Best Campgrounds near Portola, CA

Camping near Portola, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful scenery and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

• Hiking: Explore the trails around D.L. Bliss State Park Campground. "The park is gorgeous and so close to the Lake," one camper noted, highlighting the stunning views and accessibility to hiking paths.
• Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip in Lake Tahoe. Campers at Sparks Marina RV Park mentioned, "The pool and hot tub are great," making it a perfect spot for families looking to cool off.
• Fishing: Cast a line at Collins Lake Recreation Area. A visitor shared, "The lake is stocked with fish," making it a great spot for anglers.

What campers like

• Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Washoe Lake State Park Campground said, "Beautiful campground! Flush toilets and showers," emphasizing the well-maintained facilities amidst stunning landscapes.
• Friendly staff: Many visitors appreciate the helpfulness of campground staff. A camper at Sparks Marina RV Park mentioned, "The security guard helped my husband get pulled in and was as friendly as could be!"
• Privacy: Campers enjoy the spacious sites at Merrill Campground. One visitor noted, "Quiet starry nights. Recreational lake. Friendly peeps," highlighting the peaceful atmosphere.

What you should know

• Bear precautions: Campers need to be cautious about wildlife. A reviewer at D.L. Bliss State Park Campground warned, "Be sure to use your bear box," as bears can be a concern in the area.
• Busy seasons: Expect crowds during peak times. A visitor at Collins Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "It gets very busy, even with limited access during COVID," suggesting that weekdays might be quieter.
• Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain facilities. A camper at Granite Flat pointed out, "The vault toilets here are absolutely disgusting and filled with flies," indicating that cleanliness can vary.

Tips for camping with families

• Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds and swimming areas. Campers at Sparks Marina RV Park appreciated the "clean dog parks" and family-friendly atmosphere.
• Plan for activities: Bring bikes for easy exploration. A visitor at Collins Lake Recreation Area suggested, "Bring your bikes if you have them because the ride to the dam is nice."
• Pack snacks and drinks: Having food on hand can make family outings smoother. A camper at Merrill Campground mentioned, "We did not have reservations and just showed up," indicating the need for flexibility.

Tips from RVers

• Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Davis Creek Regional Park noted, "The spot wasn’t a ‘pull through,’ and it was very difficult to park our trailer."
• Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Washoe Lake State Park Campground offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A camper shared, "We had a 35ft 5th wheel w/dually."
• Be prepared for weather changes: The area can have unpredictable weather. A visitor at Granite Flat mentioned, "The campground was first-come-first-served," suggesting that flexibility is key.

Camping near Portola, California, provides a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great destination for families and RVers alike.