Best Tent Camping near Martis Creek Lake in California

Are you planning a tent camping trip to Martis Creek Lake? We've got you covered. Find the best information on tent camping near Martis Creek Lake, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Martis Creek Lake (79)

    heidi T.'s photo of tent camping at Donner Memorial State Park Campground near Truckee, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Donner Memorial State Park Campground near Truckee, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Donner Memorial State Park Campground near Truckee, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Donner Memorial State Park Campground near Truckee, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Donner Memorial State Park Campground near Truckee, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Donner Memorial State Park Campground near Truckee, CA

    1. Donner Memorial State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    47 Photos
    236 Saves
    Truckee, California

    Donner Memorial State Park offers the summer vacationer opportunities for Donner Lake camping, picnicking, boating, fishing, water-skiing, and hiking. In winter, visitors can cross-country ski and snowshoe on trails and enjoy the season's beauty. Visitors are welcome year-round at the Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center and at the Pioneer Monument, built to commemorate those who emigrated to California from the east in the mid-1800's. The Visitor Center features compelling new exhibits that tell the stories of the Emigrant Experience, the Donner Party, the Land of the Washoe, Chinese construction of the railroad, and early motoring adventures over Donner Pass.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch near Washoe Valley, NV
    Camper-submitted photo at Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch near Washoe Valley, NV
    Camper-submitted photo at Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch near Washoe Valley, NV
    Camper-submitted photo at Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch near Washoe Valley, NV
    Camper-submitted photo at Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch near Washoe Valley, NV
    Camper-submitted photo at Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch near Washoe Valley, NV

    2. Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch

    4 Reviews
    37 Photos
    23 Saves
    Washoe Valley, Nevada

    Imagine waking up and having an alpaca right outside your door!! That's what you might have on this 130 Acre ranch on the Eastern Slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range. At this serene ranch you will find alpacas, llamas, the mini-pot-bellied pig and our old sweet donkey wandering in the grassy fields were you will park, as well as the 30 acre pasture next to it. Visit with the Angora goats, Wensleydale sheep and a random assortment of other livestock in the various paddocks. If a longer walk is what you're looking for, head out into our 90 acre pasture where you might run into the male alpacas sipping from the year-long creek. You can find your complimentary bucket of pellet treats under the porch near the ranch store to hand feed the animals. WARNING!!! You will be swamped with the eager alpacas looking for a treat! Our ranch store is small but stocked with local jellies, honey, farm fresh eggs from our hens and a wide assortment of beautiful alpaca fiber products. We offer walking tours with an alpaca, educational sessions with the alpacas and goats, and custom beanies, scarves, and headbands. Visit our website to pre-order or book an experience. We are excited to share this wonderful ranch and animals with you.

    NOTE:: PLEASE refer to your messages as I send details on how to arrive, where to park, the store etc..........There are also signs posted around the ranch.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $25 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Lake of the Woods near Sierraville, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake of the Woods near Sierraville, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake of the Woods near Sierraville, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake of the Woods near Sierraville, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake of the Woods near Sierraville, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake of the Woods near Sierraville, CA

    3. Lake of the Woods

    4 Reviews
    7 Photos
    62 Saves
    Sierraville, California

    Lake of the Woods is a nice small lake. It can be quite popular especially on weekends. There are approximately 15 camping spots with fire pits and picnic tables situated along the shoreline. There is no piped water available. This lake generally opens later in the spring as it sits at a high elevation and takes longer for winter snows to melt to gain access. Camping is free and on a first come - first served basis. The lake has both public and private property. Fire restrictions may be different depending on where you locate your camp.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Tent Cabin
    • Glamping
    Camper-submitted photo at Kaspian Campground near Tahoma, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kaspian Campground near Tahoma, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kaspian Campground near Tahoma, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kaspian Campground near Tahoma, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kaspian Campground near Tahoma, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kaspian Campground near Tahoma, CA

    4. Kaspian Campground

    3 Reviews
    11 Photos
    178 Saves
    Tahoma, California

    Overview

    Kaspian Campground is located in a mature forest of pine trees overlooking the beautiful Lake Tahoe. Campers will be nestled in a sparse forest of pine trees and evergreen shrubs, just minutes from the bright blue water of Tahoe. The lake and its sandy beaches provides ample recreation opportunities.

