Tanager. You are likely to hear the Pileated Woodpecker and if you are lucky you will see it and its red crest in an undulating flight through the trees. The property has a lovely west facing slope which climbs gradually at first then more steeply to the top of the property. We have drive-in camping on the lower section.  There is one walk-in site at the top of the property. There is wonderful hiking nearby with several trailheads in the area within approximately 4 miles.  More information can be provided upon request.
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Haven On The Comstock

7. Haven On The Comstock

94%
(9)
7.1mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
This gem of a spot is in the heart of the Comstock and perfectly placed at less than 5 miles from Virginia City and 45 minutes to Lake Tahoe.
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Honey Hill Tahoe Farm

8. Honey Hill Tahoe Farm

100%
(1)
17mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 1 site
We embraced a new adventure a few years ago by purchasing 22 acres of raw land in the beautiful Tahoe National Forest. Starting from acquiring our first tractor to building roads and trails, we have nurtured this land into a thriving farm featuring a bee apiary, along with dogs, barn cats, and chickens. Our forever home, nestled up the hillside, reflects our commitment to this lifestyle. To share our passion and offer a unique experience, we have also renovated a vintage Airstream trailer as a cozy guest retreat. Whatever your adventure, we are here to provide an authentic, relaxed, and memorable experience in this stunning natural setting.
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Tramway near Heavenly/ Dogs OK/ New Heating & Air

9. Tramway near Heavenly/ Dogs OK/ New Heating & Air

20mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 1 site
Welcome to the mountains. Come breathe the cool mountain air. Whether you're looking for a place to go skiing in the winter or mountain biking and hiking in the summer, our house on Tramway is close to it all. Cozy and in the midst of the Sierra-Nevada mountains with all the beauty and serenity included. Lake Tahoe is a world renown location for anyone seeking adventure, a fun family vacation, or a romantic getaway. Forget the monotony of your daily routine and come enjoy the mountains. The space **Tramway Sierra Summit** HOA Statement: ● This rental is located in a residential neighborhood. Loud parties and disruptive behavior are not tolerated. This neighborhood is monitored by a 24/7 call service. ● Quiet hours are 9 pm - 8 am. ● Two (2) cars maximum allowed* Renters are required to properly display a host-provided parking permit on the driver’s side dashboard of their vehicle. Failure to display the parking permit may result in a citation and fine of $500 to the owner of the vehicle. ● Fireworks, wood fire pits, and charcoal BBQs are strictly prohibited. ● During inclement winter weather either 4WD and snow tires, or 2WD and chains are required to access this Unit. All guests must move all vehicles within 24 hours of a snow storm. ● All dogs must be on a leash at all times and owners must pick up feces immediately and dispose of them in an appropriate trash container or dumpster. About the property: 2 bedroom +Loft, 2 full bathrooms. Max # of permitted overnight occupants: 8 (This listing is advertised for 6, however, two additional occupants would require the use of a pullout couch). Please be advised, per Douglas County, gatherings and events that exceed the maximum occupancy of the vacation home rental are prohibited. Max # of permitted vehicles: 2 Street parking is not allowed at rentals in Tahoe.
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Village Camp Truckee

10. Village Camp Truckee

89%
(127)
23mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 114 sites · RVs, Lodging
Village Camp Truckee is nestled in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada mountains of Northern California, offering easy access to the best outdoor activities, shopping, and dining Truckee, CA, has to offer. Situated at nearly 6,000 ft., Village Camp Truckee is open year-round, making it the perfect basecamp for winter sports enthusiasts headed to Northstar or Palisades Tahoe, and for those looking to enjoy mild summer days fishing or exploring the Truckee River. Just a short drive from the stunning beauty of Lake Tahoe, Village Camp Truckee also features modern cabins and RV sites surrounded by majestic redwoods, thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind.
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Alder Camp

11. Alder Camp

24mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 1 site
This magical campsite is located at the back of our 3-acre property and comes complete with a set-up tent (with a full bed inside), an outdoor dining area, expansive forest views, and a clean 26-foot RV available for your use. The site borders open space with beautiful walking trails and is nestled in a private woodland setting. Downtown Truckee is just a short distance away, where you can enjoy a variety of restaurants, shopping, and galleries. Swimming is also available nearby at Donner Lake or the Truckee River.
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Natural Time Retreat Center...

12. Natural Time Retreat Center...

24mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 1 site
RE: Kinship Natural Time (13:28+1) Retreat Center for Wellness June 3rd 2026 NOTICE: Say there, friends, recently we received an alleged VACATION HOME CODE VIOLATION from DOUGLAS COUNTY DINOSAURS AND THE DEMON KINGS OF COMMERCE dba DC MUNICIPLE GOVERNMENT. We are temporarily suspending any further stay until the issue is resolved. *However, we are still offering services, outreach education, special events, retreats, and more through our Facebook pages. Reach out, send a friend request, and search Four Winds Foundation, the Planet Art Network, New Nevada Assembly, and the Foundation for the Law of Time (World 13 Moon Calendar Change Peace Movement), as it "takes a burner, to know a Burner!" Have a Great Summer... >>------------->> Gardnerville Ranchos is a desert oasis located at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, twenty-five minutes from Lake Tahoe. Our property is biking distance from the East Fork Carson River. The Ranchos is a small retirement community within walking distance of our local bowling alley where you can take (free) transit to Lake Tahoe, Carson City, and Reno. Carons Hot Springs and Wally's Hot Springs are both accessible via community (Dart) Transit as well. Our neighborhood is safe and quiet. Highland Regards, Jason G. Gibson Gibson Core Family
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Lakefront Vacation Home Lake Tahoe

