The Sierra Nevada mountain range creates a dramatic backdrop for campers visiting Doyle, California, at an elevation of around 4,400 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often reaching above 90°F, while winters bring significant snowfall that limits access to many camping areas. Most campgrounds near Doyle operate seasonally from late spring through early fall due to winter weather conditions.
What to Do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Upper Little Truckee Campground serves as a gateway to Sierra Nevada trails. "Easy hiking trail along the river takes you down to lower Little Truckee Campground. We enjoyed our 2 night stay," reports one visitor to Upper Little Truckee.
Bird watching opportunities: Grasshopper Flat offers wildlife viewing chances throughout the day. A camper at Grasshopper Flat shared their experience: "Great spot over all. Saw a Bald Eagle dive and grab a fish...Great fishing..Not so great for swimming. Opaque, green water from tall grass."
Mountain peak exploration: Several challenging hikes lead to panoramic vistas. "We stayed 2 nights to hike a nearby peak hike Shallow Grave Trail," noted a visitor at Laufman Campground.
What Campers Like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds feature regularly serviced amenities. A camper at Laufman Campground reported, "To keep this place looking beautiful, do not forget to pack out your trash and follow Leave No Trace ethics. This is a free campground, and to keep it that way we must take care of it."
Spacious camping spots: Some locations offer room to spread out. One visitor to Grasshopper Flat mentioned, "Had a great time - large area to spread gear out in, easy walk to semi-private cove on lake. AWESOME for birding - Bald Eagles, Pelicans, woodpeckers, chickadees & ravens."
Natural surroundings: The forested settings create peaceful camping conditions. A reviewer described Long Point Campground: "All sites are well shaded with fir and pine trees. Great fishing and wildlife watching. Enjoy all water sports and beautiful lake."
What You Should Know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds have limited availability. "This campground is one of three campgrounds on Antelope Lake near Susanville CA... Reservations are required for most sites but a few are reserved for first come first serve," explains a camper at Long Point Campground.
Site conditions vary: Some locations may have maintenance issues. A camper at Laufman Campground noted, "It appeared that this campground hadn't seen much traffic recently, some of the sites were very overgrown. There were pit toilets that seemed like they hadn't been maintained but they were there nonetheless."
Bear awareness: Wildlife precautions are necessary. "This is bear country so be advised. The lake has two islands, and boat access," warns a visitor to Long Point Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Swimming options: Several locations offer water recreation. At Sardine Lake, a family camper shared, "The lake is beautiful and Sand Pond is great for swimming. There is plenty of hiking and fishing around and it is such a peaceful place to relax and read a book."
Hiking for all ages: Choose trails appropriate for children. "My family has been camping here since before I was born and we love it! It's definitely a gem of the Sierras... I would recommend hiking up to the Buttes if you're looking for a challenge," suggests a regular visitor to Sardine Lake.
Limited connectivity: Plan activities that don't require internet. "There's no cell service and no services at the campsite so pick up firewood from the one motel/cafe/gas/market on the way in," advises a Sardine Lake camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV amenities: Many forest service campgrounds lack hookups. A visitor to Upper Little Truckee noted, "No cell service and you'll definitely have road noise during the day. However, it quieted substantially for nighttime sleeping hours so we slept fine."
Full-service alternatives: Some private parks offer complete facilities. A guest at Days End RV Park reported, "Very clean, full hook ups, can accommodate big rigs. Weekly, monthly, overnight. The only reason I didn't give it a 5 star rating is that there is nothing around to do. General store across the street with gas and diesel, some food and drink."
Road access considerations: Assess road conditions before bringing large rigs. "Road is gravel, one large pot hole in the middle of the road made it difficult for a compact or large RV to get into campground. Easy for a 4wd or high clearance rig," warns a camper describing access to Laufman Campground.
