Donner Memorial State Park Campground
4.2931 reviews12593 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161
Donner Memorial State Park Campground
$35.00 - $35.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fee is $35/night for a standard campsite. Additional $10/night fee for a second vehicle.
About this campground
Nestled among towering pines and pristine alpine wilderness, Donner Memorial State Park Campground invites you to experience the raw beauty of the Sierra Nevada across 154 thoughtfully designed campsites. Each site comes equipped with everything you need for a memorable mountain adventure: sturdy picnic tables for evening meals under the stars, fire pits perfect for s'mores and storytelling, secure food lockers to protect your provisions from curious wildlife, and convenient access to modern restrooms and hot showers that welcome you back after a day of exploration.
Donner Memorial State Park Campground provides options for tent and RV camping, accommodating both primitive and family-style setups. Accessibility features are present at several campsites.
Historical SignificanceStep into one of California's most poignant historical chapters at this site that preserves the memory of the Donner Party's fateful winter of 1846-47. The park serves as a testament to the courage and determination of California's early emigrants, with the striking Pioneer Monument standing as a silent guardian over their stories. The state-of-the-art Visitor Center brings history to life through immersive exhibits that honor the indigenous Washoe people who first called these mountains home, celebrate the resilience of emigrant families who risked everything for a new life, and recognize the often-overlooked contributions of Chinese railroad workers who helped connect a nation.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the High Sierra, where summer days bask in comfortable 75°F sunshine before cooling to crisp 40°F nights perfect for campfire gatherings. As winter descends, the landscape transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland with daytime highs around 40°F and nighttime lows dipping to 20°F. Snow blankets the ground from late fall through early spring, creating a magical alpine atmosphere. Spring campers should come prepared for nature's transitional moods, with possible muddy trails and lingering snow patches adding to the adventure.
ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, this high-altitude haven offers the pure mountain air and stunning vistas that only elevation can provide. While most visitors adjust quickly to the altitude, the thinner air serves as a gentle reminder to take it easy on your first day, stay hydrated, and let your body acclimate to this spectacular mountain environment.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a breathtaking alpine paradise where majestic lodgepole pines, aromatic Jeffrey pines, and stately white firs create a living cathedral of green. The crystalline waters of Donner Lake sparkle like a sapphire jewel against the mountain backdrop, while Donner Creek meanders through the landscape, its gentle babbling providing nature's perfect soundtrack. This stunning tableau of forest, water, and sky creates endless opportunities for photography, quiet contemplation, or simply breathing in the beauty of the Sierra Nevada.
Geological RegionDiscover a landscape sculpted by ancient forces at Donner Memorial State Park, where massive glaciers once carved their way through the Sierra Nevada granite, leaving behind the dramatic peaks, valleys, and pristine lakes that define this 6,000-foot alpine wonderland. The park's geological story unfolds in every weathered boulder and polished granite face, offering visitors a chance to witness firsthand the powerful natural forces that shaped California's most iconic mountain range over millions of years.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has several accessible facilities, including paved campsites, accessible restrooms, and hard-packed trails. Campfire centers and routes to restrooms are accessible. Specific accessible campsites include Ridge: #20, #28, #30; Creek: #53, #60, #73, #79; Splitrock: #115, #124.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, ranging from small to large. Notable sites with larger sizes include #19, #116, and #145.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some offering significant seclusion due to tree cover and underbrush (e.g., sites #18, #19, #118, #145). Others are more exposed (e.g., sites #85, #86).
Total Campsites154 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsite #83 is praised for privacy and proximity to the creek. #8 offers good tree cover and privacy. Sites #102–106 are near a pond but offer varying degrees of sun exposure and tree cover.
Best CampsitesCampsites #18, 19, 84, 85, 86, 87, 99, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 122, 145, and 147 are noted as favorites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay not explicitly specified
- campers must comply with standard reservation limits.
Guests Allowed Per Site
8people allowed per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into Ridge, Creek, and Splitrock loops, each offering distinct site options.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Memorial Day to mid-October; specific closure dates depend on snow conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through www.reservecalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites may be available depending on reservation levels; weekday availability is generally better than weekends.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online via ReserveCalifornia.com. Specific refund policies not detailed.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Donner Memorial State Park provides diverse recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, snowshoeing, and kayaking. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Donner Lake, picnicking, and immersion in natural and historical trails. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snow play.
