Kirkwood Campground

Star4.47
33 reviews
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

7,680 ft

Price

$25 - $35/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Kirkwood Campground
$25.00 - $35.00 / 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

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What Campers Say

4.47

Recommended

Based on 33 reviews

34 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulhikingsites

"Kirkwood Campground is consistently described by visitors as a serene and less crowded location, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat into nature. Some reviewers highlighted its rustic charm and proximity to scenic trails and fishing spots."

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Campground Map

Kirkwood Campground

38.7071, -120.0872


Best Time to Camp at Kirkwood Campground

Experience the magic of changing seasons in this diverse climate that offers something special year-round. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and mild temperatures perfect for hiking, while summer brings warm, sun-drenched days ideal for water activities and evening stargazing. Fall transforms the landscape into a tapestry of golden hues with crisp, comfortable camping weather, and winter offers its own serene beauty with opportunities for snow-based adventures and cozy fireside moments.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer offers hiking, swimming and boating; expect more visitors and some mosquitoes.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Crisp fall weather and scenic views make it an excellent season for solitude and photography.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring wildflower blooms and mild temps are highlighted as ideal for hiking and scenery.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

High elevation likely brings snow and limited access; no explicit winter services noted.

Planning Tips

    About Kirkwood Campground

    Nestled in nature's embrace, this campground offers an unforgettable outdoor experience where modern comfort meets wilderness adventure. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat under starlit skies or an action-packed basecamp for exploration, you'll find your perfect escape here. Wake to birdsong and fresh mountain air, spend your days discovering hidden trails and scenic vistas, and end each evening around a crackling campfire as the sun paints the horizon in brilliant hues.
    Kirkwood Campground caters primarily to tent campers with no provisions for RVs or cabins.
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    Amenities available

    Potable water
    Fire rings
    Picnic tables
    Vault toilets

    Activities you can enjoy

    The activities available at Kirkwood Campground center around the natural features of the Eldorado National Forest. Campers can engage in hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and enjoy access to surrounding wilderness areas.
    HikingHiking opportunities include trails leading into the Mokelumne Wilderness, such as the Pardoe Trail, which offers stunning views from Squaw Ridge.
    FishingFishing in nearby Bear River Reservoir is a popular activity, with rainbow trout being the primary catch.
    SwimmingSwimming opportunities exist in Bear River Reservoir, though specific safety or lifeguard provisions are not detailed.
    BoatingBoating, including canoeing, is permitted on Bear River Reservoir. Motorized boats are not allowed, preserving the serene environment.
    Wildlife viewingWildlife species common to the Eldorado National Forest can be observed, but no specific examples are provided.
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    Policies & Safety


    Weather at Kirkwood Campground

    Reviews

    4.5
    33 reviews
    Recommended
    Recommended
    Kirkwood Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
    Kirkwood Campground is consistently described by visitors as a serene and less crowded location, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat into nature. Some reviewers highlighted its rustic charm and proximity to scenic trails and fishing spots.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 33 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Visitors appreciated the tranquility, secluded sites, and natural beauty. The absence of motorized boats on the reservoir enhances the peaceful environment. Proximity to hiking trails and fishing...
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    Based on 33 reviews

    Common Concerns

    Complaints primarily focus on the narrow access road leading to the campground, which can be challenging for larger vehicles. Additionally, some reviewers mentioned that the amenities are minimal,...
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    Based on 33 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Future visitors are advised to arrive early due to limited campsites. Bringing mosquito repellent is recommended, as some users noted a high presence of mosquitoes during certain times of the day....
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    Based on 33 reviews

    Seasonal Insights

    Reviewers noted that visiting during the off-peak times, such as weekdays, contributes to a quieter and more isolated experience. Summer months might see an increase in mosquitoes and slightly more...
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    Based on 33 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    "This place is a hidden gem thanks to the no signage on 88... It's a beautiful camp ground that has a lake, that's filled with fish yearly." - Cory Tanaka. "The hiking and climbing right out back was...
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    Based on 33 reviews

    Site-Specific Reviews

    No specific campsite reviews or recommendations are provided.
    Based on 33 reviews

    Accessibility Features

    Accessibility features or experiences are not mentioned in the reviews.
    Based on 33 reviews

    Pet-Friendly Features

    Many reviewers appreciated that the campground is dog-friendly. "The best part is that it is dog friendly so I can take my Aussie with me as a companion!" - Cory Tanaka
    Based on 33 reviews

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    Last updated January 5, 2026
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