Loyalton sits in the Sierra Valley at an elevation of 4,930 feet, making it a popular starting point for camping trips in the Tahoe National Forest. Summer temperatures average 80-85°F during the day and drop to 40-45°F at night, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season. Dirt road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with several campgrounds accessible only via unpaved forest roads that deteriorate after rainfall.
What to do
Hiking the Crystal Peak Trail: From Lookout Campground in Dog Valley, follow the trail to Crystal Peak for panoramic views. "There is a nice little aspen grove that bisects the campground and every site has a picnic table and a fire ring. You'll want four wheels drive to get up there, but I've seen passenger vehicles make it just drive slow," notes Joey P., who camps at Lookout Campground.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Stampede Reservoir near Logger Campground offers trout fishing opportunities throughout summer. "Right next to the water, and close to town. Cell phone reception is spotty," mentions Brenna D. about Logger Campground, which serves as a convenient base for fishing trips.
Botanical trail exploration: The botanical trail at Cottonwood Campground offers an educational half-mile walk along the creek. "A very easy 1/2 mile round-trip botanical trail is located at the south end of the campground. It is level, following the creek. Various markers highlight botanical references," explains S K., who visited Cottonwood Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many camping spots near Loyalton, California feature well-separated sites. "Most of the sites were pretty well spaced apart with a few exceptions. Fire pits, running water, vault toilets," reports Jason A. about Cottonwood Campground, highlighting its comfortable setup for extended stays.
Quiet weekday camping: Mid-week availability makes for peaceful experiences at several campgrounds. "Midweek in July it was, at best, 10% full," mentions Tom D. about his stay at Cottonwood Campground, reflecting the lower usage patterns common throughout the region.
Natural water features: Streams and rivers enhance many camping spots in the Loyalton area. "Most sites have lots of space between them, while a few are side-by-side with just a vehicle parking space separating them. Each has a level, wood-bordered dirt/gravel pad set up for a tent - usually placed in as quiet/remote corner of the site as possible," notes S K. about Lookout Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many campgrounds requires navigating rough forest roads. "One of the worst roads I've ever been on...go slow," advises Amy R. about Big Dog Valley, highlighting the need for careful driving and appropriate vehicles.
Seasonal water levels affect recreation: Drought conditions impact water recreation at reservoirs. "The lake has been low last few times I've been but the fishing is normally great," reports Alyssa S. about Boca Rest Campground.
Highway noise impacts some sites: Campers should select sites carefully to minimize road noise. "No cell service and you'll definitely have road noise during the day. However, it quieted substantially for nighttime sleeping hours so we slept fine," explains Char P. about Upper Little Truckee Campground.
Limited cell service: Connectivity is inconsistent throughout the region. "Verizon cell service picked up one bar, intermittently. Enough to get out occasional status updates and check the weather, but not enough to be able to read stuff off the internet," describes a camper at Lookout Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities: Some sites cater specifically to families with children. "Kid friendly with activities and play areas. Pet park for off leash play! Clean and friendly staff!" writes Ben W. about Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park.
Watch for wildlife viewing opportunities: The region supports diverse wildlife that appeals to children. "Lake was right down the hill. Bathrooms are close if you are tent camping. Very limited cell service. Camp host was very nice and accessible," shares Marcie B. about her experience at Boca Rest Campground.
Consider lake-accessible sites for water play: Several campgrounds offer direct access to water recreation. "Beautiful campsite right next to the water. Vault bathrooms were clean. Lots of RV sites and fairly busy campground. People were respectful of quiet hours," notes Andrea M. about her family's stay at Boca Rest Campground.
Tips from RVers
RV site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven sites at some campgrounds. "Large rigs will not fit in this campground. We reserved a spot that said it would fit a 30' camper but we could not get our 29' 5th wheel into the space because of the angle and posts along the loop," cautions Clancy H. about Cottonwood Campground.
Full hookup options near Loyalton: RVers seeking full amenities have limited options. "Super friendly the second you drive in!! Escort you to your site and guide you in!! Ask if we need help setting up, deers roam around and so beautiful!!" shares Angela C. about her experience at Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park, one of the few full-service RV parks in the region.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for sanitation needs as many campgrounds lack dump facilities. "All sites are full hookup, with wifi, and cable tv. Clean bathrooms, showers, and laundry," notes Steve about Gold Ranch Casino & RV Resort, which provides complete services for those needing full hookups.
