Northwind Campground
02 reviewsNorthwind Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
No reservation fees are associated with Northwind Campground as it is not reservable.
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ProviderAbout this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Eldorado National Forest, Northwind Campground beckons those seeking solitude amid towering pines and whispering aspens. This hidden gem rewards visitors who venture off the beaten path with pristine natural beauty and the kind of peaceful atmosphere that's increasingly rare in today's busy world. The smooth paved roads leading to this intimate campground make it an accessible retreat where the only sounds you'll hear are birdsong and wind through the trees.
Historical SignificanceCamp where fortune seekers once roamed during California's legendary Gold Rush era. The surrounding Eldorado National Forest preserves the legacy of prospectors who scoured these hills for precious metals, leaving behind a rich tapestry of stories etched into the landscape. Today's visitors can still sense the adventurous spirit that drew thousands to these mountains, now transformed from a land of golden dreams to a natural sanctuary.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the Sierra Nevada's captivating seasonal rhythm at Northwind, where golden summer days invite endless outdoor adventures under crystal-clear skies. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a tapestry of amber and gold, while winter brings a hushed blanket of snow that turns the landscape into a wonderland. Spring awakens the forest floor with wildflowers and rushing streams, creating perfect conditions for those magical camping moments that become lifelong memories.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await confirmation, Northwind's mountain setting promises that refreshing high-country air and cooler temperatures that make Sierra camping so appealing during warm summer months.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard of Sierra Nevada splendor, where ancient granite formations rise above a sea of evergreens. The campground sits cradled within dense alpine forests where Jeffrey pines, Douglas firs, and incense cedars create a natural cathedral. Morning mist often drifts through the trees, while afternoon sun filters through the canopy, creating an ever-changing play of light and shadow across the forest floor.
Geological RegionNorthwind rests in the magnificent central Sierra Nevada, a geological wonderland sculpted by millions of years of volcanic activity and glacial carving. This rugged landscape of granite domes and deep valleys supports one of North America's most diverse mountain ecosystems, where black bears, mountain lions, and countless bird species thrive among the peaks and forests that John Muir once called the 'Range of Light.'
Campsite details
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Regular stay limit applies as per Eldorado National Forest rules.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No restrictions specified.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season dates are not specified for Northwind Campground.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served only, as reservations are not accepted.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are not applicable since reservations are not accepted.
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire restrictions may apply seasonally due to dry weather conditions.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area. Campers must use approved food storage containers.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are closest in Placerville, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is not explicitly stated.
Campground Map
Driving directions23 miles east of Placerville on Highway 50 and 11 miles north on Ice House Road (Forest Road 3), then east (right) on Forest Road 32. Detailed directions can also be found in the Northwind Campground Recreation Opportunity Guide (ROG).
Accessible via paved roads (Highway 50 and Ice House Road). Road conditions are generally good, but always check for seasonal weather impacts.Nearby places
Placerville (23 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, are available in Placerville (23 miles away).
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Northwind Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Review Summaries
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Last updated August 10, 2025