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Established Camping

Grouse Ridge Campground

Grouse Ridge Campground, near Nevada City, California, is a fantastic spot for those who love a bit of adventure and stunning views. This place is all about the great outdoors, with designated sites that let you soak in the beauty of Tahoe National Forest.

The campground is known for its breathtaking scenery and access to numerous hiking trails leading to picturesque lakes. Visitors have raved about the views, with one camper noting, “The view from our tent in the morning was absolutely stunning.” Just keep in mind that the road to get there can be a bit rough, so a vehicle with some clearance is a good idea.

Amenities are pretty basic but functional. You’ll find clean toilets and picnic tables, perfect for enjoying meals outside. Some campers have mentioned the presence of cows nearby, which adds a unique charm to the experience, though earplugs might come in handy if you’re a light sleeper.

For those looking to explore, the surrounding area offers plenty of hiking opportunities, with trails that lead to beautiful lakes and scenic overlooks. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer stay, Grouse Ridge Campground is a solid choice for anyone looking to escape into nature.

Description

National Forest

Tahoe National Forest

Grouse Ridge Campground is located at the top of Grouse Ridge, spectacular vistas of granitic boulders, many alpine lakes, scattered pines, and wildflowers in the summer. Often late opening due to snow banks on access road. Hiking and biking trails lead off of ridge to the Grouse Lakes Area located at the base of the ridge. There are 9 campsites with tables and fire rings. 5 campsites have space for small trailers.There is a vault toilet, but no trash service; pack it in pack it out!

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Location

Grouse Ridge Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Nevada City: Take Hwy 20 heading east toward Truckee approximately 20 miles.  Turn left on Bowman Lake Road (Forest Road 18).  Continue on that road for 5 miles and turn right on Grouse Ridge Road (Forest Road 14).  Road is unimproved dirt for 6 miles until reaching campground.  From I-80:  Take Hwy 20 cutoff on I-80 headed west for approximately 5 miles.  Turn right on Bowman Lake Road (Forest Road 18).  Continue on that road for 5 miles and turn right on Grouse Ridge Road (Forest Road 14).  Road is unimproved dirt for 6 miles until reaching campground.

Coordinates

39.38900081 N
120.60900067 W

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Access

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

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Fair
  • Verizon
    Fair
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Good

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 27, 2023

Covered in snow

I expected some snow, since this year was so heavy. But there was too much snow to make it much rather than 4-5 miles up the already rough road. We camped a little down, and was still a gorgeous spot. If you want to make it higher you need a higher clearance, at least than my subaru with no lift. The hike to the ridge was mostly in a foot of snow or more, it is packed down so my feet didn’t get too wet. Just very slippery. Also, make sure to bring bug spray!! They were no joke

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Grouse Ridge Campground by Lucia S., June 27, 2023
  • Review photo of Grouse Ridge Campground by Lucia S., June 27, 2023
  • Review photo of Grouse Ridge Campground by Lucia S., June 27, 2023
  • (10) View All
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2020

Well-worth the drive!

We took a chance on this campground after reading reviews on The Dyrt and were not disappointed. About 1 hour 15 mins from Truckee all told, and yes, it’s very advisable to have a vehicle with some clearance. We drove a rented Jeep Wrangler and could have done it with our Subaru Outback, but it would definitely have taken us longer and probably given me an anxiety attack along the way. The view from our tent in the morning were absolutely stunning, as were the views from the outlook itself. We ran into cows on the way in and their bells could be heard throughout the night, prompting us to put earplugs on our list. Toilets were as clean as could be asked for and there was even toilet paper (although I wouldn’t count on it, bring your own just in case).

We visited in late August and arrived just after sunset. There were 2-3 campsites still open. Overall, there were more people than I had anticipated, so we were glad to get a spot!

  • Review photo of Grouse Ridge Campground by Ali , August 29, 2020
  • Review photo of Grouse Ridge Campground by Ali , August 29, 2020
  • Review photo of Grouse Ridge Campground by Ali , August 29, 2020
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Jul. 19, 2020

Rough hiking, Rougher road

One of my favorite places to come for a good challenge. We always stay at this camp though the first night. The hiking is great, there’s access to about 6 or more lakes, a great backpacking spot. The road to get here is quite rough. I wouldn’t suggest if you don’t have 4 wheel drive, although I have made it up in a normal car. I highly suggest this area though, beautiful.

  • Review photo of Grouse Ridge Campground by Jessica N., July 19, 2020
  • Review photo of Grouse Ridge Campground by Jessica N., July 19, 2020
  • Review photo of Grouse Ridge Campground by Jessica N., July 19, 2020
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2020

Views

Takes a rough road to get up to camp. But it has some great views and access to great trails.

  • Review photo of Grouse Ridge Campground by Zac R., January 26, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are fires allowed at Grouse Ridge Campground?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Grouse Ridge Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Grouse Ridge Campground?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is fair, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is good.