Best Campgrounds near Washington, CA

Looking for the best campgrounds near Washington, CA? Washington is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Washington. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Washington, California (403)

    1. Inn Town Campground

    12 Reviews
    155 Photos
    50 Saves
    Nevada City, California

    Located on an historic 15 acre site, just under two miles from downtown Nevada City. We offer tent camping, RV spots with hookups, and glamping in canvas tents. Our sites, plus a range of convenient and welcoming amenities make Inn Town Campground a great place to get outside.

    Info@InnTownCampground.com 530-265-9900

    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Tent Cabin
    • Picnic Table

    2. Giant Gap

    11 Reviews
    16 Photos
    210 Saves
    Gold Run, California

    Overview

    Giant Gap Campground is located on the north shore of Sugar Pine Reservoir, in the Tahoe National Forest. It is just 15 miles from Foresthill. Visitors enjoy the surrounding area for its fishing, canoeing, __OHV and hiking opportunities.

    Recreation

    Fishing, canoeing, swimming and boating are popular activities on the reservoir. A paved, non-motorized trail circles the campground and connects to the day use area and Shirttail Creek Campground. The North Fork of the American River is nearby, with additional fishing and swimming. Many miles of hiking and off-road vehicle trails are in the surrounding area.

    Natural Features

    The campground and the adjacent 160-acre Sugar Pine Reservoir are situated at an elevation of 3,600 feet. The campground is situated in stands of cedar and ponderosa pine trees. Summertime temperatures are hot during the day and cool at night.

    • Pets
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $24 - $48 / night

    3. Collins Lake Recreation Area

    20 Reviews
    79 Photos
    299 Saves
    Oregon House, California

    Collins Lake is a favorite Northern California destination for families. This 1,600 acre recreation area offers LAKEFRONT RV& TENT camping with excellent fishing and wakeboarding. Collins Lake has California’s largest private trophy trout planting program of any lake north of Sacramento and equally famous for bass, crappie& catfish. Facilities include RV hookups, cabins, hot showers, laundry, marina, rental boats, sandy beach, playground, store with huge ice creams& espresso drinks. Family friendly with movies under the stars and live music every summer summer. Located only 70 miles northeast of Sacramento at 1200’ elevation. Family owned and operated since 1972.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    4. Donner Memorial State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    47 Photos
    237 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

    5. Bowman Campground

    7 Reviews
    19 Photos
    177 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)

    6. Sardine Lake

    9 Reviews
    32 Photos
    184 Saves
    Sierra City, California

    Overview

    Sardine Lake Campground is located in the North Yuba River area, near the beautiful Sardine Lakes. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing and gold panning. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

    Recreation

    Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes and Sand Pond. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals, lodging, and a restaurant. A large network of trails is available in the area, including Deer Lake and Tamarack Lakes Trails and the Pacific Crest Trail.

    Natural Features

    The campground stretches along a wet meadow at the base of the scenic Sierra Buttes. A forest of lodgepole pine offers partial shade. Beautiful high mountain lakes and rugged peaks can be found throughout the surrounding area.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (530) 265-4531.

    Nearby Attractions

    Lakes Basin offers many opportunities for boating, fishing and hiking. Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, less than a mile to the west. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the lakes, streams, and rivers throughout the basin. A more developed boat ramp is located at Gold Lake and accomodates launching of larger boats. Over 30 miles of maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singletrack branch out across the area and the Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed at a few spots in the Lakes Basin area. The historic towns of Sierra City and Downieville offer historic and cultural attractions, restaurants, shops, churches, and vistor information.

    Charges & Cancellations

    No Show Policy A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date (or for day-use facilities, by check-in time the day of arrival). * No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival. * It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. * It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date. There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation if the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit some or all of the recreation fees. There is no change fee if the customer changes campsites that are the same price and on the same reservation dates in the same campground. If the campsite the customer is changing to has a price difference, the customer will be responsible for any additional fees or be provided with a refund, based on the price difference. Where recorded, no-show customers are assessed a $20.00 no-show fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee for a campsite or forfeit the entire day-use recreation fee for a day-use facility. We recommend customers contact the facility if they are en route to their reservation but cannot make it by the check-in date. In these cases, no refund will be issued, but the facility can ensure that a "no-show" fee is not assessed.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $24 - $48 / night

