tents in a forest

Carson Pass Campgrounds

Mileages From Stockton

  • Lower Bear River Res. - 85 miles
  • Silver Lake - 94 miles
  • Kirkwood - 99 miles
  • Caples Lake - 101 miles
  • Carson Pass - 105 miles
  • Blue Lakes - 124 miles




High Sierra Trails

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Most Spectacular Trails
in the Sierra Nevada

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Carson Pass Campgrounds

Campground areas listed from west to east.


For information about which campgrounds are currently open, see Current Conditions

Carson Pass Camping Areas

Indian Grinding Rock State Park Camping

Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park has family campsites along with a group environmental campground. The campgrounds are within easy walking distance of all the attractions in the park. Within a short driving distance is Black Chasm Cavern and the historic town of Volcano.

Cosumnes River Camping

Cosumnes River campgrounds are popular with families that enjoy spending summer days along the river, with anglers, and with OHV enthusiasts who can take off onto the nearby dirt roads. Their lower elevation means the Cosumnes River campgrounds enjoy a longer season than their higher elevation cousins.

Bear River Reservoir Camping

Lower Bear River Reservoir has several great campgrounds along the side of the lake and even a rare group campground. Activities at the lake include waterskiing and fishing, swimming and boating, hiking and OHV exploring.

Silver Lake

Silver Lake is a popular summer destination with a variety of attractions. The lake is big enough for waterskiing and wakeboarding, but is most popular with fishermen and kayakers. Several great day hikes begin at the lake, including the new trail to the summit of Thunder Mountain.

Caples Lake Camping

Beautiful Caples Lake is one of the best fishing destinations along Highway 88. Conveniently located, it makes a great base camp from which to explore all the wonders of Caron Pass. Take a day hike to Emigrant Lake or drive up to Woods Lake for a picnic. Set out on mountain bikes for the top of Little Round Top or pop over to Kirkwood Meadows for some zip lines and rock climbing.

Hope Valley Camping

Hope Valley is one of those special places in the Sierra that draws artists and photographers, fly fishermen and bird watchers. The Hope Valley Campground is located right on the side of the West Walker River. Nearby down the canyon are several other campgrounds.

Blue Lakes Camping

Blue Lakes are off the beaten path, but those who have been there know they make a wonderful camping spot. Campgrounds are all close to the lakes. Small boats can be launched for fishing. Hikers have a dozen nearby lakes to explore. Mountain bikers and horseback riders can spend days discovering all the secrets of nearby Indian Valley.


Find the Very Best Camping in California

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    Complete campground information, including fees, reservations, photos, facilities, and nearby recreation.


Helpful Links to Other Camping Websites


U.S. National Forest Campground Guide

Your most complete and comprehensive guide to developed campgrounds in 155 national forests and national grasslands.


map of campgrounds along western Carson Pass, Highway 88, CA map of campgrounds along eastern Carson Pass, Highway 88, CA

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