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Established Camping

Camino Cove Campground

6 Reviews

Camino Cove Campground, near Eldorado National Forest, is a scenic retreat that offers a unique camping experience right next to Union Valley Reservoir. With its beautiful surroundings, it’s a popular choice for those looking to enjoy nature without the hassle of reservations.

This campground features around 20 free camping spots on a first-come, first-served basis, so getting there early is key. Visitors have noted the easy access to the lake, making it perfect for a quick dip or a leisurely stroll along the shore. As one camper mentioned, “The campground is right next to Union Valley Reservoir. Beautiful location, water bathrooms but make sure you get there early; it fills up fast.”

While the amenities are basic—think pit toilets and no picnic tables—campers appreciate the simplicity and natural beauty of the area. The lack of electric hookups and showers means you can truly disconnect and enjoy the great outdoors. Just remember to bring your own toilet paper and be prepared for the occasional bear sighting, as the popularity of the site can lead to overflowing trash bins.

For those who love the outdoors, Camino Cove is a fantastic base for hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes of Eldorado National Forest. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just looking for a peaceful getaway, this spot has a lot to offer.

Description

US Forest Service

Eldorado National Forest

Due to scheduled construction on North Union Valley Road, Camino Cove Campground will be closed for the 2019 camping season. Construction activities will cause the site to be inaccessible. This closure is necessary to protect public safety and ensure construction activities are completed on schedule.Campground Recreation Opportunity Guide (ROG) - This guide contains information, maps, and directions to assist you in enjoying your trip to the Eldorado National Forest.

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Location

Camino Cove Campground is located in California

Coordinates

38.878704 N
120.428467 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Stay Connected

WiFi
Unknown
Verizon
Unknown
AT&T
Available
T-Mobile
Unknown

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

Trash
Phone Service
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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Contact

General Info

Visit Website

Drive Time

2 hrs 8 min from Sacramento
2 hrs 26 min from Yuba City
2 hrs 36 min from Carson City
3 hrs 3 min from Reno

April R.

Scout

Reviewed May. 17, 2022

closed 2022 for construction

per usda closed for 2022 construction

Month of VisitMay

Abbey

Scout

Reviewed Apr. 29, 2021

Closed as of late April 2021

Unfortunately it was closed, but we parked at the gate and took a walk around, and it's absolutely beautiful!

Month of VisitApril

Cassidy Y.

Legend

Reviewed Jun. 27, 2020

Beautiful location

The camp ground is right next to union valley reservoir. Beautiful location, water bathrooms but make sure you get there early it fills up fast.

(16) View All

Don H.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 17, 2019

Beautiful Land

Wonderful campground. Easy walk right up to the lake. Only downside is that it’s a first-come first-serve campground, so you gotta get up there early in the week and hope to get a spot. Another downside is the size of the sites are barely big enough for a few cars, much less a large camper.

julia T.

Traveler

Reviewed Jun. 28, 2018

my favorite campground on union valley for 20 years but not as much lately

so this place was great but they paved most of the way there and it’s popular now so it’s hard to get a spot. no tables no water, just a fire ring, about 20 spots, not reservable. all very close to water. there are pit toilets and most of the time toilet paper although you should bring your own. and there are trash dumpsters now but they get overflowing very quickly due to all the popularity now and then the bears come. it’s sad such a nice spot

MYK A.

Scout

Reviewed May. 5, 2015

camino cove

i love this camp spot ! BUT you have to pick the right time to go ! 20 or so free camp spots - first come first camping . ( summer is when all the loud no respect having people go) . aside from that its great ! ive been camping there for over 20 years .