270 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Coleville, California range from full-hookup RV sites to primitive camping on public lands. The KOA Coleville/Walker Meadowcliff Lodge offers tent sites, RV spaces with full hookups, and cabin accommodations, while Topaz Lake Recreation Area provides lakefront camping with various amenity levels including both developed and primitive sites. Several campgrounds in the area feature mixed-use facilities that accommodate both tent and RV campers, with some offering additional amenities such as showers, drinking water, and picnic tables.
The camping season in this region typically runs from March through October, with most campgrounds closing during winter months. Topaz Lake Recreation Area maintains sites year-round, though services may be limited in off-seasons. Reservations are recommended for developed campgrounds, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. Cell service varies considerably throughout the area, with stronger signals near major highways and limited or no coverage in more remote locations. Water access is available at select sites, though the water level at Topaz Lake can fluctuate seasonally. As one camper noted, "The dispersed camping was fun. It rained and the wind is crazy. You have to be ready for it at any time."
Campgrounds near Topaz Lake receive consistently positive reviews for their scenic views and water access. The KOA Coleville/Walker is noted for its cleanliness and friendly staff, with visitors appreciating the well-maintained facilities. A camper reported, "This was one of the best stays we have had in a while. It was a perfect break from some of the more rustic sites. The customer service was top-notch, the facility was clean and peaceful." Highway noise can be noticeable at campgrounds along US-395, though many campers find it acceptable given the convenient location and amenities. Primitive camping areas provide more solitude but fewer facilities, appealing to those seeking a more rustic experience. Most developed campgrounds in the area offer fire rings, though fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons.
"Excellent location, stunning scenery, limited cell service, sounds perfect because it is. Fishing, exploring and just relaxing."
"Besides the beautiful scenic lake spot that offers fun on the lake during the day and star gazing at night it’s a well ran campground with amentities."
"We stays at the Coleville/Walker Meadowcreek KOA as a base camp during a recent trip to Mono County. We had driven by the campgrounds for years and didn't think to must about it."
"Every night they walked through the grounds to see how everyone was while drinking a glass of wine."
"Not sure why the directions say California when it’s in Nevada. Someone edited the map to a random place in California. I fixed it, if not google maps desert creek campground fixes it."
"Located in a nice canyon next to a creek. Stayed here one night. There are lots of different spots with fire pits once you get into the canyon. Lots of firewood as well."
"Camp host was a great help for local recommendations for day trips and directions to a general store about 40min drive away."
"This is an awesome State Park located in Markleeville, CA. It's in close proximity to Lake Tahoe, CA, and offers many great day hikes for all ability levels in the area."
from $35 / night
Check Availability"Decent little RV park that worked well for us as we were driving through and needed a place for the night. It’s surprisingly nice and cute considering it’s behind the Chevron and the casino."
"There are plenty of trash cans around the park. They are emptied almost daily. Pets are welcome. Dogs must be on leashes and picked up after."
"The sites are spaced well apart, among lots of pines with good shade on nearly every spot. You can hear the highway from most spots, but it's very quiet in the upper spots."
"Stopped here for a quick stay on our drive through. Very shaded and beautiful and close off the 395. Looks like some of the sites had been closed because of minor fire damage."
from $28 / night
"No fires are allowed, but you are right on the lake, with two docks and a beach with shade everywhere and amazing views, so who cares?"
from $40 / night
Check Availability"Pretty close to the road so you do get motorcycle noise and there are a ton of cyclists. So look out for them. Three trails to get to the water. But I recommend the one that looks like a driveway."
"The big pine trees provide welcome coverage with minimal undergrowth so hiking around is easy and pleasant. The nearby creek flows well and if you can filter, you'll have unlimited water."
"We are raised and drive a 170 extend van and we’re able to make it. Creek is right next to you. Fall colors are amazing."
from $28 / night
TravelerYou don’t exactly need to go all the way to the pinpoint, I pulled off to the side about a mile before pinpoint. Amazing spot, several areas to pick from, safe and quiet with amazing views. Few other people but that also made me feel safe. I would definitely come back.
GuideI didn't stay, the sites are very close together
TravelerClean well maintained. Host and Rangers very likeable and helpful. Between Carson City, Reno, & Virginia City. $30 electricity & water.
TravelerSome sites trailer friendly some hosts are excellent others could be more friendly
GuideRanger explained you can't drive your vehicle to the campground
TravelerNice little Campground, not a lot of shade in the site that we were in. But we did have a Palapas, which was lovely. We cooked out everyday we had a fire several nights. The campground was pretty chill pretty quiet overall. Had water access directly across from us which was great. The dump station and water fill up on the exit was easy. Overall great first camping in our new RV.
GuideThis park is really beautiful and with good services. Good cell phone signal with Tmobile 7 days every 30. Some sites are reservation only and some others are first come first served No overflow camping
ScoutOnly drawback is that it was near to the road. A little loud. Bring quarters
TravelerWe booked when we were just outside of town around d 9:30 pm. Didn’t get an email with our site number, so we had to go to the camp host and get our assigned spot. Spot was easy to get into and the camp was very clean.
Camping near Coleville, California occurs at an elevation of approximately 5,000 feet, where the Eastern Sierra transitions to high desert terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-90°F with minimal humidity, while winter brings temperatures between 15-50°F with occasional snow. The region sits in a rain shadow, receiving less than 15 inches of precipitation annually, creating dry camping conditions across most sites.
Fishing opportunities: At Topaz Lake Recreation Area, anglers can access both shoreline fishing and boat launches. "Lake offers boating, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and swimming. Boat launch and fish cleaning are a good distance from camp sites. Has a cleaning station for watercraft for invasive species," notes Vanessa R.
