Best Campgrounds near Nice, CA
Camping around Nice, California centers on Clear Lake, with options ranging from lakeside RV parks to dispersed sites in the surrounding hills. The Aurora RV Park & Marina offers full hookup sites for RVs along with cabin accommodations directly on the lakeshore, while Lakeview Dispersed Campground provides free primitive camping on public land with views overlooking the water. Other nearby options include Kelsey Creek Campground at Clear Lake State Park and the Narrows Lodge Resort, which features tent sites, RV spaces, and cabin rentals approximately 5 miles from Nice.
Road conditions to dispersed camping areas can present challenges, particularly at Lakeview Dispersed Campground where steep, dusty, unpaved routes may require all-wheel drive vehicles. A camper noted, "The drive up was full of breathtaking views, and even though the road was quite bumpy, dusty, and steep at times, our AWD Kia made it up no problem." Weather around Clear Lake is typically mild throughout the year, though summer temperatures can become quite hot. Lakeside sites at developed campgrounds like The Aurora RV Park tend to fill quickly during peak summer months. Cell service is generally available at most locations, including dispersed sites in the hills above the lake.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw in the Nice area, with several campers highlighting the views and lakeside access. Sites along Clear Lake offer fishing opportunities directly from camp, particularly at The Aurora RV Park where lakeside spots include picnic areas overlooking the water. One visitor mentioned, "We were able to find a secluded spot that overlooks the lake. Very peaceful but some traffic sounds at night from the lake towns." Dispersed camping areas provide more solitude but fewer amenities, with no water sources, restrooms, or trash facilities. Several campers report excellent stargazing opportunities from the higher elevation dispersed sites. The region includes both BLM and Forest Service land, with Cow Mountain Recreation Area offering additional dispersed camping options approximately 15 miles from Nice.
