If you’re looking for an affordable and refreshing escape, consider camping. It’s a wonderful way to experience an area and reconnect with nature and your family (or yourself). Whether you prefer a rustic adventure or luxurious glamping, Nevada County provides a plethora of options to suit your preferences. So, if you’re planning a staycation or visiting from out of town, there are several enticing options to choose from in the area.
Not Just A Summer Outing
Photo by: Erin Thiem
Image appears courtesy: Inn Town Campground
Camping isn’t just for summer. Fall offers a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn leaves. Winter opens doors to camping amidst snow, with the option to partake in winter activities. And in spring, bask in warmer days and the blossoming of nature.
Award Winning Camping Destination
There are so many wonderful camping opportunities in Nevada County. Whether you like to rough it in a tent or relax in an RV, we have just the place for you. The award-winning Inn Town Campground even has glamping tents, but make sure to get a reservation as these are a popular choice for those who enjoy being outside but want a little luxury, as well.
What sets this private year-round campground apart is its variety of accommodations. Your camping crew can mix and match sites to suit their preferences—no need for everyone to sleep on the ground. Plus, its convenient location within walking distance of downtown Nevada City makes it perfect for adventurers seeking both excitement and convenience.
The Inn Town Campground is the ideal destination for those who crave adventure without sacrificing comfort. With amenities like a camp store, communal kitchen, outdoor showers, and a summer swimming pool, you can fully enjoy the great outdoors while still indulging in the comforts of home.
Camping On Rollins Lake
Rollins Lake hosts four developed campgrounds that have both tent and RV sites. Orchard Springs Campground boasts two sandy beaches, a boat launching ramp, boat slips, and boat rentals. They also have a free movie night in the meadow every Saturday which features a different family-friendly movie each week. Peninsula Family Camping can offer you and your family room to spread out. Enjoy old-fashioned quiet family camping at its finest. With over 300 acres, surrounded by Rollins Lake, Peninsula provides a great escape to the beauty of nature, a way to re-energize and reconnect with family and friends.
For the fitness enthusiasts, Long Ravine Campground features a Par Course located just off the store parking lot. There are seven stops guaranteed to get your blood pumping. This campground even has a restaurant for the nights you don’t feel like pulling out the camp stove. Also on Rollins Lake is Greenhorn Park Campground which features horseshoes, a game room, (limited, fee) wi-fi, a marina, boat rentals, launch ramp, fishing, boating, and swimming.
Additional Spots To Pitch A Tent
Right up the road just outside of Nevada City is Scotts Flat Lake. This campground is open year-round and has several great hiking trails, as well as kayak and SUP rentals available. Or, if you’re more of a river person, try River Rest Resort located on the banks of the South Yuba River in the quaint town of Washington.
Horse Lovers Can Camp Too
For the horse enthusiasts, Skillman Horse Campground has corrals, hitching posts, and horse troughs available under large pines and cedars. Pioneer Trail accesses this campground and is popular among equestrians.
Something A Bit Different
Image appears courtesy: Army Corps of Engineers
For a completely unique experience, try renting a houseboat at Englebright Lake. Up towards Truckee is Martis Creek Lake, a peaceful campground known for its non-motorized activities such as trout fishing, kayaking/canoeing, hiking, and biking. And then there is the iconic Donner Memorial State Park which provides access to Donner Lake and a vast assortment of hiking trails. Or just book a quiet weeklong getaway at a cabin amongst the pines surrounding Truckee.
Don’t Forget About The Tahoe National Forest
Of course, Tahoe National Forest is right here with over 850,000 acres of natural wonders to explore. It had been temporarily closed in 2023, along with all National Forests in California due to fire danger, but has since reopened. Always check ahead in case conditions have changed. To camp in Tahoe National Forest, a fire permit may be required. Also, while camping in Nevada County, or anywhere, please make sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles and leave the area as clean as, or cleaner than, you found it.
If you’re looking for some peace, solitude, and to get out in nature, now is the time to reserve your spot to build memories that will last for years to come. Don’t forget to get your Fire Permit and pack the sunscreen!
