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, CA
    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, CA
    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, CA
    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, CA
    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

1003 Reviews of 256 Coleville Campgrounds


  • John C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Dayton State Park Campground

    Meh.

    As everyone has noted, it is only about 30 feet from the highway...so that is what it is. For $15 for Nevada residents and $20 for non-residents, it's not anything special. It apparently is first come - first served, since there is no Ranger, no host, and the parks.nv.gov website never works properly.

  • The Romantic Nomad ..The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Twenty Mile Beach Dispersed Camping

    Confusing Status But Usable

    Some other reviews mention signage for no camping. I saw no such thing pulling in and found several others here already set up and spread out.

  • Connie H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed

    Quiet Spot Near Hot Springs

    There are No Camping signs posted at the road and farther up toward the hot springs. We did end up staying here one night with our pop-up camper, because it was late when we finally arrived. There was a little pull out loop that had a camper van and another truck camper already parked and camping when we got there. There was plenty of room to be able to pull in and park in that area as well. It’s very dusty/sandy in this area. The hot springs were a 5 min drive from this spot. There are really no facilities here! There is one vault toilet down by the hot springs, but it was pretty rough. There are no trash cans around, it is a pack it in, pack it out area, please be prepared to clean up after yourselves and remove your trash. I did clean up some remnants of others trash, but for the most part it was pretty well kept. Although it says no camping, this was a decent overnight spot with beautiful views and it was pretty awesome to be able to wake up and soak in the hot springs on a chilly morning!

  • Michelle R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful boondocking

    Passing through the area, I was pleased to find this site. Large spaces and plenty of room for more than one vehicle per site.

  • Laura The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Mill Creek National Forest

    Beautiful and quiet spot close to Mono Lake

    Not gonna lie, I was skeptical at first. GPS took me to the wrong (dirt) road, it was getting dark and stormy... Eventually stormed passed and I got a clear moonlight and could hear the gurgle of the river a few meters away. Best reward was in the morning... Wow! ♥️ A nice spot for those just leaving Yosemite or about to go into it.

    The road is not great, drive slowly

    PS: I found a tote bag (see pic) where I was, if it's yours hit me up!!

  • Levi K.
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Campground by the Lake

    Not all reservations

    This is a great spot. We were out there the whole weekend and enjoyed the campground and lo9k forward to going back. There are first come first serve spaces available and that worked out great. The campground was not packed or to noisy over the weekend. We look forward to going back

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Virginia Lake Rd. Boondocking

    Amazing Open Campground In The Forest

    We loved camping here. There were great campsites with bear lockers along a really nice little creek. Fantastic location for dogs. Lots of space to walk the dogs. Campground is quiet. No cell service but our Starlink worked great.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Washoe Lake State Park Campground

    Quiet but close to everything

    Stayed here overnight. Could easily stay here for a few days and see all the fun things around Reno, Carson City and Virginia City. Great camp hosts, clean showers, flush toilets, garbage and dump available.

  • Jolean D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Stanislaus National Forest Pine Marten Campground

    Close to the lake but not huge spots

    The location is beautiful. Smaller Alpine lake with spot for tents, and smaller RVs. Good space for outdoor setup and clean bathrooms. If you are looking for boondocking Sierra Nevada mts with a few comforts. This is great.


Guide to Coleville

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.

What to do

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."

What campers like

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."

What you should know

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.

Tips for camping with families

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."

Tips from RVers

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.