Tent campsites near Kyburz, California sit within El Dorado National Forest at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 feet. The surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains create variable weather conditions with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during days and dropping to 45-55°F at night. Primitive camping options in this region remain snow-covered until late spring, with most sites becoming accessible by late May.
What to do
Climbing access: Lovers Leap Campground serves as a base camp for rock climbing enthusiasts. "The campsite we stayed in was a little bit of a walk in (could not drive to it) but it was beautiful with just a short walk to the crag," notes Caitlin S. The area features notable climbing routes within walking distance from campsites.
Hiking the Tahoe Rim Trail: Luther Pass offers direct access to the Tahoe Rim Trail. "Great access to the TRT and close to Lake Tahoe," reports Amber. Multiple trails connect from this area, with the Big Meadow trailhead serving as a popular starting point for day hikes.
Paddling opportunities: Camping near Union Valley Reservoir provides water recreation options. A camper at Fashoda notes: "Right on the water! Big sites lots of shaded areas. Great temperature outside of the valley!" The reservoir permits non-motorized watercraft with shoreline access points available at multiple locations.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Tent camping areas near Kyburz offer varying degrees of privacy. "The campsites were dispersed and spacious," writes Melissa D. about Luther Pass, adding it has an "awesome location partway up the mountains." Sites farther from major roadways typically provide greater seclusion.
Water features: Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone offers backcountry lake access. "One of my top 5 favorite place to go backpacking. Love the feeling of being immersed in nature and the views of all the lakes," shares Arturo C. The area contains multiple alpine lakes with designated camping areas.
Wildlife viewing: Primitive camping areas near Kyburz host diverse wildlife. "We saw deer each morning at our campsite," reports one visitor. Bear activity remains common throughout the region, with proper food storage required at all camping locations regardless of season or campground type.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Backcountry camping in Desolation Wilderness requires advance planning. "You must obtain an overnight wilderness permit, year round. The permits have quotas enforced April through September. Permits cost $5 per person per night for first night, or $10.00 per person for 2+ nights (14 day max)," explains Les R.
Site limitations: Many tent camping areas have specific restrictions. "The coordinates wanted to take us a quarter mile up the road where there was barely even a pull out. We turned back and checked out the other camp and it was perfect!" notes Emma M. about finding the correct location at Luther Pass.
Weather preparedness: Alpine camping conditions can change rapidly year-round. Temperature fluctuations of 30-40 degrees between day and night occur regularly, even in summer months. Afternoon thunderstorms develop frequently during July and August, requiring adequate shelter and rain gear.
Tips for camping with families
Lake access: Jenkinson Campground—Sly Park Recreation Area offers family-friendly amenities. "Their campground is a great spot for a family trip. Beautiful scenery, good folks, and a great time," writes Syd D. The lake has designated swimming areas suitable for children.
Consider hike-in effort: Some tent campsites require physical exertion to reach. "Don't bring to much down cause you have to carry it back up lol learned my lesson! 1/2 mile hikish downs and back to vehicle," advises Jamie A. about Azalea Cove Campground.
Bring bear protection: Proper food storage remains essential with children. "Bear boxes are a plus too. There is a bear that we call Yogi because he likes to make his rounds," warns Joe B. about Red Fir Group Campground. Most developed sites provide bear boxes, while primitive camping requires portable containers.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many primitive tent sites near Kyburz cannot accommodate larger vehicles. "Holy Christ for the love of god take away the rv tag. There isn't a single spot for an rv, I tried it with my 19' single axle unit and nearly ripped the spare tire off the back the road was so steep," cautions Matt about Luther Pass.
RV alternatives: Only certain campgrounds accommodate recreational vehicles. "This was perfect. We brought our paddle board and we're walking distance to the lake front," notes Brian H. about Jenkinson Campground, which offers designated RV sites with more level terrain than surrounding primitive areas.
Road conditions: Forest service roads accessing tent sites often present challenges for larger vehicles. Unpaved sections, tight turns, and steep grades limit RV access to many primitive camping areas in El Dorado National Forest.
