Kit Carson Campground
4.4545 reviewsP.O. Box 104, Markleeville, CA, 96120, USA
Kit Carson Campground
$26.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
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
Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric sites are available for $26 per night during both Peak and First-Come-First-Served seasons. Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in the breathtaking Woodfords Canyon, Kit Carson Campground offers an intimate riverside retreat where the gentle murmur of the West Fork Carson River provides nature's soundtrack. This hidden gem welcomes tent campers and smaller RVs to experience authentic mountain camping, complete with prime fishing spots just steps from your campsite. Here, the canyon walls cradle you in natural serenity while the river beckons anglers and nature lovers alike.
Kit Carson Campground offers facilities for tent camping, smaller RVs, and primitive camping.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the crisp mountain air of summer nights that dip to a refreshing 28°F, perfect for cozy campfire gatherings, while daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 44°F ideal for exploring. Clear skies and dry conditions create picture-perfect camping weather throughout the season. Winter transforms this alpine paradise into a snow-dusted wonderland, though the cold temperatures and moderate snowfall make it a destination best enjoyed by the heartiest adventurers.
ElevationPerched high in the dramatic landscape of Woodfords Canyon, this alpine sanctuary treats visitors to sweeping mountain vistas and the kind of pure, thin air that makes every breath feel like a gift. The elevated setting creates a natural amphitheater of stunning scenery that changes with every shift of light.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic Jeffrey pines and shimmering aspens create a living canopy above the campground, their branches whispering ancient secrets in the mountain breeze. The rugged canyon walls rise dramatically around you, painted in nature's palette of rust and stone, while the West Fork Carson River dances through it all. Come autumn, the aspens burst into golden flames against the evergreen backdrop, creating a photographer's paradise that rivals any postcard.
Geological RegionDeep within the legendary Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, the campground claims its place along the West Fork Carson River, where towering canyon walls tell geological stories millions of years in the making. Quaking aspens dance between ancient rock formations, their leaves catching light like nature's own disco balls, while the river has carved its patient path through this rugged terrain, creating the perfect mountain sanctuary for modern adventurers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible pit toilets and bear boxes are provided. However, some campsites are steep and may not be suitable for tents, as noted in user reviews.
Sites SizeMost campsites are suitable for small tents or smaller RVs. Some sites are steep and may not accommodate larger tents or vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy of sites varies, with some described as secluded or private. "Most of the sites including #6 where we stayed are shady and have some privacy."
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent campers should avoid Site 9 due to steep terrain. Sites 5 and 8 are favored for privacy and scenic views.
Best CampsitesSite 5 is highly recommended for its proximity to the river and privacy. Site 8 offers unique features like boulders for setting up a 'reading room.'
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact capacity varies, but reviews indicate suitability for smaller groups (2-4 people per site).
Groups
No group camping facilities were mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall campground with Upper and Lower Loops. Sites vary in terrain and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 16 and closes September 28 (reservable from June 25 to September 1).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served availability from September 2 to September 28 and April 23 to May 14. Visitors should inquire about site fill patterns on arrival.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kit Carson Campground offers a variety of activities, including fishing, hiking, and scenic photography. The campground's proximity to the Carson River allows for fishing and boating. Nearby attractions include hiking trails such as the Pacific Crest Trail and Mokelumne Wilderness. The area is also suitable for rock climbing and exploring the canyon.
Hiking
The campground is surrounded by trailheads within a short drive, including Mokelumne Wilderness and the Pacific Crest Trail. "It's a short drive to Carson Pass, where there are wonderful hiking trails."Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at the Carson River and nearby lakes. "There's a small stream with trout nearby."Biking
The area offers biking trails, including a mountain bike trail up the old Luther Pass road to the summit. "Up the road, just past the Luther Pass road junction, is a fishing platform site. From there, a mountain bike trail can be ridden up the old Luther Pass road to the summit."Boating
Boating opportunities are available at nearby lakes.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include bear sightings. Visitors are advised to store food securely. "Caution to the wind!, when they say it's bear country they Mean It's Bear country!!"Winter Activities
Winter activities were not noted, but the campground is closed for reservations during some winter months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like fishing and exploring riverbanks are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits. Guests are advised to purchase firewood on-site to prevent tree pest spread.
Hazards
General hazardsBear country precautions are necessary. Reviews also mention stray cats, steep terrain at some sites, and goat head plants.
Active alertsWeather-dependent seasonal closures and construction near Highway 88 may affect visitors.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Closest emergency services include hospitals and police stations in nearby Minden and Carson City, Nevada (approx. 19 miles). Markleeville provides limited emergency support.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 1 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingGarbage containers are available; however, some reviews mentioned issues with odor and stray animals around dumpsters. Recycling facilities were not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the west fork of the Carson River, with easy access for fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsTraffic noise from Highway 88 and construction disturbances. Some sites have steep terrain unsuitable for tents.
HostReviews praise camp hosts, including Cheryl, Bill, and Kimo, for their helpful and friendly demeanor.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 104, Markleeville, CA, 96120, USA
Driving directionsFrom South Lake Tahoe, take Hwy 89 over Luther Pass to the 88/89 interchange. Turn left on 88; go approximately 1 mile to campground entrance on your left. From Gardnerville, Carson City or Minden, Nevada, take Hwy 395 to Hwy 88. Head south on Hwy 88 for approximately 19 miles to the campground entrance in Woodfords Canyon on north side.
Located along Highway 88, Kit Carson Campground offers direct access from a paved highway. Small parking spurs are provided, and visitors are advised to verify vehicle size before reserving. Seasonal closures may occur depending on weather conditions.Nearby places
Markleeville (approx. 5 miles), Lake Tahoe (approx. 20 miles), Grover Hot Springs State Park (approx. 5 miles), Minden and Carson City, Nevada (approx. 19 miles).
Nearby supplies
Sorensen’s Resort within 5 miles offers limited groceries and a restaurant. For more extensive supplies, visitors can go to Minden or Carson City, Nevada (approx. 19 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.5
45 reviews
Kit Carson Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Kit Carson Campground highlight its natural beauty, cleanliness, and proximity to the Carson River. Positive aspects include the helpfulness of camp hosts, clean vault toilets, and well-maintained sites. Negative aspects include traffic noise from Highway 88, issues with steep campsites, and garbage odor near dumpsters.
Review Summaries
Based on 45 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean and well-maintained facilities, friendly and helpful camp hosts, and beautiful natural surroundings. "Wonderful small campground in a great location. Good base for...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include traffic noise from the nearby highway, steep campsites unsuitable for larger tents, and garbage odor near dumpsters. "Dumpster was smelly and was 15 feet away directly from the...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include reserving sites away from the highway to minimize noise and being prepared for bear encounters. "Always lock your doors!!"
Based on 45 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall is described as exceptionally beautiful due to the colorful foliage. Winter camping is not available as the campground is closed for reservations during colder months.
Based on 45 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Nice small campground, but no place to pitch tent (most sites)." "The camp host's, Cheryl & Bill go above & beyond to help their campers'." "It's close enough to walk to the river, nice locations to...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 5 is praised for its proximity to the river but noted as unsuitable for large tents. Site 8 is described as private and peaceful. Site 9 is noted as too steep for tents.
Based on 45 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some campsites are steep and may not be accessible for larger tents. Accessible pit toilets are available.
Based on 45 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, but pet-specific features were not detailed in reviews.
Based on 45 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025