13. Lakefront Vacation Home Lake Tahoe

26mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 1 site
This two-story cabin has been in our family for over 50 years. It's located in a private community next to one of the largest resorts and marinas in South Lake Tahoe. Right next door is Camp Richardson Resort and Marina. The cabin features a rustic design with five bedrooms—two downstairs and three upstairs—and three bathrooms, with two downstairs and one upstairs. The spacious open-concept living room and kitchen provide plenty of room to gather. Most guests spend their time on the large lakeside deck, which overlooks the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe and offers easy access to the water. There's no shortage of things to do in Tahoe during every season. We're located just three minutes from a popular local sledding hill, eight minutes from Heavenly Ski Resort, 10 minutes from the state line, and 25–30 minutes from Tahoe City, where families can enjoy whitewater rafting during the summer. Within walking distance, you'll find all kinds of fun, from outdoor recreation to theater performances and art shows. The famous Valhalla Estate hosts beautiful weddings, and you can explore the area's rich history at the three historic estates to the west, including museum exhibits highlighting Lake Tahoe's Native American heritage. This family-owned cabin has welcomed guests for generations, and we hope you'll feel like part of the family and return to beautiful South Lake Tahoe again and again.
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Pine Nut Creek Ranch and Resort

14. Pine Nut Creek Ranch and Resort

100%
(3)
26mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 1 site
Nestled in the scenic Carson Valley just outside Lake Tahoe, Pinenut Creek Ranch & Resort is a one-of-a-kind, 17-acre off-grid haven. This Old West–themed retreat blends rustic charm with modern comforts, offering guests a unique glamping experience in plush tipis, authentic wagons, and cozy miner tents—set to be added in the spring of 2026. More than just a getaway, our ranch is dedicated to strengthening relationships and building community. We emphasize life skills for teens and provide hands-on education in animal husbandry and permaculture. Guests can enjoy farm-to-fork organic cuisine sourced directly from our land while immersing themselves in the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the Sierra Nevadas. We warmly invite like-minded, faith-driven individuals and families to join us—whether for a retreat, a hands-on workshop at our permaculture school, or simply to relax and reconnect in a wholesome, supportive environment.
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Bradley Hut

15. Bradley Hut

26mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 2 sites
Bradley Hut is a classic Sierra Club backcountry hut in the Tahoe region, reached via an approximately 4.7-mile hike or ski approach. It’s a favorite among ski tourers planning multi-day adventures, with backcountry terrain in all directions from the hut. The hut sits near Silver Peak in the Pole Creek area (north of Olympic Valley/Palisades Tahoe). The approach is a steady climb, with roughly 1,600 ft of elevation gain from the Pole Creek trailhead area. This is serious mountain terrain. Please use extra caution: surrounding slopes are steep, avalanche hazard can be significant, and conditions can become dangerous quickly when weather turns. Inside the hut: • Upstairs loft accommodating up to 15 people • Main room with wood-burning stove, tables, and kitchen area • Two small side rooms used for firewood and limited maintenance supplies • A two-story outhouse is approximately 40 ft north of the hut. By booking Bradley 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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Ludlow Hut

16. Ludlow Hut

29mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 2 sites
Set near Lost Corner Mountain on Lake Tahoe’s west shore, Ludlow Hut is a classic Sierra Club backcountry shelter that rewards capable travelers with a true hut-in-the-woods experience and a real sense of solitude. You can drive to Ludlow Hut in summer. In winter, there is no car access—expect a challenging ~5.2-mile approach on skis or snowshoes, with approximately 1,100 ft of elevation gain from the Rubicon–McKinney trailhead area. The traditional winter route follows the summer road along McKinney Creek past Miller Lake toward Richardson Lakes. Set back from the lake and blended into the snow and trees, the hut can be difficult to spot in winter. Once you arrive, you’ll have a simple, communal base for exploring the surrounding terrain—whether you’re heading out for winter touring and snow travel or summer hiking in the high country. 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 15 people. • Main room with a wood-burning stove, tables, and a kitchen area. • A two-story outhouse is approximately 100 ft southeast of the hut. By booking Ludlow 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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Benson Hut

17. Benson Hut

100%
(1)
29mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 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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Peter Grubb Hut