    7. Gold Lake 4x4 Campground

    10 Reviews
    24 Photos
    166 Saves
    Graeagle, California

    Overview

    Gold Lake 4x4 campground in northeast Plumas County, CA lies at 6,400 feet in elevation within the Plumas National Forest. The mountains, forest and lake setting provide a picturesque landscape for relaxation, adventure and exploration. A popular location with access to the backcountry, visitors should carefully review what this facility provides. This campground is not a luxury destination and may not meet your comfort level. This is a rustic campground with no utilities, water, hookups, trash service, or restroom facilities. Campers must pack out all their sanitation and trash. Families may decide one of the other campgrounds nearby is better suited to meet their needs and expectations. Visitors staying at the 4x4 campground will be within the Lakes Basin Recreation Area that requires camping within developed campsites. For those seeking a more dispersed experience, campers must ensure they are well outside the boundaries of the recreation area. The Lakes Basin & Sierra Buttes Map illustrates where boundaries and forest roads are found. These maps are available at the USGS Store online or from Plumas National Forest Offices.

    Recreation

    Visitors often use this campground as a home base to enjoy water sports, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, hunting and a host of other activities. The OHV access road continues beyond the campground and onto the adjacent Tahoe National Forest. From here, other roads lead north toward "A-Tree", LaPorte and Plumas Eureka State Park, southwest towards Downieville and Sierra City and south toward Packer Lake and Sardine Lakes. Make sure to take a suitable vehicle, a map, and extra food and water.

    Natural Features

    As the Lakes Basin Recreation Area name implies, the region has many crystal clear alpine lakes to explore. Glacial carved granite peaks and ridges, sunrises and sunsets reflected in the waters over Gold Lake, the whisper of pines rustling in the wind or a glimpse of a shy doe will leave an indelible memory and entice you to return again and again. The region is rich in history that includes Native American use, gold discovery, westward migration, forestry, railroads, grazing, and agriculture. You may even find evidence of those that travelled here decades or centuries before you.

    Nearby Attractions

    Though in a remote location, Gold Lake 4X4 Campground is near several attractions worth visiting. Mills Peak Fire Lookout is manned during fire season and welcomes visitors. Mills Peak Trail, a premier mountain bike trail, descends from the lookout towards the community of Graeagle. Pan for gold and explore the hard rock mining history or attend one of the other interpretive activities at Plumas Eureka State Park. Try not to miss the spectacular views of and from the Sierra Buttes and its lookout. All aboard! Take a ride on the rails while checking out the Railroad Museum in Portola. The Reid Cattle Company can offer cowboys and cowgirls trail rides at the outlet of Gold Lake or from their Graeagle location.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    8. White Cloud

    5 Reviews
    9 Photos
    104 Saves
    Washington, California

    Overview

    White Cloud Campground is located in the Tahoe National Forest along Highway 20 near Nevada City. The area provides a great escape from urban life.

    Recreation

    The Pioneer Trail stretches 25 miles through the Tahoe National Forest and can be accessed from the campground. The popular path was designated a National Recreation Trail in 2003. Horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing are favorite activities on this popular trail.

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated in a forest of cedar, pine, and Douglas fir trees, at an elevation of 4,200 feet.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (530) 265-4531.

    Nearby Attractions

    White Cloud Campground is located on the Highway 20 portion of the Yuba Donner Scenic Byway near many gold rush era historical sites and old mining towns such as Washington and Nevada City. Nevada City, about 14 miles west, is a scenic historical mining town with many historical attractions, top notch restaraunts, various lodging options, shopping, and stores for everything you may need. Other attractions include the Pioneer Trail, South Yuba River, Washintong Scenic Overlook, Alpha and Omega Scenic Overlook and Interpretive Trail, Rock Creek Nature Trail, Chalk Bluff OHV trails, and Grouse Ridge Non-Motorized Area.

