Twin Bridges camping offers cooler mountain getaways during summer heat, with temperatures running 15-25 degrees below Sacramento valley conditions. The region sits at approximately 6,200 feet elevation, positioning campers in a transitional forest zone between mid-elevation pine forests and higher alpine environments. Camping options range from established sites with basic amenities to dispersed locations requiring self-sufficiency.
What to do
Rockclimbing activities: Lovers Leap Campground serves as a prime base for climbing enthusiasts. "The cliffs at Lovers Leap are spectacular, and this valley is beautiful. The town of Strawberry has a friendly general store. This is a destination for climbing, and there is also hiking along the old Pony Express trail," notes Amanda P.
Lake swimming and fishing: Azalea Cove Campground provides water recreation options with lakefront access. A camper reports, "Sites were empty, clean, had toilets, bear boxes and next to the lake. If you don't mind bears then this is a great spot. Great views and fresh mountain air. You can hike and boat in as well."
Backpacking launching points: For those seeking wilderness trails, Luther Pass Campground connects to regional hiking networks. "Great location to the TRT. Stayed here the night before getting on the TRT. Very quiet and plenty of sites open," reports Ann W., referring to the Tahoe Rim Trail access.
What campers like
Creek access for hot days: Several campgrounds feature stream access, offering natural cooling. At Markleeville Campground, "The creek is right behind the campground. Some good fishing in the deeper holes. Caught 5 small rainbows during our stay," according to Therese L.
Mountain climate relief: Temperatures in the Twin Bridges area provide respite from valley heat. At Fashoda campground, visitors appreciate the climate: "Perfect! Right on the water! Big sites lots of shaded areas. Great temperature outside of the valley!" notes Kristen S.
Uncrowded weekday camping: Mid-week visits offer quieter experiences. At Azalea Cove, Jamie A. found: "Empty Mon-Wed the weekend got a little busy but wonderful still!! BEAUTIFUL!!" Similarly, Middle Creek campers report having "the entire campground to ourselves" during early season weekdays.
What you should know
Bear awareness required: Bears actively visit many campsites in the Twin Bridges region. At Red Fir Group Campground, a camper warns: "There is a bear that we call Yogi because he likes to make his rounds. So do the best to bear proof your site (back of the truck or in the car is not smart) and he will leave you alone."
Site access challenges: Several campgrounds require physical effort to reach. Jamie A. cautions about Azalea Cove: "Don't bring to much down cause you have to carry it back up lol learned my lesson! 1/2 mile hikish downs and back to vehicle."
Permit planning: Wilderness camping requires advanced documentation. For Desolation Wilderness, "You must obtain an overnight wilderness permit, year round. The permits have quotas enforced April through September. Permits cost $5 per person per night for first night, or $10.00 per person for 2+ nights (14 day max)."
Tips for camping with families
Water taxi options: Families with young hikers can reduce hiking distances. At Desolation Wilderness, Arturo C. notes: "We took the water Taxi that shaved about 5 miles off our hike. Our first night we set up camp at tamarack lake then moved up to beautiful aloha lake."
Trailhead proximity: Campgrounds near trailheads offer convenient day-hiking bases. Luther Pass Campground provides "about 12 sites near the Big meadow trailhead. they fill fast! no water, but pit toilet, garbage, fire rings and tables," according to Jim N.
In-town amenities: Small towns near camping areas provide supply points. At Markleeville Campground, Robin S. found: "We hiked to the town of Markleeville which is the cutest town ever! The camp host was super nice and a beautiful stream runs next to some spots."
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate RVs despite listings. Matt cautions about Luther Pass: "Holy Christ for the love of god take away the rv tag. There isn't a single spot for an rv, I tried it with my 19' single axle unit and nearly ripped the spare tire off the back the road was so steep."
Small RV considerations: Tent campsites sometimes work for compact vehicles. At Luther Pass, Amber notes: "Ranger came by early evening to say you're only supposed to camp in the designated sites, but never returned to enforce the rule, so I was fine sleeping in my car in a small dirt pull out."
Early arrival importance: Campgrounds fill quickly, especially those with lake access. Van S. recommends Lovers Leap Campground as "a great campsite not too far from South Lake Tahoe... laid back, quiet and away from the crowds other sites like Richardson draw."
