Map showing campground location near Emigrant Gap, California

Camper submitted image from Lake Spaulding Campground

Lake Spaulding Campground

Managed by PG&E, Lake Spaulding Campground sits above the reservoir in the Sierra Nevada foothills east of Nevada City, operating from late May through September with sites set among large granite boulders. The boulder-framed layout creates natural separation between sites, and trailers and RVs tend to cluster near the boat launch, leaving the main campground area less congested. Sites include picnic tables, bear lockers, and fire rings, and firewood is available on-site.

Water access is a central draw. Kayakers and paddlers use the lake directly, though the surface tends to get choppy in the afternoons, which is worth factoring into any paddle plans. A trail follows the shoreline for day hikes. Bears are present in the area, and proper food storage in the provided lockers is essential rather than optional.

Julie D. describes the sites as "very quiet, spacious," and the campground works well as a staging point before heading deeper into the backcountry, including routes toward Eagle Lakes. Nearby, PG&E Donner Summit Area Lake Spaulding Campsite offers an additional option on the same reservoir. Campers planning a longer stay should check fire restrictions in advance, as closures due to fire conditions can affect the area. Reservations are available and cell service reaches the campground. For a well-documented basecamp with lake access and granite-framed sites, this one earns a closer look.

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Map & DirectionsLake Spaulding Campground is located in California near Emigrant Gap

Public Campground

Coordinates

39.32200049 N
120.63400097 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile5G
Good Coverage
Verified by 1 user
Last on 9/11/26
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&T5G
Good Coverage
Verified by 1 user
Last on 6/29/26

Connectivity

T-Mobile5G
Good Coverage
Verified by 1 user
Last on 9/11/26
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&T5G
Good Coverage
Verified by 1 user
Last on 6/29/26

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Reservable
Showers
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

51 min from Reno, NV
1 hr 5 min from Sacramento, CA
1 hr 15 min from Yuba City, CA
1 hr 22 min from Carson City, NV

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Lake Spaulding Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

5.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the spacious, private wooded sites and peaceful lakeside setting. Wildlife presence noted but manageable with proper food storage. Lake conditions can become choppy in afternoons.

Julie D.

Ranger

Reviewed Oct. 30, 2020

Beautiful lake

We stayed here for a night before backpacking to Eagle Lakes, and it was a nice little wooded campground. Very quiet, spacious sites. Hiking along the lake is gorgeous. We tried to stay another time, but had to cancel because of forest fires. Managed by PGE.

Month of VisitMay

Cassidy Y.

Legend

Reviewed Jun. 20, 2020

Beautiful spot

Camped her one night with friends. Quiet beautiful location

John and Trish N.

Guide

Reviewed Dec. 23, 2018

Great little lake!!

We take our Kayaks and spend the day on the lake. It gets choppy in the afternoon so be aware. The campgrounds are set among huge boulders and can be very private. There are bears but they seem to keep to themselves but don’t temp with unstored food. Tables, bear lockers,fire rings are at all campsites. Trailers and RV are mostly kept to the boat launch. Closed from October till May

Month of VisitJuly

jim N.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 13, 2018

Lake Spaulding

Nice little lake

Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

What do reviews say about Lake Spaulding Campground?

Lake Spaulding Campground is highly regarded for its natural beauty and tranquil setting. The campground features spacious, private sites nestled among huge boulders in a wooded area. Visitors appreciate the quiet atmosphere and the gorgeous scenery, particularly the lake views. The campground provides essential amenities including tables, bear lockers, and fire rings at each site. Wildlife including bears are present in the area, though they generally keep their distance. The location also serves as a convenient base for backpacking to nearby destinations like Eagle Lakes.

Is there a map of Lake Spaulding Campground showing campsites and facilities?

No official map is directly available online for Lake Spaulding Campground. The campground is managed by PG&E (Pacific Gas and Electric), so you can check their recreation website for potential maps. The campground features sites set among large boulders that provide privacy, with each site equipped with tables, bear lockers, and fire rings. For the most current map and site information, contact PG&E recreation department directly before your visit.

What activities are available at Lake Spaulding for day use visitors?

Day use visitors to Lake Spaulding can enjoy numerous outdoor activities centered around the lake and surrounding area. Kayaking and boating are popular on the lake, though be aware that the water often gets choppy in the afternoon. Hiking trails around the lake offer gorgeous views and opportunities to explore the natural landscape. Swimming may be possible depending on conditions. The area is also suitable for fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and photography. The beautiful wooded setting with massive boulders creates a scenic backdrop for a day in nature.

How do I make reservations for Lake Spaulding Campground?

Lake Spaulding Campground is managed by PG&E (Pacific Gas and Electric). To make reservations, contact PG&E's recreation department directly. The campground may operate on a first-come, first-served basis during certain periods, but this should be confirmed. Due to its popularity in summer months and limited number of sites, securing a reservation in advance is recommended when possible. For the most current reservation policies, contact information, and availability, visit PG&E's recreation website or call their recreation department.

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