Camping sites near Norden, California range from accessible lakeside locations to secluded alpine settings at elevations between 5,600-7,000 feet. The area experiences significant temperature variations with summer days reaching the 80s while nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even in July. Most forest service campgrounds provide vault toilets and fire rings but limited cell coverage due to the mountainous terrain.
What to Do
Fishing in the Truckee River: Multiple campgrounds offer direct access to excellent fishing spots. At Silver Creek Campground, campers report seeing others fishing from the small beaches along the river trail. One visitor noted, "Trail down to the river and lots of little beaches which are lovely, saw some folks fishing."
Kayaking and paddling: The numerous lakes around the Norden area provide calm waters for water sports. At Boca Rest Campground, the lake's blue waters are perfect for paddling. As one camper described, "The lake is a beautiful shade of blue, and there is a sweet smell of pine in the air... families with young kids were paddling around the shallows on inflatable rafts."
Hiking to alpine lakes: For those seeking more adventure, backpacking to remote lakes offers solitude and swimming opportunities. The trail to Loch Leven Lakes requires effort but rewards hikers with multiple pristine alpine lakes. A backpacker shared, "We backpacked up to the high loch levens lake where we found many available campsites... We swam in the lake and napped in our hammocks."
What Campers Like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the feeling of seclusion even at established campgrounds. At Prosser Family, a visitor observed, "Sites are large and private. Some with beautiful views of the lake. Nice places to walk and even with the low water of October I was able to take a long leisurely paddle."
Proximity to towns for supplies: The convenience of nearby towns is frequently mentioned as a benefit. A camper at Granite Flat explained, "Granite Flat is a great way to get out and camp without worrying too much about forgetting something. Now, I know no one WANTS to head back into town for the ice, eggs, or brew they forgot. But if you do, you're only 2 miles from the grocery store."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers report seeing various wildlife during their stays. At Prosser Family Campground, the ranger provides educational opportunities: "The Forest Ranger came through the camp to do an interpretive by showing everyone various mammal furs, two of which were bears."
What You Should Know
Highway noise impacts: Several campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. As one camper at Granite Flat Campground commented, "The highway is right next to it. The Tahoe region is EXTREMELY popular... if you're next to the highway, you'll hear cars/trucks passing through."
Water levels fluctuate seasonally: Drought conditions can significantly affect lake access and appearance. A visitor at Logger Campground noted, "The lake was also a bust when I went - the drought is pretty intense this year so the water level was very low and the water did not look appealing."
Advance planning required for popular sites: The most desirable campgrounds fill quickly, especially in summer. For Donner Memorial State Park, one reviewer advised, "Hard to get reservations. Big spaces! Great trails! A lot to do!"
Temperature variations: High elevation means significant temperature drops at night. A camper at Prosser Family Campground warned, "Despite being summer, the temperature drops significantly at night. Even with cold weather sleeping bags, my son and I were really cold."
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly activities: Some locations offer multiple recreation options within walking distance. At Tahoe Donner Campground, a visitor reported, "Bonuses include ping-pong, volleyball, badminton, and horseshoes. The campground is nestled in the pine trees adjacent to Alder Creek and many sites have a view of the creek!"
Pack water recreation gear: Lakes and rivers provide natural entertainment for children. A camper at Logger Campground recommended, "Be sure to bring tubes or something to float down the river! The water was cool and the best way to beat the heat."
Choose sites with easy water access: Swimming areas keep children entertained for hours. A 12-year-old visitor at Donner Memorial State Park shared their experience: "I am a 12 year old and I had tons of fun. Me and my friends were up there and there was conveniently a campground available in there same campsite. We went in the summer and the water was perfect!"
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many campgrounds have tight spaces or obstacles. At Village Camp Truckee, one RVer cautioned, "There are some sites that are nice and wide giving you room from your neighbors and there are some sites like the one we had that left 1 foot of separation... We were unable to pull out our awnings due to trees."
Be prepared for hookup locations: Some sites have unusual utility arrangements. At Village Camp Truckee, a camper noted, "The water and electric are at the very back of very looong spaces so you May need an extension, depending on how close you want to be to your neighbor."
Consider seasonal closures: Many campgrounds close during winter months. A visitor checking Logger Campground in the off-season simply stated, "Closed off season," while another specified for William Kent Campground, "Open May 5 - Oct 11."