HikingThe park offers over 8 miles of hiking trails, including the accessible Nature Trail (0.49 miles) and Lakeside Interpretive Trail (1.37 miles each way). Trails are generally flat, constructed of compacted aggregate, and feature interpretive panels showcasing the area's natural and cultural history.
FishingFishing opportunities at Donner Lake include kokanee salmon and planted trout. Fishing permits are required, and anglers primarily fish from the beaches due to the lack of docks.
SwimmingSwimming is available at designated areas such as China Cove Beach. The lake can be cold, and reviews highlight the windy conditions that sometimes limit activities.
BikingBiking trails include the Splitrock Trail (2 miles, moderate difficulty), suitable for both novice and experienced riders.
BoatingBoating activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular. The park does not offer a boat ramp, but a public facility at the northwest corner of Donner Lake serves campers.
Wildlife viewingThe park is home to diverse wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, bats, and bald eagles. Visitors can observe wildlife near Donner Lake and Creek.
Beach activitiesBeach activities include sunbathing and picnicking. China Cove Beach is a popular destination.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsInterpretive programs and exhibits at the Visitor Center focus on Washoe tribal history, the Donner Party, and early railroad construction. Educational field trips and virtual programs are offered.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Charcoal/wood fires prohibited in day-use areas; propane/gas grills allowed.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsActive bear population; campers must use bear-resistant food lockers provided. Seasonal hazards include snow, wet trails, and cold temperatures.
Active alertsNo specific alerts; seasonal snow conditions may restrict access.
Weather forecast
49
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital: Tahoe Forest Hospital, Truckee, CA (5 miles). Police services available in Truckee.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through mid-September.
Trash and recyclingTrash must be stored securely in bear-resistant lockers. Recycling facilities are not mentioned explicitly.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Donner Lake and Donner Creek, offering water-based recreation and scenic enjoyment.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby Interstate 80 and train lines. Mosquitoes are a frequent concern in summer. Crowding occurs on weekends.
HostCampground hosts sell firewood and assist with visitor needs. Firewood costs $10 per bundle.
Campground Map
12593 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161
Driving directionsThe park is located 100 miles east of Sacramento via Interstate 80, within the town of Truckee, just west of downtown on the south side of the freeway.
The roads are paved and provide direct access from Interstate 80. Seasonal closures or delays due to snow may occur, especially in winter months.Nearby places
Truckee: 0 miles (5 minutes), Reno: 30 miles (30 minutes), Sacramento: 100 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Truckee, approximately 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
31 reviews
Donner Memorial State Park Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews vary, highlighting the campground's beautiful scenery and convenient amenities. Positive sentiments focus on cleanliness, historical significance, and diverse recreational options. Negative reviews mention noise from nearby highways and trains.
Review Summaries
Campers praise the well-maintained facilities, token-operated hot showers, and proximity to Donner Lake. The Visitor Center and interpretive trails are also well-received.
Major complaints include noise from I-80 and train tracks, mosquito presence due to standing water, and occasional overcrowding during summer weekends.
Campers recommend bringing earplugs to mitigate noise, mosquito repellent, and leveling blocks for slanted sites. Early arrival is advised to avoid crowds during peak seasons.
Spring and early summer camping is recommended, though spring conditions may include snow or wet ground. Summer offers optimal conditions but can get crowded.
"Camping was nice! Bathrooms are nice and clean and most importantly they work." - Lily B. "Lovely State Park surrounding Donner Lake and Cold Stream Canyon. Great camping in the summer. Kayaking,...
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Highly recommended campsites include #19, #83, #90, and #145 for their privacy and convenient location. Sites #85 and #86 are noted for their proximity but lack privacy.
Accessible campsites receive positive feedback for their clean restrooms and proximity to trails. Users praise the hard-packed paths and paved parking adjacent to restrooms.
Pets are allowed on a leash in most areas of the park, excluding China Cove Beach and the Nature Trail. Visitors note seeing dogs on paddleboards and trails.
Last updated July 20, 2025