Northshore Campground

Star4.43
33 reviews
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$28 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

14 campsites

Season

Season opens May 23,...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Royal Elk Park Management site

Official Website
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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
Northshore Campground
$28.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The campground offers single and double sites priced at $35/night for single sites (one picnic table and one bear box) and $60/night for double sites...
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Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$60.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
831-245-6891info@royalelkparkmanagement.com
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What Campers Say

4.43

Recommended

Based on 33 reviews

30 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewslocationlake

Some mention

noise

"Reviews highlight Northshore Campground as a scenic and peaceful location with direct access to Loon Lake. However, concerns include the cleanliness of vault toilets and the lack of potable water. The campground is popular among both adventurers and family campers."

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Campground Map

Northshore Campground

38.9996, -120.3187


Best Time to Camp at Northshore Campground

Experience the best of California's mountain climate, where sun-drenched summer days invite endless water activities and cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, crisp air paints the forest in golden hues, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, creating a magical backdrop for those seeking solitude and seasonal beauty.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer is peak season with best weather and water-based activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
Not recommended

Campground closes Sep 6; largely unavailable during fall months.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens May 23 — late spring access; conditions and shade can be variable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed in winter; season runs May 23–Sep 06.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23, 2025, through September 06, 2026.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Season opens May 23, 2025, and closes September 06, 2026.
  • Current Alerts: None currently noted.

About Northshore Campground

Perched along the pristine shores of Loon Lake, Northshore Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its recently remodeled facilities and panoramic lakefront campsites. This paved sanctuary in the heart of Eldorado National Forest seamlessly blends modern amenities with the untamed beauty of the Sierra Nevada, where each morning greets you with shimmering water views and the gentle rustle of pine needles overhead.
Northshore Campground caters primarily to tent and RV campers. Group camping is not explicitly mentioned, and there are no cabins or glamping accommodations offered.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 pm
Check-out
11:00 am
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights allowed across the calendar year.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The Northshore Campground offers a variety of activities including fishing, boating, and swimming in Loon Lake. Trails in the Loon Lake area and surrounding landscapes provide opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural scenery. Stargazing is recommended due to the clear night skies.
HikingThe area includes various trails, particularly suited for hikers who wish to explore the natural landscapes and scenic surroundings near Loon Lake.
FishingFishing is available at Loon Lake. Campers have reported good fishing opportunities including catching rainbow trout.
SwimmingThe lake is suitable for swimming, with clean and clear water providing a refreshing retreat.
BikingThe surrounding areas include bike-friendly trails; however, no specific bike paths are mentioned within the campground.
BoatingBoating is a popular activity at Loon Lake with options for both motorized and manual boats, but no rentals are indicated on-site.
Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings around Loon Lake and its surroundings are common, offering campers an opportunity for nature observation.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity frequent in the area. Proper food storage is crucial.
Active AlertsNone currently noted.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Northshore Campground

Reviews

4.4
33 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Northshore Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight Northshore Campground as a scenic and peaceful location with direct access to Loon Lake. However, concerns include the cleanliness of vault toilets and the lack of potable water. The campground is popular among both adventurers and family campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 33 reviews

What Campers Love

Many reviewers praised the beautiful lakefront views and the serenity of the location. Campers also appreciated the clear skies for stargazing and the recreational opportunities for fishing,...
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Based on 33 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include the lack of potable water on-site, the absence of showers, and the need for more frequent cleaning of the vault toilets. Some campers also noted the proximity of sites,...
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Based on 33 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing plenty of drinking water and day tents for shade due to limited tree coverage. Booking reservations in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons.
Based on 33 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season for camping due to favorable weather conditions, with activities like swimming and fishing being popular. However, some users notice a lack of shade and recommend...
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Based on 33 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Loon Lake is a clear water paradise for swimming and kayaking. Vault toilets need better management.' 2. 'A perfect family retreat with breathtaking lake views.' 3. 'No potable water available,...
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Based on 33 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and campers appreciate the pet-friendly policies, although there are no specific pet-related amenities.
Based on 33 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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