Within Tahoe National Forest, Bear Valley Campground operates as a first-come, first-served facility accessible via rough dirt roads where high clearance vehicles fare better. The US Forest Service manages this established campground near a creek, providing drinking water, vault toilets, picnic tables, and allowing both campfires and pets.
Site conditions vary significantly, with not all spots offering level ground for setup. Recent visitors report some locals placing coolers and water jugs to claim sites without actually occupying them overnight. The area attracts off-highway vehicle users, though actual OHV noise levels remain minimal according to camper reports. For those exploring the broader Sierra Nevada region, places to camp near Sierraville provide additional options within a short drive.
Description
Bear Valley Campground is a remote, small campground with 10 campsites suitable for tents or RV's. It is popular with OHV enthusiasts wanting to use the nearby Bear Valley OHV area. The campground is located six miles east of Little Truckee Summit on the Cottonwood Creek Road. Elevation: 6700 feet. Non-potable water, treat before drinking.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundBear Valley Campground is located in California
Directions
From Sierraville: Drive 11 miles south on Hwy 89 to Little Truckee Summit. Drive 6 miles east of Little Truckee Summit on Cottonwood Creek Road.
Coordinates
39.55700072 N
120.23500082 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires






