Markleeville Campground
4.5614 reviewsMarkleeville Campground, State Route 4/89, Markleeville, California
Markleeville Campground
$18.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
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
Single campsites cost $18 per night. For day use, fees are $26 for a single unit and an additional $6 for extra vehicles.
About this campground
Tucked away along the babbling waters of Markleeville Creek, this intimate 10-site campground offers a peaceful retreat beneath towering Jeffrey pines and whispering cottonwoods. Each campsite provides natural privacy thanks to the verdant understory of native grasses and aromatic sagebrush. While maintaining a rustic charm with vault toilets and basic amenities, the campground offers water spigots throughout and firewood available for purchase. Please note that water should be treated before drinking, adding to the authentic wilderness experience.
The campground accommodates tent and small RV camping. It features combined sites, a few tent sites, and no RV-specific sites.
Historical SignificanceMarkleeville stands as a gateway to legendary alpine adventures, drawing cyclists from around the world to tackle the iconic Monitor and Ebbetts Passes. This historic mountain town has long served as basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts seeking high-altitude thrills. As one satisfied visitor noted, it's 'Close to all the fun climbs for Alta Alpina 8 plus riding around Monitor and Ebbetts Passes,' making it a cyclist's dream destination where challenging ascents meet small-town charm.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Sierra Nevada seasons at Markleeville. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-draped wonderland with freezing temperatures perfect for nearby winter sports. As spring emerges, wildflowers dot the landscape while temperatures climb from crisp 40°F mornings to pleasant 80°F afternoons. Summer brings endless blue skies and dry mountain air ideal for stargazing. The sweet spot for camping stretches from mid-spring through early fall, when days are warm, nights are cool, and the creek runs full.
ElevationPerched at 5,500 feet in the Sierra Nevada, the campground offers that perfect high-country atmosphere where pine-scented mountain air refreshes your lungs and summer temperatures stay delightfully cool. This elevation provides natural air conditioning during warm days and creates those crisp, star-filled nights that make mountain camping unforgettable.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where Markleeville Creek winds through groves of stately Jeffrey pines and rustling cottonwoods. The interplay of dappled sunlight through the canopy creates an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow across campsites naturally separated by fragrant sagebrush and soft meadow grasses. Visitors rave about the 'beautiful campsites' and the 'quick walk to the river' where 'decent fishing' awaits those who bring their gear. This slice of wilderness feels worlds away while remaining easily accessible.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, the campground sits at the confluence of mountain ecosystems where Markleeville Creek joins its journey toward the East Fork Carson River. This unique location showcases the diverse ecology of the eastern Sierra, where Jeffrey pines and cottonwoods thrive alongside drought-resistant sagebrush and native grasses. The surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater of wilderness, offering both shelter and endless opportunities for exploration in one of America's largest national forests.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are not available.
Sites SizeSites are suitable for tents and small RVs up to 24 feet.
Sites PrivacyGrass and sagebrush understory provide privacy between campsites.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the river offer better views and relaxing water sounds. Early arrival recommended for securing these spots.
Best CampsitesCampsites close to the river are highlighted for their scenic location and tranquility. "They are two close to the river so you can hear it at night." (User review by Carrie Stoll)
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in not specified
- site is first-come-first-served.
Check-out
Check-out not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific limit mentioned for guests.
Groups
Group camping is not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground stretches along Markleeville River with campsites placed among pine and cottonwood trees, providing privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from April through October, weather permitting.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations allowed; sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Early arrival recommended during peak season to secure a spot.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable since reservations are not allowed.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Markleeville Campground offers activities like fishing and road cycling. However, it does not provide direct access to hiking trails due to being surrounded by private property.
Fishing
Fishing is available in the nearby Markleeville Creek and East Fork Carson River.Biking
Road cycling opportunities are available in the area, including routes like Monitor Pass and Ebbetts Pass.Winter Activities
None mentioned.Water Sports
None mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- A free California Camp Fire Permit issued by CalFire is required for campfire, barbecue, and portable stove use.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsSituated in bear country; campers must use food storage lockers and practice safe food storage techniques. "Practice safe food storage techniques." (Markleeville official comments)
Active alertsThe campground was affected by the Tamarack Fire in July 2021. Recovery status unknown, but part of the campground appears intact as of later reviews.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 12.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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 Grover Hot Springs State Park Ranger Station (approximately 7 miles), Carson Valley Medical Center in Gardnerville, NV (approximately 20 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesApril to September, as weather allows.
Trash and recyclingA dumpster is available for disposing trash. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Markleeville Creek with easy access for fishing and scenic views. "Steps from the river, quiet and beautiful." (User review by Rebecca Johnson)
Common complaintsSome reviews mention limited facilities, such as no potable water or flushing toilets. "No real flushing toilets or bathrooms but otherwise the perfect campground." (User review by Rebecca Johnson)
HostJosh is mentioned as a terrific camp host in user reviews. "Hidden gem, Josh the camp host is terrific!" (User review by gdm)
Campground Map
Markleeville Campground, State Route 4/89, Markleeville, California
Driving directionsFrom Carson City or Minden, Nevada: Take Highway 88 approximately 14 miles to the junction with Highway 4/89 at Woodfords, California. Turn left on Highway 4/89, proceed for approximately six miles to the Markleeville Campground entrance on the north side of highway (approximately 1/2 mile past the small town of Markleeville). From Markleeville, CA: Take State Rt. 89 south/State Route 4 west 0.5 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign onto dirt and gravel road and go 0.3 miles to campground.
The campground is accessible from major roads via paved highways (Highway 4/89). Entry to the campground itself is through a dirt and gravel road, which may require caution for larger vehicles. No RVs longer than 24 feet are allowed due to road conditions.Nearby places
Markleeville (0.5 miles, 5 minutes), Carson City (approximately 20 miles, 30 minutes), Minden (approximately 14 miles, 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in the town of Markleeville (approximately 0.5 miles), which offers beer, dining, and stores. Firewood is available for purchase at the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
14 reviews
Markleeville Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users describe Markleeville Campground as a quiet and beautiful spot by the river. Positive aspects include its proximity to the river, shaded campsites, and helpful camp host. Negative aspects include limited amenities like vault toilets and no potable water or Wi-Fi.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the quiet atmosphere, scenic beauty, proximity to the river, helpful camp host, and spacious campsites with privacy.
Based on 14 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water, flush toilets, and Wi-Fi. Some users also disliked the evacuation during fire incidents.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring potable water and use the hot shower facility at Carson River Resort. Campers should ensure safe food storage due to bears and prepare for no Wi-Fi or cell phone service.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is popular for fishing and cycling. Fire evacuation was a concern during July in one review. Winter months are not suitable due to freezing temperatures and snow.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Steps from the river, quiet and beautiful." - Rebecca Johnson; "Hidden gem, Josh the camp host is terrific!" - gdm; "No Wi-Fi or cell service but the sunrise is impossible to beat." - Carrie Stoll.
Based on 14 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Reviews identify spacious campsites with privacy and shade as highlights. Campgrounds near Markleeville Creek offer scenic views.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly toilets are not available, and reviews do not specifically reference accessibility features.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be on a leash. No detailed user reviews on pet experiences are available.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025