Bootleg Campground
4.5022 reviewsBootleg Campground, Walker Canyon, US-395, Walker, CA
Bootleg Campground
$12.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
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
$22 per campsite, $6 extra vehicle fee. Discounted $12 fee available with national pass.
About this campground
Escape to Bootleg Campground, where towering Jeffrey pines create a natural cathedral of shade and tranquility. Nestled in the heart of Walker Canyon, this hidden gem rewards visitors with generously spaced sites that promise the privacy you've been craving. Whether you're passing through for a night under the stars or settling in for an extended wilderness retreat, Bootleg's thoughtful layout ensures every camper finds their perfect slice of solitude among the whispering pines.
Bootleg Campground provides facilities for tent camping and RVs, with 63 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceWalker Canyon stands as a testament to nature's patient artistry, shaped over millennia by the persistent flow of water and time. While the canyon may not bear ancient petroglyphs or pioneer tales, its enduring presence speaks to the timeless appeal of these wild places that have drawn adventurers, naturalists, and peace-seekers for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's perfect balance at Bootleg, where summer brings gloriously moderate temperatures that make June camping particularly magical, according to seasoned visitors. The dry mountain climate creates ideal conditions for outdoor adventures, with crisp, star-filled nights giving way to warm, golden days. As winter approaches, the campground transforms into a frosty wonderland with freezing temperatures, while late spring emerges warm and welcoming, painting the landscape in fresh greens and wildflower blooms.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 6,600 feet above sea level, Bootleg Campground offers that perfect high-country experience where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and every breath feels like pure mountain medicine. This elevation places you in the sweet spot of Walker Canyon's ecosystem, high enough to escape the desert heat but accessible enough for comfortable camping throughout much of the year.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where majestic Jeffrey pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark and graceful branches creating a living canopy overhead. The forest floor tells its own story, painted with wild roses that perfume the air and silvery sagebrush that catches the morning light. Rocky outcroppings add rugged character to the terrain, while the melodic voice of the Walker River provides nature's soundtrack. From various vantage points throughout the campground, breathtaking views of Walker Canyon unfold, revealing the dramatic geography that makes this corner of the wilderness so captivating.
Geological RegionBootleg Campground sits within the dramatic embrace of Walker Canyon, a living geological masterpiece still being sculpted by the relentless Walker River. Watch as the river continues its ancient work, actively carving and widening the canyon walls that shelter your campsite. The surrounding Jeffrey Pine forest thrives in this unique ecosystem, where wild roses bloom among granite boulders and sagebrush carpets the spaces between trees, creating a diverse tapestry of mountain flora that changes with every season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information about specific accessibility features is provided.
Sites SizeThe campground contains both single and double-family sites. RV spaces accommodate rigs up to 40 feet, with five pull-through spots available.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are widely spaced, offering excellent privacy. One camper described it as 'lots of space between spots,' while another noted, 'The sites are large and well-separated.'
Total Campsites63 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites on the hillside provide shade and breezes; sites near the entrance may have weak cellular signal.
Best CampsitesSeveral sources state there are no bad campsites. Sites near the entrance may offer better cellular signal.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day.
Check-out
Open 24 hours/day.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 30 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number not specified.
Groups
Group sites are limited, and facilities for groups are not detailed beyond this.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of a spur leading into two loops. Sites are widely spaced, providing excellent privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonLate May to mid-September, weather permitting. Typical seasonal opening dates are May 24 through September 15.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations; first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. User reviews report ample availability even during peak times, with some stating the campground never gets full.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bootleg Campground offers opportunities for fishing and limited hiking. The campground is located near the West Walker River, known for its trout fishing, and a short trail above the campsites provides additional recreational options.
Hiking
A short trail is available above the campsites, providing an opportunity for light hiking and exploration.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight at Bootleg Campground. The West Walker River, located across the highway, is renowned for its trout fishing. One camper stated, 'The Walker River, if you know what you’re doing, is fabulous for trout.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground is open seasonally, from late May to mid-September.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not supported at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed with a California Camp Fire Permit. Firewood is available for purchase.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsRocky terrain makes tent pitching challenging. Proximity to the highway introduces daytime road noise. Wildlife hazards include chipmunks (noted as common). Users recommend avoiding feeding wildlife.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 18.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Bridgeport Ranger District, 75694 US-395 HC 62, Bridgeport, CA 93517, Phone: 760-932-7070 (Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PST).
Good to know
Peak season datesLate May through mid-September.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided on-site, but the exact locations or frequency of pickup are not specified.
Proximity to water featuresWest Walker River is located across US-395, accessible by walking. Excellent for trout fishing.
Common complaintsDaytime road noise from US-395 is noted by some campers. One review mentions inconsiderate camp host's behavior. Another highlights lack of cellular signal.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful in most reviews (e.g., Amanda and Andy). One negative review mentions inconsiderate host behavior.
Campground Map
Bootleg Campground, Walker Canyon, US-395, Walker, CA
Driving directionsFrom Bridgeport, drive approximately 22 miles north on U.S. Highway 395. The campground is located on the left-hand side of the highway in Walker Canyon. Alternatively, from Walker, CA, take US Route 395 south for 7.7 miles, and the campground will be on the right.
Easy access from U.S. Highway 395. The routes to the campground are paved, and the campground accommodates any size RV. However, seasonal closures may affect accessibility due to weather.Nearby places
Walker (7.7 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Bridgeport (22 miles, approximately 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Walker (7 miles): Basic supplies, small town amenities. Nearby restaurants include a burger place and BBQ options in Walker (user review mentions but did not visit).
Camper Reviews
4.5
22 reviews
Bootleg Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Bootleg Campground receives high praise for its spacious sites, cleanliness, and proximity to the West Walker River. However, some reviewers mention road noise and limited cell service as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities, spacious and well-separated campsites, friendly camp hosts, and excellent trout fishing in the nearby West Walker River.
Based on 22 reviewsCommon Concerns
Challenges include road noise during the day, rocky terrain making tent pitching difficult, and limited to no cell phone service.
Based on 22 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend choosing sites near the entrance for better cell service, bringing cash or checks for payment, and being prepared for rocky terrain if tent camping.
Based on 22 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open from late May to mid-September, during which the weather is generally favorable. Reviews consistently highlight the clean bathrooms and well-maintained sites during this period.
Based on 22 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The Walker River, if you know what you’re doing, is fabulous for trout.' 2. 'Bathrooms were clean. There is running water at the campground.' 3. 'Lots of space between spots.' 4. 'Big trees shade...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
One camper mentioned that choosing a site near the entrance might offer limited cell service. Several campers also found the sites to be spacious and well-separated.
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are provided.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. No specific reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025