Campgrounds and RV parks near Lake of the Pines, CA
89 campgrounds and RV Parks near Lake of the Pines, CA. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
89 campgrounds
7547 campsites
221 RVs available for delivery
From $17/night
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Camping near Lake of the Pines, California
Lake of the Pines is a private gated community in Placer County, California, set in the Sierra Nevada foothills between Auburn and Grass Valley. The lake itself is members-only, but the surrounding area is one of Northern California's most active RV corridors, with full-hookup parks, riverside state-park sites, and lakeside resorts all within a short drive.
RV travelers typically base out of nearby Auburn, which sits just off Interstate 80 and serves as the practical hub for fuel, groceries, and dump stations. Auburn State Recreation Area covers 40 miles of the North and Middle Forks of the American River, situated south of Interstate 80 and stretching from Auburn to Colfax, with main access from Auburn on Highway 49 or Foresthill Road. Closer to Lake of the Pines, Rollins Lake offers a cluster of independently operated campgrounds. Rollins sits at 2,100-foot elevation off Highway 174 between Grass Valley and Colfax, with four independently operated campgrounds offering a combined 250 campsites and a complete range of services including stores, restaurants, fuel sales and rentals. Auburn RV Resort and Auburn Gold Country RV Park provide the easiest pull-through hookup options for larger rigs.
Things to do near Lake of the Pines
Water recreation drives most trips. Rollins Lake, reached through Orchard Springs Resort or Long Ravine Resort, has sandy beaches, a boat ramp, and rentals. The two large fingers of the lake are perfect for water skiing, while the calm coves are fishing havens, with bass, German brown, catfish, crappie, perch and bluegill, and the lake is stocked regularly with rainbow trout. Auburn State Recreation Area adds whitewater rafting, kayaking, and swimming holes on the American River, plus hiking and mountain-bike trails through steep oak-and-pine canyons. Whitewater recreation is also very popular on both forks of the river, with Class II, III, IV, and V runs. Lake Clementine, reached via Foresthill Road, is popular for boating. Off the water, Old Town Auburn and nearby Grass Valley and Nevada City offer Gold Rush history, restaurants, and weekend events. Empire Mine State Historic Park in Grass Valley is a strong rainy-day or shoulder-season stop with family-friendly tours.
Camping spots and RV parks near Lake of the Pines, CA
When to camp near Lake of the Pines
spring
March - May
66° / 46°F 65 mm
Green hills and strong river flows; prime rafting season
summer
June - August
89° / 59°F 4 mm
Hot and dry; fire restrictions in effect, sites fill early
fall
September - November
72° / 50°F 50 mm
Warm days, cool nights; lighter crowds in shoulder months
winter
December - February
55° / 39°F 150 mm
Wettest season; cool foggy valleys, snow on higher peaks
The foothills climate makes this a long-season destination, but timing matters. Summer is hot and dry, with afternoon highs routinely in the 90s. Reservable campgrounds at Rollins Lake and Auburn State Recreation Area fill weeks ahead through the peak season, and weekends sell out fastest. Fire restrictions are common in late summer. Campfires are not allowed from June 15 through October 31 due to fire danger, and are allowed from November through mid-June. Spring brings green hills, full rivers, and strong rafting flows. Fall is the local sweet spot for RV travel: warm days, cool nights, and lighter crowds. Winter is mild compared to the higher Sierra, and Rollins sits below the typical snow line. Mineral Bar Campground operates with six first-come, first-served sites in the off-season, with all fifteen sites open by mid-April and reservations required when fully open. Some Rollins Lake campgrounds reduce hours or close in winter, so confirm directly before arriving.
My family and I (wife, 5yo son, 3yo daughter) had the opportunity to camp for the week in Brian and Tanya’s RV. They were extremely nice, very informative and trusted us with their property. My family was very cozy during our stay. The on demand warm water for our showers felt like a luxury during our camping trip.
Erik S. - Jun 2026
Always a great, easy experience renting an RV from this wonderful couple. SO convenient and great communication.
Reservation systems vary by operator, so plan accordingly. Summer reservations for Lake Clementine Boat-In Campground and Mineral Bar Campground are only taken through ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 800-444-7275. Rollins Lake campgrounds are run by separate concessionaires. Reservations for Orchard Springs Campground can be made by phone at (530) 346-0073. Reservations for Long Ravine Campground can be made by phone at (530) 346-6166. Private parks such as Auburn RV Resort and Auburn Gold Country RV Park book directly through their websites or by phone. For peak weekends and holidays, reserve as soon as the booking window opens, typically six months out for state-park sites. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days, with a 30 day total camping limit per year.
