Camping sites near Coleville, California span a range of elevations from 5,000 to 9,000 feet in the eastern Sierra Nevada region. The area experiences dramatic seasonal changes with snow-covered winters giving way to warm summers, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season. Most campgrounds in this region close during winter months due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Fishing in local waters: At Buckeye Campground, campers can access excellent fishing spots directly from their sites. One visitor noted, "It's a short drive over to buckeye hot spring or a long walk. Only $18 for the night." The nearby creek provides easy fishing access for campers.
Hiking mountain trails: The Highland Lakes Campground area offers diverse hiking options at higher elevations. A camper shared, "Hiking in the area was spectacular. Lots of trails, snow fields, wild flowers, and wonderful views." These trails range from moderate paths to challenging routes like Folger Peak with loose shale.
Swimming in alpine lakes: Several campgrounds offer lake access for swimming during summer months. At Highland Lakes, visitors report that "The views at the lakes are breathtaking. The campground is next to the smaller lake and has two sections." Water temperature remains cold even in summer, providing refreshing relief from heat.
What campers like
Natural hot springs: The region features several natural hot springs popular with campers. A visitor to Buckeye Campground mentioned, "Really enjoyed my stay there with my family and the hot spring were perfect." These thermal springs maintain consistent temperatures year-round, creating natural soaking pools.
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Eureka Valley Campground, one camper reported, "I setup in the meadow and had enjoyed great stargazing. The place was clean and the hand-pumped well water was great." Clear mountain air enhances visibility of stars and planets.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds report regular wildlife sightings, including deer, marmots, and various bird species. In the Highland Lakes area, "Ranchers bring their cattle up to graze during the summer months so you'll hear their cowbells all day long," creating a unique auditory experience while camping.
What you should know
Weather preparation required: Mountain weather changes rapidly regardless of season. A Highland Lakes visitor advised, "I would recommend a 4 season tent, even in the summer. On my last trip it was a little too cold for my taste so we drove back down the road and camped along the creek the last few nights." Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer.
Road conditions vary: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. As one camper at Silver Lake East Campground reported, "Stayed away from the road as it is very busy and you can hear traffic noise at night. The small pond has lots of ducks and birds and is quieter if you can get a spot nearby." Some access roads require high-clearance vehicles.
Water availability concerns: Several campgrounds have limited water facilities. A Buckeye Campground visitor cautioned, "Bring your water to cook and drink there is no water hookup." Others mentioned relying on hand pumps or wells for drinking water during their stays.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near water features: Children often enjoy campgrounds with creek or lake access. At Buckeye Campground, a visitor recommended, "We chose campsite 63 it was next to a stream. It's a short drive over to buckeye hot spring or a long walk." These water-adjacent sites provide natural entertainment for children.
Look for developed facilities: Fallen Leaf Campground offers more amenities suitable for family camping. "Sites have bear boxes and even though they are very close to each other with little separation, they are big sites with lots of tall trees. Flush bathrooms and showers dispersed throughout camp," reported one visitor, noting the family-friendly infrastructure.
Pack for temperature swings: The significant day-to-night temperature differences require additional clothing layers. At Highland Lakes, temperatures can drop dramatically after sunset, with one visitor reporting a "hail storm on July 25" during their summer visit, highlighting the need for weather preparedness with children.
Tips from RVers
Check road access limitations: Many forest roads have width restrictions or rough conditions. About Highland Lakes, one RVer advised, "This campground is at the end of a long dirt road. 4x4 is apparently not strictly necessary but I would recommend it, particularly given the unpredictable weather." Road conditions deteriorate after rainfall.
Consider full hookup options: For glamping near Coleville, California with more amenities, Walker River Resort offers developed sites. A visitor described it as having "Pool hot tub bar laundry. At&t and Verizon work well. T-mobile does not. Wifi is sketchy no over the air TV." The resort operates seasonally from April through October.
Secure loose items: Mountain areas experience strong afternoon winds. At Tahoe Valley Campground, an RVer noted the campground is "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." Adequate stabilization is necessary due to frequent gusts.
