Best Tent Camping near Markleeville, CA

The alpine forests surrounding Markleeville, California offer several tent camping options within Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and nearby public lands. Luther Pass Campground, located about 10 miles northwest of town, provides free tent campsites with basic amenities. Wet Meadows Reservoir offers primitive tent-only camping from June through October, while the Desolation Wilderness Aloha Zone provides backcountry tent camping for hikers willing to venture farther from established areas. Though Markleeville Campground itself is temporarily closed, the surrounding region maintains several alternatives for tent campers seeking Sierra Nevada mountain experiences.

Sites throughout the area vary considerably in terrain and accessibility. Most tent campgrounds feature dirt or forest duff surfaces with minimal grading, requiring careful tent placement. Bear activity is common throughout the region, with many established sites providing bear boxes for food storage. Luther Pass has approximately 12 tent sites with pit toilets but no water, requiring campers to bring their own supplies. Walk-in tent sites at locations like Wet Meadows demand additional preparation, as they lack developed facilities. Seasonal access affects most areas, with higher elevation tent campgrounds often inaccessible until late spring due to snow conditions. Fire restrictions frequently apply during summer and fall months.

Tent campers visiting Luther Pass report that sites "fill fast" despite being free, with picnic tables and fire rings available at designated spots. According to reviews, the area remains "quiet and safe" even when most sites are occupied. At Markleeville Campground (when operational), visitors noted that "a beautiful stream runs next to some spots," though accessing the campground requires navigating "a dirt road that's a bit steep." The region's backcountry tent camping in Desolation Wilderness requires permits ($5-10 per person) but rewards hikers with exceptional solitude. Tent-only sites generally offer better tree cover than mixed-use campgrounds, providing natural shade during summer months when daytime temperatures can rise significantly while nights remain cool.

Best Tent Sites Near Markleeville, California (66)

    1. Markleeville Campground - Temporarily Closed

    4 Reviews
    Markleeville, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 882-2766

    $18 / night

    "It was perfect weather and we hiked to the town of Markleeville which is the cutest town ever!   The camp host was super nice and a beautiful stream runs next to some spots.  "

    "Close to Markleeville and convenient to pop over to the town and pick up things from the general store. The campground is small and it’s more of a “passing through” spot."

    2. Luther Pass

    6 Reviews
    Echo Lake, CA
    12 miles

    "About 12 sites near the Big meadow trailhead. they fill fast! no water, but pit toilet, garbage, fire rings and tables"

    "Several others around, but it was quiet & safe. Pit toilets, and river water nearby."

    3. Middle Creek & Expansion Campground - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2023 SEASON

    2 Reviews
    Markleeville, CA
    8 miles
    Website

    "We stayed here just after the campground opened for the season, the upper campgrounds were still closed but lower blue lakes was open. We had the entire campground to ourselves."

    "Large grass area that looked like it could be for camping, it was on top of the lake overlooking it. It was absolutely beautiful. Didnt see any campers but it didn’t say don’t camp here."

    4. Wet Meadows Reservoir

    1 Review
    Markleeville, CA
    6 miles

    "And we were pleasantly surprised to find a nice spot overlooking the lake."

    5. Pacific Valley Campground

    3 Reviews
    Bear Valley, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 795-1381

    $10 / night

    "The camp sites aren't too close together, they have picnic tables, fire rings and grills, and there's a toilet. I saw that there was a trail head at the back of the campground."

    "Sites are located along the meadow and around a loop in the back portion of the campground where there’s a trail head into the wilderness."

    6. Lovers Leap Campground

    6 Reviews
    Twin Bridges, CA
    19 miles
    Website

    "Very clean vault toilets and drinking water. Safe and quiet with nice hosts. Popular with climbers and there’s a short trail that leads down to a river that’s very scenic. Good cell reception."

    "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. Natural and quiet, even though 50 is not far away!"

    7. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Sierraville, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 994-3401

    "Wooded campground, cool weather, good phone reception, many spots taken with no activity probably by locals. Lake, hiking, close shopping."

    "Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk."

    9. Utica Campgrounds

    4 Reviews
    Bear Valley, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 532-3671

    $16 / night

    "Or just use nature :)

    Please please don’t trash this place! People just don’t understand LNT rules."

    "Because there’s no host or ranger, there are also no reservations. It’s all first come first serve! I arrived on a Thursday to find 2 open spots."

    10. Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone

    5 Reviews
    Twin Bridges, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 744-3320

    $5 / night

    "You can hike in for 6 miles each way (12 miles round trip) via the Echo Lakes trail, or park and take the water taxi ($12) to cut off 2.5 miles of the hike each way."

    "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. We took the water Taxi that shaved about 5 miles off our hike."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Markleeville, CA

984 Reviews of 66 Markleeville Campgrounds



Guide to Markleeville

Nestled in the stunning Sierra Nevada, Markleeville, California, offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • The Bear Valley Dispersed Camping area allows campfires and welcomes pets, making it a great choice for families and friends looking to enjoy nature together.
  • Luther Pass features picnic tables and toilets, providing essential comforts while still offering a rustic camping experience.
  • At Lovers Leap Campground, campers can enjoy clean vault toilets and drinking water, ensuring a more convenient stay.

Tent campers should check out local attractions

  • The scenic trails around Utica Campgrounds are perfect for hiking and biking, allowing campers to explore the beautiful surroundings.
  • Markleeville Campground is conveniently located near the charming town of Markleeville, where visitors can enjoy local shops and eateries.
  • The stunning views and outdoor activities at Pacific Valley Campground make it an ideal spot for fishing and relaxing by the creek.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Campers at Wet Meadows Reservoir can enjoy fishing and swimming in the serene waters, perfect for a refreshing dip after a day of hiking.
  • The Middle Creek & Expansion Campground offers access to beautiful trails and the chance to spot local wildlife, enhancing the outdoor experience.
  • For those seeking adventure, Kirkwood Campground provides opportunities for rock climbing and exploring the nearby lake, making it a favorite among thrill-seekers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Markleeville, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Markleeville, CA is Markleeville Campground - Temporarily Closed with a 3.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Markleeville, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 66 tent camping locations near Markleeville, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.