Tent camping near Norden, California offers diverse primitive and established sites throughout the Tahoe National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,000-7,000 feet. The camping season in this Sierra Nevada region typically runs from late May through October, with snow often blocking access roads before Memorial Day weekend. Summer nights can drop to 30°F even when daytime temperatures reach the mid-70s.
What to do
Kayaking on calm waters: Lake of the Woods provides excellent conditions for kayak fishing with its shallow areas featuring white sand bottoms. One camper noted, "Small lake perfect for kayak fishing" while another mentioned "The lake is shallow in some areas with white sand. It got a bit windy at night."
Hiking to nearby waterfalls: Explore trails around Bowman Campground for scenic waterfall views. A visitor recommends you "try to hike to the waterfalls at the creek at the end of the lake if you can." The trails range from easy lake-side paths to more challenging mountain routes.
Stargazing in open meadows: Tahoe National Forest Onion Valley Campground features open fields perfect for night sky viewing. According to one camper, "Those open spaces allow for some great star gazing night. I loved the open fields of wild flowers." Light pollution is minimal due to the remote location.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at several campgrounds. At Onion Valley, a reviewer mentioned, "Only one other group on the opposite end of the campground since it has a north/south side. There aren't many spots and they are well spaced out."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The meadows and forests support diverse wildlife. One visitor to Lake Spaulding Campground shared, "The campgrounds are set among huge boulders and can be very private. There are bears but they seem to keep to themselves but don't tempt with unstored food."
Clean facilities despite remote locations: Despite being primitive, many campgrounds maintain decent facilities. A camper at Onion Valley noted, "Vault toilet near the entrance was in surprisingly good condition," while another at Spaulding mentioned, "Tables, bear lockers, fire rings are at all campsites."
What you should know
Road conditions require preparation: Many access roads are extremely rough and require high-clearance vehicles. A visitor to Grouse Ridge Campground warned, "About 1 hour 15 mins from Truckee all told, and yes, it's very advisable to have a vehicle with some clearance." Another camper shared, "The road to get here is quite rough. I wouldn't suggest if you don't have 4 wheel drive."
Weather fluctuations are extreme: Even summer visitors should prepare for cold nights. One camper reported, "During the night, the temperature got down to 30°F. It was rough, but a worthy price to pay for peace and quiet away from summer crowds."
Snow can block access into June: Late spring access varies yearly based on snowpack. A camper at Lake of the Woods reported, "There was still snow blocking the road the Memorial Day weekend but by June 6th, the road was clear and passable with my Honda Fit."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Donner Memorial State Park Campground offers excellent swimming options for children. A young visitor shared, "I am a 12 year old and I had tons of fun. Me and my friends were up there and there was conveniently a campground available in there same campsite. We went in the summer and the water was perfect!"
Boulder climbing for all ages: Many campgrounds feature natural boulder formations kids love. One camper noted, "Kids age 0-99 rule the day as there are boulders all around for to climb, a lake to swim in, trails to hike and paved loops for riding bikes."
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning about local history. A visitor mentioned, "Ranger programs. This is a really fun family campground suitable for tents or trailers/RVs. You can swim, picnic, boat, see eagles hunting, close to Truckee."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for most sites: Most primitive campgrounds near Norden cannot accommodate large RVs. At Faucherie Lake Group Campground, a visitor advised, "It is possible to get a smaller trailer there but not recommended. The drive is long and fairly rough. Having a vehicle with some clearance helps."
Supply planning essential: With limited services, RVers must bring all necessities. A camper noted, "Pit toilet only with no water. Lots of hiking, good fishing, great kayaking." Most campgrounds lack hookups, water fill stations, or dump facilities.
Accessibility considerations: RVers with mobility concerns have limited options. One camper shared, "We are traveling to Idaho and stopped here for the night. I am in a wheelchair so we had a handicap sight. All the sights were clean and had nice fire pits with a grill grate."
