Open Year-round
No
Reservations possible?
Yes
RV Hookups
No
Potable water
Yes
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Interestingly, the campground at Donner Memorial State Park lies within close proximity to where the infamous Donner Party spent their fateful storm and snow-ridden winter in 1846. Today the campground and park serve as both a historic memorial commemorating the pioneers that set out on the difficult journey west to California and as a gateway to an area ripe with outdoor recreation opportunities.

The seasonal campground lies near the east shore of scenic Donner Lake and its popular swimming beaches. The campground is set within a lodgepole pine forest around the Ridge Creek and Splitrock loops, and the lake is never more than a short walk away. The main draws of the park include swimming, boating and fishing on the lake, and hiking in the mountains that comprise the Donner Pass area. Small boat rentals are available during summer months.

Open late May through mid-September, the campground is the largest in the Truckee basin region and generally has availability. Leashed dogs are permitted in developed areas of the park.

 

 

 

 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Donner Lake access. Donner Pass recreation nearby.

Cons

Seasonal campground.

Pets allowed

Allowed

Managed by

California State Parks

Reservation phone number

1 (800) 444-7275

Features

ADA accessible
Historically significant
Flushing toilets
Showers
Swimming holes
Potable water
Picnic tables
Amphitheater

Location

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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