Best Cabin Camping near Grass Valley, CA

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Cabins near Grass Valley provide overnight shelter while offering closer access to surrounding natural attractions. Collins Lake Recreation Area and Lake Francis Resort feature cabins with varying levels of comfort and amenities. Lake Francis Resort cabins include twin bunk beds and full-size bunks in two bedrooms, with small bathrooms, mini-fridges, hot plates, and microwaves. "The cabin was great. Two bedrooms, each with twin bunk beds and a full bottom bunk and twin above. Small bathroom with shower, mini fridge, hot plates, microwave, and dishes," noted one visitor. Most cabin sites include basic furnishings like beds, tables, and seating areas, with some providing kitchen amenities for meal preparation.

Rustic and deluxe cabins are both available, depending on the location. Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park offers more basic accommodations while resorts like Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs provide more amenities including electricity and indoor plumbing. According to one visitor at Manzanita Rock Meadow, "We arrived in the early evening just in time to take in a glorious sunset. The solar string lights blinking on at dusk added a cozy ambiance!" Pet policies vary by location, with Lake Francis Resort and Manzanita Rock Meadow allowing pets while some other properties restrict animals. Reservations are required at all cabin locations, with peak summer weekends booking months in advance.

Most cabins include beds but require visitors to bring their own linens, towels, and toiletries. Cooking facilities vary significantly between properties - some include only outdoor fire pits while others offer indoor kitchen amenities with dishes provided. Woolman at Sierra Friends Center and Rollins Lake Getaway offer more secluded cabin experiences with basic amenities. On-site camp stores at Collins Lake and Lake Francis Resort stock essentials, though selection is limited. Refrigeration is available in most cabin accommodations, though size and capacity vary. Water and electricity access differs between locations, with some providing full hookups while others offer more primitive accommodations.

Best Cabin Sites Near Grass Valley, California (47)

    1. Collins Lake Recreation Area

    23 Reviews
    Oregon House, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 692-1600

    "Clean sites and pet friendly. We took the boat on our last trip here and had a great time. Great fishing spots!!"

    "We camped along the lake shore. They also have lots of great spots higher up, among the trees that come with picnic tables, firepits and water available."

    2. Manzanita Rock Meadow

    6 Reviews
    North San Juan, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 263-3656

    $40 - $55 / night

    "The solar string lights blinking on at dusk added a cozy ambiance! Galen is a warm and welcoming hostess and we enjoyed connecting with her!"

    "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. Don’t miss visiting the covered bridge at South Yuba State Park!"

    3. Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs

    7 Reviews
    Oregon House, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "It’s definitely a place I’ll put on my list to camp at again, especially when they figure out their electrical issues."

    "Clean and Rustic. WiFi is very very limited- drive to top of hill or lodge( very sporadic) Great Lake for swimming, fishing and small boats. Store on site. Clean swimming pool. Ideal for Tent or RV."

    CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

    4. Lake Francis Resort

    3 Reviews
    Oregon House, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 692-1700

    $40 - $100 / night

    "We decided this time around to reserve one of their cabins. We stayed at the Diamond P cabin which has the best view of the lake within this group of cabins."

    "Nice quiet lake. Good campsites. Good general store and even a little restaurant and ice cream shack."

    5. Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park Campground

    2 Reviews
    Washington, CA
    14 miles
    Website

    $35 - $165 / night

    "This park give excellent access to the Yuba River if you are looking to hike a section that does not have a ton of swimmers."

    6. Coloma Resort

    15 Reviews
    Coloma, CA
    30 miles
    Website

    "Coloma resort is what some friends call "Glamping", but it's so much more than that. You can tent camp (it's covered sites for camping too), rent a cabin or RV camp. Great sites along the river too."

    "The sun shade provided in the tent sites came in handy when we had a short moment of rain. It was also much appreciated during the sunny weather."

    7. Woolman at Sierra Friends Center

    Be the first to review!
    Rough and Ready, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 273-3183

    $60 / night

    8. Lava Cap Land

    Be the first to review!
    Forest Knolls, CA
    5 miles
    +1 (954) 245-9804

    $50 - $200 / night

    9. Peaceful Pond Retreat

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    Pinecrest, CA
    5 miles

    $75 - $120 / night

    10. Rollins Lake Getaway

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    Pinecrest, CA
    8 miles
    Website

    $115 - $160 / night

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Cabin Reviews near Grass Valley, CA

192 Reviews of 47 Grass Valley Campgrounds


  • Gina C.
    Jul. 26, 2019

    Lake Francis Resort

    Fun cabin rental

    Some of my family has camped here in the past at one of the tent sites. We decided this time around to reserve one of their cabins. We stayed at the Diamond P cabin which has the best view of the lake within this group of cabins. You can walk to the lake (it’s about 100 yards) from this location. Though it does fill up fast (by 11am it was pretty full). They have a large portable toilet there for use. We spent our time at the pool which is near the flushable toilets and the ice cream parlor, restaurant, and camp store. The pool goes from 3.5’ ft to 5’ back to 3.5’ ft.

