How much does camping cost at Donner Memorial State Park Campground?

Camping fees at Donner Memorial State Park Campground are $35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Donner Memorial State Park Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Donner Memorial State Park Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Donner Memorial State Park Campground before I book?

Yes! Donner Memorial State Park Campground has 53 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Donner Memorial State Park Campground?

Donner Memorial State Park Campground is open Memorial Day through mid-September.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Donner Memorial State Park Campground?

Yes, Donner Memorial State Park Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Donner Memorial State Park Campground?

Fire policies at Donner Memorial State Park Campground: Charcoal/wood fires prohibited in day-use areas; propane/gas grills allowed.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Donner Memorial State Park Campground have?

Donner Memorial State Park Campground has 154 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Donner Memorial State Park Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Donner Memorial State Park Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Donner Memorial State Park Campground?

Donner Memorial State Park Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Donner Memorial State Park Campground?

Popular activities at Donner Memorial State Park Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Donner Memorial State Park Campground

4.49

59 reviews

12593 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161

B-Report Card

Family FriendlyScenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Beach Camping California

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

154 campsites

Season

Open from Memorial D...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

154 campsites

Season

Open from Memorial D...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Donner Memorial State Park Campground

$35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fee is $35/night for a standard campsite. Additional $10/night fee for a second vehicle.

Standard Site Fee$35.00

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Provider

(800) 777-0369, (530) 582-7892interp@parks.ca.gov

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Campground Map

12593 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161

Donner Memorial State Park Campground

12593 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161

Nearby places

Truckee: 0 miles (5 minutes), Reno: 30 miles (30 minutes), Sacramento: 100 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Truckee, approximately 5 miles away.

Weather at Donner Memorial State Park Campground

Current alert: No specific alerts; seasonal snow conditions may restrict access.

Best Time to Camp at Donner Memorial State Park Campground

Summer brings 70–80°F days and 40°F nights, with full access to trails, boat ramps, and visitor services. This is peak season, especially mid-July through August and holiday weekends. Pack mosquito repellent. The campground closes mid-October as snow arrives, which can blanket the ground from late fall through early spring. Daytime highs drop to around 40°F in winter, with nighttime lows hitting 20°F. Spring campers should expect muddy trails and lingering snowpack.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Open into mid-October; cooler temps and fall colors with fewer crowds than peak summer.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day through mid-September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from Memorial Day to mid-October; specific closure dates depend on snow conditions.

About Donner Memorial State Park Campground

Donner Memorial State Park Campground sits at 6,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada, offering 154 tent and RV sites among lodgepole and Jeffrey pines near Donner Lake. Sites cost $35 per night and come with picnic tables, fire rings, bear lockers, and access to flush toilets and token-operated hot showers. The campground is open from Memorial Day through mid-October, with reservations recommended for summer weekends when crowds peak.

Donner Memorial State Park Campground provides options for tent and RV camping, accommodating both primitive and family-style setups. Accessibility features are present at several campsites.

Historical Significance

The park preserves the site of the Donner Party's 1846-47 winter encampment, one of California's most tragic emigrant stories. The Pioneer Monument marks their ordeal. The Visitor Center features exhibits on the Washoe people who first lived in these mountains, the emigrant families who traveled the California Trail, and the Chinese railroad workers who built the transcontinental railroad through Donner Pass. Interpretive trails connect these layers of history.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings 70–80°F days and 40°F nights, with full access to trails, boat ramps, and visitor services. This is peak season, especially mid-July through August and holiday weekends. Pack mosquito repellent. The campground closes mid-October as snow arrives, which can blanket the ground from late fall through early spring. Daytime highs drop to around 40°F in winter, with nighttime lows hitting 20°F. Spring campers should expect muddy trails and lingering snowpack.

ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, this high-altitude haven offers the pure mountain air and stunning vistas that only elevation can provide. While most visitors adjust quickly to the altitude, the thinner air serves as a gentle reminder to take it easy on your first day, stay hydrated, and let your body acclimate to this spectacular mountain environment.

