RV camping options near Coleville, California range from higher elevation parks with seasonal limitations to full-service facilities along Highway 395. The region sits at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet, creating distinct camping seasons with winter closures at many parks. Summer temperatures can reach 90°F during daytime hours while dropping to 40°F overnight, requiring campers to pack accordingly regardless of season.
What to do
Fishing at reservoir parks: Several campgrounds provide direct lake access for anglers. Bridgeport Reservoir RV Park features both shoreline fishing and boat rentals when water levels permit. According to one camper, "Decent layout and location. Lake is still filling leaving the fishing better handled from a boat. Dry camping spot are good sized with excellent lake and Mountain View's."
Visit historic sites: Within driving distance of Mono Vista RV Park, campers can explore Bodie Ghost Town and other regional attractions. As a reviewer notes, "About a two hour drive into Yosemite valley and only like 20 mins from Yosemite east entrance." Another camper adds, "Close to Bodie and Mono Lake."
Winter activities: Some parks remain open year-round, offering a unique camping experience. A visitor at Tahoe Valley Campground shared, "We ended up camping in a truck camper at Tahoe Valley Campground after being caught in a snow storm. For a last minute find, it turned out to be an awesome choice. It was the weekend after Thanksgiving and snowing so there were a handful of people at the campground."
What campers like
Direct lake access: Proximity to water is a major draw for many campgrounds. One camper at Topaz Lake RV Park explained, "You are right on the lake, with two docks and a beach with shade everywhere and amazing views... There are two docks and you can dock your boat for a fee. We leave our kayaks on the beach."
Spacious sites: Several parks provide more room than typically expected. According to a visitor at Bridgeport Reservoir RV Park, "Dry camping spots are good sized with excellent lake and Mountain views." Another camper at Topaz Lake RV Park mentioned, "The spaces are roomy and each space has a picnic table."
Reliable utilities: Many RVers appreciate the consistent hook-ups available. A guest at Silver City RV Resort noted, "Sites are level and pull through; easy in, easy out parking. Also electric, water, sewer hookup, cable and strong wifi and cell service."
What you should know
Cash-only policies: Some parks require cash payment. A camper at Mono Vista RV Park reported, "Paid for 1 night with electric and water hookup 52$. Only Cash."
Varied shower facilities: Shower amenities differ significantly between parks. At Bridgeport Reservoir, "Hot water shower is free if you pay for Camping," while other parks charge additional fees. One visitor at Whiskey Flats RV Park observed, "They have clean showers and bathrooms, and cable tv."
Site surface types: Site surfaces vary considerably throughout the region. A reviewer at Silver City described, "Sites were level and pull through. Had a nice store onsite and large laundry rooms." Another camper at Whiskey Flats noted, "Clean gravel lot, clean bathrooms, showers, trash dumpster. Concrete pad and a few sites have some grass areas."
Tips for camping with families
Planned activities: Some campgrounds organize regular events. At Tahoe Valley Campground, one visitor mentioned, "They put on a ton of events like karaoke nights, live music, and smores nights. Hot showers and well lit clean bathrooms."
Recreation options: Parks often offer various amenities for children. A reviewer at Whispering River Ranch RV Park shared, "Kids welcome, two nice playgrounds and a pickleball court that they provided rackets for. Each site also has a small grass area."
Swimming access: Some parks provide swimming facilities. A Tahoe Valley visitor noted, "Looks great for families and there's a dog park, pool and trails." At Camp Richardson, a camper remarked, "Easy walk to the beach. Campground is busy in the summer months."
Tips from RVers
Propane availability: On-site propane service is limited but available at select locations. One reviewer at Whispering River Ranch shared, "The operations manager was so kind as to pick up and deliver our empty propane tanks upon our arrival!"
Site width considerations: Several parks have space limitations. At Gold Dust West RV Park, a camper noted, "The only reason for four stars is due to how narrow the spots are. With the slide out and stairs down we were hanging over the edge of the pull through site."
Winter accessibility: Year-round parks offer unique opportunities. A visitor at Tahoe Valley Campground shared, "We weren't able to connect to water because of freezing temperatures... And nothing beats making a fire in the snow and waking up to a couple of feet of white fluffiness!"
