Topaz Lake Recreation Area

General: 41 designated reservable camping spots with a mix of dry camping and W/E hookups plus three first-come, first-available primitive sites (these are lakefront and accessed via a dirt road). 

Site Quality: Camper pads were all gravel. Sites 1-20 were lakefront dry camping spots, but you had to imagine the lakefront from most of these as the water level appeared very low. They were separated by metal pipes so not much privacy between them. Site 20 was slightly sloped but by parking parallel, we made it work in our campervan. These were still the best spots IMO. Sites 36-41 are also dry camping spots, but they were all gravel with a water spigot and no separation. While these were closest to the restrooms, they did not seem very appealing. Sites 21-35 have water and electric. Most of these would require parallel parking unless you have a smaller RV. 

Bath/Shower House: Men’s and Women’s restrooms plus individual bath/shower units. It was way too cold when we were there to use the shower so cannot comment on that but the restrooms were clean and had soap and an air dryer (plus toilet seat covers, something I rarely see in a campground bathroom). 

Activities: Boating, fishing. There is a boat ramp and a fish cleaning station. There was also corn hole (bring your own bags) and horseshoes (bring your own) plus a nice playground. 

This was a five-star stay for us since there were only about a half-dozen sites occupied. We had the entire lakefront section to ourselves. There was no staff or host on site when we were there. I don’t think I would like it as much when in season (but that is strictly a personal preference).

We needed an overnight stay en route to the eastern Sierra and decided this spot would work. We knew we'd taking a risk for a one night stay on a Saturday without reservations but it was October 1 so what the heck. 

When we arrived there were several sites along the stunning Topaz Lake that appeared reserved for the weekend (F-Su) but were empty and a few that were open. We travel in a Class B van so typically will dry camp unless we have chore days.There were lots of sites in the primitive camping area but it was just a dirt parking lot with no shade (our propane fridge is cranky in heat so we needed shade). 

There was no staff on site. The only way to pay is via a kiosk but ONLY for day use and primitive sites. The only way to pay for the RV Hook Up sites (most without sewer at site) was via phone call (M-F) or online reservations. I had a weak Verizon signal and was able to reserve our spot for the night after a few attempts on the very funky county website. 

• If lucky enough to get a site, along the lake, you'll be rewarded with stunning views but it can get windy 
• Decent sized, level sites along the lake with lots of open space between campsite and lake
• Upgrades since past reviews must have happened recently as the bathroom floors and stalls appeared new. The central sewer dump concrete looks new as well and was working. All were were very clean. 
• Showers were working (and free) but didn't use so not sure about water temp. They were not updated but were clean. 
• This is a boaters' paradise and VERY loud during the day (and we were there off-season) Quiet at night. 

We'd probably pass on staying here again unless we were going to use the amenities (dump, showers, water refill) because it was pricey for just dry camping (unless in the primitive spots). We can do better at some  of the Forest Service campgrounds we saw along 395 for less money.

Besides the beautiful scenic lake spot that offers fun on the lake during the day and star gazing at night it’s a well ran campground with amentities. Has lots of camping style options between RV hook up spaces and non hookup. Also has tent spots. Great restrooms and showers. Moms with babies and toddlers would appreciate the restrooms. Showers are their own private room with space and a changing table. Camping spots are roomy and come with a fire pit. Campfires are allowed. Generators in RVs have to be off at 10 pm. Pets are allowed but need to be on a leash. Grass area for kids playing or throwing the ball or frisbee. Horse shoe game area. Big lake side beach. You can set up badminton or beach volleyball. Cell service is spotty at the campsite but oddly great on the beach and at the Lake.

Lake offers boating, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and swimming. Boat launch and fish cleaning are a good distance from camp sites. Has a cleaning station for watercraft for invasive species.

This campground has a lot to offer. Pack the sun screen and the life jackets and have fun!