Camping spots near Washington, California range from 2,000 to 4,000 feet elevation in the Tahoe National Forest. The region experiences seasonal extremes with summer temperatures reaching 90°F during day and dropping to 30°F at higher elevations during spring and fall nights. Forest roads accessing many campgrounds close completely during winter months, with most sites operational only from May through October.
What to do
Hiking around lakes: Sugar Pine Reservoir offers a 5-mile loop trail circling the water at Giant Gap Campground. "We hiked around the entire reservoir and it was gorgeous," notes one visitor. The trail provides relatively flat terrain suitable for most fitness levels.
Mountain biking: Access to Pioneer Trail makes White Cloud Campground popular with cyclists. "Pioneer trail is amazing for mountain biking and hiking," reports camper Deb P. The trail system connects to extensive networks throughout Nevada County with terrain suitable for beginners and advanced riders.
Float trips: The Yuba River offers tubing opportunities during summer months. At River Rest Resort, one visitor explains, "Kids would get on the top access and tube down to the 2nd one." Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with late summer typically providing the calmest conditions for floating.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. At Inn Town Campground, "The campsites are well maintained, there is water nearby all sites and they drive thru the campground once a day to pick up trash in case you don't want to haul it to the dumpster," notes Nicole G.
Kitchen facilities: Some campgrounds provide cooking amenities beyond standard fire pits. Inn Town Campground offers "a fully stocked kitchen so you can camp without having to bring supplies," according to Amanda M., making meal preparation easier for families or groups.
Seasonal wildflowers: Open meadows provide colorful displays during spring and early summer. At Tahoe National Forest Onion Valley Campground, Caroline B. observed "open fields of wild flowers. Those open spaces allow for some great star gazing night."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require driving on rough forest roads. For Bowman Campground, Christopher L. warns, "MAKE SURE YOU HAVE AN OFF ROAD VEHICLE. Great campsite but hard to get to. Not bad if you have a 4x4 that's lifted with some all terrain tires."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds despite forest settings. White Cloud Campground sits close to Highway 20, with Rory R. noting it has "Awesome spots to camp, it's just insanely close to the 20 so you'll hear non-stop traffic."
Wildlife considerations: Bear activity remains common throughout the region. Christopher L. reminds visitors to "Make sure you bring bear spray! Pack your trash too." Most established campgrounds provide bear-proof storage lockers, but proper food storage protocols remain essential.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: River Rest Resort offers designated swimming areas with varying policies. "At the other end of the site is a river access that's smaller and allows dogs (the main one does not)," explains Christina L., making it important to check specific rules for each water access point.
Campground amenities: Some sites offer additional facilities for children. Inn Town Campground includes "a pool, outdoor movie area, and a lot of historic gold-rush elements," according to one reviewer, providing entertainment options beyond hiking and swimming.
Off-peak timing: Weekday visits offer quieter experiences. "Lots of folks showed up after dark and were quiet and respectful," notes Allison M. about White Cloud Campground, though weekends typically see full occupancy at most sites from June through August.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For optimal river views, Christina L. recommends: "We stayed at campsite 24, which is right on the river and next to the main river pool access. Lots of people coming by but everyone is respectful and there is some privacy from small trees planted along the path."
Hookup availability: Lake Spaulding Campground provides limited RV facilities. "Trailers and RV are mostly kept to the boat launch," notes John and Trish N., indicating that larger vehicles have dedicated areas rather than being distributed throughout the campground.
Road access warnings: When driving to Giant Gap Campground, Stephanie C. cautions: "Be warned though, Google maps will suggest driving up Iowa Hill. DO NOT. Follow the directions of the campground, that road is not for the faint of heart. And NOT for RVs or trailers."
