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Established Camping

Lindsey Lake Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Lindsey Lake Campground is situated in the Tahoe National Forest near Nevada City, CA. The area features forested terrain with a mix of pine and fir trees. Temperatures range from 30°F in winter to 80°F in summer, and nearby attractions include the scenic Bowman Lake and hiking trails in the Grouse Ridge area.

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Location

Lindsey Lake Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Nevada City: Take Hwy 20 east toward Truckee for approximately 20 miles.  Turn left on Bowman Lake Road (Forest Road 18).  Continue on that road for 6 miles and turn right on Forest Road 17.  Continue on for 2 miles.  Take left fork for 2 miles.  This road is a very rough, narrow road until reaching the campground.  From I-80:  Take Hwy 20 cutoff west toward Nevada City for approximately 5 miles.  Turn right on Bowman Lake Road (Forest Road 18).  Continue on that road for 6 miles and turn right on Forest Road 17.  Continue on for 2 miles.  Take left fork for 2 miles.  This road is a very rough, narrow road until reaching the campground.

Coordinates

39.4130007 N
120.64300028 W

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Drive Time

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Access

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

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 25, 2024

So nice!

Stayed 6 days with friends and dogs. Sites were rustic but clean. We had direct access to lake to launch and swim. Jake, site host, very kind and professional as he answered questions and gave advice when a group member popped a tire coming up to the lake. We will be back!

Site8-9
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Lindsey Lake Campground by Rebecca J., July 25, 2024
  • Review photo of Lindsey Lake Campground by Rebecca J., July 25, 2024
  • Review photo of Lindsey Lake Campground by Rebecca J., July 25, 2024
Reviewed May. 8, 2020

An instant favorite

This campground is exactly what I want in a campsite. I'm a little torn writing this review, because I'm not sure I want to tell people about my favorite spot. It can be little rough to get to requiring careful driving even on the paved road (big potholes!), but that just serves to help feel remote.

There are 12 official campgrounds near the lake. They are first come first serve and are often full by Thursday afternoon. The surrounding area is National Forest Land, though, so you can dispersed camp for free. 

If you are prepared to bury your waste and leave no trace, they're probably better camping spots. You can be out of ear and eye shot of any other person, spread out, and really take a great hammock nap.  In the morning, you can take the short hike or drive up to the lake to go for a swim or kayak or whatever you want to do.

Many of the "unimproved" spots are quite improved indeed. If you get lucky, you may find downed trees that have seats carved into them in front of beautifully made stone campfire rings. Campfires are illegal in California for much of the year, please be responsible and don't use the perfect rings available to you.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Lindsey Lake Campground by Dean C., May 8, 2020
Reviewed May. 20, 2018

Rustic and remote

There are only a few campsites here, 12, I think, and a rough road getting (SUV or truck recommended) into the campground. Once you reach camp, you’ll be rewarded with serene and beautiful surroundings. Lots of lakes and hiking in the area. Mosquitos can be a problem so come prepared. Vault toilet. No trash service, no piped water. There are picnic tables and fire rings.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Lindsey Lake Campground by Patricia O., May 20, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make reservations at Lindsey Lake Campground?

Lindsey Lake Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. The campground has approximately 12 sites available, making it important to arrive early, especially during peak seasons. For the most current availability information, it's advisable to contact the local Forest Service office that manages the area. A campground host named Jake is sometimes on-site and can provide assistance with finding available spots.

What do visitor reviews say about Lindsey Lake Campground?

Lindsey Lake Campground is praised for its serene, beautiful surroundings and rustic camping experience. Campers highlight the direct lake access for swimming and boat launching. The campground is described as clean despite its rustic nature. Visitors particularly value the remote feel and peaceful atmosphere. Many mention the helpful campground host. The challenging access road with potholes is frequently noted, with recommendations for SUVs or trucks. Overall, it's characterized as an ideal spot for those seeking a genuine outdoor experience away from crowds.

What's the difference between Lower Lindsey Lake Campground and Lindsey Lakes Campground?

The main Lindsey Lake Campground features approximately 12 sites with direct access to the lake for swimming and boating. While specific information about Lower Lindsey Lake Campground is limited, it's likely part of the same general area but situated at a different location around the lake system. Both areas share the characteristic rough access roads requiring careful driving and vehicles with good clearance. For specific differences in amenities, size, or regulations between these areas, contact the managing Forest Service office for the most accurate information.

Is Lindsey Lakes Campground free to use or are there fees?

Lindsey Lake Campground does charge camping fees, though the exact amount isn't specified in recent information. As a Forest Service campground with basic amenities like vault toilets, fees are likely modest compared to more developed campgrounds. For current fee information, it's best to check with the managing Forest Service district office before your trip. Remember that some Forest Service campgrounds accept America the Beautiful passes for discounts, so bring yours if you have one.

Are there photos available of Lindsey Lake Campground and its facilities?

Photos of Lindsey Lake Campground can be found on The Dyrt's website and app, showcasing the rustic campsites, lake access points, and surrounding natural beauty. The images highlight the serene lake setting, wooded sites, and basic facilities like vault toilets. For the most current and comprehensive collection of images, check The Dyrt's campground gallery or official Forest Service websites. The photos help illustrate the campground's remote, natural setting and direct lake access.