Tent campsites near Martis Creek Lake sit at elevations between 5,800 and 7,000 feet in the northern Sierra Nevada mountains. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with nighttime temperatures often dropping below 40°F even in summer months. Most roads to dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain when dirt access roads can become rutted and muddy.
What to do
Fishing at shallow lakes: Lake of the Woods offers excellent fishing opportunities in a small alpine lake. "Small lake perfect for kayak fishing," notes Samantha T., who visited this first-come, first-served campground. Another camper adds that the "lake is shallow in some areas with white sand," making it ideal for both fishing and wading.
Winter backcountry exploration: Peter Grubb Hut provides a base for winter exploration with heated shelter and basic amenities. "Kitchen, firewood, fireplace, and a bunch of bunks," writes Christian N. about this hike-in destination near Castle Peak. The hut requires advance reservations during winter months.
Family cycling: Many campgrounds connect to paved and unpaved cycling routes. "Fun Cycling too," mentions Susan S. about the trails near Donner Memorial State Park. The park offers "paved loops for riding bikes" according to Eleni R., making it suitable for children and casual cyclists.
What campers like
Access to multiple water bodies: The region offers camping near various lakes and streams. "The lake is literally across the road from the campground," writes Azizah T. about Kaspian Campground. This location provides "beautiful lake views" and is just "10 mins from Tahoe City."
Wildlife encounters: Several camping areas feature opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Olde LYFE Alpacas is a working free-range Alpaca farm with tons of other animals to check out during your stay," explains Jake C. about this unique camping option where alpacas roam freely among campsites.
Secluded forest settings: For those seeking quiet, several campgrounds provide more isolated experiences. "Very few people, maybe 1-2 families," notes Susan S. about Sagehen Creek Campground. Bear Valley Campground similarly offers a "secluded location" according to Melissa D., who called it a "hidden gem I looked forward to visiting all winter."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads to many sites require appropriate vehicles. "The road is terrible," warns Paxton B. about Merrill Valley Dispersed Camp, adding "felt like we were in a construction zone." At Lake of the Woods, expect "a dirt road to get to the campsite, but doable for experienced drivers or high clearance cars."
Seasonal closures: Operating seasons vary by location and elevation. "The open season is not listed on their website, but I can confirm the campground is closed in November," reports a visitor to Lake Forest Campground. At higher elevations, snow can block access until June, as Aaron A. notes: "There was still snow blocking the road the Memorial Day weekend but by June 6th, the road was clear."
Site competition tactics: During peak summer months, competition for sites intensifies. "People from the area seemed to be 'reserving' sites with styrofoam coolers and water jugs... they did not occupy their sites at night," observes Hope H. at Bear Valley Campground, highlighting unofficial practices at first-come, first-served locations.
Tips for camping with families
Larger, established sites: Certain campgrounds better accommodate family groups. "Big spaces!" notes Rachel M. about Donner Memorial State Park. Another camper elaborates: "Most campsites are large. Kids age 0-99 rule the day as there are boulders all around to climb, a lake to swim in, trails to hike and paved loops for riding bikes."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer learning experiences. "Ranger programs" are available at Donner Memorial State Park according to Susan S., who also mentions the "Visitor's Center and Museum" as attractions for children. The interpretive center is described as "informative" by another visitor.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with gradual-entry swimming areas. "We went in the summer and the water was perfect!" reports 12-year-old Bobby S. about swimming at Donner Memorial State Park. At Lake of the Woods, the "nice water for swimming" includes shallow areas with sand bottoms suitable for younger swimmers.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Martis Creek Lake provide minimal RV services. While Donner Memorial State Park accommodates RVs, reviews note a lack of hookups, though a "sanitary dump" station is available. Campers requiring electrical connections will find very limited options in the immediate area.
Accessibility considerations: Some campsites accommodate visitors with mobility needs. "We are traveling to Idaho and stopped here for the night. I am in a wheelchair so we had a handicap sight," writes Chris K. about their experience at Donner Memorial State Park, adding that "all the sights were clean and had nice fire pits with a grill grate."
Supply planning: Limited facilities mean bringing adequate supplies. The small store near Donner Memorial State Park "doesn't offer much in the way of cooking real meals, just snacks" according to Kerry V., though Truckee provides full shopping options approximately 15 minutes away from most campgrounds in the area.