Natural Features and SceneryDonner Lake anchors the landscape here, its clear water backed by granite peaks carved by ancient glaciers. Lodgepole pines, Jeffrey pines, and white firs shade most sites, with Donner Creek running through portions of the campground. The geology tells a story written over millions of years: weathered boulders and polished granite faces reveal where ice sheets scraped through the range. At 6,000 feet, the air is thin and the light sharp, especially on summer mornings when the lake surface reflects the surrounding ridges.

Geological RegionDiscover a landscape sculpted by ancient forces at Donner Memorial State Park, where massive glaciers once carved their way through the Sierra Nevada granite, leaving behind the dramatic peaks, valleys, and pristine lakes that define this 6,000-foot alpine wonderland. The park's geological story unfolds in every weathered boulder and polished granite face, offering visitors a chance to witness firsthand the powerful natural forces that shaped California's most iconic mountain range over millions of years.

Scenic ViewsViews include Donner Lake, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and surrounding pine forests.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style accommodations mentioned; the campground focuses on tent and RV camping.

Programs & ActivitiesInterpretive programs and exhibits at the Visitor Center focus on Washoe tribal history, the Donner Party, and early railroad construction. Educational field trips and virtual programs are offered.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2PM

Check-out

12 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 15 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

8people allowed per campsite.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground divides into Ridge, Creek, and Splitrock loops. Site sizes vary from small to large, with some on slanted terrain requiring leveling blocks. Privacy depends on tree density and underbrush, which changes significantly from one site to the next. Interstate 80 and active train lines run close enough that earplugs are a common recommendation.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through www.reservecalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites may be available depending on reservation levels; weekday availability is generally better than weekends.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online via ReserveCalifornia.com. Specific refund policies not detailed.

AccessibilityThe campground has several accessible facilities, including paved campsites, accessible restrooms, and hard-packed trails. Campfire centers and routes to restrooms are accessible. Specific accessible campsites include Ridge: #20, #28, #30; Creek: #53, #60, #73, #79; Splitrock: #115, #124.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, ranging from small to large. Notable sites with larger sizes include #19, #116, and #145.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some offering significant seclusion due to tree cover and underbrush (e.g., sites #18, #19, #118, #145). Others are more exposed (e.g., sites #85, #86).

Total Campsites154 campsites

Recommended SitesCampsite #83 is praised for privacy and proximity to the creek. #8 offers good tree cover and privacy. Sites #102–106 are near a pond but offer varying degrees of sun exposure and tree cover.

Best CampsitesSites #18, #19, #118, and #145 offer the most privacy, with thick tree cover and underbrush creating natural barriers. Site #19 is both secluded and large. Sites #85 and #86 are more exposed. For size alone, #116 and #145 are notably spacious. Campers also recommend sites #84, #87, #99, #102, #103, #104, #105, #106, #122, and #147.

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Amenities available

Donner Memorial State Park Campground offers comprehensive amenities for campers, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience. Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring, and metal bear-resistant food lockers (36" deep, 43" wide, and 28" high). Restrooms with hot showers are available nearby, and there are no recreational hookups. Key amenities such as potable water, firewood, and token-operated showers are provided at the campground kiosk, open daily from May to September (9 AM - 5 PM). Campers must adhere to noise curfew hours (10 PM to 6 AM) and store food properly due to the presence of black bears. Seasonal conditions vary, with spring camping sometimes impacted by snow or wet ground. The campground is near interpretive trails and the scenic Donner Lake.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Donner Memorial State Park Campground

Donner Memorial State Park provides diverse recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, snowshoeing, and kayaking. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Donner Lake, picnicking, and immersion in natural and historical trails. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snow play.

Hiking4.0/5

Park has over 8 miles of trails including accessible Nature Trail and Lakeside Interpretive Trail.

Fishing4.0/5

Donner Lake offers kokanee salmon and planted trout; anglers fish from the beach; permits required.