    Recreation

    Kaspian Campground is ideal for visitors planning a full day of biking around Lake Tahoe. Bike trails that traverse the western shores of the lake begin near the campground. Visitors enjoy water sports on the lake and relaxing on its sandy beaches.

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated in a former picnic area, across the street from the lake. Campsites are spaced for privacy and surrounded by tall ponderosa pine and white fir trees. Some sites offer spectacular views of Lake Tahoe through the trees.

    Nearby Attractions

    Kaspian Campground is less than 10 miles from the popular Meeks Bay.

    Contact Info

    This location has limited staffing. Please call (530) 541-1537 for general information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash

    $30 - $32 / night

    Kris E.'s photo of tent camping at Bowman Campground near Sierra City, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bowman Campground near Sierra City, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bowman Campground near Sierra City, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bowman Campground near Sierra City, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bowman Campground near Sierra City, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bowman Campground near Sierra City, CA

    5. Bowman Campground

    7 Reviews
    19 Photos
    176 Saves
    Sierra City, California

    Bowman Lake Campground is a very remote campground with limited services. There are 7 campsites with tables, fire rings and bear proof food lockers. There is no trash service. Bowman Lake is a large lake surrounded by rocky cliffs and scattered pines that are great for fishing and swimming. A few islands are found within the lake. Car top boat launch only. The road to access the campground is very rough, rocky, and narrow. A high clearance vehicle is needed, and towing boats or trailers is very difficult and dangerous. There are several stretches of the road where it is impossible for two vehicles to pass around each other and so if traffic is coming from both directions, someone will need to back up. Despite the difficult access, Bowman Lake is a popular, heavily used area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Hope H.'s photo of tent camping at Bear Valley Campground near Sierraville, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bear Valley Campground near Sierraville, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bear Valley Campground near Sierraville, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bear Valley Campground near Sierraville, CA

    6. Bear Valley Campground

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    18 Saves
    Sierraville, California

    Bear Valley Campground is a remote, small campground with 10 campsites suitable for tents or RV's. It is popular with OHV enthusiasts wanting to use the nearby Bear Valley OHV area. The campground is located six miles east of Little Truckee Summit on the Cottonwood Creek Road. Elevation: 6700 feet. Non-potable water, treat before drinking.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Spaulding Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Spaulding Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Spaulding Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Spaulding Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Spaulding Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Spaulding Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA

    7. Lake Spaulding Campground

    4 Reviews
    5 Photos
    242 Saves
    Emigrant Gap, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo at Sagehen Creek Campground near Truckee, CA

    8. Sagehen Creek Campground

    1 Review
    20 Saves
    Truckee, California

    Sagehen Creek Campground is a remote, rustic campground along Sagehen Creek approximately seven miles west of Highway 89 North. It is adjacent to a beautiful meadow with shade provided by lodgepole pine. Prepare for mosquitos in the early camping season. Not suitable for large RVs. Rough native surface roads in campground. Accessible vault toilet. Picnic tables and fire rings provided. Firewood not available for purchase. Elevation: 6500 feet.No water or trash services provided. Pack it in, pack it outNo fee for staying in Sagehen Creek campground. No reservations first come, first served.CAMPING IS LIMITED TO 14 DAYS PER YEAR.Directions: From Truckee take Highway 89 North for approximately eight miles to Sagehen Summit. Take a left onto 260 Road and go approximately 0.10 mile to four-way intersection. Continue on 260 Road (middle road, not to field station) for approximately 1.5 miles. Take a left onto 11 Road for approximately three miles. At bottom of paved hill, take a left at Sagehen Campground sign. Campground will be on the right in approximately 0.5 mile.

