Several RV campgrounds near Norden, California sit at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Winter camping requires preparation for snow conditions, with many campgrounds closing seasonally from November through April. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-80°F with cool nights even during peak season.
What to do
Lakeside recreation: French Meadows offers swimming access from multiple points along the reservoir. "We got to the water about a mile down the road at the boat launch... On the way back we stopped for a swim in the river that feeds the reservoir... more of a creek currently, but we found a deep still spot perfect for swimming and soaking our tired feet," notes one visitor to Lewis Campground.
Mountain biking: Trail access is available directly from some campgrounds. "If you mountain bike, there's some decent trails close by to ride. There's also legit fishing lakes within about a 20 minute radius," reports a camper at Thousand Trails Snowflower.
Hiking excursions: The Granite Chief Wilderness offers day hiking options. A Lewis Campground visitor shares: "We did an 11-mile hike in Granite Chief Wilderness which is accessible about 5 miles up a gravel road from the campground."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Lakeside camping provides both recreation and privacy at several campgrounds. "All sites have easy access to the water. All of the campers were very cool and extremely dog friendly," reports a visitor to French Meadows.
Clean facilities: Many Norden area campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. "Very clean bathrooms with showers!! There are a few lakes that are very nice for fishing and kayaking. Nice calm water for a leisurely SUP experience," notes a Thousand Trails Snowflower guest.
Winter camping options: Snow camping creates unique experiences at certain year-round facilities. A Tahoe Valley visitor explains: "We ended up camping in a truck camper at Tahoe Valley Campground after being caught in a snow storm... nothing beats making a fire in the snow and waking up to a couple of feet of white fluffiness!"
What you should know
Mountain road conditions: Access to remote campgrounds requires careful driving. "French Meadows is definitely off the beaten path. The road is long and windy and dangerous if you are not creeping around the corners. 1.5 hours from Auburn," cautions one camper.
Bear precautions: Active wildlife requires proper food storage. "Bear country be advised. Extreme fire danger the summer months and closed due to snow in winter," warns a visitor to French Meadows.
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Two thirds of the campsites were on a slope with no where to setup a tent on level ground... you are rolling the dice and could be rolling in your tent all night from being on a hill," notes a French Meadows camper.
Campground policies: Age restrictions apply at some RV parks. A Sparks Marina RV Park visitor cautions: "There is NO mention of an age restriction on their website... But they WILL take the reservation online, take your money, then call to check the age of your rig."
Tips for camping with families
Group campsite options: Designated group areas accommodate larger family gatherings. A Coyote Group Campground camper notes: "Large group camp site with lots of flat places to pitch a tent... 4 big picnic tables... Walking distance to the river... Big fire pit... Excellent for a big group."
Recreational activities: Campgrounds with organized events keep children entertained. "They put on a ton of events like karaoke nights, live music, and smores nights... Super busy campground with kids running around and riding bikes," reports a Tahoe Valley visitor.
Swimming areas: Family-friendly water access points provide summer recreation. "Loved the water access, and water was perfect temperature for swimming for our toddlers even. Great amenities (fire ring, table, bear box)," shares a French Meadows camper.
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: RV campgrounds near Norden vary in site quality. A Gold Ranch Casino & RV Resort visitor states: "All sites are full hookup, with wifi, and cable tv. Clean bathrooms, showers, and laundry. We would stay here again if in the area."
Water management: Seasonal drought affects water availability. A French Meadows camper advises: "Water pumps were good in the locations where water was present, but due to lower water levels, the pumps on the higher grounds had no water; had to walk to the lowest pumps."
Hookup limitations: Not all campgrounds offer full RV services. At Tahoe Valley, a camper reports: "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers. Nice store for basic needs, nice laundry room."