What to expect at campgrounds near Lake of the Pines
Sites range from full-hookup pull-throughs to primitive river camping, so match the campground to the rig. Auburn RV Resort and Auburn Gold Country RV Park are the most RV-friendly options, with hookups, level sites, and easy I-80 access. Orchard Springs Resort and Long Ravine Resort at Rollins Lake mix RV sites, tent sites, and cabins, with showers, stores, and beach access. State-park sites are more rustic. Mineral Bar has designated campsites with tables, firepits, and dry toilets, no drinking water available, and a narrow paved road serving the campground. Carry potable water and expect limited cell service in the canyons. Summer days are hot, so shade and a working A/C matter. Mineral Bar Campground has bear-resistant boxes, and campers should watch for poison oak, ticks, and rattlesnakes on trails and store food properly at the more remote sites.
Own an RV? Earn up to $31,284/year.
List your motorhome or travel trailer for free on RVezy.
Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Lake of the Pines, CA
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Lake of the Pines?
RV rental in Lake of the Pines is affordable compared to hotels and dining in nearby Auburn and Grass Valley. Expect motorhomes to average around $200 per night and towable trailers around $125 per night, with many hosts offering weekly and monthly discounts. Booking midweek (Sunday through Thursday) and aiming for shoulder months like April, May, or October helps you score a cheap RV rental Lake of the Pines travelers love. Filter for Instant Book listings to lock in prices before peak Sierra foothill weekends, when locals head up Highway 49 for boating and wine tasting.
What license do I need to rent an RV in Lake of the Pines?
Good news: a regular driver's license is all you need to rent an RV in Lake of the Pines, with no commercial or special endorsement required in California, even for larger Class A motorhomes. Approved drivers on RVezy are generally 25 or older, and ID verification is completed securely through the platform during checkout. Visiting from outside the U.S.? Bring your home-country license plus an International Driving Permit and you are set. Most first-time renters in the Sierra foothills complete verification in under 10 minutes from their phone.
Is protection included when I rent an RV in Lake of the Pines?
Yes, every RV rental in Lake of the Pines includes an RVezy renter protection plan and 24/7 roadside assistance, so you can hit Highway 49 with real peace of mind. During checkout, you choose the protection level that fits your trip: RVezy offers tiered plans so you can scale coverage up for longer Sierra adventures or keep it lean for a quick weekend at the lake. Hosts do not pick your coverage, you do, which keeps you in control. If you are towing a boat to nearby Rollins Lake or Lake Combie, choose a higher tier for extra confidence on those winding foothill roads.
What is the cancellation policy if my Lake of the Pines RV trip plans change?
Booking is low-risk: RVezy sets the cancellation policy for every Lake of the Pines RV trip, not individual hosts, and there is a money-back grace period right after booking so you can lock in dates without stress. Refund eligibility after that depends on how far out you cancel relative to the trip start date. Full cancellation terms are outlined in the RVezy Help Center and on your booking confirmation. Book early for summer (the prime season here), then relax knowing the platform-wide policy is consistent and transparent.
Can I bring my dog on a pet-friendly RV rental in Lake of the Pines?
Absolutely, pet-friendly RV rental Lake of the Pines options are easy to find on RVezy: just check the Pet-Friendly filter and you will see hosts who welcome dogs (and sometimes cats). Many local campgrounds in Nevada County are also dog-friendly, including Bear River Campground, Rollins Lake's Long Ravine, and Auburn State Recreation Area, where leashed pets are welcome on most trails. Bring proof of vaccinations, a long lead, and plenty of water, summer afternoons in the foothills regularly hit the low 90s F. Message the host before booking to confirm your dog's size and any pet cleaning fee so checkout is smooth.
Can the RV be delivered and set up for me in Lake of the Pines?
Yes, RV delivery Lake of the Pines is one of the most popular options on RVezy, especially for first-timers and families who would rather skip towing a 30-foot trailer down Combie Road. Many hosts will deliver your motorhome or travel trailer straight to your campsite at Bear River or Rollins Lake, level it, hook up power and water, walk you through every system, and pick it up at the end. Delivery fees vary by distance and RV size and are shown on the listing. Filter by Delivery on RVezy and message hosts with your exact campground address for an accurate quote.