    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Toilets
    Leslie R.'s photo of tent camping at Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone near Twin Bridges, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone near Twin Bridges, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone near Twin Bridges, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone near Twin Bridges, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone near Twin Bridges, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone near Twin Bridges, CA

    9. Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone

    5 Reviews
    13 Photos
    258 Saves
    Twin Bridges, California
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian

    $5 / night

    Lucia S.'s photo of tent camping at Grouse Ridge Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Grouse Ridge Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Grouse Ridge Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Grouse Ridge Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Grouse Ridge Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Grouse Ridge Campground near Emigrant Gap, CA

    10. Grouse Ridge Campground

    4 Reviews
    24 Photos
    136 Saves
    Emigrant Gap, California

    Grouse Ridge Campground is located at the top of Grouse Ridge, spectacular vistas of granitic boulders, many alpine lakes, scattered pines, and wildflowers in the summer. Often late opening due to snow banks on access road. Hiking and biking trails lead off of ridge to the Grouse Lakes Area located at the base of the ridge. There are 9 campsites with tables and fire rings. 5 campsites have space for small trailers.There is a vault toilet, but no trash service; pack it in pack it out!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
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Showing results 1-10 of 79 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Martis Creek Lake

1098 Reviews of 79 Martis Creek Lake Campgrounds


  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Meeks Bay Resort & Marina
    Jul. 11, 2023

    Meeks Bay Resort & Marina

    Great Place to Stay

    Clean and best play to stay with beach access, cabins, tents sites and rv sites. Tent site can fit 2 or more tents with fire pit and picnic table. Restroom with shower and warm water.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake East- Eldorado
    Oct. 25, 2020

    Silver Lake East- Eldorado

    Great Lake access

    I’ve camped here 4 times- 2 times tent camping and 2 times trailer camping. The lake has a beautiful, and easy to walk to from the campground, especially from the sites in the 40s and 50s. The vault toilets can be a bummer if you are tent camping, and there are no hookups for rvs. But the campground has beautiful trees, and there is a restaurant and camp store for your convenience. Also, across the highway at the Silver Lake East campground is an awesome hidden secret called “Potholes.” Shhhhh!

  • Steven S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sparks Marina RV Park
    May. 23, 2020

    Sparks Marina RV Park

    False Advertising

    They advertise as having sites for tent camping as well as dispersed camping. This is inaccurate and should be changed.

  • Alisen O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Grasshopper Flat
    Aug. 20, 2019

    Grasshopper Flat

    Almost perfect

    Absolutely delightful campground with flush toilets and potable water. Super close access to the water. Would be a perfect spot for tent camping if there weren’t so many trailers everywhere.

  • Joe M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Logger Campground
    Jul. 10, 2019

    Logger Campground

    Recreation Heaven

    Great camp ground with spacious spaces. Accomadates large groups and tent camping. Friendly host and very clean. Stones throw from the boat ramp and Stampede Lake. Only down is the place is a little noisey.

  • j
    Camper-submitted photo from East Meadow Campground
    Aug. 29, 2018

    East Meadow Campground

    A hidden gem

    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.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Boca Rest Campground
    Sep. 1, 2020

    Boca Rest Campground

    Boca Rest Campground

    Nice campsite. They are a little  close to other campers but still nice. Lake was right down the hill. Bathrooms are close if you are tent camping. Very limited cell service. Camp host wad very nice and accessible. Would camp there again 😊

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Plumas-Eureka State Park Campground
    Jul. 14, 2023

    Plumas-Eureka State Park Campground

    Great motorcycle campspot

    Campground was full but very quiet. Stayed at a great site for tent camping with my motorcycle. Bathrooms were clean, weather good, and bugs weren’t too bad. Also a trailhead for hiking to a few secluded lakes. And the best..no cell phone coverage!!

  • Travis S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Inn Town Campground
    Jul. 25, 2019

    Inn Town Campground

    In a word, excellent!