    The cabin was great. Two bedrooms, each with twin bunk beds and a full bottom bunk and twin above. Small bathroom with shower, mini fridge, hot plates, microwave, and dishes. Dining table and futon in the living area. Nice wide front porch to sit on and enjoy the view, communal tables and bbq for all the cabins. This unit also had a swamp cooler to help manage the heat.

    Check in is 4pm and check out is 11am. There is also a small game room with a pool table, a baseball field, paddle boats, and kayaks to rent.

    The down side is how quickly the easiest access to the lake fills up. Everyone has to drive over from the tent RV site to access the water. There are other places you can drive and park to get to the water, but there it a drop off into the water from there vs a gradual walk in.

  • m
    Aug. 13, 2018

    Thousand Trails Snowflower

    SUP and kayak friendly

    we found there to be a lot of rules at this campground such as no fires, however there is a community fire pit. No driving over 5 MPH, no charcoal grills or smokers, only electric and propane grills. They are also very serious about the 11pm quiet time.

    Aside from all the rules this was a very clean, family and pet friendly campground. Very clean bathrooms with showers!! There are a few lakes that are very nice for fishing and kayaking. Nice calm water for a leisurely SUP experience.

  • M
    Oct. 11, 2021

    American River Resort

    Family of 4 roof top tent camping

    Nice campground - close to river. .5 mile walk to town for shopping/eating. All sites have fire pit and picnic table. Bathrooms clean and private showers. A little pricey for a tent site - 45.00 and 5.00 for the dog but it’s California.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 23, 2022

    Ascension Ranch

    Heaven On Earth

     WELCOME TO ASCENSION RANCH Ascension Ranch is an off-grid paradise tucked away in an oak savanna along Folsom Lake with a unique and ever growing list of features and activities. Family owned, we're a small operation with big dreams. Offering a serene environment, an abundance of farm animals, and good old fashion ranch activities, we invite you to spend some time with us out on the ranch! Come play for the day or reserve a private campsite, and see what all the fuss is about. Some of things you'll come across at Ascension Ranch include baby farm animals, sheep, goats, cattle, horses, more horses, ranch dogs, puppies, chickens, equestrian activities, secluded campsites, amazing views, access to endless trails around and of course, good company.

  • m
    Aug. 13, 2018

    Collins Lake Recreation Area

    clean and friendly

    We love Collins!! Very nice for paddle boarding and kayaking. Clean sites and pet friendly. We took the boat on our last trip here and had a great time. Great fishing spots!!

  • Rosina A.
    Aug. 8, 2019

    Coloma Resort

    Nice place next to river

    This place is north east of Sacramento. Coloma resort is what some friends call "Glamping", but it's so much more than that. You can tent camp (it's covered sites for camping too), rent a cabin or RV camp. Great sites along the river too. One negative, is you have to book way ahead of time, but it's well worth it. You can pan for gold, relax, or bike, hike along the river, and kids can play along several playgrounds for kids of different ages. A large grass area great for games, and if you are up for it, rafting, kayaking and fishing in the cold American river. You can also learn some history about the discovery of gold and check out Sutter Mill!

  • B. Douglas J.
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Webber Lake Campground

    One of our fav's

    We've camped at Webber for several years now and we make it an annual trip for so many great reasons. The lake itself is wonderful. The water can be on the cool side but not so much that you don't want to swim in it in August for sure. It's shallow through out most go the lake and much of it is a gravel bottom so water shoes are recommended. 

    There are two campgrounds - the old Northside campground and the new Westside campground. The Northside has more campsites with various views. The layouts can be sorta hodge podgie - it's not like a state campground where sites are clearly marked etc, but almost all are nice at both campgrounds. The north site has better views of the mountains overlooking the lake while the sites at the west one have better access to the lake. They do allow you to scavenge for firewood in the area - there's a lot of dead and down in the nearby forest so just drive around and pick up what you need. In June and into July the mosquitos can be horrific - I've heard of people leaving as they can be so bad!

    They open up reservations usually in March and the website can be finicky and a few letters to ask them to improve it haven't helped. The sites go fast. Their cancelation policy is draconian so make sure you're able to go because getting a refund may not be possible. 

