Hope Valley
4.3576 reviewsP.O. Box 104, MARKLEEVILLE, CA 96120, USA
Hope Valley
$32.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
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 range from $32 to $50 per night depending on site type and season. Additional fees may apply for reservations, extra vehicles, and late cancellations.
About this campground
Nestled at 7,300 feet in the breathtaking Hope Valley, this mountain retreat offers the perfect blend of wilderness adventure and modern comfort. Whether you're pitching a tent under towering pines or settling in with your RV, you'll find thoughtfully reconstructed sites equipped with everything you need: sturdy picnic tables for memorable meals, campfire rings for evening gatherings, grills for outdoor cooking, secure food storage lockers to protect your provisions, and level tent pads for a comfortable night's sleep.
Hope Valley Campground caters to a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. The sites are available as single or double-family setups and are equipped with essential camping amenities.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of history at this storied location, where weary California-bound emigrants once paused to gather strength before their final push over the formidable Sierra Nevada. Today, the valley continues to celebrate its rich heritage through vibrant community gatherings like the beloved Alpine Aspen Festival, where local culture comes alive against the backdrop of golden autumn foliage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the crisp mountain air that defines Hope Valley's unique climate. While sun-drenched days invite exploration and outdoor activities with pleasantly warm temperatures, evenings transform into cool, starlit affairs that can dip to a refreshing 47°F even during summer months. Pack layers and prepare for the invigorating temperature swings that make mountain camping so memorable.
ElevationPerched at 7,300 feet above sea level, Hope Valley Campground offers a true alpine escape where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and summer's heat gives way to refreshing mountain breezes. This elevated paradise provides natural air conditioning and stunning vistas that remind you just how far you've climbed from the everyday world below.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape painted with towering Jeffrey and lodgepole pines that frame spectacular valley views and rolling forested mountains. The melodic West Fork Carson River winds nearby, its gentle waters providing both a soothing soundtrack and opportunities for streamside exploration. This pristine setting offers photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers an ever-changing canvas of alpine beauty.
Geological RegionHope Valley Campground sits within the majestic Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, where dramatic alpine terrain meets accessible wilderness. This geological wonderland showcases nature's artistry through dense forests of Jeffrey and lodgepole pines climbing toward sky-piercing peaks, creating a protected valley ecosystem that has captivated travelers for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible sites are available. However, reviews do not emphasize specific ADA-compliant features.
Sites SizeIncludes single and double-family campsites.
Sites PrivacyMixed levels of privacy reported. Some reviewers appreciated the space between sites (e.g., "Nice big spaces" - Rebecca Webster, 2018), while others mentioned proximity (e.g., "Sites are pretty close to each other" - Darya Shestakova, 2018).
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 2 and 4 are noted for being level and good for motorhomes. Avoid upper loop sites for large RVs or trailers due to slope and limited space.
Best CampsitesSite 16 is frequently praised for its quality and privacy. Double campsites are noted as excellent for larger groups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is usually after 11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
Check-out time is generally by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
No specific group site details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in loops with varying sizes, some tight for large RVs or trailers. Tent pads and bear boxes are available at each site.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground opens May 16 and closes September 1 (reservable season). It transitions to first-come, first-served from September 2 to September 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground has first-come, first-served sites available between September 2 and September 21.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made as far in advance as possible. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations will also forfeit the first night’s fee. No cancellations or changes are allowed on the day of check-in.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hope Valley Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The area is known for its natural beauty and proximity to attractions like Lake Tahoe and the West Fork Carson River.
Hiking
Numerous trails in the area provide excellent hiking and backpacking opportunities. "There are a lot of hiking possibilities nearby, one starts directly from the campground," says Hanna W (2022).Fishing
The West Fork Carson River offers fishing opportunities for rainbow and cutthroat trout. Emily P (2023) stated, "Excellent trout fishing right across the road from camp—we caught our bag limit every day."Biking
Several trails in the area are suitable for biking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is prevalent in the area, although specific species are not mentioned in detail.Winter Activities
Snowshoeing opportunities are available during the winter season.Water Sports
Water-based activities like kayaking and fishing are accessible at nearby locations such as Lake Tahoe and Blue Lakes.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during dry conditions. Campfire rings are provided.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears frequent the area, making proper food storage essential. Mosquitoes can also be prevalent during summer.
Active alertsSome reviews mention road and campground closures due to fire hazards, smoke, or weather.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to September 1.
Trash and recyclingGarbage service is available, but recycling details are not specified. Some users noted issues with overflowing dumpsters during high seasons.
Proximity to water featuresThe West Fork Carson River is nearby, offering fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints include issues with camp hosts, tight camping sites, vault toilet odors, mosquitoes, and lack of showers.
HostMultiple reviews mention hosts such as 'Jim and Laurie' being wonderful and helpful. However, inconsistent host quality is noted in some years.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 104, MARKLEEVILLE, CA 96120, USA
Driving directionsFrom South Lake Tahoe, take Highway 89 over Luther Pass. At the junction of Highways 88 and 89, make a right and travel 2 miles west on Highway 88, then turn south and proceed to the campground.
The campground is accessible via major highways and is located just off Highway 88. However, some reviews mention issues with road conditions, such as tough roads near the facility.Nearby places
South Lake Tahoe (40 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.4
76 reviews
Hope Valley is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Hope Valley Campground are generally positive, with frequent praise for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and friendly camp hosts. However, some users have noted issues with site proximity, vault toilet odors, and occasional lapses in maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 76 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the clean facilities, scenic views, and helpful camp hosts. One user stated, "This is a beautifully maintained campground in a mountain setting" (Teresa W, 2021). Another reviewer...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns include issues with vault toilet odors, overflowing dumpsters, and the close proximity of campsites. For instance, Russell C (2022) mentioned, "The vault toilet spread the stench of human...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra toilet paper, as noted by Cassandra Wilhelm (2020): "Bring an extra roll of toilet paper, sometimes they don't refill at night." Pack mosquito repellent, especially in summer months when...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with campers enjoying fishing and hiking. However, mosquito activity is high in the warmer months. Winter activities like snowshoeing are also noted by some users.
Based on 76 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The sites are spaced well enough for privacy, the campground was quiet, the bathrooms were clean." - Teresa W (2021). "Excellent trout fishing right across the road from camp." - Emily P (2023)....
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews include negative feedback about accessibility for large RVs (e.g., Linda C, 2021: "Trees and rocks prevented us from getting into the site."). Sites 2 and 4 are recommended for...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Detailed accessibility reviews are limited, but the campground includes accessible features.
Based on 76 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-specific reviews are not provided.
Based on 76 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025