South Shore Campground
4.2127 reviewsELDORAD N.F.
South Shore Campground
$36.00 - $108.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$36.00
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
Fees vary by season and site type: $36 for tent-only nonelectric sites, $72-$108 for standard nonelectric sites.
About this campground
Perched on the pristine shores of Lower Bear River Reservoir, South Shore Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of water recreation and forest serenity. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, taking an afternoon swim in crystal-clear waters, or paddling across the glassy surface at sunset, this lakeside retreat offers endless adventures. Well-appointed sites feature picnic tables and grills for memorable outdoor meals, while modern vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort during your stay.
South Shore Campground supports tent and RV camping, as well as group camping sites. Primitive camping could be inferred but isn't explicitly stated.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of California's Mediterranean climate, where sun-drenched summer days invite endless outdoor play and crisp winter nights transform the landscape into a peaceful wonderland. Spring brings wildflower blooms and rushing streams, while autumn paints the forest in golden hues.
ElevationAt 5,900 feet above sea level, South Shore Campground offers that perfect mountain elevation where the air is refreshingly crisp, the stars shine brilliantly clear, and summer temperatures remain pleasantly cool even on the warmest days.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up in a towering mixed conifer forest where sunlight filters through pine and fir branches, creating a natural cathedral above your campsite. At 5,900 feet elevation, this mountain paradise treats visitors to glimpses of sparkling Lower Bear River Reservoir through the trees, while the Mediterranean climate delivers those perfect camping conditions - warm, golden summers ideal for swimming and boating, followed by peaceful winters that blanket the forest in quiet beauty.
Geological RegionDiscover the heart of California's iconic Sierra Nevada Mountains within the magnificent Eldorado National Forest. This central Sierra location places you among ancient granite peaks, verdant mixed conifer forests, and the pristine waters that have carved this spectacular landscape over millennia. The region's Mediterranean climate creates an outdoor playground where towering pines and firs thrive alongside crystal-clear mountain lakes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne campsite and one vault toilet are accessible. No additional accessibility features are detailed.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some reviews mentioning the challenge of accommodating larger RVs. For example, 'Poss6to get a 24' RV in limited spaces.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some reviewers noted well-distanced sites, while others cited proximity challenges. 'The sites are large enough that your neighbors are not encroaching on your space,' contrasted with 'Campsites were somewhat close together.'
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites higher up the hill provide better privacy and views.
Best CampsitesSites up the hill along the loop are reported to be preferable in reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites held until noon the day following arrival.
Check-out
Check-out time at noon.
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated.
Groups
Group sites are available, with one user noting, 'We had a group site, but only one flat tent place, the other tent was on a slight slope.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSteep and hilly terrain; sites are not always level.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 6 to August 31 (reservable), first-come-first-served from September 1 to September 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable September 1 to September 21 on a first-come-first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to arrival date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations may also forfeit the first night's recreation fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
South Shore Campground provides ample recreational activities including fishing, swimming, boating, canoeing, and picnicking. Hiking opportunities are available nearby.
Hiking
The Pardoe Trail is accessible a short distance past Upper Bear River Reservoir, bordering Mokelumne Wilderness. Specific trail difficulties and lengths are not detailed.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include catching rainbow, brown, and mackinaw trout. User feedback also highlights, 'Fishing and kayaking was great for the kids and adults.'Swimming
Swimming is permitted. User reviews describe the water as 'cold nice water to swim and fish for,' and 'Access to water was fairly easy and the water temperature was perfect for swimming.'Biking
Mountain bike riding is an option for outdoor recreation, as noted in user reviews.Boating
Boating is supported with a boat ramp available within a mile of the campground. Types of boats allowed are unspecified.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities exist, with user reviews referencing encounters with bees and furry critters. 'By nightfall, the bees will disappear instantly, then your 4-legged crawlers including an occasional large furry critter will definitely entertain you walking leisurely around your campsite.'Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities on Lower Bear River Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire bans may be imposed during dry weather.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM quiet hours reported in reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are common; meat bees reported in user reviews. Steep terrain increases potential for falls.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 16.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
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
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 6 to August 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are not explicitly mentioned, and recycling options are unclear. Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Lower Bear River Reservoir; lake access is across the road and involves walking trails.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby campers, meat bees making cooking difficult, and steep terrain making some sites hard to access.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews.
Campground Map
ELDORAD N.F.
Driving directionsFrom Pioneer, CA, take State Route 88 east 21.9 miles to Bear River Lake Resort sign. Turn left at the sign and go 3.4 miles to campground on right side of the road.
The campground is accessed via paved roads but driving directions provided in reservations may be incorrect, per reviews.Nearby supplies
A general store is approximately one mile away near the northern part of the reservoir.
Camper Reviews
4.2
27 reviews
South Shore Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Most users praise the campground for its clean facilities, scenic lake views, and engaging hosts. However, some complaints highlight challenging terrain, steep sites, and noise disturbances.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews often mention clean facilities, friendly camp hosts, and enjoyable activities such as fishing and kayaking. 'Bathrooms were kept clean and neat,' and 'Camp hosts were very friendly and...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include steep terrain for campsites, noise from other campers, and the absence of easy water access. 'No views to the lake,' 'sites weren’t level,' and 'Meat bees were all around...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing all necessary supplies, including propane tanks due to fire restrictions, and avoiding steep sites for younger children. 'You’ll have almost the whole place to yourselves...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the campground's popularity, but also note the challenges of steep terrain and noise. Winter usability is not reported.
Based on 27 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Vault toilets and grounds very clean.' 2. 'Friendly hosts, private and quiet campsites.' 3. 'Bathrooms were kept clean and neat. Will be back next year for sure.' 4. 'Fishing and kayaking was...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific insights include: 'Campsite 007 is uphill and not level but offers privacy.' 'Campsite 011 is noisy due to nearby campers.' 'Campsite 019 is close to clean restrooms with easy trailer...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
One accessible campsite and vault toilet exist. Specific accessibility concerns aren't detailed.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed but must be leashed at all times. User reviews mention unleashed dogs being problematic, 'Unleashed dogs in the camp ground were annoying.'
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025