Dispersed tent camping near Gold Run, California offers rugged wilderness experiences in the Sierra Nevada foothills between 2,500-4,000 feet elevation. The area's mixed conifer forests provide natural shade during summer months when temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day and cool to 45-60°F at night. Many camping areas require driving on unpaved forest service roads that become impassable during winter snow or spring mud seasons.
What to do
Kayaking on alpine lakes: Lake Spaulding Campground provides calm waters perfect for paddling. One camper noted, "We take our Kayaks and spend the day on the lake. It gets choppy in the afternoon so be aware."
Hiking to American River: The Mumford Bar Trail provides challenging access to the American River from the campground. A visitor explains, "The hike down to the American via Mumford Trail is NOT a leisurely stroll. Pack plenty of water and be prepared to spend the night down at the river if you head out late."
Star gazing in open meadows: Onion Valley Campground offers excellent night sky viewing from its meadow areas. One camper mentioned, "Those open spaces allow for some great star gazing night."
Swimming in alpine lakes: Grouse Ridge Campground provides access to several swimming lakes. A visitor shared, "We went mid week in August and it wasn't too crowded. The views were beautiful and the water was perfect."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Onion Valley Campground offers well-spaced sites for privacy. A camper observed, "Only one other group on the opposite end of the campground since it has a north/south side. There aren't many spots and they are well spaced out."
Natural swimming holes: Mineral Bar at Lake Clementine offers pristine swimming areas. One visitor shared, "The river was crystal clear and beautiful," while another noted they "loved my stay, it's a quiet getaway around 45 mins away from me and the sound of the river is amazing."
Waterfront sites: Rucker Lake Campground provides lakeside camping with amenities. A camper explained, "This lake is a quiet getaway, with waterfront access and a warm lake. Short hike in but has picnic tables and bear boxes."
Cooler temperatures: Grouse Ridge Campground offers significant temperature relief during summer. A visitor reported, "It was 25 degrees cooler up there than in Sacramento. We loved this campground."
What you should know
High-clearance vehicles required: Many forest roads require appropriate vehicles. For Bowman Campground, a camper warns, "MAKE SURE YOU HAVE AN OFF ROAD VEHICLE. Great campsite but hard to get to. Not bad if you have a 4x4 that's lifted with some all terrain tires."
Pack in all water: No potable water is available at most sites. A visitor to Rucker Lake advised, "Bring a lot of drinking/dishes water (no spigots, no sinks)," and a Cody R. confirmed "No drinking water available, unless you purify your own from the lake."
Limited toilet facilities: Most sites have vault toilets only. A camper at Lake Clementine noted, "No showers or running water....there are only toilets available. Bring your own water to drink, wash dishes and pans, or wash yourselves."
Seasonal access restrictions: Snow impacts accessibility through spring. A visitor to Grouse Ridge reported in June, "I expected some snow, since this year was so heavy. But there was too much snow to make it much rather than 4-5 miles up the already rough road."
Tips for camping with families
Pack a wagon: Lake Spaulding Campground sites require gear transport. A visitor advised, "300 foot walk from cars to campground so bring a dolly/wagon. $15 a night fee."
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage. One camper at Onion Valley noted, "Fire scarring just up the road made for good firewood and a humbling reminder of what a wildfire leaves behind."
Bring bug spray: Insects can be persistent at certain times. A visitor to Grouse Ridge warned, "Also, make sure to bring bug spray!! They were no joke."
Consider weekday visits: Campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. A camper at Lake Clementine observed, "Only two other sites were occupied when we arrived at 5:30 pm on a Monday in late October."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most forest roads have tight turns unsuitable for larger rigs. For Bowman Lake, a camper advised, "It is possible to get a smaller trailer there but not recommended."
Limited hookups: No electricity or water connections are available. A visitor at Lake Spaulding noted, "Trailers and RV are mostly kept to the boat launch."
Uneven parking areas: Many tent camping areas near Gold Run lack level RV spots. A Lake Clementine visitor observed, "Most of the sites that have a 'driveway' were not level, except for Sites 5 and 6."
Road conditions affect travel time: Allow extra time for rough roads. One camper reported, "I traveled around 10 mph on the way in and out" when visiting Bowman Lake.
