Best Campgrounds near Penn Valley, CA
Camping options near Penn Valley, California range from developed sites with modern amenities to more rustic experiences throughout the Sierra Nevada foothills. The area features several established campgrounds including Collins Lake Recreation Area, approximately 15 miles north of Penn Valley, which accommodates tents, RVs, and offers cabin rentals. Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley provides camping with hookups for RVs, while smaller private campgrounds like Manzanita Rock Meadow offer more secluded experiences on 25-acre homesteads with tent and RV sites.
Seasonal considerations affect campground availability, with most facilities open year-round due to the moderate climate of the lower Sierra foothills. Summer temperatures can reach the high 90s, making water-adjacent camping at Collins Lake and Rollins Lake particularly desirable during peak season. Several campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends and holidays. Many sites feature fire restrictions during California's dry season, typically from late spring through fall. Travelers should verify current fire regulations before arrival as policies can change rapidly based on conditions. "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," noted one camper about accessing a private site.
The region's mixed-use campgrounds typically provide access to swimming, fishing, and hiking opportunities. Proximity to the South Yuba River State Park is frequently mentioned in reviews as a highlight, with campers appreciating the swimming holes and hiking trails. Campgrounds closer to Nevada City and Grass Valley offer convenient access to services and local attractions, while more remote sites provide greater privacy. One visitor remarked about Inn Town Campground, "The campground is exceptionally clean and meticulously maintained. We even had a heated mattress pad in our glamping tent to keep warm." Most campgrounds feature varying levels of hookups and amenities, with some offering full services including showers and laundry, while others maintain a more rustic atmosphere with limited facilities.