Hot springs access: Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground offers natural hot springs pools a short distance from campsites. As Tom C. explains, "This is a fun area with some cool hikes and a short walk to the hot springs pools. There is also a creek we take the little ones to catch crawdads in."
Off-road exploration: The Desert Creek Campground area provides access to numerous backcountry trails. Jordan V. reports, "I saw two vehicles all day on the trail and was by myself at the campground that night. The creek runs all year long and it's very peaceful with beautiful canyon like views."
River access: Bootleg Campground offers easy access to Walker River for cooling off during summer months. "The Walker River is across the street, within easy walking distance. I saw a trail in the campground, but not sure how long or where it goes. Otherwise the main activity would be fishing/enjoying the river," writes Colleen C.
Campground cleanliness: The KOA Coleville/Walker Meadowcliff Lodge receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. Jmani T. states, "The staff was friendly and helpful and all of the sites and communal areas were clean. The tent sites were a tad smaller than what we imagined, but was able to situate our 10x10 canopy and connecting tent between the hook ups and picnic table."
Weather variation: Campers note the region's significant daily temperature swings and sudden weather changes. Ryan S. advises about Desert Creek Campground: "Located in a nice canyon next to a creek. There are lots of different spots with fire pits once you get into the canyon. Lots of firewood as well."
Seasonal water levels: Topaz Lake's water level fluctuates significantly throughout the year. According to Lisa: "If lucky enough to get a site, along the lake, you'll be rewarded with stunning views but it can get windy. Decent sized, level sites along the lake with lots of open space between campsite and lake."
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds use different reservation processes. At Topaz Lake RV Park, Michele reports: "We spend a month here every year and several weekends, too. It's clean, the host, Julie, is very friendly and the spaces are great. Plenty of space for our 34' travel trailer. Full hookups - water, electric and sewer and Cable tv, plus decent wifi."
Road conditions: Access to remote camping areas often requires navigating unpaved roads. "Road is pretty rough about 4 or 5 miles after you turn off the main road from the north. Didn't need 4 wheel drive but you will need good clearance, a car will bottom out," explains Ryan S. about the Desert Creek area.
Swimming options: Chris Flat Campground provides river access for families with children. However, as Therese L. notes, "The Walker river is behind the campground. Access is a little tricky so be careful. Lots of deep holes but difficult waters to fish and a brisk wind coming down the mountain channeled by the valley."
Shower facilities: For families needing regular showers, options vary widely between campgrounds. Shannon R. shares about Topaz Lake Recreation Area: "We had a great time on the water and camping. The showers were sad, dirty. But restrooms were ok."
Wildlife awareness: Proper food storage is essential in bear country. Therese L. warns about Chris Flat: "There are NO bear lockers here. So come prepared. The guidance at the campsite was conflicting on how to best mitigate food foraging from bears but the best thing would be a scent proof box."
Hookup availability: Highland Lakes Campground offers no hookups but provides a rustic experience at higher elevation. Ray B. shares: "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."
Dump station access: Some campgrounds offer dump stations even for non-residents. Laura M. notes about Topaz Lodge RV Park: "There's a dump station for use if you aren't staying there, for $10. There are trash dumpsters but no recycling."
Site leveling: Pay attention to site grading when selecting a spot. Belle B. from Topaz Lodge RV Park reports: "The spaces are roomy and each space has a picnic table. However, there was no grass, except near the hotel and near the horseshoe pits. Sites are quite level, and are graveled. Hookups were very accessible."
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there tent camping sites in Coleville, California?
Yes, the Coleville area offers several tent camping options. Toiyabe National Forest Crags Campground provides clean, quiet tent sites surrounded by streams and within walking distance of Twin Lakes, making it ideal for fishing enthusiasts. Kit Carson Campground is another excellent choice, situated in a scenic valley with the West Fork of the Kit Carson River running through it. Additionally, Centerville Flat Campground offers free tent camping with drive-in access. These campgrounds generally operate seasonally, typically closing during winter months due to snow and freezing temperatures at higher elevations.
What amenities do campgrounds in Coleville offer (WiFi, pool, fishing)?
Campgrounds in the Coleville area offer varying amenities. Bridgeport Reservoir RV Park and Marina provides excellent fishing opportunities. Clark Fork Campground features spacious sites with ample privacy and double sites for larger groups. Most public campgrounds in the region offer basic amenities like vault toilets and potable water, while private campgrounds may provide WiFi, showers, and electrical hookups. Fishing is a major draw for the area, with numerous streams and lakes nearby. Swimming options are limited, though some nearby lakes offer natural swimming areas during summer months. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with better coverage in Coleville proper and limited or no service in more remote forest campgrounds.
Is there a KOA campground in Coleville?
Yes, the KOA Coleville/Walker Meadowcliff Lodge is located in Coleville, California. This KOA serves as an excellent base camp for exploring Mono County and has received praise for its facility quality. The staff and hosts are known for being exceptionally friendly and helpful. This KOA offers typical KOA amenities and follows standard late check-in procedures, though it's recommended to arrive during regular hours when possible. The campground is a convenient stopping point for travelers exploring the Eastern Sierra region and provides various accommodation options for both RVs and tent campers.
What RV campgrounds are available in Coleville, California?
Coleville offers several RV-friendly options for campers. The most prominent is KOA Coleville/Walker Meadowcliff Lodge, which serves as an excellent base camp for exploring Mono County. For those seeking alternatives, Topaz Lake RV Park is nearby and provides lakeside camping with RV hookups. Other options in the vicinity include Chris Flat and Bootleg campgrounds in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Most RV sites in the area offer basic amenities like water and toilets, with some providing full hookups for larger rigs.
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