How far can I drive, and is there an RV rental with unlimited mileage near Lake of the Pines?
You have plenty of range to play with. Most Lake of the Pines RV hosts include 100 to 150 free miles per night, with extra miles typically running about $0.35 to $0.50 each, and some hosts offer RV rental with unlimited mileage, especially for longer bookings. From Lake of the Pines, Lake Tahoe is roughly 75 miles east, Yosemite Valley around 165 miles south, Sacramento about 55 miles southwest, and the Mendocino coast about 200 miles west. If you are planning a big loop (say, Tahoe plus Yosemite), filter for unlimited-mileage listings or message hosts to negotiate a custom mileage package.
What are the best campgrounds near Lake of the Pines?
You are spoiled for choice when it comes to RV camping Lake of the Pines. Top picks include Bear River Campground (Nevada County-run, lakeside sites with electric hookups about 10 minutes away), Rollins Lake's Long Ravine and Greenhorn campgrounds (full hookups and a swim beach, about 20 minutes north), Auburn Gold Country RV Park (full-service and big-rig friendly, 25 minutes south in Auburn), and Skillman Family Campground in Tahoe National Forest (rustic and pine-shaded, about an hour up Highway 20). Bear River and Rollins fill up fast for summer weekends, so book six to eight weeks ahead through Nevada County Parks or the campground's website.
When is the best time of year for a Lake of the Pines RV trip?
Lake of the Pines has a Mediterranean climate, so the RV season is long and friendly. The sweet spot is late April through mid-October, when daytime highs run from the comfortable 70s F in spring to the 90s F in July and August, with very little rain. Spring brings green hills and wildflowers, fall delivers golden oak color and warm lake swims with smaller crowds, and winter is mild (50s F highs) but rainy with occasional Sierra snow nearby. For the best mix of warm water and lighter campground traffic, target the second half of September. If you dislike triple-digit heat, avoid mid-July to early August.
I'm a first-time renter, will I know how to drive and use the RV?
You are in great hands. Every host on RVezy provides a hands-on orientation at pickup or delivery, walking you through driving tips, the generator, slide-outs, water systems, and waste tanks, so first time renting an RV in Lake of the Pines feels manageable. Class B campervans and small Class C motorhomes are the easiest to drive on local roads like Combie Road and Highway 49. You can also message your host any time during the trip with questions. Do a slow practice loop in a quiet area before heading to Tahoe or Yosemite: 15 minutes of practice builds a week of confidence.
What happens if I have a breakdown or roadside issue during my trip?
Help is just a phone call away. Every Lake of the Pines RV rental on RVezy includes 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the protection plan, covering common issues like flat tires, dead batteries, lockouts, and tow services. If something goes sideways on Highway 49 or up near Donner Pass, you call the roadside line and a local provider is dispatched. You also have direct messaging with your host, who often knows the best regional mechanic in Auburn or Grass Valley. RVezy customer support is available before, during, and after your trip. Snap photos of the RV at pickup and save the roadside number to your phone's favorites.
Can I take my RV rental on a road trip from Lake of the Pines to other states or Canada?
Yes, an RV road trip from Lake of the Pines is one of the best ways to see the West, and most hosts allow travel throughout California, Nevada, Oregon, and beyond. Popular routes include Tahoe and the Eastern Sierra via Highway 395, the Oregon Coast via Highway 101, Crater Lake (about 350 miles north), and Zion or Bryce in Utah. Cross-border travel into Canada may be allowed depending on the host and protection plan, so confirm with the host before booking. Travel into Mexico is not permitted on RVezy rentals because protection coverage does not extend there. Message the host with your full route so they can flag any mileage or destination preferences upfront.
What kind of fuel mileage should I expect, and how much will gas cost?
Plan smart and fuel will not break the bank. Class B campervans average 18 to 22 MPG, Class C motorhomes 8 to 14 MPG, Class A rigs 6 to 10 MPG, and travel trailers depend on your tow vehicle (figure 10 to 14 MPG). California gas typically runs higher than the national average, often around $4.50 to $5.25 per gallon in Auburn and Grass Valley, the closest fueling hubs to Lake of the Pines. For a 300-mile loop to Tahoe and back in a Class C, budget roughly $120 to $180 in fuel. Fill up in Auburn before heading into the Sierra: prices climb noticeably once you pass Colfax on I-80.
How far in advance should I book a campground near Lake of the Pines?
