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Established Camping

Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods, near California's stunning wilderness, is a fantastic campground that offers a laid-back atmosphere for those looking to escape into nature. With free, first-come, first-served sites, it’s a great option for spontaneous trips, though you might want to arrive early to snag a good spot.

This campground is perfect for swimming and fishing, with a small lake that’s ideal for kayak fishing. Visitors have noted the presence of fire rings and benches at each site, making it easy to kick back and enjoy the outdoors. As one camper shared, “Great, free campground,” highlighting the appeal of its no-cost access.

Getting to the campground involves a dirt road, which can be a bit tricky for some vehicles, but it’s manageable for those with high clearance or experienced drivers. The area is surrounded by beautiful nature, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring. Just be prepared for some wind at night and keep an eye out for mosquitoes near the water.

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with the chance to connect with nature, Lake of the Woods is a great choice. Whether you’re camping in a tent or trying out glamping, you’ll find a welcoming spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Description

USDA Forest Service

Lake of the Woods is a nice small lake. It can be quite popular especially on weekends. There are approximately 15 camping spots with fire pits and picnic tables situated along the shoreline. There is no piped water available. This lake generally opens later in the spring as it sits at a high elevation and takes longer for winter snows to melt to gain access. Camping is free and on a first come - first served basis. The lake has both public and private property. Fire restrictions may be different depending on where you locate your camp.

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Location

Lake of the Woods is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

39.50266478 N
120.39115855 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.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Stay Connected

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

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires


Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 11, 2024

Lake of the Woods

Sites are free, first come first served. There was still snow blocking the road the Memorial Day weekend but by June 6th, the road was clear and passable with my Honda Fit. Great, free campground. If the road is blocked with snow part way up there are a few dispersed pull off spots available also.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Lake of the Woods by Aaron A., June 11, 2024
  • Review photo of Lake of the Woods by Aaron A., June 11, 2024
  • Review photo of Lake of the Woods by Aaron A., June 11, 2024
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Jul. 29, 2022

Great lake with campground

Nice campground at great lake. Nice water for swimming. Fire rings and benches for each site. A dirt road to get to the campsite, but doable for experienced drivers or high clearance cars. Pit toilet.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 16, 2021

Nice experience

Took my wife here for her first backpacking trip. Was over all a great experience. Went at the end of June . The lake is shallow in some areas with white sand . It got a bit windy at night and the mosquitoes were gone by the morning but mosquitoes do love hanging out by the water. Cool spot to stay a few nights

Siten
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed May. 27, 2019

Great fishing spot

Campground is beautiful. Spots are first come first served and can fill up quickly. Small lake perfect for kayak fishing.

  • Review photo of Lake of the Woods by Samantha  T., May 27, 2019

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are fires allowed at Lake of the Woods?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Lake of the Woods, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Lake of the Woods have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Lake of the Woods does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Lake of the Woods?

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