    Charges & Cancellations

    No Show Policy A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date (or for day-use facilities, by check-in time the day of arrival). * No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival. * It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. * It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date. There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation if the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit some or all of the recreation fees. There is no change fee if the customer changes campsites that are the same price and on the same reservation dates in the same campground. If the campsite the customer is changing to has a price difference, the customer will be responsible for any additional fees or be provided with a refund, based on the price difference. Where recorded, no-show customers are assessed a $20.00 no-show fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee for a campsite or forfeit the entire day-use recreation fee for a day-use facility. We recommend customers contact the facility if they are en route to their reservation but cannot make it by the check-in date. In these cases, no refund will be issued, but the facility can ensure that a "no-show" fee is not assessed.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $24 - $48 / night

    9. East Meadow Campground

    7 Reviews
    22 Photos
    158 Saves
    Sierra City, California

    Overview

    East Meadow Campground is located alongside the scenic Jackson Meadow Reservoir, in the Tahoe National Forest. Its location provides for a great base camp, allowing visitors to enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, hiking and hunting. East Meadow Campground is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

    Recreation

    The adjacent 1,000-acre lake offers excellent opportunities for boating, canoeing, water skiing, swimming and fishing. Anglers will find rainbow and brown trout. A boat ramp is located at Pass Creek Campground. A designated swim beach is nearby. The lake is an irrigation source, meaning its level will drop as the season progresses. A portion of the Pacific Crest Trail meanders along the east side of the lake. It is open to hiking and horseback riding and provides opportunities for viewing wildlife. Hunting and biking are popular activities in the surrounding area.

    Natural Features

    Jackson Meadow Reservoir is situated in a rolling forested valley, where visitors are awarded beautiful views of the Sierra Crest and English Mountain. The campground lies on the northeastern shore of the lake, in a forest of pine and fir trees. Some sites have a view of the lake, and boats can be moored nearby.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (530) 994-3401.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Equestrian

    $24 - $48 / night

    10. Lodgepole Campground

    5 Reviews
    32 Photos
    113 Saves
    Emigrant Gap, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $32 / night

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Recent Reviews near Washington, CA

1087 Reviews of 403 Washington Campgrounds



Guide to Washington

Camping near Washington, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to relax by the lake or explore hiking trails, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy casting a line at places like Collins Lake Recreation Area. One visitor mentioned, “The lake is stocked with fish,” making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Hiking: Trails abound in the area, with one camper noting, “We hiked around the entire reservoir and it was gorgeous” at Giant Gap.
  • Swimming: On hot days, cooling off in the water is a must. A review from Sardine Lake highlights, “We swam in the lake, it was so clear and the temperature was great.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A visitor at Donner Memorial State Park Campground said, “Clean bathrooms. The showers were nice.”
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer ample space. One reviewer at William Kent Campground noted, “The sites were large considering the prime Tahoe location.”
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff. A guest at Inn Town Campground shared, “The hosts and rangers were really friendly and helpful.”

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways. A camper at California Granite Flat Campground warned, “The highway is really loud at night.”
  • Crowded in Summer: Popular spots can fill up quickly. One visitor at Logger Campground mentioned, “If you get there on a weekend get there early because sites fill up fast.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have stores or showers. A review from Gold Lake 4x4 Campground stated, “No bathrooms. The 4x4 trail that leads to the camp site is more difficult than imagined.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. A reviewer at Loon Lake said, “The views are breathtaking,” making it a great spot for family fun.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or fishing gear to keep everyone entertained. One family at Collins Lake Recreation Area suggested, “Bring your bikes if you have them because the ride to the dam is nice.”
  • Pack Snacks: Having food on hand can save trips to the store. A visitor at Granite Flat mentioned, “We went towards the end of July and it was 107 degrees,” highlighting the need for refreshments.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at California Donner Memorial State Park noted, “Rocks, trees and tree trunks make it a challenge.”
  • Reserve Early: Popular RV spots can fill up fast. A visitor at William Kent Campground advised, “It’s a popular campground can be tough to get reservations last minute.”
  • Be Prepared for Wildlife: Keep food secure to avoid attracting bears. A camper at Logger Campground warned, “It is bear country so lock up your food.”

Exploring the great outdoors through camping near Washington, CA, can be a memorable experience. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Washington, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Washington, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 403 campgrounds and RV parks near Washington, CA and 17 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Washington, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Washington, CA is Inn Town Campground with a 4.9-star rating from 12 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Washington, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 free dispersed camping spots near Washington, CA.

  • What parks are near Washington, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Washington, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.