392 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Gold Run area in California's Sierra foothills offers a mix of developed campgrounds and RV parks across diverse settings. Established campgrounds like Giant Gap near Sugar Pine Reservoir provide tent and RV sites with varying amenities, while Dutch Flat RV Resort caters primarily to recreational vehicles with full hookups. The region contains several water-adjacent campgrounds, including Rollins Lake's Greenhorn Campground and facilities near Scotts Flat Lake, providing opportunities for both lakeside and forested camping experiences.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping opportunities around Gold Run, with many campgrounds operating only from late spring through fall. Giant Gap typically opens from mid-May through late October, while some higher elevation sites in Tahoe National Forest have even shorter seasons. Most developed campgrounds require reservations during peak summer months. Winter camping options are limited to year-round facilities like Dutch Flat RV Resort and Nevada County Fairgrounds. "The road up to Iowa Hill is terrifying - especially in the dark. We camped in our 4runner as we got there when it was dark and there was so much glass and shell casings everywhere," noted one visitor about dispersed camping in the area.
Campers report high satisfaction with waterfront sites, particularly at Sugar Pine Reservoir. Giant Gap Campground receives positive reviews for its lake access and surrounding forest. "The camp sites are all very nice but 23 and 24 can't be beat with the best access to the water," shared one visitor about Giant Gap. Water recreation stands out as a primary draw, with several campgrounds offering swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating opportunities. Sites with shade receive consistently higher ratings, especially during hot summer months. While most developed campgrounds provide vault toilets, drinking water is not universally available, requiring campers to bring their own at certain locations. Campers should note that some areas like Rollins Lake can become crowded during peak season, with mixed reviews regarding site cleanliness and noise levels.
"The site was spacious and a short walk to the reservoir and trail. We hiked around the entire reservoir and it was gorgeous."
"The campsites are all very nice but 23 and 24 can’t be beat with the best access to the water ( you will have a lot of people walking by to get there also though)."
from $24 - $48 / night
Check Availability"Just know that here on The Dyrt, the location on the map for some reason shows it as being many miles away from Kidder Ct: it’s marked as if it is at Higgins Corner, halfway to Auburn?"
"Super clean and friendly Not congested and close to many hiking trails Easy drive and close to Nevada City.
Especially nice during Christmas Season. Feels like walking back in time."
"This is a smaller but nice lake. It hasn’t ever been over crowded when I’ve gone. The reason I like this spot is because campsites C3-C10 have the most shade you can hope for!"
"They have a convenience store that is walkable distance to get supplies, food, candy from. You should reserve a spot right on the lake. If you have a boat you can anchor it right in front."
from $42 - $53 / night
Check Availability"The individual sites are distanced enough so it still feels private, bathrooms and water was available. Hiked the pioneer trail and then went swimming in the lake nearby."
"It was only a 20-minute drive from home in Nevada City. We enjoyed hanging around the campground, took a cruise over to Rucker Lake for some exploring."
from $24 - $48 / night
Check Availability"Nice trails to explore that run along the river’s edge. Easy trails for beginners."
"One of my favorite summer spots, great Access to the American River. Site has pit toilets, fire rings, tables and bear lockers(have seen several bears)"
from $28 / night
Check Availability"Reserved 2 campsites next to each other for 10 family members for Father’s Day weekend 2019. Sites were large and not too close to each other so plenty of room to spread out. "
"Price is a bit steep IMO but the site was nice, a quick walk to the lake to cool off."
from $39 - $51 / night
Check Availability"Our site had several old rugs and leveling Timbers left behind, for example. Most sites are neither flat nor level, but close enough to get level. The setting is magnificent."
"There are multiple campsites by the water, no need to drive or take a long walk. There is a store on site that seeks everything you may need."
"Edit: I ended up sticking around to take in the place bc I had paid so much."
from $27 - $53 / night
Check Availability"I scared two black bears as I was walking (don't I wish I had that on film...). And yes, that's his footprint on my van door - he was checking out the bag of garbage I had stored on my roof."
"Some friends of ours love North Fork Campground just off I-80 at Emigrant Gap, so we were going to try it on the way back from the California coast to Reno. "
"Vault toilet near the entrance was in surprisingly good condition. The dump spot by the front was obviously not bear/raccoon proof enough and I assumed rangers hadn’t been through in a while."
