Best Campgrounds near Bear Valley, CA

Camping near Bear Valley, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds in the area that cater to different preferences.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the many trails around the campgrounds. One camper mentioned, "The lake is a 5 min walk away not to mention near the start of many hiking trails in desolation wilderness," highlighting the easy access to beautiful hikes from Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe.
• Water Sports: Enjoy activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. A reviewer at Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park noted, "It was a huge plus that added to our trip and loving this campground," referring to the nearby beach access for water fun.
• Stargazing: The clear skies in the area make for great stargazing. One happy camper shared, "The stars are my favorite to watch and to actually see the Milky Way is incredible," about their experience at Fallen Leaf Campground.

What campers like:

• Spacious Sites: Many campers appreciate the roomy sites. A review from Tahoe Valley Campground mentioned, "This is a great spot if you have kids. Lots of stuff to do just at the resort."
• Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained grounds are a big plus. A camper at Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground said, "Toilets were well maintained and didn’t have an awful smell like most others."
• Beautiful Scenery: The natural beauty of the area is often highlighted. A visitor to D.L. Bliss State Park Campground remarked, "The site is gorgeous and so close to the Lake."

What you should know:

• Bear Activity: Be prepared for bear encounters. A camper at Ice House Campground warned, "There were three bears around the campground the night we just stayed which was a little eerie to sleep with."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A reviewer at Nevada Beach Campground noted, "There are no shower facilities, no dump station, no trail maps."
• Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busy campgrounds, especially in summer. A visitor at Tahoe Valley Campground mentioned, "The General Market was randomly closed for 4 days, for inventory."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with activities for kids. A camper at Tahoe Valley Campground said, "This is a great spot if you have kids."
• Plan for Bear Safety: Make sure to store food properly. A camper at Ice House Campground advised, "It would have been nice to know, since we have little ones exploring the area behind us."
• Bring Entertainment: Pack games or outdoor toys. A family at Pinecrest Campground enjoyed, "We played paddle board in the lake, watched the new Minion movie at the amphitheater."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Ensure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at RV Village Campground mentioned, "Spaces are relatively close together."
• Be Aware of Amenities: Know what facilities are available. A camper at Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground noted, "Drinking water is available."
• Plan for Crowds: Arrive early to secure a good spot. A visitor at Fallen Leaf Campground said, "Check in took awhile, but worked out."

Camping near Bear Valley, California, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.