Tent camping near Applegate, California ranges from primitive forest sites to more developed lakeside locations within a 30-minute drive. The region sits in the western Sierra Nevada foothills at approximately 2,000 feet elevation, providing moderate temperatures for camping from spring through fall. Fire regulations vary significantly throughout the area, with complete bans often implemented during high-risk summer months.
What to do
Water activities at Camp Far West: Camp Far West North Shore offers direct lake access for swimming and fishing. According to visitor Ray B., "We were right on the lake at the end of a peninsula. Not a sound except for the birds. We did a bike ride along the lake through the undeveloped overflow area and beyond to the north east end of the property."
Historical exploration: The OARS American River Outpost Campground provides access to Gold Rush history sites. As camper Momma H. notes, "If you have some extra time, be sure to check out Marshall Gold Discovery Park, home of Sutter's Mill, and the nearby wine country."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Onion Valley Campground offer opportunities to spot local wildlife in the meadows. "Meadow near the campgrounds is amazing... Frogs are noisy at night due to the streams that run nearby," reports camper Jordan R.
What campers like
Off-season solitude: Winter camping at Camp Far West North Shore offers surprising tranquility. "We were the only people anywhere except for folks in the full hook-up area, which was far from us. Perfect when its off season and you are the only people," writes Ray B.
Star gazing opportunities: Open meadows at Tahoe National Forest Onion Valley Campground create excellent night sky viewing conditions. Caroline B. mentions, "I loved the open fields of wild flowers. Those open spaces allow for some great star gazing night."
Well-spaced campsites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at certain locations. Adam B. commented about Onion Valley, "We rolled in here after midnight and most of the spots were still empty, and they're far enough apart that we were able to set up camp without being too disruptive."
What you should know
Cash and registration requirements: Several campgrounds require exact cash and self-registration. At Lake Clementine Boat In, Drew M. advises, "Useful tip, BRING A PEN AND EXACT CASH. Upon arrival, scope out the place and claim your spot by filling out the envelope with your name and vehicle information and how many days your plan on staying."
Limited availability: Many smaller sites fill quickly during peak season. "We stayed there for a weekend in late March and it was gorgeous! The only thing is most of the good spots were closed off," reports Camila about Lake Clementine.
Access challenges: Roads to some campgrounds can be difficult. Lee D. notes about Lake Clementine, "The access road is about six miles of curvy, hilly, and narrow (sometimes only one lane) pavement. There is a sign prohibiting trailers."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: Monitor water conditions at lakeside camping areas. At Peninsula Camping and Boating Resort, sites are often positioned on hills near water, requiring extra vigilance with children.
Plant hazards awareness: Teach children to identify and avoid problem plants. Laura G. warns, "When we arrived to the campground, we found that the sites we reserved were on a hill, and poison oak between them."
Noise considerations: Select campsites based on ambient noise preferences. Ian F. notes about Onion Valley Campground, "It was nice and secluded with not many sites so not many people or noise."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many access roads in the region have limitations. Lee D. cautions about Lake Clementine, "There is a sign prohibiting trailers; our 18-foot camper van did fine but anything much larger would definitely be challenged."
Site leveling needs: Many tent sites near Applegate require leveling. "Most of the sites that have a 'driveway' were not level, except for Sites 5 and 6," advises Lee D. at Oracle Oak Grove.
Limited hook-ups: Most campgrounds offer primitive camping with few amenities. Prepare to be self-sufficient with water, waste management, and power needs as most sites are developed primarily for tent camping near Applegate rather than RV accommodations.
