RV camping near Portola, California offers visitors access to the Middle Fork of the Feather River watershed at elevations around 4,800 feet. The region experiences warm summer days with cool nights, while winter brings significant snowfall affecting seasonal campground operations. Most family campgrounds in the area close between late October and April due to snow conditions.
What to do
Hiking near Sierra City: Sierra Skies RV Park provides easy access to the Yuba River with a short hike away from the campground. "The Yuba River is a short hike away with a great swimming hole. Wonderful in those hot afternoons," notes Barbara S. The park's location in town makes it convenient for visitors to access local amenities on foot.
Mountain biking trails: Gold Ranch Casino & RV Resort offers access to mountain biking paths directly from the campground. The resort is "nestled against the Eastern Sierras, on the Cal/Nev. border" according to Brad H., making it a good base for outdoor activities. Many guests appreciate the trail access, though one reviewer mentioned "it had rained heavily the day we arrived, and it was muddy."
Swimming in alpine lakes: Explore nearby lakes within 30 minutes of most Plumas County campgrounds. According to Nathaniel S., "Within a 30 minute drive are a number of gorgeous alpine lakes. Gold Lake is especially beautiful and peaceful." The mountain lakes maintain cool temperatures even during hot summer months, providing refreshing relief for campers.
What campers like
Natural swimming holes: Loganville Campground offers direct river access that many campers consider the highlight of their stay. As Julie D. explains, "There is a path down to the Yuba River, where you can get in the water or float on a tube. The best part about this campground is the river." These natural water features provide cooling options during warm summer days.
Clean facilities: Movin' West RV Park maintains exceptionally clean bathroom facilities according to guests. "The showers are extremely clean, private, and comfortable. Seems like everyone complied with 'camp shower' guidelines as I had good water pressure and hot water for my short but satisfying shower," reports Corinne D. The park also features "cute and also extremely clean" vault toilets with "good odor control and plenty of supplies."
Pet-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds accommodate pets with designated areas. At Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park, "There's a little fenced in dog area at the back of the park," while another reviewer noted that Movin' West RV Park is welcoming to pets, making it suitable for families traveling with animals.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the region have limited operating seasons. Sierra Skies RV Park operates "May 1 to Oct 31," while Loganville is open "April 25 to October 18." Plan accordingly as availability becomes extremely limited during winter months.
Weather variability: Mountain conditions can change rapidly in this area. Prepare for significant temperature swings between day and night, especially in spring and fall. One camper at Honey Lake Campground mentioned, "It was 113 degrees when I left AZ and I was so happy that my first night at this park with cooler breezes my trailer finally cooled down inside to under 80 degrees."
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity has been reported in certain areas. According to one Loganville camper, "There was a bear in the area one year, I didn't see it myself, but a friend said he saw one on the other loop from where we were staying." Most established campgrounds provide bear boxes for proper food storage.
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak timing: For a more peaceful experience with children, consider camping outside peak summer months. According to one reviewer at Little Bear RV Park, "Will return but off season when kids are back in school." Spring and early fall offer pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds.
Recreation activities: Families appreciate campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. "The kids scootered and rode bikes along the camp roads, and drivers were cautious and patient," notes a visitor to Movin' West RV Park. Look for campgrounds with open spaces and minimal traffic.
Supply access: Sparks Marina RV Park provides convenient access to supplies, with one visitor noting it has a "nice small shop" in addition to its "pool, hot tub, game room." This reduces the need to pack everything in advance, especially important for longer family stays.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Pay attention to campsite dimensions when booking. According to one visitor to Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park, "Lots of back ends and pull throughs. Several grass areas for guest minus pets." Some RV parks have tighter spacing than others, affecting privacy and comfort.
Utility connections: At some parks, sewer connections require extra equipment. One Gold Ranch Casino & RV Resort guest noted, "The sewer connections are slightly recessed, centered in concrete bowls; it was a challenge to get a good connection with a right-angle connector." Bring appropriate adapters to ensure proper hookups.
Reservation timing: Make reservations well in advance for summer stays. Movin' West RV Park fills quickly during peak season, with one visitor reporting they "have already booked for next year!" Winter availability is limited as most parks close seasonally, except for Honey Lake Campground which remains open year-round.
