Tent campsites near Weimar, California are nestled between 1,000 and 3,500 feet elevation in the western Sierra Nevada foothills. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently reaching the 90s between June and September, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 60-70°F range. First-come, first-served camping is common throughout the region, with most primitive sites located within a 30-minute drive of Weimar.
What to do
Swimming access: Camp Far West North Shore provides direct access to a lake where visitors can swim during warmer months. According to Ray B., "We visited Camp Far West for one night on a quick trip looking for somewhere remote, nearby, and slightly warmer during the winter months. It was green and beautiful. We were the only people anywhere except for folks in the full hook-up area, which was far from us."
River rafting: OARS American River Outpost Campground offers camping for guests participating in whitewater rafting trips. One camper noted, "We stayed at the American River Outpost campground for a rafting tour with OARS a few years ago, and it was such a blast! This was our first time whitewater rafting, and it was a great experience."
Hiking options: The Mumford Bar Trail Campground serves as the trailhead for a challenging hike down to the American River. Eric D. warns, "The hike down to the American via Mumford Trail is NOT a leisurely stroll. Pack plenty of water and be prepared to spend the night down at the river if you head out late."
What campers like
Off-season solitude: Campers frequently mention the peacefulness of winter and early spring camping at Camp Far West North Shore. As one visitor described, "Not a sound except for the birds. We did a bike ride along the lake through the undeveloped overflow area and beyond to the north east end of the property."
Meadow access: Jordan R. from Tahoe National Forest Onion Valley Campground shares, "Meadow near the campgrounds is amazing and was perfect for my dog to frolic through. Frogs are noisy at night due to the streams that run nearby."
Star gazing opportunities: The open meadows at Tahoe National Forest Onion Valley Campground provide excellent night sky viewing. Caroline B. mentions, "I loved the open fields of wild flowers. Those open spaces allow for some great star gazing night."
What you should know
Bring exact cash: When staying at Lake Clementine Boat In, payment requires specific preparation. One camper advises, "Useful tip, BRING A PEN AND EXACT CASH. Upon arrival, scope out the place and claim your spot by filling out the envelope with your name and vehicle information and how many days you plan on staying. Place the cash ($28 a night) in the envelope."
Fire restrictions: Fire rules vary significantly by season and location. At Onion Valley Campground, Jordan R. notes, "Fire scarring just up the road made for good firewood and a humbling reminder of what a wildfire leaves behind."
Site spacing: Tent campsite spacing varies considerably between campgrounds. Adam B. observed at Onion Valley Campground, "We rolled in here after midnight and most of the spots were still empty, and they're far enough apart that we were able to set up camp without being too disruptive."
Tips for camping with families
Best times for families: Early summer offers optimal conditions for family camping, with less crowded sites and moderate temperatures. One camper at Peninsula Camping and Boating Resort cautioned, "When we arrived to the campground, we found that the sites we reserved were on a hill, and poison oak between them."
Water activities: The Oracle Oak Grove offers equipment rentals that appeal to families. Jake C. mentions, "They also have kayaks and other water sport equipment available for campers to make your stay even more memorable."
Wildlife viewing: Spring frog activity creates nighttime nature sounds at many local campsites. At Oracle Oak Grove, the owners "have taken great steps to make this a unique place to stay" according to one reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Road access limitations: Many campgrounds in the area have narrow, winding access roads. Lee D. from Lake Clementine notes, "The access road is about six miles of curvy, hilly, and narrow (sometimes only one lane) pavement. There is a sign prohibiting trailers; our 18-foot camper van did fine but anything much larger would definitely be challenged."
Site leveling: RV campers should bring leveling blocks. According to Lee D., "Most of the sites that have a 'driveway' were not level, except for Sites 5 and 6. We lucked out with Site 6 – it was large and level and directly across from the vault toilets."
Seasonal availability: Off-season camping offers fewer amenities but more privacy. Anna V. suggests, "We camped during the off season (November) so we had our pick of the campsites, which was a great considering the spots are right next to each other. Using hand warmers and a tent warmer we did fine with the cold nights."