18. Peter Grubb Hut

32mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 2 sites
Nestled near Castle Peak and just north of Boreal Ski Resort, Peter Grubb Hut is a beloved Sierra Club backcountry hut in the Tahoe region, set just off the Pacific Crest Trail. It’s a classic base for high-country adventure, with skiing and hiking options in all directions and a real sense of being out in the mountains—without being far from Donner Summit. Access is by human power only: the hut is reached via an approximately 3-mile hike or ski approach. Once you arrive, you’ll have a simple, communal space to warm up, cook, and settle in for a night (or a multi-day trip) in the Sierra. Please note, this is serious mountain terrain. 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 15 guests • Main room with wood-burning stove, tables, and kitchen area • Side rooms for storing firewood and limited maintenance supplies • A two-story outhouse is located 75 ft west of the hut. By booking Peter Grubb 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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Clair Tappaan Lodge

19. Clair Tappaan Lodge

32mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 24 sites
Tucked among the pines near Donner Summit, Clair Tappaan Lodge is a historic Sierra Club alpine lodge offering a warm, communal base for mountain adventures year-round. Built in the 1930s and cared for by generations of Sierra Club members and volunteers, the lodge has long welcomed skiers, hikers, and outdoor travelers into the heart of the Sierra Nevada. The drive-in lodge features private two-person rooms, larger rooms, and simple, cozy bunk-style accommodations, with twin-sized bunk beds and shared bathrooms. The lodge boasts shared common spaces, and a library perfect for winding down after a day outdoors. Guests can enjoy cooked communal meals (extra fee) and a relaxed, social atmosphere that reflects the lodge’s deep roots in outdoor culture and conservation. In winter, Clair Tappaan Lodge provides direct access to classic snowshoe and cross-country ski routes, with nearby ski areas including Sugar Bowl, Royal Gorge, Boreal, and Donner Ski Ranch. In warmer months, the surrounding trails open up for hiking, including sections of the Pacific Crest Trail. Lake Tahoe and major resorts like Palisades Tahoe and Northstar are also within easy reach. Staying here helps support the ongoing stewardship of this special place, ensuring continued access to the Sierra’s mountain landscapes for generations to come. Whether you’re planning a snowy weekend escape or a summer hiking trip, Clair Tappaan Lodge offers a rare chance to stay somewhere with real history, purpose, and connection to the land. Check in from 15:00–23:00. Check out at 10:00.
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Hutchinson Lodge

20. Hutchinson Lodge

32mi from Washoe Lake State Park · 1 site
Perched above Donner Lake near Donner Summit, Hutchinson Lodge is a historic Sierra Club mountain retreat built in 1924 as the original Sierra ski lodge. Set in the woods next door to Clair Tappaan Lodge (also listed on Hipcamp), it offers a quiet, rustic base for year-round Sierra adventures. This lodge is unstaffed and self-sufficient, designed for groups who enjoy a simple, communal experience. Inside you’ll find shared sleeping lofts with pads, a fully equipped kitchen, bathrooms with showers, and a sauna, along with efficient wood-burning stoves that keep the lodge warm during winter. Guests should bring their own bedding, towels, toiletries, and food. Drive-in accessible year-round, Hutchinson Lodge provides a quiet, communal base for winter hiking, snow play, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, with easy access to nearby ski areas and trails. In warmer months, it’s equally well-suited for hiking, group retreats, and relaxed mountain getaways. With space for up to 25 guests, staying here supports the ongoing care of a nearly century-old Sierra Club lodge and helps keep this special place open for future generations.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Washoe Lake State Park camping guide

Overview

About

In Washoe Valley, a small enclave between Reno and Carson City, Washoe Lake State Park features incredible mountain views. The two lakes to the north and south of the park are affectionately called Big and Little by the locals who often visit to go kayaking, try their hand at fishing, or spot wildlife such as wild horses, pelicans, bald eagles, and mule deer. In addition to a boat launch, visitor’s center, and several day-use areas, the park’s sole campground offers 49 campsites for tents and RVs. The campground also features a playground, two comfort stations with showers, a loop with water and utility hookups, and even equestrian facilities with room for trailers.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Washoe Lake State Park campground is open all year-round with sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Because of its proximity to town, it can fill up on holiday weekends and in the summer, but if you can get in on a Wednesday or Thursday, you’re more likely to find a spot.

When to go

The best times to visit this year-round park are in late spring, early summer, and fall. Washoe Valley is notorious for its strong winter winds, but there can also be plenty of sunshine even when snow is falling. In late fall, the nearby cottonwoods offer a blaze of color and fewer visitors than seen in summer.

Know before you go

  • In this high desert climate, the main draw to the park is Washoe Lake. The lake is great for kayaking, birdwatching, and fishing, but during drought years, Big Washoe can dry up in summer. The water usually returns in winter after a few snowstorms.
  • The park is actually divided into three sections. Big Washoe is home to the campground and the larger lake, Middle Washoe is a protected wetlands area, and Little Washoe is a smaller lake with incredible views of the mountains and ice skating in winter.
  • Several hiking trails run through the park as well as in the desert foothills. Check out the Dead Man’s Trail, which leads up to a gazebo that overlooks the entire valley, or visit nearby Davis Creek Regional Park to hike the Ophir Creek Trail up to the Tahoe Meadows and the Tahoe Rim Trail.

Reviews for Washoe Lake State Park Campgrounds

100%
1 ratings · 1 review
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