Best Campgrounds near Coleville, CA

Camping options near Coleville, California range from established campgrounds with full hookups to primitive sites 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.

Best Camping Sites Near Coleville, California (256)

    1. Topaz Lake Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Topaz, NV
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 785-9835

    "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."

    2. KOA Coleville/Walker Meadowcliff Lodge

    7 Reviews
    Coleville, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 495-2255

    "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."

    3. Desert Creek Campground

    7 Reviews
    Coleville, NV
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 882-2766

    "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."

    4. Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Markleeville, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 694-2248

    $35 / night

    "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."

    5. Topaz Lodge RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Topaz, NV
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 266-3337

    "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."

    6. Bootleg — Humboldt Toiyabe National Forest Headquarters

    4 Reviews
    Coleville, CA
    12 miles
    +1 (760) 932-7070

    $28 / night

    "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."

    7. Topaz Lake RV Park

    1 Review
    Topaz, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 495-2357

    $40 / 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?"

    8. Chris Flat — Humboldt Toiyabe National Forest Headquarters

    3 Reviews
    Coleville, CA
    14 miles
    +1 (760) 932-7070

    $28 / night

    9. Centerville Flat Campground

    2 Reviews
    Markleeville, NV
    12 miles
    Website

    "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."

    10. Highland Lakes Campground

    6 Reviews
    Bear Valley, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 586-3234

    "The views at the lakes are breathtaking. The campground is next to the smaller lake and has two sections."

    "Dirt roads all the way in from Hwy 4 so be prepared for mild offroading and dust."

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Recent Reviews near Coleville, CA

993 Reviews of 256 Coleville Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Dayton State Park Campground

    Not worth the fee

    Bathrooms are located in the day use area and a bit of a walk from the camping area. RV dump is closed “until further notice”. Right off Hwy 50 so expect noise. Compared to other state parks along Hwy 50, this one is a dump.

  • Victoria S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Serene Camping

    There were definitely a few long term campers here. But the place was very clean. No cell service fyi. Easy to get to, road is dirt but has very few bumps.

  • Victoria S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Buckeye Campground

    Great spot!

    You can get there on 2WD, it’s a bit bumpy though. Don’t go all the way up, there’s fees at the reserved spots. There’s dispersed camping shortly after you pass the hot springs, there’s a small field where people park and if you go to the road on the side of the lot it’ll take you to more spots to camp in the trees.

    The smoke was so bad I had to leave early. Be sure to check for fires nearby.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Lower Blue Lake Campground

    Beautiful location!

    My cousins and I stayed in sites one through three. They are extremely close to the lake, near the dam. We were able to leave our chairs and kayaks down by the water, and felt totally secure. we were able to kayak down to the other end of the lake, where there is a small waterfall. our sites had to be reserved, but there are some FCFS sites as well. Pit bathrooms are OK. The portable water spigot was broken, so we had to get some water from Middle blue lake Campground, about a mile away. The water issues is the only reason I am taking a star off, this place is beautiful, and we are definitely coming back. A couple of the sites will accommodate, decent sized rigs.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Virginia Lake Rd. Boondocking

    So beautiful

    It was just so nice, I don’t know if it was dispersed camping cause the location takes you to Virginia creek and there is a long road with lots of space like it’s a legit campground but no one there to check and no signs that you had to pay. I went there on Labor Day weekend so it was busy everywhere, this place had a ton of spots open though. No one bothered us. Each spot had a bear food containers and access to a little creek. So you heard water running while you go to sleep. Loved it so much so peaceful.

  • Jacqueline G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Dispersed USFS

    Worth the climbs to get here!!

    This is full wilderness camping off the main road between hope valley and the blue lakes. I had no problem getting in with my 30ft bus towing a jeep but the road is steep and winding for about 7 miles to the pull off. There were a lot of other campers for Labor Day weekend but the rest of the time there was no one around. Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction. PLEASE NOTE: There are prolonged climbs to get here (up to about 8% grade) but my bus did fine. Slow and steady and you’ll be fine. Also WATCH THE WEATHER! Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit and deep puddles can appear. There are loads of rocks and fallen trees around to fill in holes if needed. If you’re moderate to high clearance rig you’ll be fine just be mindful. The Blue Lakes are just down the road for swimming, boating, kayaking etc and lots of amazing 4x4 trails. Rivers for fishing and endless hiking and biking. Elevation is 8300ft so definitely a bit high. The trees help with the air however. Not nearly as tough as the high desert of Utah (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you’re not used to high altitude.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Carson RV Resort

    Clean, nice, loved the staff!

    laundry room, showers, bathroom, pool were all very clean! The staff was super helpful, friendly, and available whenever we needed them. Would stay here again!

  • Rajesh N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Great area for car camping

    It is a great site just near the road. We arrived on Monday afternoon and there were lots of places. There were other people but everyone has enough space. There’s a pit restroom which seems comparatively new. We didn’t get bugs problems. We car camped.


Guide to Coleville

Camping near Coleville, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

What campers like

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe. One reviewer said, "Camping spots are spaced out enough that you are not right on top of your neighbor."
  • Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Tahoe Valley Campground. A visitor noted, "The bathrooms were clean and had soap and an air dryer."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Tahoe Valley Campground are great for families. One reviewer mentioned, "This is a great spot if you have kids. Lots of stuff to do just at the resort."

What you should know

  • Bear Activity: Campers should be aware of bear activity in the area. One camper at Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe mentioned, "Well there is a lot of bear activity, but we loved it here."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground, may lack certain amenities. A visitor pointed out, "Sites are a hit or miss. Some are nice and flat and secluded, some are built with a slope and no privacy."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can get busy. A reviewer at Nevada Beach Campground and Day Use Pavilion said, "It can get crowded. Lots of RVs. Difficult to get a reservation."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Tahoe Valley Campground, which has lots of activities for kids. One parent shared, "They have pull-through sites and back-in sites. This is a great spot if you have kids."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to bring bikes or plan hikes. A camper at Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe mentioned, "Bike trail from campground to Lake Tahoe bike trail."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make family outings easier. One reviewer at Nevada Beach Campground and Day Use Pavilion noted, "If you have a dog, this is the place to take it as there are many here playing on the beach."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Tahoe Valley Campground mentioned, "The sites are small but have full hookups."
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some campgrounds have dirt roads that can get dusty. A reviewer at Topaz Lake Recreation Area said, "The sites were nice with a picnic table and fire ring."
  • Book Early: Reservations can fill up fast, especially during peak times. A camper at Zephyr Cove Resort warned, "I had planned to camp out of the back of my truck for a quick overnight stay. Lots of better options around."

Camping near Coleville, California, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

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.