    The best improvement in the past couple of years is that they now have drinking water. There is no dump station or hookups. There is no cell service either although if you have 4 wheel drive you could drive up to one of the local mountain tops and get service there.

    They do rent out one of the small cabins and also there's a big house that sleeps 10 - you have to rent it for 6 days mandatory. It has solar, generator, hot showers, bathrooms, etc., and books out very fast. We're going to be there for the first time in September so I'll try to report about it then.

    Kayaking on the lake is the best but you need to sign the release that says you have cleaned your kayak of any possible mussels etc - there's a serious epidemic happening now so please make sure your boats are clean.

    Nearby Webber Falls has some great swimming holes although the hike is on very unimproved trails and a bit steep so this is not for those folks who have walking issues. 

    The Tahoe Truckee Land trust owns the property. The camp hosts are good although there are new hosts this year but my interactions on the phone have been great.

    Update - They are not allowing RV's to fill up with water anymore. I personally think this stinks. So there's a USFS campground about 10 miles away on highway 89 (Upper Little Truckee Campground) with hose bibs and the camp host is very nice.

  • Bonnie M.
    Feb. 11, 2020

    Collins Lake Recreation Area

    Beautiful shoreline camping

    Open camping options make this a great spur of the moment option. We camped along the lake shore. They also have lots of great spots higher up, among the trees that come with picnic tables, firepits and water available. Portable toilets, so if your neighbors are clean, you're safe. Great little store with coffee and ice cream. Great place for boating and kayaking too.

  • T
    Aug. 29, 2018

    Uncle Tom's Cabin Campground

    Small campground overlooking the meadow within the trees.

    Uncle Tom’s Cabin is a bar any family, miner, 4-wheelers, motorcyclist, hunter or explorer would feel at home in. Has been referred to as: It’s as rustic as it gets, Norman Rockwell flashback, jewel of the Sierra, an anomaly on its own and my favorite Best Mountain Bar Ever!

    Stop in for a drink or snack from the simple menu of Cold Beer, Soda, Water, Hot Coffee, Cocoa, Tea, Candy and Chips. The bar is old dates back to 1864 and looks it, THIS YEAR 2018 MARKING 154 YEARS, come celebrate with us. Bring a picnic use one of the many BBQ grills and tables. Play a round of horseshoes or bring a tent and stay the evening. Enough room and beautiful scenery for a wedding or group gathering.

    Uncle Tom’s Cabin welcomes 4-wheelers year round. Snow never being an issue for the true winter adventurer knowing their arrival at the cabin will be welcoming and warm with the fireplace that’s always being stoked to dry the boots or little ones mittens. In the winter have the kids bring a sled or utilize one that may be hanging around.

    In the warmer season stage a tent in the available campground then check out the local lakes, trails, and waterfalls.

    When you visit be sure to bring one dollar bills, you will see when you get here as have the thousands of visitors from around the world.

    Wentworth Springs Road is the traditional Rubicon Jeep Trail but the 4-wheeling doesn’t begin until the road reaches the old Wentworth Springs town site north of Loon Lake. A connector 4-wheelers route connects from the Lake to the historic route that is legendary among extremist jeepers. The historic “road” continues east until it climbs over the Sierra Crest and drops down to Lake Tahoe near Tahoma. In several places along the route, you can walk faster than the 4-wheelers can drive it. The annual Jeepers’ Jamboree is an ultimate driving experience for passionate 4-wheelers.

    Stumpy Meadows Lake is the perfect location for a day trip or overnight camping in any of the three campgrounds. Great for boating (5mph limit), fishing, swimming or just a quick stop on your way to Uncle Tom’s Cabin.

    Union Valley Reservoir located on Ice House Road is popular for all water activities, camping, hiking or bicycling on the paved route that skirts the shores of the reservoir between Jones Fork and Wench Creek campgrounds.

    Loon Lake is one of the prettiest reservoirs in the Sierra Nevada. Campgrounds are designed for RVs, Trailers, Equestrian riders, 4-wheeler groups, tents or a bag on the ground. Trails radiate several directions from the lake.

    Hell Hole Reservoir has to be a close in the rankings of great back-country reservoirs. The Hell Hole hiking trail along the south side of the lake is one of the best in the Georgetown area.

    The Middle American River provides some of the best whitewater action of any river in California. However, the easier access is from the north and the Foresthill Divide.

    The upper (eastern) end, that provides some of the most remote sections of the Auburn State Recreation Area in the Middle Fork of the American River, lies north of Georgetown. OHV routes behind Volcanoville provide access into the canyon that can’t be readily reached from any direction.

