RV camping near Alpine Meadows, California offers access to Sierra Nevada forests at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer daytime highs typically range between 70-85°F. Many campgrounds in the region maintain dirt access roads that can become rutted after spring thaw or following heavy rainfall events.
What to do
Kayaking on French Meadows Reservoir: Multiple boat ramps provide water access for paddlers at French Meadows. "We rolled in around midnight on a Thursday in September and there were still plenty of walk-in sites available... There was a water spigot, toilets, table, fire ring, and easy access to the reservoir," notes Adam B.
Swimming in mountain streams: Look for deeper pools in streams during summer months. "We did an 11-mile hike in Granite Chief Wilderness which is accessible about 5 miles up a gravel road from the campground. On the way back we stopped for a swim in the river that feeds the reservoir... more of a creek currently, but we found a deep still spot perfect for swimming and soaking our tired feet," reports Wood F. after staying at Lewis Campground.
Night sky viewing: The distance from urban light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "We ended up camping in a truck camper at Tahoe Valley Campground after being caught in a snow storm. For a last minute find, it turned out to be an awesome choice... the entire place was very quiet. And nothing beats making a fire in the snow and waking up to a couple of feet of white fluffiness!" shares Basia M.
What campers like
Natural surroundings despite proximity to amenities: "We came into south lake to visit family. This campground is right in town but there's enough space and trees to give it a natural setting. Bathrooms are great and it's pretty quiet considering it's popular," writes Sarah R. about Tahoe Valley Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: The RV sites at RV Village Campground provide reliable infrastructure. "Great campground with spacious sites. The sites toward the back, away from the road, are much quieter and more private. Easy walk to the beach," explains Elizabeth R.
Water recreation options: Many campers appreciate lake access for cooling off. "The beach was amazing. We had 2 small dogs so they went allowed on the Zephyr Cove beach, but a short walk to the right there is a dog friendly beach. I would argue it's even better part of the beach. Nice rock formations and sandy beach," says Randy J., who stayed at Tahoe Valley Campground.
What you should know
Bear activity requires proper food storage: Bears are common in the region. "Bear country be advised. Extreme fire danger the summer months and closed due to snow in winter," warns Toby R., who stayed at French Meadows Campground.
Site selection matters: Not all campsites provide level ground for tents. "WARNING- two thirds of the campsites were on a slope with no where to setup a tent on level ground. We got lucky and reserved a site with a 'decent' spot to place a tent but if you have never been and don't know what sites to pick while making reservations online then you are rolling the dice," cautions Graham K. about French Meadows.
Quiet hours enforcement varies: "Nicely kept campground but no night enforcement for quiet hours. Had several rowdy groups keeping us up til 2am. A few air horns, car alarms going off. No camp hosts or ground keepers around," reports Cassidy R. about her experience at Tahoe Valley Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning for kids: Many campgrounds offer organized events. "They put on a ton of events like karaoke nights, live music, and smores nights. Hot showers and well lit clean bathrooms. Hard to find solitude or silence," explains Dani P. about Tahoe Valley Campground.
Check for age restrictions: Some facilities limit amenities by age. "The only negative part was my children and I could not enjoy the amenities. Kids must be 18 to enjoy the spa even if accompanied by adults, had a great club house with a pool table but kids must be 14 to play," notes Mar about Sparks Marina RV Park.
Water safety planning: Water features attract families but require supervision. "We were here in August. Slightly long to get to on the windy roads at night time, but during the day the drive back wasn't bad. Loved the water access, and water was perfect temperature for swimming for our toddlers even," shares Anastasia P. about French Meadows.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven sites. "RV sites are mostly electric and water only, and many aren't anywhere near level. Nonetheless, I loved the place and will definitely go back. If you prefer parking lot RV parks though, go somewhere else," advises Paul R. about Thousand Trails Snowflower.
Age restrictions for older RVs: Some RV parks have policies about RV age. "There is NO mention of an age restriction on their website. I specifically searched it before I made the reservation. But they WILL take the reservation online, take your money, then call to check the age of your rig," warns Leah T. about Sparks Marina RV Park.
Winter hookup limitations: Cold weather affects water connections at some RV parks. "We ended up camping in a truck camper at Tahoe Valley Campground after being caught in a snow storm...The RV sites have hookups (although we weren't able to connect to water because of freezing temperatures)," explains Basia M.
