Dispersed camping sites around Big Dog Valley offer primitive boondocking experiences in the Sierra Nevada foothills near Loyalton. The area sits at approximately 6,000 feet elevation with seasonal temperatures ranging from below freezing in winter months to 80°F during summer days. Roads to dispersed areas typically require higher clearance vehicles, especially after rain when dirt access roads become rutted.
What to Do
Crystal hunting opportunities: Lookout Campground provides access to Crystal Peak where visitors can find quartz specimens scattered throughout the area. "There are plenty of sites to choose from on this loop. Two bathrooms and some running water although I believe it is only there for dousing your fire. There is a nice little aspen grove that bisects the campground," notes Joey P. about Lookout Campground.
Fishing access: Multiple camping areas provide fishing opportunities at nearby lakes and streams. At Upper Little Truckee, campers report catching fish right from the campground. "Kids had the best time fishing we caught 2 little guys. So nice to fall asleep to the river sound," reports Rachel M.
Swimming and water play: Seasonal swimming spots can be found at several of the dog friendly campgrounds near Loyalton. "The lake is a great swimming temp in june, the views are gorgeous, and there's plenty of trees and shade," writes Morgan about their experience at Boca Rest Campground.
What Campers Like
Secluded camping experiences: Several campgrounds in the Loyalton area provide significantly more privacy than typical established campgrounds. "This campground earns 4 stars because of its amazing privacy. First, it's quite an adventurous (read: bumpy) drive to get to it from the nearest paved road. Once you arrive, you'll be amazed at how much space there is between the sites," reports Kade H. about Lookout Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Despite their remote locations, many campgrounds have attentive hosts who maintain clean facilities. At Cottonwood Campground, one camper noted, "Sites were well maintained, picnic tables, fire rings and bear boxes. Running water, flush toilets and at every spigot there was a gallon jug filled for you to use to extinguish your fires."
Proximity to trails: Many pet friendly camping areas near Loyalton connect directly to hiking trails. Clinton F. shares about Lookout Campground, "This is my go to campground, and I live not too far away... Right below Crystal Peak with a nice hiking trail to the peak. A little off the beaten path, but makes for a nice quiet campground. Lot of trails around to explore the beautiful forest."
What You Should Know
Road conditions: Access roads to many of the more remote pet-friendly sites require careful driving. "The road is one of the reasons this site generally isn't too packed. There are two main ways in," explains a detailed review of Lookout Campground. Amy R. simply states, "one of the worst roads I've ever been on...go slow."
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water, so preparation is key. At Bear Valley Campground, toilet facilities exist but limited amenities mean bringing your own water supply is essential.
Temperature fluctuations: The elevation means significant day-to-night temperature swings. "Cold night's starting in September. I have stayed here in summer and in fall. I prefer fall because there are not many people and you can have the lake to yourself," notes Davidson L.H. about Boca Rest Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly water activities: Several campgrounds offer safe water access for children. "The lake is a beautiful shade of blue, and there is a sweet smell of pine in the air. Boating and fishing are permitted, and families with young kids were paddling around the shallows on inflatable rafts," shares Norma Y. about her experience at Boca Rest Campground.
Spacious sites for play: Look for campgrounds with room for kids to explore safely. "The campground has towering trees and most sites are very well shaded. This is a big plus versus nearby campgrounds that may have pull-through spaces but also sparse coverage," notes a reviewer at Cottonwood Campground.
Accessible recreation: Some campgrounds feature easy trails suitable for children. At Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park, facilities specifically cater to families. "Kid friendly with activities and play areas. Pet park for off leash play! Clean and friendly staff!" reports Ben W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research specific sites before booking. "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. I would say that only a handful of spaces could fit a larger rig (10, 20 and 44 had better angles)," advises Clancy H. about Cottonwood Campground.
Seasonal planning: RV campers report different experiences based on timing. "We stayed for 4 days in July. The park is clean and they show you to your site and help you park. It was only my second time parking my trailer so that was much appreciated. The sites are gravel and level," shares Daphne R. about Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park.
Utilities and hookups: Most dispersed and forest service campgrounds near Loyalton lack hookups. Upper Little Truckee campers note, "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."
