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Camping near Janesville, CA

176 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    The northeastern California landscape surrounding Janesville features diverse camping options within the shadow of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade ranges. Antelope Lake Recreation Area and Honey Lake Campground provide lakeside settings with both tent and RV accommodations, while Plumas National Forest offers several established campgrounds including Lone Rock and Boulder Creek. Merrill Campground at Eagle Lake, approximately 35 miles northwest of Janesville, stands out with water and electric hookups, a rarity for Forest Service campgrounds. Several private RV parks including Days End RV Park in Standish and Susanville RV Park provide year-round options with full hookups for travelers seeking more amenities. The region's camping areas typically operate between May and October, with a few facilities maintaining year-round access.

    Road conditions vary significantly throughout the area, with many forest campgrounds requiring travel on gravel or dirt roads that can become challenging in wet conditions. As one camper noted about Silver Bowl campground, "The last 6 miles will be on some pretty rough road, especially early in the season." Seasonal openings depend heavily on snowmelt, with higher elevation sites sometimes remaining closed until July in heavy snow years. Summer temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, with daytime highs reaching 90°F while nighttime temperatures drop significantly. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most forest and lakeside campgrounds, with spotty Verizon coverage reported at some locations. Fire restrictions are common during late summer and fall, requiring advance planning for cooking arrangements.

    Lakeside camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly at Eagle Lake and Antelope Lake. "We saw bald eagles daily," reported one Merrill Campground visitor, highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities. Fishing access drives much of the camping activity, with trout season significantly affecting campground occupancy. "As it was the last week before trout season opened on the lake, our side of the campground was nearly empty," noted another camper. Pine forest settings provide natural shade at many campgrounds, though some lakeside sites offer limited tree cover. Hiking trails connect many campgrounds to scenic viewpoints, with paved paths at Eagle Lake accommodating both walking and biking. Visitors frequently mention the spacious sites at forest campgrounds, with many accommodating larger groups or providing significant privacy between neighbors.

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    Best Campgrounds near Janesville (176)

    Filters    Tent onlyRVDispersedCabinGlampingPetsEquestrian

      1. Antelope Lake Recreation Area

      4.3(4)8mi from JanesvilleRVs, Tents

      "Mind you this lake isn’t far from Reno, NV and surrounding valleys so it can get quite rowdy at night during peak season. Would not recommend for families looking for a quiet, serene getaway."

      "The lake is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and splashing around."

      2. Susanville RV Park

      4.0(5)10mi from Janesville1 siteRVs

      from $60 - $65 / night

      Check Availability

      3. Honey Lake Campground

      4.5(4)10mi from JanesvilleRVs, Tents

      "We stayed in our camper van and our spot had water and elec for $35, and a beautiful view of the lake and mountains. Bathrooms were warm and had lots of hot water."

      "At first I was a bit disappointed the lake was across the highway but over all I enjoyed my stay. It was quiet. The campground was at least 3/4 full."

      Check Availability

      4. Days End RV Park

      4.7(3)8mi from JanesvilleRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "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."

      5. Lone Rock Campground

      5.0(2)8mi from Janesville87 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Plenty of lake access of access roads and you get definitely find isolated areas. Rocks for jumping off too."

      from $36 / night

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      6. Long Point Campground

      4.5(2)8mi from Janesville36 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "This is one of three campgrounds on Antelope Lake near Susanville CA. Several of the sites are near the lake. All sites are well shaded with fir and pine trees. Great fishing and wildlife watching."

      "The lake has two islands, and boat access."

      from $36 - $85 / night

      Check Availability

      7. Merrill Campground

      4.4(21)23mi from Janesville302 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Grew up camping here as a child and have so many great memories of Eagle Lake. Unfortunately things have changed quite a bit due to the shift in climate in the area."

      "Stayed one night and loved Eagle Lake. Rare USDA campground with power and water. Lovely forest area shades the camp. Lots of families with bikes and dogs all on leashes."

      from $35 - $80 / night

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      8. Laufman Campground

      3.8(5)14mi from JanesvilleTents, Glamping

      "The surrounding Forest is gorgeous. No one else here. We stayed 2 nights to hike a nearby peak hike Shallow Grave Trail."

      "Aspen filled Creek just a small walk south of campground. To keep this place looking beautiful, do not forget to pack out your trash and follow Leave No Trace ethics."

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      9. Boulder Creek Campground

      4.0(1)8mi from JanesvilleTents

      "There were campground hosts roaming around but they didn’t seem to be enforcing rules, like only parking on the pavement and the noise curfew."

