Best Campgrounds near Kirkwood, CA

Kirkwood in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California draws campers for many different outdoor activities. South Lake Tahoe, just a drive away, has several camping options including Fallen Leaf Campground with both tent and RV sites. This campground has flush toilets and potable water, which works well for families camping with kids. Tahoe Valley Campground is another choice nearby, with enough room for larger setups and full hookups for RVs. The roads to these campgrounds are usually in good condition, though winter visits might require chains or 4WD vehicles. Always check current road conditions before heading out to avoid problems. Fire rules change based on weather and time of year, so it's smart to look up current restrictions. You should make reservations ahead of time, especially in summer when spots fill quickly. Most South Lake Tahoe campgrounds use online booking systems that let you lock in your spot before arriving. Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground isn't far from Kirkwood and has natural hot spring pools you can enjoy after setting up camp. Both camping and pool access need reservations here. If you want something more remote, Scotts Lake Rd has dispersed camping areas with fewer amenities. Just remember to take all your trash with you and follow Leave No Trace practices while camping there. The Kirkwood area has camping that works for different needs, from full-service campgrounds to basic backcountry sites.

Best Camping Sites Near Kirkwood, California (327)

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Recent Reviews near Kirkwood, CA

1136 Reviews of 327 Kirkwood Campgrounds



Guide to Kirkwood

Camping near Kirkwood, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the lake, there are several campgrounds that cater to all types of campers.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. Many campers rave about the proximity to hiking trails. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake is a 5 min walk away not to mention near the start of many hiking trails in desolation wilderness," highlighting the easy access to nature from Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe.
  • Water Sports: Enjoy activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. A camper at Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park noted, "It was a huge plus that added to our trip and loving this campground," referring to the nearby beach access.
  • Fishing: Cast a line in the local lakes. One camper at Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground shared, "We used a size ten Tribble hook with about a foot leader and pinch weights with rainbow powerbait for those that want to catch fish for lunch."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites. A review from Tahoe Valley Campground mentioned, "Camping spots are spaced out enough that you are not right on top of your neighbor."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. One visitor at D.L. Bliss State Park Campground noted, "The restrooms were clean, and the campground itself was decent."
  • Beautiful Scenery: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. A camper at Ice House Campground said, "The campground is beautiful. You can chop your own wood, since there was a couple of dead trees around."

What you should know:

  • Bear Activity: Be cautious of wildlife. A camper at Ice House Campground warned, "There were three bears around the campground the night we just stayed which was a little eerie to sleep with."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain facilities. A review from Zephyr Cove Resort mentioned, "Showers are also individual with locking doors. I appreciate that. They all seemed to be functional, and clean enough for camping."
  • Seasonal Access: Check the season for availability. Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe is open from May 16 to October 11, so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A reviewer at Tahoe Valley Campground said, "This is a great spot if you have kids. Lots of stuff to do just at the resort."
  • Safety First: Always keep food secured to avoid bear encounters. One camper at Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground advised, "Be sure to use your bear box."
  • Plan for Fun: Bring games and activities for downtime. A family at Pinecrest Campground enjoyed paddleboarding and watching movies at the amphitheater.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Rv Village Campground At Camp Richardson Resort mentioned, "Spaces are relatively close together, perhaps if a little more off-grid space was what you were looking for."
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some campgrounds have dirt sites. A reviewer at Tahoe Valley Campground noted, "My biggest issue with this campground is the dirt. It’s this ash dirt that gets everywhere."
  • Plan for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at D.L. Bliss State Park Campground appreciated the "electric hookups" available.

Camping around Kirkwood, California, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great spot for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Kirkwood, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Kirkwood, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 327 campgrounds and RV parks near Kirkwood, CA and 23 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Kirkwood, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kirkwood, CA is Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe with a 4.5-star rating from 33 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kirkwood, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 free dispersed camping spots near Kirkwood, CA.

  • What parks are near Kirkwood, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 parks near Kirkwood, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.