RV campgrounds at Martis Creek Lake provide overnight accommodations within the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains at elevations ranging from 5,700 to 6,300 feet. Winter nighttime temperatures frequently drop below freezing while summer daytime highs typically reach 75-85°F. The surrounding pine forest transitions to high desert vegetation with sagebrush and manzanita prevalent throughout camping areas.
What to do
Fishing at nearby reservoirs: Access French Meadows Reservoir for trout fishing throughout the summer season. "The reservoir was almost full so that made it especially nice. All sites have easy access to the water," notes one visitor about French Meadows.
Mountain biking trails: Several trails connect directly to Gold Ranch Casino & RV Resort with varied terrain options. "There is access to a hiking/mountain biking path, but I did not explore it since it had rained heavily the day we arrived, and it was muddy," reports one camper.
Water activities: Swimming spots with gradual entry points work well for families at multiple locations. "We loved the water access, and water was perfect temperature for swimming for our toddlers even," explains a camper at French Meadows.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The restrooms at Sparks Marina RV Park receive consistent praise for maintenance. "The bathrooms were very clean. The WiFi was okay. The grounds are very nice and the staff are too!" states one reviewer.
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds remain open year-round despite snowfall. "We ended up camping in a truck camper at Tahoe Valley Campground after being caught in a snow storm. For a last minute find, it turned out to be an awesome choice," explains a winter visitor.
Mountain views: Multiple campgrounds feature scenic vistas of the Sierra range. "Very well kept, clean and paved sites, and plenty of space for our 31 foot trailer. It was about 10 minute drive to Reno, which was perfect for our family," notes a camper at Gold Ranch Casino & RV Resort.
What you should know
Age restrictions for RVs: Some campgrounds limit older vehicles. "There is NO mention of an age restriction on their website. I specifically searched it before I made the reservation. But they WILL take the reservation online, take your money, then call to check the age of your rig," warns a visitor to Sparks Marina RV Park.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain varies significantly by location with some campgrounds requiring extra work. "WARNING- two thirds of the campsites were on a slope with no where to setup a tent on level ground," cautions a camper at French Meadows.
Winter water availability: Water systems may be unavailable during cold months. "We weren't able to connect to water because of freezing temperatures," reports a camper who visited Tahoe Valley Campground during winter.
Tips for camping with families
Age restrictions for amenities: Some facilities limit certain recreational features by age. "Kids must be 18 to enjoy the spa even if accompanied by adults, had a great club house with a pool table but kids must be 14 to play," notes a visitor to Sparks Marina RV Park.
Activity planning: Organized campground events can keep children engaged. "They put on a ton of events like karaoke nights, live music, and smores nights. Hot showers and well lit clean bathrooms. Hard to find solitude or silence," explains a camper at Tahoe Valley Campground.
Bathroom accessibility: Consider proximity to facilities when selecting sites with children. "Had several rowdy groups keeping us up til 2am. A few air horns, car alarms going off. No camp hosts or ground keepers around," warns one family who stayed at Tahoe Valley.
Tips from RVers
Site width considerations: Many rv campgrounds around Martis Creek Lake have size limitations. "Sites at Silver City RV Resort are narrow, about twice the width of your RV, and separated by chain link fencing. But all sites are perfectly flat, paved pull-throughs; easy in, easy out parking," explains an RV owner.
Sewer connection design: Some drainage systems require special equipment. "The sewer connections are slightly recessed, centered in concrete bowls; it was a challenge to get a good connection with a right-angle connector," notes one RVer at Bordertown Casino RV Resort.
Reservation timing: Peak season requires substantial advance planning. "We showed up and still managed to find a camp spot that same day which is rare for this gorgeous location," mentions a visitor to RV Village Campground At Camp Richardson Resort.