      Check Availability

      10. Boulder Creek (CA)

      4.0(1)8mi from Janesville44 sitesRVs, Tents

      "You are within minutes of a lake and also tons of fishing spots. There is a pool and hot tub on site which was nice for the kids to burn off some steam."

      from $36 / night

      Check Availability
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    Recent Camping Photos near Janesville, CA

    91 Photos of 176 Janesville Campgrounds

    Recent Reviews near Janesville, CA

    407 Reviews of 176 Janesville Campgrounds

    • ross K.
      Jul. 29, 2026

      Spanish Creek Campground

      Hot and noisy

      It’s no one’s fault that at 3000 ft elevation it’s really hot here in July but that made the dry dusty conditions less pleasant. Lots of loud trains before dawn and through early morning. At site 6 nearer the road, lots of morning traffic sounds, not the best to wake to. In July 2026 the water system was positive for bacteria, signs said not dangerous but they warn you of risks anyway (?). Restrooms out of tp. I notice upon leaving, after dodging yellow jackets at meal time, a half full wasp trap hanging in my site. I’d avoid site 6.

    • Michelle H.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 26, 2026

      Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park

      Excellent place to visit Lassen NP!

      We’ve camped here every year for the past five years. This was the our first trip with our new to us travel trailer. We book six months in advance and always get sites B2 and B3. These sites have a beautiful view of the lake. We get up early and set up our blanket and chairs in our lake spot. The lake is big enough to paddle board and kayak but small enough where you can keep an eye on your kids the entire time.

      Zero hook ups whatsoever, but you can use the dump station for free at Manzanita lake on your way up to fill your freshwater and then dump on your way out. Summit Lake North has flush toilets and sinks, I believe Summit Lake South Campground only has vault toilets.

      Park Rangers patrol through every once in a while and the bathrooms are cleaned and stocked daily.

      There is no cell service but if you drive about five minutes up the hill, you can get some service. It is a short drive to Kings Creek Falls and about a 15 minute drive to bumpass hell.

      Highly recommended.

    • lThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 25, 2026

      North Eagle Lake Campground

      A five star overnight stay

      Easy on/off hwy 139. Quiet , no rad noise. Price is great for treed sites offering shade. Fire pit, and picic table. AND the most immaculate pit toilets you will ever find! See pics 😀 Friday evening and only about 3 other campers spread out the huge grounds.

    • Bruce E.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 25, 2026

      Calpine Lookout

      So good we called it our 2nd home

      Absolutely fantastic lookout to stay anytime of year. Spent 8 yrs straight going for our anniversary. Got to know the rangers well enough that we spent Thanksgiving there in an awesome snow storm. Luckily we were able t0 drive up in our built rig. Snowshoeing wouldn't have been so pleasant. Hope to make it back someday. Feeling a lil home sick.

    • LThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 22, 2026

      Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park

      Great location

      We had a great stay at this RV park. The staff was incredibly friendly and even escorted us to our site, which was a nice personal touch. The park is well maintained, with plenty of mature trees that provide shade and make it feel peaceful.  Overall, it's a clean, welcoming campground, and we'd definitely stay here again.  Make your reservations early!!

    • LThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 22, 2026

      Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park

      Great location

      We had a great stay at this RV park. The staff was incredibly friendly and even escorted us to our site, which was a nice personal touch. The park is well maintained, with plenty of mature trees that provide shade and make it feel peaceful. Overall, it's a clean, welcoming campground, and we'd definitely stay here again.  Make your reservations early!!

    • LThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 22, 2026

      Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park

      Great Location

      We had a great stay at this RV park. The staff was incredibly friendly and even escorted us to our site, which was a nice personal touch. The park is well maintained, with plenty of mature trees that provide shade and make it feel peaceful.  Overall, it's a clean, welcoming campground, and we'd definitely stay here again.  Make your reservations early!

    • LThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 18, 2026

      Willard Creek Dispersed

      Maybe in the future??

      Sadly, these are just worker campsites currently. The road leading up had a LOT of construction, so may e once thats over?? 6 mos?

    • Patricia N.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 16, 2026

      Rock Creek Campground (Ca) — Plumas National Forest

      Another great OHV site

      The campsites are on both sides of the forest service road. We were never able to locate site 1 so it must have been eliminated.

      If you enjoy camping and OHV riding then this should be on your list of campgrounds to visit.

    Guide to Janesville

    Camping near Janesville, California offers access to mountain lakes within Plumas National Forest and surrounding public lands at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 feet. The region's volcanic history has shaped unique lake formations like Antelope Lake and Eagle Lake, with the latter being the second-largest natural lake entirely within California. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 45-55°F at night, creating significant daily temperature swings.

    What to do

    Fishing for trout: Eagle Lake at Merrill Campground offers excellent fishing, especially early or late in the season. "We stayed here for 4 nights and loved it. The lake is appropriately named as we saw bald eagles daily," notes one visitor. Trout season significantly affects campground occupancy.

