Tent camping near Nice, California concentrates around Clear Lake with its oak woodlands, chaparral hills, and volcanic terrain. The region sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation with summer temperatures frequently reaching 100°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Campgrounds remain open year-round, though water systems at some locations may be winterized from November through March.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Red Mountain Campground offers connections to multiple hiking trails with variable difficulty levels. One visitor noted, "This location was 6 miles from civilization down a windy road, then up a mountain side. If you like driving off road then the trip would be worth it, especially if you plan to stay a while."
OHV recreation: The terrain around Penny Pines Campground provides dedicated spaces for off-highway vehicles with direct trail access. A camper observed, "This campground seems to be mostly for OHV use. Most campers bring dirt bikes and the camp is circled by OHV trails."
Lake activities: Swimming access varies considerably by season and water level at campgrounds near Clear Lake. During lower water periods, swimming areas may be affected as noted by one camper: "The swimming lagoon was not worth even trying to get in. The water level is low, boat launch nearby was closed due to waterline being low."
What campers like
Off-grid seclusion: Visitors to Bear Creek Campground appreciate the quieter setting with fewer amenities but greater privacy. A recent visitor commented, "Found a great spot. Nice view and campsite. Clean."
Playgrounds for children: Some campgrounds offer built-in entertainment options for families with young children. A visitor to Bu-Shay Campground noted, "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus."
Scenic overlooks: Several campsites provide elevated views of Clear Lake and surrounding mountains. At Red Mountain, a camper shared, "There is a 'million dollar' view of the mountain range and Clearlake."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Prepare for minimal amenities at many tent campgrounds near Nice. According to a Penny Pines visitor: "The pit toilets are clean and fire pits and picnic tables are provided. Mostly shaded, though much of the surrounding forest is a burned zone."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans may affect your camping plans, particularly in summer months. Lower Bayview Campground received this visitor feedback: "No Charcoal Grills, No Campfires, Only gas or propane grills. Due to an extreme risk of fire, there has been a ban."
Site preparation: Tent sites often require preparation before setup. A camper at Lower Bayview Campground advised: "I do highly recommend to bring a rake and rake out where you are going to put your tent. Soo many twigs and rocks on the ground, ain't fun."
Tips for camping with families
Insect protection: The Clear Lake region hosts significant insect activity, especially in warmer months. One visitor to Lower Bayview suggested: "Be sure to bring a canopy with a mosquito screen...tons of flies, yellow jackets, moths, gnats, just all around flying bugs."
Wildlife awareness: Families should prepare children for encountering local wildlife. A camper at Lower Bayview reported: "Thankfully no trash pandas (racoons) were seen the entire trip. But we have seen tons of lizards, crows, and bluejays. I did see however on our last night at the camp, a California Kingsnake."
Alternative accommodations: Families seeking more comfort can consider unique options like the Old Train Caboose near Nice, which offers both tent camping and caboose lodging according to a visitor: "This property is offering 2 lodging options, a Caboose & Tent camping under the Walnut trees."
Tips from RVers
Limited shade coverage: Many campgrounds have partial tree cover that affects temperature management in vehicles. A visitor to Buckhorn Campground noted: "Can get very hot in the summer with limited shade. If you you're out dirt biking or four wheeling definitely a good pick away from everyone else in the OHV park."
Cell service variability: Mobile connectivity varies significantly throughout the Nice camping area. A Bu-Shay Campground visitor reported: "We had OK cell coverage with Verizon- we could usually browse the internet but streaming videos were difficult. You could download and watch them pretty quickly, but just streaming was hit and miss."
Water supply planning: Tent campers at primitive sites should bring sufficient water containers. At Red Mountain, a visitor advised: "You should bring a solar shower and water to drink and cook with, as there is none. You can stay 14 days out of the year for free."
