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Established Camping

Camino Cove Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

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.

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Location

Camino Cove Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

38.878704 N
120.428467 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

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

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

FREE established camping

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


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Camino Cove Campground needs a permit.

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General Info


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Reviews

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3.5

out of 5

6 Reviews

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
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.

  • Review photo of Camino Cove Campground by Cassidy Y., June 27, 2020
  • Review photo of Camino Cove Campground by Cassidy Y., June 27, 2020
  • Review photo of Camino Cove Campground by Cassidy Y., June 27, 2020
  • (16) View All
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.

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

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 .

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there photos available of Camino Cove Campground?

While dedicated photo galleries of Camino Cove Campground aren't specified, visitors often capture the beautiful setting along Union Valley Reservoir. The campground offers picturesque views with sites situated close to the water's edge. To view current photos before your visit, check the USDA Forest Service website for Eldorado National Forest, outdoor recreation websites, or social media platforms where campers frequently share their experiences. The scenery features the natural beauty of the reservoir against the forest backdrop.

What amenities and facilities are available at Camino Cove Campground?

Camino Cove Campground offers rustic camping with basic amenities. The campground features approximately 20 first-come, first-served campsites, each equipped with a fire ring. Pit toilets are available with toilet paper usually provided, though bringing your own is recommended. There are no picnic tables or potable water on-site. The campground's main attraction is its prime location right next to Union Valley Reservoir, with most sites situated very close to the water. Sites are relatively small, accommodating a few cars but not well-suited for large campers or RVs.

What do reviews say about Camino Cove Campground?

Camino Cove Campground is highly regarded for its beautiful location directly beside Union Valley Reservoir with easy water access. Visitors consistently praise the scenic setting and waterfront camping experience. The campground's popularity means it fills up quickly, especially during summer months, making early arrival essential to secure a spot. Some visitors note that summer crowds can be noisy. The campground's limited size - with sites barely large enough for a few cars - makes it less suitable for large campers. The lack of amenities like tables and potable water emphasizes its more rustic nature. Note that the campground has experienced periodic closures for construction and maintenance.