For summer weekends (Memorial Day through Labor Day), book your campsite six months out the moment reservations open: sites at Bear River, Rollins Lake, and nearby Tahoe National Forest campgrounds fill quickly. Most U.S. Forest Service sites use Recreation.gov, which opens reservations on a six-month rolling window. Nevada County campgrounds like Bear River book through the Nevada County Parks site. Midweek and shoulder-season trips (April, May, late September, October) are far more flexible, often available just a week or two ahead. Set a reminder for exactly six months before your target date, then refresh Recreation.gov at 7:00 a.m. PT.
What are the local driving conditions like around Lake of the Pines?
Driving here is scenic and manageable with a little awareness. Lake of the Pines sits in the Sierra foothills at about 1,500 feet, so you will navigate winding two-lane roads like Combie Road, Magnolia Road, and Highway 49, all paved and in good shape but with curves and elevation. Interstate 80 (about 15 minutes north in Auburn) is your fast route to Tahoe and Reno: expect chain controls in winter above the snow line from roughly November through April. Watch for deer at dawn and dusk on rural roads, and check tire pressures before driving in summer heat. If you are nervous about the foothill curves with a bigger rig, choose RV delivery Lake of the Pines and skip the drive entirely.
What amenities do campgrounds near Lake of the Pines offer, and where can I dump and refill?
Most campgrounds near Lake of the Pines come well equipped for a comfortable stay. Bear River, Rollins Lake, and Auburn Gold Country RV Park offer 30/50-amp electric, fresh water spigots, and on-site dump stations, with full hookups at the private parks and partial hookups at most county and Forest Service sites. Public dump stations are also available at several Flying J/Pilot stops along I-80. Potable water fills are standard at any full-hookup site, and showers, flush toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables are the norm. Bring a 25-foot drinking-water hose, a 15-to-30-amp adapter, and a sewer hose support: three accessories that make RV camping Lake of the Pines hassle-free at any site.
What features and amenities will my Lake of the Pines RV rental have?
Lake of the Pines RV rentals are essentially cabins on wheels. Expect comfortable beds (queen or king masters, plus bunks or convertible dinettes), a full kitchen with fridge, stove, microwave, and sink, a bathroom with shower and toilet, air conditioning (essential for July afternoons), and a furnace for cool spring and fall nights. Most motorhomes include a TV and many offer onboard generators or solar; campervan rental Lake of the Pines options lean smaller and stealthier. Wi-Fi is hit or miss in the foothills, so plan to use your phone hotspot. All passenger seats with seatbelts are noted on the listing for family RV trip Lake of the Pines planning. Filter by sleeps count and bathroom type to match your crew exactly.
What add-ons can I get, and how do pickup and drop-off work?
Hosts make life easy with a menu of useful add-ons: linens and towel kits, camping chairs and outdoor rugs, generators, propane tanks, bike racks, kayaks, and kitchen kits, all priced on the listing. Pickup is typically at the host's location near Lake of the Pines, Auburn, or Grass Valley, with a 30 to 60 minute walkthrough included. Drop-off is at the same spot at the agreed time, with the RV returned at a similar fuel and propane level and the black/grey tanks dumped (or pay a small dump fee to skip it). Mileage allowances are listed clearly, usually 100 to 150 free miles per night. Bundle delivery plus a linens kit for a true motorhome rental Lake of the Pines turn-key experience.
How does payment and the security deposit work for my RV rental in Lake of the Pines?
Payment is straightforward and secure: you pay through RVezy at booking using a credit or debit card, never directly to the host, which keeps your money protected. A refundable security deposit is held separately from the booking payment and is released after the trip once the host confirms the RV came back in good shape. Take a quick photo and video walk-around at pickup and drop-off: this is your best friend if any disputes come up. Review the host's pet policy, smoking policy, and any cleaning or dump fees on the listing before booking so there are zero surprises when your RV rental California adventure wraps up.
Where can I park or stay overnight with my RV around Lake of the Pines?
You have many legal overnight options for where to park an RV in Lake of the Pines. Best bets are reserved campsites at Bear River Park, Rollins Lake, Auburn State Recreation Area, and Tahoe National Forest's Skillman or White Cloud campgrounds. The Lake of the Pines community itself is a private gated HOA, so overnight street parking inside is restricted to verified guests: plan to stay at a campground or use RV delivery. Dispersed camping is allowed in many parts of Tahoe National Forest where posted. Pair one night at Auburn Gold Country RV Park with two nights at Rollins Lake for the perfect foothills weekend.