    This campground has it all. It’s clean, has great amenities (pool, showers, kitchen, bathrooms), and it’s a nice walk away from town. It has a spot for everyone - RVs, glamping tents, and the standard tent sites (my style).

    Highly recommend!

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Lodgepole Campground
    Jun. 11, 2019

    Lodgepole Campground

    Good times

    Great place to stay. 1 hours drive from Reno. Lake with in 5 minutes of the campground. Spots for RVs, travel trailers and/or just tent camping. Restrooms spread around the area with access to fresh water. Good size creek flowing through the campground from the lake above.

  • Jay B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wrights Lake
    Sep. 6, 2019

    Wrights Lake

    Tranquility

    At the top of the Sierras, El Dorado national forest, tucked in away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Stunning views, and blue skies, campground is well maintained and accessible. Rvs and tent camping. Shallow lake that warms up a little for kayaking and swimming. Great family lake.

  • Keef W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Tahoe Valley Campground
    Jul. 15, 2016

    Tahoe Valley Campground

    somewhat crowded

    much busier overall than the majority of the eastern sierras, still a nice get away. not too close to the lake but access is far from difficult. book ahead of time and request 9 for a tent site.

  • H
    Camper-submitted photo from Inn Town Campground
    Aug. 1, 2021

    Inn Town Campground

    Great getaway!

    We spent two nights doing a family and friends reunion. We loved our rv spot, the rest of the group had great tent site and glamping tents. Facilities were super clean and nice. Pool was small but the pool area was really nice. Great location for swimming in the Yuba river!

  • Nile B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Rose Campground
    Jul. 20, 2018

    Mount Rose Campground

    Dig it!

    Very nice campground with tent sites and walk-ins. Water, bathrooms, fire pits, picnic tables, and food lockers. Walk-ins have beautiful views of Mount Rose and downtown Reno. Hiking trails, mountain biking, snowboarding, etc. Nearby Relay Peak and Mt Rose summit are great hikes. First come first serve.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Zephyr Cove Resort
    Jul. 12, 2023

    Zephyr Cove Resort

    Took one look at my site, and left.

    Booked a tent site. The campground was completely full. My fire ring was at the bumper of my vehicle, the picnic table was basically in someone else’s campsite, and I had to walk up a flight of stairs where the tent site was supposed to be. The site on one side of me looked down on top of me from 10 feet away, the RV site next to me was crammed on top of me as well. Their front porch was basically staring right at my site, like I would be there entertainment for the night.

    I had planned to camp out of the back of my truck for a quick overnight stay. Lots of better options around.

    It is nice that it is walking distance from Zephyr Cove. But Zephyr Cove was packed. Nevada beach was only a four minute drive away and much more spacious and relaxing.

    $67, plus taxes and fees, for no services and being packed in like sardines, no thanks.

  • Ron G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Grasshopper Flat
    Feb. 18, 2021

    Grasshopper Flat

    Pretty Good Small Lake Campground

    Had a great time here - terrific proximity to lake & decent sized camping sites. Nearby Portola, & easy drive from the Reno area.

    Lots of generators in use during the day (the only reason I can’t give it 5 stars, since we were tent camping) , but all seemed to abide by hours posted for operation.

    Already have reservations for this summer!

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Alpine County Turtle Rock Park Campground - CLOSED INDEFINITELY
    Sep. 7, 2021

    Alpine County Turtle Rock Park Campground - CLOSED INDEFINITELY

    Hidden Jewel

    Turtle Rock is a hidden jewel. It is well kept and maintained. Showers are provided for a small fee so make sure you have quarters. Toilets are dispersed throughout the campground. There’s a section for tent camping as well as RV camping. No reservations required as I always drive in whenever I go. One of my favorite spot around Markleeville area.

