Glamping options near Bear Valley sit at elevations between 5,000 and 9,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, offering distinctly different experiences depending on the season. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 75°F during the day, while winter brings heavy snowfall that often closes access to higher elevation sites. Road conditions vary significantly, with some glamping destinations requiring travel on unmaintained dirt roads.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Pinecrest Campground, visitors can find excellent trout fishing both at the lake and in nearby streams. "We rented a boat for half the price as the early bird special and caught a bunch of trout. We used a size ten Tribble hook with about a foot leader and pinch weights with rainbow powerbait for those that want to catch fish for lunch," reports Ian G.
Lake activities: Fallen Leaf Campground offers both Lake Tahoe access and its own smaller, more peaceful lake for water recreation. "Fallen Leaf Lake is at the rear of the camp. While smaller and not as well known it is also not overly trafficked, crystal clear and surrounded by hiking paths along the water," writes Ryan W.
High-elevation hiking: For those seeking cooler temperatures during summer heatwaves, Highland Lakes Campground provides access to alpine trails with significantly lower temperatures than surrounding areas. "This area is beautiful. At almost 9000 feet elevation, it is a great place to escape a heat wave on either side of the Sierra. Reno was having 104 degree highs, so we were looking for elevation that was not too far away. 20 degrees cooler here," notes Ray B.
Winter season activities: Tahoe Valley Campground remains open year-round, allowing winter glampers to enjoy snow activities. "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. It was the weekend after Thanksgiving and snowing," shares Basia M.
What campers like
Proximity to multiple lakes: Glampers appreciate the accessibility to both small and large lakes in the region. At Silver Lake East, "you can walk 5 minutes to Silver Lake, and to the private lodge/restaurant adjacent if you don't feel like cooking," according to David G.
Elevated campsites: Highland Lakes Campground offers sites with remarkable views. One camper reports, "We put our van with a great unobstructed view over the lake out the slider and from under our awning looking towards Hiram Peak. The hiking in the area was spectacular. Lots of trails, snow fields, wild flowers, and wonderful views."
Riverside settings: Eureka Valley Campground provides creekside glamping opportunities with easy access to fishing. "Love this campground because of its close proximity to the Stanislaus River. There are interesting granite rock formations in and around the campground," notes Alison.
Amenities at higher elevations: Pinecrest Campground combines wilderness with comfort. "This is a nice campground on Pinecrest Lake near Sonora Pass in Stanislaus National Forest. There is a great hike around the lake close by, as well as swimming in the lake, a marina and a convenience store," explains Warren K.
What you should know
Access challenges: The road to some glamping sites requires careful driving. For Highland Lakes Campground, "It's a long bumpy road to get here... The road in is bumpy and there is a shallow creek that you will need to drive across, but I had no problems driving a 2wd Honda Fit compact car up," advises Reese F.
Seasonal opening limitations: Most glamping sites above 7,000 feet have very short seasons. Highland Lakes "didn't even open until late July this year due to all the snowfall," and many high elevation sites only operate from late June through September.
Fire restrictions: Be prepared for seasonal fire bans that may impact your glamping experience. Several campgrounds note "no fires allowed" during certain periods, requiring alternate cooking arrangements.
Water availability: Lodgepole Overflow Campground has limited water access. "I had brought my filled 5 gallon water jug and was glad I had as I never could find potable water (though I think the campground had some)," shares Amanda D.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly entertainment: Pinecrest offers special activities for children. "The kids really love the Amphitheatre where they play pretty good family friendly movies," mentions Michael M., making it an excellent option for families seeking glamping with entertainment.
Lake proximity considerations: When glamping with children at Fallen Leaf, site selection matters. "If you are in D or E loop you are closer to the lake. Even though they are large, the tree coverage is bare on some of them so there isn't much privacy," explains Christy K.
Bear awareness: Families need to be vigilant about food storage. At Fallen Leaf, "there may also be bears. Bears are everywhere here... There are bear boxes at each site, and kids everywhere you probably won't be a bear's first target. Just be bear aware."
Accessibility options: For families needing easy access, "Pinecrest was an amazing place at the edge of the Stanislaus national forest. The community is great, the campground and bathrooms were very well maintained. It was a 10min walk to the lake," notes Ruben N.
Tips from RVers
Hookup realities: RV glampers should verify amenities before arrival at Pinecrest. "On their website it did state there was water hookups unfortunately there was not," reports Ian G., highlighting the importance of double-checking utilities.
Generator noise considerations: At Plasses Resort, RVs accommodate horse campers but conditions are rustic. "Lots of private sites; takes tents to big RVs. No cement or asphalt-all dirt. 'Resort' is a bit of a stretch, this is no fancy 'glamping,'" advises Rocky L.
Winter RV preparations: For cold-weather glamping at Tahoe Valley Campground, be prepared for freezing conditions. "The RV sites have hookups (although we weren't able to connect to water because of freezing temperatures)," warns one winter camper.
Site size variations: Tahoe Valley can accommodate larger rigs but spacing varies. "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers," notes Steve R.
