Cabins near Janesville, California provide basic to fully equipped lodging options in this northeastern California region known for its high desert climate and elevation around 4,000 feet. Winter brings snow with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summer days can reach the 90s. Cabin rentals typically have limited availability from November through April due to weather conditions and seasonal closures.
What to do
Fishing at Eagle Lake: Merrill Campground offers direct access to Eagle Lake, one of California's largest natural lakes. "The lake is appropriately named as we saw bald eagles daily," notes a camper, while another mentions "Great campsite in a nice remote area to take in nature, go hiking, bike riding, and fishing for trout!"
Hiking nearby trails: The Black Mountain Lookout area features multiple hiking options with elevation gains. "Our 3rd fire lookout, and each one has its own amazing character!! Quite the goat-road to get up here, but nothing the Crosstrek couldn't manage. 360 degrees of breathtaking vistas!!!" A visitor mentions the challenging access: "Hiking up from Parking is approx 3 km to the campsite so make sure and bring everything in one go."
Winter activities: While most cabin facilities operate seasonally, some rentals near Graeagle maintain winter access. The Sardine Lake area offers winter recreation when accessible. "My family has been camping here since before I was born and we love it! It's definitely a gem of the Sierras," writes one visitor, while another states "The typical Sierra granite spires around the lake make for the scenery."
What campers like
Privacy and quiet: Many cabin locations offer secluded settings. At Lazzarini Farms, a guest appreciated "peace and quiet with no large buildings and being on a private road. It all gave me the feeling I was one with the nature all around me."
Lake views and access: Merrill Campground cabins provide views of Eagle Lake. A visitor notes, "With no campers in the dry sites closest to the water, we had the perfect unobstructed view of the lake." Another camper shares, "The campground is very well maintained and the sites are exceptionally large."
Recreational amenities: Several properties offer additional facilities beyond cabin lodging. "They have a volleyball court, horse shoes, and arcade available," mentions a visitor at Lake Cove Resort. At Clio's Rivers Edge, a camper noted, "Kid friendly with activities and play areas. Pet park for off leash play!"
What you should know
Road access varies significantly: Some cabins require driving on unpaved roads with clearance issues. About the Black Mountain Lookout route, a visitor warns: "Quite the goat-road to get up here, but nothing the Crosstrek couldn't manage."
Insects can be problematic: Mosquitoes are common at lakefront properties during summer months. At Merrill Campground, a camper cautions about "The bad 🦟 Tons of mosquitoes!" while praising fishing opportunities.
Weather preparedness essential: Cabin rentals at higher elevations experience significant temperature fluctuations. "Upper lake is accessible by 4x4 but high clearance is necessary and good understanding of lines is recommended," notes a camper about routes near Sardine Lake.
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advanced booking through specific systems. For Crocker Campground, a visitor clarifies, "The Crocker Guard House is available by reservation only through Recreation.gov."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Look for cabins near designated swimming spots. "Sand Pond is great for swimming," mentions a Sardine Lake visitor, while another adds, "I would recommend hiking up to the Buttes if you're looking for a challenge."
Kid-friendly activities: Some properties offer designated recreation areas. At Clio's River Edge RV Park, "The kids scootered and rode bikes along the camp roads, and drivers were cautious and patient." Another visitor mentions "Kid friendly with activities and play areas."
Cabin sizing considerations: Cabin capacities vary widely between properties. Little Bear RV Park offers "a number of tiny cottages to rent," according to one camper, making them suitable for smaller families.
Educational opportunities: Several cabin locations provide nature learning experiences. "It was nice to be hike up to volcano lake from our campsite as well as sardine lake and upper sardine lake," shares a visitor, highlighting multi-age appropriate activities.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Proximity between units varies by property. At Little Bear RV Park a visitor noted, "All short term campers are located in the center very cozy. Lots of families and kids and noisy."
Hookup availability: Not all cabins offer full utility connections. "There is electricity to power a stove/fridge/heater/lights. FULL cell service, as you are about 500 yards away (as crow flies) from cell/microwave tower," notes a Black Mountain Lookout visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Many properties close during winter months. "Movin' West RV Park" operates only "May 1 to Oct 21," while a visitor at Merrill Campground notes "We did go mid Sept so kind of off season. Plenty of shade trees, full hook ups."
Parking logistics: Vehicle space limitations exist at some cabin locations. One visitor recommends: "Secured large dog area with running creek within walking distance. A number of lower RV spaces within walking pathways to creek."