  • Casey M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Springs Campground
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Crystal Springs Campground

    Pretty chill little spot...NOT FOR LARGE RVs or CAMPERS

    Great little spot for tent camping or vehicle camping. You'll be fine if you have a smaller RV or Camper trailer but would not recommend for large units. Camp host Scott was really cool and down to earth. The campsite is clean and well maintained. Pit toilets were the best I have ever seen/smelled. The site can be pretty windy so bring tent stakes and cordage to tie out your walls.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Tahoe Valley Campground
    May. 5, 2021

    Tahoe Valley Campground

    Good last minute find

    We were trying to stay up on Luther pass but the snow and forest service has the road to camp closed still in early May. We found this place just driving down into town looking for a new camp. $65 to tent camp which seemed pricey but it was last minute so we took it. Very clean bathroom great staff dog friendly and large sites.

  • Anna W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Flat Lake
    Feb. 21, 2021

    Scotts Flat Lake

    Foothills fun

    Scott’s Flat is just five miles outside of Nevada City. It is run by the Nevada Irrigation District. One of the many man made lakes in the region. There are bath houses, tent sites and no hookup RV sites. It is clean but can become loud with rowdy camping neighbors. A beautiful lake to boat, fish and swim.

  • Bowie K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Samuel Buckland Campground — Fort Churchill State Historic Park
    Jul. 12, 2021

    Samuel Buckland Campground — Fort Churchill State Historic Park

    Clean, spacious but a little noisy

    Camping during a heat wave so RVs had generators going and tent site near us was having a party. But overall this was chill, plenty of spots on a Sunday evening in July, easy to find (don’t use the GPS directions from this app - nav to Fort Churchill and camp is in the park.

    Cell service came and went.

  • Erik C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Meeks Bay Resort & Marina
    Aug. 19, 2023

    Meeks Bay Resort & Marina

    Well kept campground

    A great little campground with a fantastic beach on the lake. Sunrise over the water was beautiful. While I personally prefer a more rustic campground (we were in the tent site right next to the bathrooms), I will give them full credit for having a well organized place with very clean bathrooms. Would be a great place to camp with kids.

  • Jessica B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Jul. 4, 2018

    Ice House Campground

    Beautiful Lake

    Tent camped in spot 72. No shade what so ever, and it was a hot day! However loved the spacing of the campsites. Neighbors were close, though not so close to be crowded. Spot was very close to the restroom, advantage and disadvantage when a strong ordor would breeze on through. Short walk to the lake which was beautiful, spent the day floating and drinking. Have visited before, and will visit again!

  • H
    Camper-submitted photo from Everstoke - Camping & Glamping MTB park... by a brewery in the amazing Lost Sierra!
    Dec. 4, 2023

    Everstoke - Camping & Glamping MTB park... by a brewery in the amazing Lost Sierra!

    Camping

    I went to Everstoke a week ago. Based on my camping experience here, I would suggest to those who intend to come here to experience some camping styles. Traditional campers can choose from spacious tent sites where they can pitch their own tent, 2 player games and enjoy a rustic camping experience. For those looking for a touch of luxury, there are luxury accommodations, offering comfortable and stylish tents equipped with amenities like cozy beds, private bathrooms and even fire pits.


Guide to Martis Creek Lake

Nestled in the stunning Sierra Nevada, Martis Creek Lake offers a fantastic backdrop for tent camping enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy hiking and biking along scenic trails at Donner Memorial State Park Campground, where you can also explore the fascinating history of the area.
  • Experience the beauty of Lake of the Woods, perfect for swimming and fishing, with easy access to kayak rentals.
  • Take a short drive to Kaspian Campground for breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and nearby hiking trails.

Tips for tent camping near Martis Creek Lake

Campground amenities to enhance your stay

  • Enjoy clean facilities and well-maintained sites at Lake Forest Campground, which offers picnic tables and fire rings for a comfortable camping experience.
  • Experience the rustic charm of Sagehen Creek Campground, where you can find a peaceful retreat with basic amenities like toilets.
  • Stay connected with cell reception at Sterling Lake Campground, making it easier to share your camping adventures with friends and family.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Martis Creek Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Martis Creek Lake is Donner Memorial State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 18 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Martis Creek Lake?

    TheDyrt.com has all 79 tent camping locations near Martis Creek Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.