Grouse Ridge Campground
4.5222 reviewsGrouse Ridge Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
No fees are required for this site. Camping is free.
About this campground
Perched high in the Sierra Nevada at 7,400 feet, Grouse Ridge Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry experience. This free, first-come, first-serve primitive site serves as your gateway to the pristine Grouse Lakes Area, where hiking and biking trails wind through a landscape of shimmering alpine lakes and ancient granite formations. Here, the crowds disappear, replaced by the whisper of wind through scattered pines and the reflection of sky in crystal-clear waters.
The campground offers a rustic camping experience with primitive sites suitable for tents and small trailers.
Weather and SeasonsThe high elevation brings dramatic seasonal changes to Grouse Ridge. Winter blankets the area in deep snow, often rendering it inaccessible until late spring's thaw reveals the landscape anew. Summer transforms the ridge into an alpine paradise, where wildflowers paint the meadows in vibrant colors against a backdrop of warm, dry days. Afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through, reminding visitors of nature's power at this elevation. As autumn approaches, crisp nights hint at the coming snow, creating perfect conditions for those final camping adventures of the season.
ElevationAt 7,400 feet above sea level, Grouse Ridge places you firmly in the alpine zone, where the air is crisp and thin, and temperatures can plunge even on summer nights. This elevation creates a unique microclimate where afternoon clouds build against peaks, mornings dawn with crystalline clarity, and the stars at night seem close enough to touch. Visitors should prepare for rapid weather changes and cooler conditions that define high-altitude camping.
Natural Features and SceneryGrouse Ridge unveils a dramatic tapestry of Sierra Nevada beauty. Massive granite boulders, sculpted by millennia of wind and weather, create natural sculptures throughout the campground. Between these ancient sentinels, hardy pines provide pockets of shade and shelter. The true gems lie just beyond camp—dozens of pristine alpine lakes dot the landscape like sapphires, each reflecting the endless mountain sky. In summer, carpets of wildflowers transform rocky meadows into nature's garden, while the promise of solitude draws those seeking escape from crowded destinations below.
Geological RegionCrown jewel of the Tahoe National Forest, Grouse Ridge offers commanding views from its lofty perch atop the ridge. This geological wonderland showcases the Sierra Nevada's volcanic and glacial history through its dramatic granite formations and carved lake basins. The scattered pines that dot the landscape have adapted to harsh alpine conditions, creating a unique ecosystem where rugged beauty meets delicate wildflower meadows. From here, panoramic vistas stretch across wave after wave of mountain peaks, each telling its own story of fire, ice, and time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specifically noted in the provided information.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate small trailers, suggesting medium-sized campsites.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer a mix of experiences. While some users found the environment peaceful, others noted issues with noisy groups.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo explicit site-specific recommendations, but campers recommend arriving early to secure one of the 9 available sites.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limits mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limits mentioned.
Groups
Group sites are not explicitly mentioned. The campground has 9 individual campsites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutIncludes 9 campsites with tables, fire rings, and bear boxes. 5 campsites can accommodate small trailers. Vault toilets available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Memorial Day to mid-October, though operations may vary depending on weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsNone; first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampground follows a walk-up system, with reports indicating it fills quickly during peak times.
Cancellation PolicyWalk-up only, no reservation system.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Grouse Ridge Campground is located in a stunning natural setting ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, biking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
The campground provides access to a variety of hiking trails, including paths leading to the Grouse Lakes Area. Trail difficulty ranges from easy to challenging, and there are opportunities to explore alpine lakes and enjoy stunning vistas.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in nearby lakes such as Downey and Milk Lakes. However, one user reported no luck fishing in October, which could suggest seasonal variations in fishing success.Swimming
Campers can swim in nearby lakes such as Penner Lake and Sawmill Lake. These alpine lakes provide a refreshing option for swimmers.Biking
Mountain biking is available, with trails leading off the ridge. However, some trails may be challenging for beginners.Wildlife viewing
The area is described as a bird and flower watcher's paradise. Campers may encounter a diverse range of wildlife.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned, but the campground may be inaccessible during heavy snow.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned, although access to alpine lakes may allow for such activities informally.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include rough roads, limited marking on trails, potential for rowdy groups, and wildlife such as bears (bear boxes are provided).
Active alertsAs of May 13, 2025, the campground is inaccessible due to snow.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
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
Contact Tahoe National Forest at (530) 265-4531 for current operations. No specific emergency service information available.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.
Trash and recyclingNo trash services are provided at Grouse Ridge Campground. Campers must pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near alpine lakes including Penner Lake, Downey Lake, and Milk Lake, offering opportunities for hiking and fishing.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention the rough road leading to the campground, limited trail markings, and occasional issues with vault toilet cleanliness.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Nevada City: Take Hwy 20 heading east toward Truckee approximately 20 miles. Turn left on Bowman Lake Road (Forest Road 18). Continue on that road for 5 miles and turn right on Grouse Ridge Road (Forest Road 14). Road is unimproved dirt for 6 miles until reaching campground. From I-80: Take Hwy 20 cutoff on I-80 headed west for approximately 5 miles. Turn right on Bowman Lake Road (Forest Road 18). Continue on that road for 5 miles and turn right on Grouse Ridge Road (Forest Road 14). Road is unimproved dirt for 6 miles until reaching campground.
Road access is unimproved dirt for 6 miles. While a 4-wheel-drive vehicle is not strictly necessary during dry conditions, many user reviews recommend AWD or 4WD due to rough terrain, potholes, and washboard road conditions. Roads may be impassable during snowy conditions.Nearby places
Nevada City (approximately 20 miles)
Nearby supplies
No information about closest supplies is provided, but pack-in/pack-out policy indicates limited nearby resources.
Camper Reviews
4.5
22 reviews
Grouse Ridge Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the rustic and remote nature of the campground, offering stunning views and access to hiking trails. However, the challenging road to access the site and the lack of amenities like water and trash service are common themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the stunning vistas, proximity to beautiful alpine lakes, and the abundance of hiking and biking trails. Campers appreciated its peaceful environment and the free first-come,...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the rough, rocky, and unmaintained 6-mile dirt road leading to the campground, the lack of water and trash services, and the inconsistency in vault toilet cleanliness.
Based on 22 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to bring extra toilet paper, drinking water, and insect repellent. A 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is highly recommended due to the condition of the access road.
Based on 22 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is only accessible during the summer months due to snow. Even during summer, snow may persist into July, impacting access. Fall camping is noted for beautiful scenery, although fishing...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Nice primitive backcountry campground, that offers some amazing views!" - Brokk. "The road is very rough, but the views and trails are worth it." - Vera Wilson. "This place is a hiking paradise." -...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Several reviews mention the campground's small size and the need to arrive early to secure a site. Vault toilets are available, but cleanliness varies.
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not mentioned in user reviews, and the rough road may complicate access for some visitors.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or pet-related experiences.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025