Boating4.0/5

Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on Donner Lake; good water access from the park.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Park hosts mule deer, coyotes, bats and bald eagles — diverse wildlife sightings reported.

Water Sports4.0/5

Kayaking and paddleboarding are cited as popular activities on Donner Lake.

Swimming3.0/5

Designated swimming at China Cove Beach, but lake water is cold and limited in area.

Biking3.0/5

Splitrock Trail (2 miles, moderate) suitable for novice/intermediate riders.

Beach activities3.0/5

China Cove Beach is popular for sunbathing/picnicking but beach area is modest.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Photography4.5/5Lake, granite peaks, forested shorelines and wildlife create many strong photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsActive bear population; campers must use bear-resistant food lockers provided. Seasonal hazards include snow, wet trails, and cold temperatures.

Food Storage RequiredBear-resistant lockers are mandatory at all campsites. Dimensions are 36" deep, 43" wide, and 28" high.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCharcoal/wood fires prohibited in day-use areas; propane/gas grills allowed.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest hospital: Tahoe Forest Hospital, Truckee, CA (5 miles). Police services available in Truckee.

Trash & RecyclingTrash must be stored securely in bear-resistant lockers. Recycling facilities are not mentioned explicitly.

Water FeaturesLocated along Donner Lake and Donner Creek, offering water-based recreation and scenic enjoyment.

Camp HostCampground hosts sell firewood and assist with visitor needs. Firewood costs $10 per bundle.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

59 reviews

Recommended

Donner Memorial State Park Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews vary, highlighting the campground's beautiful scenery and convenient amenities. Positive sentiments focus on cleanliness, historical significance, and diverse recreational options. Negative reviews mention noise from nearby highways and trains.

Review Summaries

Based on 59 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers praise the well-maintained facilities, token-operated hot showers, and proximity to Donner Lake. The Visitor Center and interpretive trails are also well-received.

Based on 59 reviews

Common Concerns

Major complaints include noise from I-80 and train tracks, mosquito presence due to standing water, and occasional overcrowding during summer weekends.

Based on 59 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Highly recommended campsites include #19, #83, #90, and #145 for their privacy and convenient location. Sites #85 and #86 are noted for their proximity but lack privacy.

Based on 59 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing earplugs to mitigate noise, mosquito repellent, and leveling blocks for slanted sites. Early arrival is advised to avoid crowds during peak seasons.

Based on 59 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and early summer camping is recommended, though spring conditions may include snow or wet ground. Summer offers optimal conditions but can get crowded.

Based on 59 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Camping was nice! Bathrooms are nice and clean and most importantly they work." - Lily B. "Lovely State Park surrounding Donner Lake and Cold Stream Canyon. Great camping in the summer. Kayaking,...

Based on 59 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites receive positive feedback for their clean restrooms and proximity to trails. Users praise the hard-packed paths and paved parking adjacent to restrooms.

Based on 59 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed on a leash in most areas of the park, excluding China Cove Beach and the Nature Trail. Visitors note seeing dogs on paddleboards and trails.

Based on 59 reviews

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Donner Memorial State Park Campground

$35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fee is $35/night for a standard campsite. Additional $10/night fee for a second vehicle.

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve California

Provider

(800) 777-0369, (530) 582-7892interp@parks.ca.gov

Go if

Anglers after kokanee salmon and planted trout, families who want flush toilets and the Donner history visitor center, or RV campers who can snag sites #19 or #145 for tree cover. Five minutes to Truckee for resupply is genuinely convenient.

Skip if

Highway and train noise is a real nightly presence, not an occasional rumble. Campers who've felt unwelcome at predominantly local, culturally homogeneous Sierra campgrounds report similar friction here, so that's worth factoring if it's been an issue before. Weekend crowds in Ju

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Donner Memorial State Park Campground

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Quick Facts

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Best Time to Camp at Donner Memorial State Park Campground

Planning Tips

About Donner Memorial State Park Campground

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