Dispersed camping near Loyalton offers access to the eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range at elevations ranging from 4,900 to 6,500 feet. The area experiences cool nights even in summer with temperatures often dropping below 45°F after sunset. Campers should prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions typical of high-elevation Sierra environments.
What to do
Fishing the Little Truckee River: Upper Little Truckee Campground provides direct river access for anglers. "We enjoyed our stay, host was great. Not many campers during our one night off season stay," notes Kevin S. The river offers excellent trout fishing opportunities from late spring through fall.
Hiking to alpine lakes: Lake of the Woods offers trails to nearby alpine destinations. "Took my wife here for her first backpacking trip. Was over all a great experience. Went at the end of June. The lake is shallow in some areas with white sand," shares jesus R. Most trails are accessible from June through September depending on snowpack.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: The mountain lakes near Loyalton provide calm waters for paddling activities. "Nice campground at great lake. Nice water for swimming. Fire rings and benches for each site," reports Robert from Lake of the Woods. Early mornings typically offer the calmest water conditions before afternoon winds pick up.
What campers like
River sounds for sleeping: The sound of flowing water creates peaceful nights at Upper Little Truckee Campground. "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. Many riverside sites allow campers to fall asleep to gentle water sounds.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Sierra region hosts diverse wildlife. "Saw a Bald Eagle dive and grab a fish...Great fishing..Not so great for swimming. Opaque, green water from tall grass," reports Dan S. from Grasshopper Flat. Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Accessible swimming spots: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas appropriate for various skill levels. "The lake is beautiful and Sand Pond is great for swimming. There is plenty of hiking and fishing around," mentions Hannah O. about Sardine Lake. Most swimming areas have gradual entries making them suitable for families.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most camping areas near Loyalton have no cellular connectivity. "No cell service and we'll definitely have road noise during the day," notes Char P. about Upper Little Truckee. Downloading offline maps before arrival is recommended.
Road noise varies by location: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds from nearby highways. "The groundskeeper is very friendly and takes great care of the land. There was plenty of parking space, picnic tables, and a large fire pit at the group site. The river is beautiful. The only con is this campground is right off of a road, so you hear and see cars traveling by," explains Nikita from Upper Little Truckee.
Weather variability: High elevation camping requires preparation for sudden weather changes. "We were lucky to get a FF spot and spent three nights. Clean restrooms and campground. Super easy access to the lake from this site where you can paddle board and kayak in peace," shares Jennifer Q. about Grasshopper Flat. Night temperatures can drop significantly even in summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with direct water access: Water features provide natural entertainment for children. "Wake up with the Little Truckee River a stones throw from your window. Bear boxes because we are in bear country. Ample space, lots to explore in the area," recommends Dustin D. about Boyington Mill.
Look for campgrounds with easy trails: Sites with gentle hiking options work best for families with young children. "My family has been camping here since before I was born and we love it! It's definitely a gem of the Sierras. The lake is beautiful and Sand Pond is great for swimming. There is plenty of hiking and fishing around," shares Hannah O. about Sardine Lake.
Reserve early for summer weekends: Family-friendly glamping sites in Loyalton, California fill quickly during peak season. "Sites are free, first come first served. There was still snow blocking the road the Memorial Day weekend but by June 6th, the road was clear and passable with my Honda Fit," reports Aaron A. about Lake of the Woods.
Tips from RVers
Check site lengths carefully: Many campgrounds have size restrictions for vehicles. "Great campground but redone at the end of the 2020 season. They now have back in sites for RV's with different lengths. Check the website closely to make sure you fit!" advises CJ about Boyington Mill.
Consider amenities at East Meadow Campground: This location offers facilities suitable for RV camping. "First time there and we reserved a spot, site 21 and the door of our camper wasn't facing our camp. I noticed a few sites like that. It's pretty tight spaces and not a lot of privacy. We ended up moving to site 4, had more room and our door was facing our camp," explains Ron A.
Be prepared for limited hookups: Most natural glamping options near Loyalton have minimal RV services. "This is a small hidden little gem of a campground. They have flush toilets and bear boxes which makes it nice for those of us that tent camp. Close to the water and sites have plenty of space," notes julie B. about East Meadow Campground.
