Camping options near Clio, California range across Sierra Nevada elevations from 3,500 to 6,500 feet, creating varied temperature zones throughout the camping season. The region's mountain ecosystem transitions between pine forest and high desert terrain, with nighttime temperatures typically dropping 20-30 degrees lower than daytime highs even during summer months. This area sits at the intersection of Plumas National Forest and private campground options, with variable road conditions depending on winter snowpack melt timing.
What to do
River activities: The North Yuba River provides swimming and tubing opportunities near Loganville Campground. "There is a path down to the Yuba River, where you can get in the water or float on a tube. The best part about this campground is the river," notes Julie D. The shallow swimming areas warm up by mid-July.
Mountain biking: Trail access points exist throughout the region with varying difficulty levels. Thousand Trails Snowflower offers nearby options. "There's some decent trails close by to ride. There's also legit fishing lakes within about a 20 minute radius," according to Paul R. Most trails remain muddy until late June following snowmelt.
Town exploration: Small towns near camping areas offer shopping and dining. "Sierra City has some restaurants and a general store for supplies. Lots of PCT hikers stop to restock there," shares Julie D. Most businesses operate seasonally with limited evening hours.
What campers like
Natural settings: Campers appreciate the forested surroundings and water features. "The weather was perfect in early October! It was not busy, there was one other occupied campsite not too close to where we were. It has water, bathrooms and a bear box. Beautiful trees and clean sites," writes Lily G. about Loganville.
Warm-weather swimming: The small lake at Thousand Trails Snowflower becomes popular during summer. "Great little lake for swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding. RV sites have partial hook ups," notes Kathy C. Water activities remain temperature-dependent, typically viable from late June through August.
Wildlife viewing: Natural animal encounters occur regularly throughout the camping area. "There was a bear in the area one year, I didn't see it myself, but a friend said he saw one on the other loop from where we were staying," Julie D. mentions. Dawn periods offer best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate within specific timeframes. Movin' West RV Park runs from "May 1 to Oct 21" according to their listing information. Late spring visits may encounter lingering snow at higher elevations.
Insect considerations: Some areas experience significant mosquito activity. "We were so thrilled to find this clean, family-friendly resort with its own (warm!) little lake in the high sierras... But our group's collective joy was short lived after we were beseeched with mosquitos," reports Tai W. Morning and evening hours typically see highest insect activity.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "The showers are extremely clean, private, and comfortable. Seems like everyone complied with 'camp shower' guidelines as I had good water pressure and hot water for my short but satisfying shower," shares Corinne D. about Movin' West RV Park. Most facilities do not provide soap or paper products.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some rv camping areas near Clio offer dedicated play spaces. "Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park is super nice. Kid friendly with activities and play areas," Ben W. explains. Morning hours offer cooler temperatures for playground use.
Easy day trips: Nearby towns provide family entertainment options. "The town of Graeagle is just a short bit up the road and there are lots of little cute shops there. There are many lakes just a short drive away as well," Daphne R. advises. Most attractions operate 10am-5pm during summer season.
Pet accommodations: Dog areas exist at several campgrounds. "Secured large dog area with running creek within walking distance," notes Angela G. about Rivers Edge RV Park. Dog areas generally don't have fencing suitable for very small dogs under 15 pounds.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV site proximity varies considerably between parks. At Little Bear RV Park, "there is no special loyalty to this place, so I promise I am not biased. The grass is so green, dogs have an area to play, you are right next to a river that you can tube down, and shade from the trees is perfect on a hot day!" explains Kelsea R. Most parks place RVs within 10-15 feet of each other.
Navigation challenges: Some parks present access difficulties for larger rigs. "The sites are level and the scenery is breathtaking," but "we were able to ride bike in the park and on the road that was safe with little to no traffic," Angela G. shares about Little Bear RV Park, suggesting limited maneuvering room. Corner sites typically offer most space.
Reservation timing: Advance planning becomes critical during peak season for rv camping near Clio. "Thousand Trails does not reserve campsites so it can be quite a scene to find a site especially in the summer. Only one dump station was open (there are 3) so waited 30+ minutes to dump," reports Kathy C. Weekday arrivals increase chances of securing preferred sites.