    Water sports: Kayaking and boating are popular at Antelope Lake Recreation Area. A camper reports: "This campground is a super fun place to spend a weekend with friends. Several group sites available. Water is warm enough to swim June-August. Great fishing!"

    Hiking and biking: Paved trails near Eagle Lake provide accessible recreation options. "We enjoyed walking the paved Eagle Lake Recreation Trail to both Christie Campground and the marina. Each direction is about a 4 mile out and back," shares one Merrill Campground visitor.

    What campers like

    Lake access: Many sites at Long Point Campground offer proximity to water. "This is one of three campgrounds on Antelope Lake near Susanville CA. Several of the sites are near the lake. All sites are well shaded with fir and pine trees," explains one camper.

    Privacy between sites: The forest campgrounds typically offer good spacing. At Boulder Creek Campground, "Antelope Lake is always gorgeous though and worth the trip," though one camper notes recent price increases to $30 per night for basic facilities.

    Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife, particularly birds. At Merrill Campground, "We saw bald eagles daily," making the lake true to its name. Another camper mentioned, "Not sure that will be the case now," regarding the campground's tranquility after trout season opened.

    What you should know

    Service limitations: Cell coverage is minimal at forest campgrounds. Lone Rock Campground offers complete disconnection: "This is an amazing campground. There is no cell reception so great to disconnect," mentions one visitor.

    Road conditions: Access to lakes often requires travel on winding mountain roads. "We found this campground just about 20 miles outside of Susanville—the road is winding, but paved all of the way," notes a camper about Merrill Campground.

    Seasonal crowds: Weekends and fishing season bring increased activity. "Mind you this lake isn't far from Reno, NV and surrounding valleys so it can get quite rowdy at night during peak season. Would not recommend for families looking for a quiet, serene getaway," warns one Antelope Lake visitor.

    Tips for camping with families

    Plan for variable temperatures: Even summer evenings get cool, requiring warm clothing. Daytime temperatures at Eagle Lake can reach the 80s while dropping dramatically at night.

    Pest protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water. One Merrill camper noted the downside: "The bad - Tons of mosquitoes!" despite loving the campground's other attributes.

    Swimming options: Honey Lake Campground offers family-friendly camping with lake views. One visitor appreciated "charming clean and the manager a dear showers laundry and lots of space. The rv spaces look out over the lake tent camping in the back but you still have lake views."

    Tips from RVers

    Year-round options: When forest campgrounds close for winter, RV parks remain open. Days End RV Park in Standish offers full hookups throughout the year. "Well maintained and clean. Great landscaping and keeps it watered. Laundry just $1.50 a load and nice laundromat. Almost level site," reports one RVer.

    Hookup availability: Eagle Lake's Merrill Campground offers uncommon Forest Service electric/water hookups. "National forest camping with power and electric, Wow!!! The price with a National Forest pass was only $32," notes one surprised camper.

    Dump station access: For partial hookup sites, plan for dump station visits. "Well whether you dry camp or partial hook-ups across from Merrill entrance is the RV dump station with full cleaning hoses at a reasonable price," explains one RVer staying at Eagle Lake.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where are the best camping spots near Janesville?

    The Janesville area offers excellent camping options with varied landscapes and experiences. Merrill Campground at Eagle Lake provides both water and power hookups with shaded forest sites and paved bike paths along the lake. It's popular for families and water activities. Butte Lake Campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park is another great option, accessible via a well-maintained gravel road and featuring spacious, well-maintained sites. The campground accommodates larger trailers (30+ feet) and provides a perfect base for exploring Lassen's volcanic features and hiking trails.

    Is there free or dispersed camping available near Janesville?

    Yes, free and dispersed camping options exist near Janesville for those seeking a more primitive experience. Gold Lake 4x4 Campground offers free dispersed camping, though it requires high-clearance, off-road capable vehicles to access. The Sierra Buttes area provides fishing and hiking opportunities for those willing to navigate the rugged terrain. Ramhorn Springs Campground is another quieter option located down a gravel road that's accessible even with compact cars. The surrounding Lassen and Plumas National Forests also offer dispersed camping following Forest Service rules - camp at least 200 feet from water sources, use existing fire rings when possible, and practice Leave No Trace principles.

    What amenities are available at Janesville campgrounds?

    Campgrounds near Janesville offer various amenities to enhance your stay. Christie Campground features paved walking paths, smaller sites ideal for tent camping or modest RVs, and proximity to Eagle Lake. Yellow Creek Campground provides a quieter alternative to busier locations, with pine forest surroundings and scenic views of Humbug Valley. Many area campgrounds include vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some lakeside options offer boat launches and fishing access. Depending on the campground, you may find potable water, RV hookups, and access to nearby hiking trails, though amenities vary seasonally with some facilities closed during winter months.

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