Hope Valley Campground
4.3724 reviewsHope Valley Campground, California (exact address not provided)
Hope Valley Campground
$22.00 - $40.00 / 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 night for single campsites; $40 per night for double campsites. Additional vehicle charges are $6/day. Daily rates are $32 for single sites and $50 for double sites.
About this campground
Nestled in a pristine alpine valley where Jeffrey and lodgepole pines tower overhead, Hope Valley Campground offers an intimate escape into California's high country. This welcoming retreat accommodates both tent campers and RV enthusiasts with thoughtfully appointed single and double-family sites. Each campsite comes complete with the essentials for a memorable outdoor experience: sturdy picnic tables for family meals under the stars, campfire rings where stories come alive, grills for evening cookouts, secure food storage lockers to keep wildlife at bay, and level tent pads that ensure a comfortable night's rest.
Hope Valley Campground offers a range of camping options, accommodating both tent and RV camping. There are no specific provisions for equestrian or glamping accommodations.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you camp along the very path where pioneers once journeyed westward. The historic Immigrant Trail winds directly through the campground, its worn tracks telling tales of determination and dreams. As part of the greater Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Hope Valley has witnessed centuries of human passage, from Native American travelers to gold-seeking forty-niners, each leaving their mark on this storied landscape.
Weather and SeasonsAt Hope Valley, you'll experience the crisp, invigorating air of true alpine living. From May through September, the campground awakens from its winter slumber to welcome adventurers seeking mountain magic. Days can bring warm sunshine perfect for exploration, while evenings often cool dramatically, reminding visitors they're more than a mile above sea level. The possibility of snow bookends the season, creating a dynamic weather tapestry that keeps every visit unique and memorable.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,260 feet above sea level, Hope Valley Campground offers a refreshing alpine sanctuary where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and summer temperatures provide natural air conditioning. This elevation creates an ideal microclimate that escapes the valley heat while remaining accessible and comfortable for camping enthusiasts of all experience levels.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to dappled sunlight filtering through a canopy of lodgepole pines, their slender trunks creating natural cathedral walls around your campsite. Soft grassy meadows invite barefoot morning walks, while glimpses of Hope Valley's expansive meadow and the surrounding mountain peaks frame unforgettable sunset views. The melodic West Fork Carson River flows nearby, its crystal-clear waters offering not just a serene soundtrack to your stay, but also prime fishing spots where rainbow and cutthroat trout test the skills of patient anglers.
Geological RegionHope Valley represents a stunning example of Sierra Nevada alpine geology, where ancient glaciers carved a dramatic landscape now softened by verdant forests of Jeffrey and lodgepole pines. The West Fork Carson River has sculpted its own story through the valley floor, creating diverse habitats that support both rainbow and cutthroat trout populations. This corner of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest showcases the powerful forces that shaped the American West, from volcanic activity to glacial movement, all visible in the dramatic peaks and gentle meadows that define this remarkable camping destination.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair-accessible, demonstrating consideration for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campground accommodates single and double-family campsites. Exact dimensions of the sites are not specified.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. One review noted that 'sites are pretty close to each other,' while others appreciated the comfortable spacing.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites based on preferences for meadow views or proximity to hiking trails.
Best CampsitesSite 11 is notable for its proximity to the Immigrant Trail.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limit per site not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCollection of small spurs with fair turnarounds, situated at the edge of Hope Valley.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 17 to September 22.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo indication of specific walk-up site availability or patterns.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not explicitly stated.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and road cycling. Proximity to the West Fork Carson River provides excellent opportunities for fishing, and nearby trails support hiking and backpacking.
Hiking
Numerous trails near the campground offer day hikes and backpacking opportunities. One trail, the Immigrant Trail, is located next to site 11.Fishing
The nearby West Fork Carson River is known for rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout fishing.Biking
Road cycling opportunities are available, benefiting from the area's scenic routes.Wildlife viewing
Nighthawks are a regular presence, hunting insects around the campground, and visitors may spot other local wildlife in the surrounding forest.Winter Activities
Snowshoeing is a popular winter activity nearby, as mentioned in one user review.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- California Camp Fire Permit is required for campfires, barbecues, and stoves.
- Quiet hours not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears (food storage required) and limited maneuverability for RVs due to tight roads and rocks.
Active alertsSeasonal fire restrictions and closures due to weather conditions may apply.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Slight rain
Precipitation: 2%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 13.5 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (2.00% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Slight rain
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
Carson Ranger District - 1536 South Carson Street, Carson City, NV 89801; Phone: 775-882-2766; Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PST (Closed on federal holidays)
Good to know
Peak season datesExact peak season date range not delineated.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site. However, reviews report occasional issues with overflowing dumpsters, especially during busy weekends.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the West Fork Carson River, suitable for fishing.
Common complaintsSome user reviews highlight complaints about the camp host's attitude and cleanliness of restrooms during certain seasons.
HostReviews suggest the host's behavior varies significantly from season to season, ranging from exceptionally friendly to unhelpful.
Campground Map
Hope Valley Campground, California (exact address not provided)
Driving directionsFrom Carson City or Minden, Nevada: Take Highway 88 approximately 21 miles to Blue Lakes Road (Blue Lakes Road turnoff is approximately two miles west of the Highway 89/Luther Pass junction). Turn left and travel approximately 1¼ miles to the Hope Valley Campground entrance, which is on the right-hand side of the road.
Road access includes Highway 88 and Blue Lakes Road. The interior road is described as tight with rocks and close-growing trees, making RV maneuvering challenging. The parking aprons are dirt, and the campground spurs provide fair turnaround points.Nearby places
Carson City, NV (approximately 21 miles)
Minden, NV (approximately 22 miles)
Luther Pass Junction (approximately 2 miles west of Blue Lakes Road turnoff)
Pickett's Junction (nearby landmark)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies likely available in Minden, NV, or Carson City, NV, approximately 21 to 22 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
24 reviews
Hope Valley Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Hope Valley Campground are mixed, highlighting both its natural beauty and occasional operational issues. Positive comments emphasize the picturesque setting, large campsites, and opportunities for outdoor activities. However, some reviews express dissatisfaction with specific camp hosts and maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention the beautiful surroundings, spacious campsites, and proximity to hiking and fishing areas. Clean restrooms and friendly camp hosts have been noted in some years,...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include overflowing trash dumpsters, dirty bathrooms, and poor behavior from certain camp hosts. One user reported, 'The camp host this year is a miserable creep of a woman,' citing locked...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing extra toilet paper and a light for use in restrooms. It is also advisable to check the condition of the campground host and maintenance before booking.
Based on 24 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that the campground is busiest during the summer season (May-September), with reports of better maintenance and friendlier camp hosts during some years than others.
Based on 24 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful campground with nice big spaces.'
2. 'Nice clean campground. The bathrooms were kept clean.'
3. 'Sites are pretty close to each other but if lucky and get respectful neighbors it works...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 11 is notable for being adjacent to the historic Immigrant Trail. No other specific site reviews are available.
Based on 24 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is supported by wheelchair-friendly vault toilets, though no detailed reviews from users with disabilities are available.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at the campground, but dogs must be kept on a leash as per regulations.
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025