GuideVery popular in the summer!! Amazing lake front campsites with incredible views. Also kind of pricey. There’s onsite security and a big store with delicious icecream. Totally incredible fishing opportunities.
GuideWe went in February so we were the only campers in whole campground and got a killer lake front site. It was a little pricey compared to what I’m used to paying for camping(free), but the employees were extremely nice and friendly. We had a great time and paddle boarded, fished, and hiked in the surrounding areas.
GuideFrom pulling over and setting up camp, to backpacking all of your gear around the lake to the various of different camp spots, blue lake is the perfect camping area. I’ve camped here in the sunshine, rain, and snow and have had no regrets. It’s a great place for people who want to start getting into backpacking, as it’s a very short hike from the car while still very remote and peaceful.
ScoutCame on a Friday afternoon mid June and the campground was full so we camped on the ridge above the campground. There were a lot of people parked around to backpack and camp along the trails bin the area. It took 30 minutes to drive the 5 unpaved miles of grouse ridge road. No issues in my ‘83 2WD Westy
TravelerThis campground is in a decent location, it is about 1.5 miles from downtown and about 6 miles to donner lake. There are short walking trails behind the campground which is great if you have dogs. The campsites are small, but the ones in the back row at least have a decent view of the forest! The gym is a nice perk, but it is very underwhelming (a few cardio machines and random dumbbells). Unfortunately this campground also rents out to long term residents, which makes some of the campsites look pretty rough… but everyone was very quiet and very friendly, so really not much of an issue. This was our second time going, and both times we were happy with our stay… if there was a better option in Truckee, we’d take it, but we love Truckee and this one works well enough.
TravelerOur family loved it here. Great staff. The poo was clean and heated. They had volleyball, karaoke, clean bathrooms and open showers.
There is even a cute pond to fish out of.
Theirs an old town that has two stores open. One is ice cream and the other is breakfast and lunch.
Everything is affordable.
RangerLovely spots, no hookups, close to the highway but far enough off we couldn’t hear it. Stream is lovely, wish we had more time to spend.
TravelerAlways a nice site. Lots are very close together and can be loud. Bathrooms are super nice and clean and showers are helpful. Overall Yay! Saw a golden bear on a nearby walk.
GuideThank goodness we found this place! It was the only campground that could accommodate our 36ft Class A in the Tahoe area. Nice shaded campground with level sites and all hookups! across from a rec center with pool and other amenities.
Public lands surrounding Gold Run, California provide a range of mixed-use campgrounds and undeveloped sites nestled in the Sierra foothills. Developed facilities include Giant Gap Campground near Sugar Pine Reservoir and Dutch Flat RV Resort, offering sites for both tent and RV campers. The region's campground options extend to Rollins Lake's Greenhorn Campground, which provides water-front sites with boat access. Most campgrounds in this area operate within 20 miles of Gold Run, creating a constellation of options along the western slope of the Sierra Nevada at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet.
Seasonal considerations play a crucial role when planning visits, as several campgrounds like Giant Gap operate only from May through October. Summer brings warm temperatures and higher visitation, while spring offers more solitude with potential for muddy conditions. Many developed campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during peak season. Fire restrictions are common during late summer and fall months. Cell phone coverage varies significantly throughout the area, with better reception near larger campgrounds and limited service in more remote locations. A visitor warned, "The road up to Iowa Hill is terrifying - especially in the dark... come with everything you need."
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for camping in the Gold Run vicinity. Sugar Pine Reservoir at Giant Gap Campground receives particularly positive reviews for its recreational opportunities. One camper noted, "The campsites are all very nice but 23 and 24 can't be beat with the best access to the water." Beyond the developed sites, dispersed camping can be found along forest roads, though these areas typically lack amenities. For those seeking more comfort, campgrounds like Inn Town Campground in nearby Nevada City and Scotts Flat Lake provide showers and more developed facilities. Noise levels vary significantly between locations - campgrounds closer to lakes tend to be more active, while remote forest sites offer greater solitude but require more self-sufficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Gold Run, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Gold Run, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 392 campgrounds and RV parks near Gold Run, CA and 26 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Gold Run, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gold Run, CA is Giant Gap with a 4.5-star rating from 11 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gold Run, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 26 free dispersed camping spots near Gold Run, CA.
What parks are near Gold Run, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Gold Run, CA that allow camping, notably Plumas National Forest and Martis Creek Lake.
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