Best Tent Camping near Jackson, CA

The Sierra Nevada foothills surrounding Jackson, California offer diverse tent camping opportunities ranging from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites. Lake Camanche, located 15 miles southwest of Jackson, provides dedicated tent campsites with lake access and basic amenities. North Grove Campground in Calaveras Big Trees State Park, approximately 30 miles east of Jackson, features tent-only sites nestled among towering sequoias. For those seeking more solitude, Top of Arnold dispersed camping area offers primitive tent camping with minimal facilities but maximum wilderness immersion.

Most tent campgrounds in the region feature dirt or gravel pads with varying degrees of levelness. Bear activity is common throughout the area, with bear boxes provided at established sites like North Grove Campground. Campers should be prepared for seasonal fire restrictions, particularly during summer and fall months. Walk-in tent sites at Boards Crossing require parking at a gate and carrying equipment a short distance to reach campsites. Primitive tent camping areas typically lack potable water, requiring visitors to bring their own supplies. Vault toilets are available at most established campgrounds but absent at dispersed sites.

Tent campers frequently report peaceful experiences during off-season visits. According to reviews, Lake Camanche offers "a very nice place to tent camp" though cell service is limited. At North Grove Campground, one visitor noted their site "had a fire ring, picnic table, and bear box with a large flat spot for my huge tent." The campground's proximity to hiking trails makes it popular for multi-day adventures. Boards Crossing provides more secluded walk-in tent sites with swimming holes nearby, though a camper mentioned the need to "be mindful of surroundings" due to dead-standing trees. Weekday visits generally offer quieter experiences, with one Lake Camanche visitor reporting "only 3-4 other parties in the whole place" during midweek stays.

Best Tent Sites Near Jackson, California (57)

    1. Lake Camanche

    18 Reviews
    Wallace, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 763-5121

    $50 / night

    "Wicked August heat, BUT there’s the lake!

    5 Stars — were it not for the SLOBS who preceded us!!"

    "I come here with my family every year around 4th of July. I would book way ahead for busy holidays like that. 

    The water level really varies on the year."

    2. Rancho Seco Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Herald, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 748-2318

    "About 50 tent only sites, some just feet from the lake. RV sites are farther from the lake on mostly level gravel pads with picnic table, fire rings, and a trash can at each site."

    "I pitched a tent in site 43 right next to the lake. Excellent place."

    3. North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park

    21 Reviews
    Arnold, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 795-2334

    $25 - $70 / night

    "The campground we chose was kind of close to the road which would have been the only real negative."

    "Beautiful site, hiking trails close by, well maintained grounds. Bear came through our camp one night hit the Bear box and walked off. Rangers were friendly and very informative about the area."

    4. Camp Nauvoo

    3 Reviews
    Diamond Springs, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 207-9441

    $65 - $300 / night

    5. Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Arnold, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 532-3671

    "Some noise from chainsaws in the distance one day, and some target practice, but neither lasted long. 2 bars LTE of Verizon."

    "There is sun for solar panels and enough shade to be fine mostly, I have a canopy so it helps make it more than fine. Only downside is the ground is basically dust dirt."

    6. Deer Flat Boat In Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Valley Springs, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 772-1343

    $20 / night

    7. Jenkinson Campground—Sly Park Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Pollock Pines, CA
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 644-2545

    "The sites were mostly all at a slant so it was a bit uncomfortable in terms of the sleep situation."

    "We brought our paddle board and we’re walking distance to the lake front. Lake was quiet, trails well maintained and facilities were cleaned regularly. Will definitely stay here again."

    8. Boards Crossing

    1 Review
    Camp Connell, CA
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 795-1381

    9. OARS American River Outpost Campground (Rafting Guests Only)

    1 Review
    Coloma, CA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 626-5600

    $30 - $99 / night

    "If you have some extra time, be sure to check out Marshall Gold Discovery Park, home of Sutter's Mill, and the nearby wine country."

    10. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Sierraville, CA
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 994-3401

    "Wooded campground, cool weather, good phone reception, many spots taken with no activity probably by locals. Lake, hiking, close shopping."

    "Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk."

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Showing results 1-10 of 57 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Jackson, CA

784 Reviews of 57 Jackson Campgrounds



Guide to Jackson

Tent camping near Jackson, California offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying various amenities and activities. With several well-reviewed campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure.

Tips for tent camping near Jackson

  • Lake Camanche provides a beautiful setting for tent camping, with features like drinking water, picnic tables, and firewood available for your convenience.
  • Rancho Seco Recreation Area is a great choice for families, offering spacious sites and a pet-friendly environment, perfect for a fun getaway.
  • Camp Nauvoo is known for its kid-friendly atmosphere and excellent hospitality, making it an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy the outdoors together.

Some prices for tent camping range from $20 to $50

  • At Lake Camanche, tent camping rates can vary, but you can expect to pay around $30 per night for a site with electric hookups and access to showers.
  • Rancho Seco Recreation Area offers tent sites starting at approximately $25, providing a well-maintained environment with plenty of recreational activities.
  • Camp Nauvoo has tent camping options priced around $40, featuring a serene creekside location and a variety of outdoor activities.

Local attractions near Jackson for camping enthusiasts

  • Calaveras Big Trees State Park is just a short drive away, where you can explore stunning giant sequoias and enjoy scenic hiking trails.
  • New Hogan Lake offers fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities, making it a perfect spot for water enthusiasts looking to enhance their camping experience.
  • Stanislaus National Forest provides numerous trails for hiking and biking, along with beautiful landscapes that are ideal for photography and wildlife watching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Jackson, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Jackson, CA is Lake Camanche with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Jackson, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 57 tent camping locations near Jackson, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.