    On the other side, south, of Georgetown is the Rock Creek OHV Area that is one, if not THE, best in our area. The huge area has well over 115 miles of trails, most of which are available for motorcycles or ATVs – but not 4-wheelers. Several trails are popular with mountain bikers and still others for equestrian riders. Maps available at the local Ranger Station located on Wentworth Springs Road.

    Equestrian riders also enjoy the Dru Barner Equestrian Campground and the Donadlson Campground that attracts enthusiastic trail riders. Loon Lake also has an equestrian campground with popular rides leading into the Desolation Wilderness.


Guide to Grass Valley

Cabin rentals near Grass Valley, California offer convenient options for exploring the Sierra Foothills at elevations between 2,000-3,000 feet. This region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cool winters with occasional snowfall. Most cabin rentals in this area remain accessible year-round, though winter visitors should prepare for potential road closures during storms.

What to do

Fishing at Collins Lake: The 12-mile shoreline provides excellent bank fishing access with regular trout stocking. "Collins Lake in June was beautiful campground and Lake. Fishing there was wonderful lakeside and great hikes. Registration area and cafe has ice cream available and souvenir store," notes Debbie R. from Collins Lake Recreation Area.

Gold panning history: Visit the historic sites where California's gold rush began. "If you ever want to experience the thrill of gold panning, and California history go here! You will not strike it rich, but with a couple hours of effort you can get a nice little bottle of gold flakes to take home with you," advises Jill F. from Coloma Resort.

Hiking nearby trails: Several trail systems connect cabin sites to swimming holes and scenic overlooks. "Galen told us of some cool hiking trails nearby, and where we could paddleboard. The spot was clean with lots of room to spread out. Our dogs loved it!" shares Aaron E. about staying at Manzanita Rock Meadow.

What campers like

Swimming in natural settings: The American River and local lakes provide popular swimming spots during summer months. "The River was not crowded at all and when people did get near by they would respect each other's boundaries. Our site was perfectly shaded and good sized right on the waterfront," reports J.A. at Coloma Resort.

Wildlife viewing: Many cabin sites attract local wildlife for close observation opportunities. "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!" explains Nicole G. about her experience at Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs.

Sunset views: Elevated cabin sites often feature panoramic sunset views. "Our experience at Galen's property was truly magical. The solar string lights blinking on at dusk added a cozy ambiance! Galen is a warm and welcoming hostess and we enjoyed connecting with her!" shares Lisa about Manzanita Rock Meadow.

What you should know

Limited cell service: Many cabin rental locations have minimal or no cell coverage. "No cell service in any of the loops and WiFi isn't great," reports Nicole R. about Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs.

Reservation timing: Summer weekends require booking 3-6 months in advance. "You have to book way ahead of time, but it's well worth it," advises Rosina A. from Coloma Resort.

Site access challenges: Some cabin locations have difficult access roads. "It was a little challenging getting our 16' trailer to the pad but it was worth it. 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," cautions Karen B. about staying at Manzanita Rock Meadow.

Tips for camping with families

Bring shade structures: Many cabin sites have limited natural shade. "The site gets a lot of sun in the morning and afternoon, so bring a popup canopy for shade—it made a big difference for us!" suggests John L. from Collins Lake Recreation Area.

Check swimming access: Some locations have easier water entry points than others. "The down side is how quickly the easiest access to the lake fills up. Everyone has to drive over from the tent RV site to access the water. There are other places you can drive and park to get to the water, but there is a drop off into the water from there vs a gradual walk in," explains Gina C. from Lake Francis Resort.

Visit historic sites: Educational opportunities abound near cabin rentals. "Don't miss visiting the covered bridge at South Yuba State Park!" recommends Karen B. about exploring near Manzanita Rock Meadow.

Tips from RVers

Site selection matters: Choose appropriate sites for your RV size limitations. "We stayed in spot 110 with a lakefront view," shares Daniel S. about his successful stay at Collins Lake Recreation Area.

Electrical reliability varies: Some campgrounds experience power issues during peak season. "It's definitely a place I'll put on my list to camp at again, especially when they figure out their electrical issues. From what I could tell when driving around the majority of the sites were level; we had 4 spots and all were easy to back in," explains Eric P. from Woolman at Sierra Friends Center.

Seasonal considerations: Summer heat can be intense at lower elevation sites. "But as a campground my experience was it was hot and dusty. I am thinking I need to retry this but not in the summer," suggests MarinMaverick about Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park Campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Grass Valley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Grass Valley, CA is Collins Lake Recreation Area with a 4.6-star rating from 23 reviews.

What is the best site to find cabin camping near Grass Valley, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 47 cabin camping locations near Grass Valley, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.