Camping sites near Penn Valley, California range from secluded homesteads to lakefront properties throughout the Sierra Nevada foothills, with elevations typically between 1,000-2,000 feet. Most campgrounds stay open year-round due to the moderate foothill climate, though water levels at popular lakes like Collins Lake and Rollins Lake fluctuate seasonally. Local camping options include both public and private facilities within a 20-mile radius of Penn Valley.
What to do
Swimming in the Yuba River: South Yuba River access points provide popular swimming spots during summer months. "We spent the days at Fuller Dam, and the Yuba River and Scotts Flat Reservoir are nearby too. Overall, this is a fantastic campground and I highly recommend," notes a camper at Inn Town Campground.
Fishing at local lakes: Collins Lake is regularly stocked and offers shore fishing opportunities. "I love this camp ground. Really nice lake always stocked with fish. Quiet at night and not rowdy during the day. Great place for family camping. They also have boat rentals," shared a visitor at Collins Lake Recreation Area.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Local waterways provide calm waters for paddling sports. "This is a fun spot that is not far from home, it's generally quiet, great for fishing and kayaking," mentions a camper at Collins Lake Recreation Area. Another visitor at Sycamore Ranch RV Park added, "I took advantage of the water and after getting shuttled up to the bridge kayaked down the Yuba and up dry creek all the way to our campsite!"
What campers like
Quiet natural surroundings: Many campsites offer peaceful settings with wildlife viewing opportunities. "This place is dark at night so really good for star watching," notes a camper at Sycamore Ranch RV Park. Another camper shared, "We saw a river otter playing in the creek, so there is life in it."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained campgrounds receive positive reviews. At Nevada County Fairgrounds, a visitor mentioned, "Really nice with the lake and quiet woods feeling. No hassle booking and really reasonable price. Huge sites like 150x18 or there abouts."
Wildlife encounters: Local camping areas provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. A visitor at Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs reported, "Each day a family of deer came thru our site and were so tame they ate fruit right out of the kids' hands. So cool!"
What you should know
Site accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "It was a little challenging getting our 16' trailer to the pad but it was worth it. So quiet and serene there. I don't think the bigger rigs would be able to make the turn into the site and the road to the entrance is a bit rough," warns a camper about Manzanita Rock Meadow.
Seasonal crowding: Summer weekends can become busy at popular water spots. "Not a bad campsite, but was surrounded by RVs and people walking around. Can't bring dogs onto the beach area which was a bummer, but was too crowded anyways," shared a visitor at Collins Lake Recreation Area.
Limited cell service: Some campgrounds have poor connectivity. "Very nice campground, but cell coverage is nonexistent outside of one small area," notes a camper at Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs. At Inn Town Campground, visitors appreciate being disconnected yet close to amenities: "It's just outside Nevada City but you feel completely in nature thanks to all the big redwoods in camp."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Lakes provide family-friendly swimming areas. "We were just happy to get out and camping. Kids loved fishing from the shore; quiet at night; deer had no problem hanging out with us as we had our meals," shares a camper at Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs.
Campgrounds with playgrounds: Some facilities offer recreational amenities for children. "We spent two nights doing a family and friends reunion. We loved our rv spot, the rest of the group had great tent site and glamping tents. Facilities were super clean and nice. Pool was small but the pool area was really nice," notes a visitor at Inn Town Campground.
Educational opportunities: The area offers opportunities to learn about local history. "Do not miss visiting the covered bridge at South Yuba State Park!" recommends a camper at Manzanita Rock Meadow. Another visitor at Inn Town Campground mentioned it's "Next to train museum. Great common area. Lots of places to explore."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: RV campers appreciate level parking pads. "We had spot in rear of facility. Lots of room uneven grass surface but auto leveled no problem. Small pond for kids only fishing. Easy freeway access can get to town on surface streets," shares an RVer at Nevada County Fairgrounds.
Full hookup availability: Some campgrounds offer complete RV services. "Both campsites, #66 and #116 had power, water and sewage. They were both lake front campsites, which meant the water or shoreline was right at our 'front door' from our 27' travel trailer," notes an RVer at Collins Lake Recreation Area.
Site spacing concerns: RVers mention varying site sizes across campgrounds. "Just can't recommend based on the very cramped conditions. Sites are not very level either. I needed to raise my front end 6 inches to get level," warns an RVer about Nevada County Fairgrounds. In contrast, at Grass Valley RV Resort, a visitor appreciated the "Concrete pads newer campground. Heated pool, friendly staff. Shopping 1.5 miles away."
