Indian Creek Campground (Ca)
4.5437 reviews5665 Morgan Mill Road, Carson City, NV, 89701, USA
Indian Creek Campground (Ca)
$14.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$14.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees range from $14 to $32 per night depending on site type (standard, walk-to, or group). Day use picnic sites are free.
About this campground
Nestled alongside the pristine waters of Indian Creek Reservoir, this 160-acre campground beckons adventurers seeking a high-country escape. Though the landscape bears witness to the 2021 Tamarack Fire with its ghostly burnt pines standing sentinel among the sagebrush, nature's resilience shines through. Before its temporary closure, visitors enjoyed modern comforts including hot showers, flush toilets, and fresh drinking water—amenities that made roughing it feel surprisingly civilized.
Indian Creek Campground accommodates RV, tent, and group camping. It's designed for both individual and group campers.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days bring golden sunshine and warmth that can climb to a toasty 90°F, perfect for lakeside lounging and water activities. As evening falls, the high elevation works its magic, transforming the air into a cool, crisp blanket that makes for ideal sleeping weather. Keep an eye on afternoon skies—dramatic thunderstorms often roll through mid-summer, painting spectacular light shows across the mountain canvas.
ElevationExperience the breathtaking transition of elevations as the campground rises from 5,600 feet at the reservoir's edge to 6,400 feet among the surrounding foothills. This thousand-foot elevation change creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems, offering cooler temperatures and varied hiking experiences as you explore higher ground.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a stunning tapestry of towering ponderosa, Jeffrey, and pinyon pines that frame the sparkling reservoir below. Select campsites offer coveted water views, where morning mist dances across the surface and evening alpenglow paints the surrounding peaks in shades of rose and gold. The interplay of forest and water creates an ever-changing panorama that captivates photographers and nature lovers alike.
Geological RegionDiscover the rugged beauty of the Sierra Nevada's eastern foothills, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of dramatic elevation changes between 5,600 and 6,400 feet. This transition zone blends mountain and high desert ecosystems, creating a unique environment where stately pines mingle with hardy sagebrush, offering glimpses into the region's complex natural history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible features such as drinking water, flush toilets, vault toilets, and showers. Parking and walkways are also designed to be accessible.
Sites SizeThe RV/tent sites accommodate vehicles up to 34 feet. Campsites are described as "reasonably large and far apart," and one group site can host up to 40 campers.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are spaced sufficiently to offer privacy, with one reviewer noting, "Campsites are spaced far enough from each other." Another indicated a secluded and peaceful environment.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the reservoir for views (e.g., sites 2, 7, and 8) or campsite 21 for privacy but limited hammock opportunities. Group sites accommodate up to 40 campers.
Best CampsitesSites 2, 7, and 8 are noted as having the best views and proximity to the reservoir.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sites can host two tents and provide two parking spots.
Groups
The group campsite accommodates up to 40 campers and is designated for tents only.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTent and RV loop accommodates 19 sites for vehicles up to 34 feet. Walk-to tent loop offers 10 sites with nearby parking. Group site accommodates up to 40 campers.
Open and Closed SeasonClosed due to Tamarack Fire damage. Expected reopening January 2026.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability information is not explicitly mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyStandard sites incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's fee if canceled after midnight the day prior to check-in. Group sites face stricter penalties with cancellations less than 14 days before arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Indian Creek Campground provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and photography. Fishing is particularly highlighted as the most popular activity.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity at the campground. A 1.5-mile trail to Summit Lake starts from the west side of the campground, described as 'pretty easy.' Other trails also connect to surrounding areas.Fishing
Fishing is the most popular activity. The reservoir is stocked with trout, and the nearby East Fork of the Carson River is managed as a trophy fishery. One reviewer noted, 'Great spot to fish. We got to see the rainbow trout spawn.'Biking
Mountain biking opportunities exist along a network of logging roads in the surrounding areas.Boating
The campground features a boat ramp, and activities such as sailing and kayaking are mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted as an activity. One reviewer noted, 'Usually plenty of wildlife to enjoy,' while another shared that they saw their 'first wild turkey' here.Winter Activities
The campground does not explicitly mention winter activities, but the area experiences varying seasonal conditions.Water Sports
The reservoir supports non-motorized water sports, including kayaking and canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed using dead wood. Guests are encouraged to practice fire safety.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity requires food storage in bear boxes. Algae blooms or leeches may affect swimming conditions in the reservoir.
Active alertsThe campground is closed due to extensive damage from the 2021 Tamarack Fire.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 15.1 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
Markleeville, CA (nearest town with potential emergency services). Exact addresses for hospitals or police stations are not specified.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2026 - January 2, 2026
Trash and recyclingDetails about trash and recycling facilities are not specifically provided; however, general cleanliness is emphasized in reviews, with frequent mention of camp hosts maintaining the campground meticulously.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the west bank of Indian Creek Reservoir.
Common complaints"Leeches in the water! Cut our camping trip short." (User Review). "Algae bloom in Lake made it off limits for swimming." (User Review).
HostCamp hosts received praise for cleanliness and helpfulness. "Camp Hosts were great! Bathrooms always clean." (User Review).
Campground Map
5665 Morgan Mill Road, Carson City, NV, 89701, USA
Driving directionsFrom Woodfords, California, travel Hwy 89 south approximately four (4) miles to Airport Road. Turn left or east on Airport Road and travel another four miles on paved surface to the campground entrance located just south of Indian Creek Reservoir.
Road access is paved and well-maintained, accessible year-round. No indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Woodfords (4 miles), Markleeville (approx. 10 miles), South Lake Tahoe (approx. 30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Markleeville, CA (approx. 10 miles) offers groceries and basic supplies. Firewood and coal should be purchased before arriving as no nearby shops are within 2 miles.
Camper Reviews
4.5
37 reviews
Indian Creek Campground (Ca) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, peaceful setting, and well-maintained facilities. However, some concerns are noted about algae blooms in the reservoir and the presence of leeches.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praise the cleanliness of the facilities, the availability of free hot showers, the spaciousness of campsites, and the helpfulness of camp hosts. The site's proximity to the reservoir and...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Several complaints focused on the presence of algae blooms and leeches in the water, making the reservoir unsuitable for swimming. The campground's weak cell phone reception and the closure of the...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and firewood as there are no nearby stores. Avoid swimming in the reservoir due to leeches and algae. For cell phone reception, walk to the berm at the edge of the reservoir.
Based on 37 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Most reviews are from the warmer months when camping and outdoor activities are most feasible. During this time, the campground is described as warm, dry, and peaceful, though algae blooms and...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Be spoiled at this site with free unlimited hot showers," "Great spot to fish. We got to see the rainbow trout spawn," "The campground was spotless and even the campsite was raked clean when we got...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 2 is praised for its lake views, while sites 7 and 8 are highlighted as some of the best spots. One reviewer found site 21 lacking in trees for hanging a hammock.
Based on 37 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews note the accessible features of the campground, including parking and walkways.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and one reviewer mentioned their dogs enjoying the location.
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025