Northwind Campground

Star4.83
25 reviews
Peace & Quiet

Quick Facts

5,463 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Open season dates ar...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Eldorado National Forest 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
Northwind Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No reservation fees are associated with Northwind Campground as it is not reservable.
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

4.83

Top-Rated

Based on 25 reviews

22 Google reviews

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Northwind Campground

38.8315, -120.3486

Driving directions23 miles east of Placerville on Highway 50 and 11 miles north on Ice House Road (Forest Road 3), then east (right) on Forest Road 32. Detailed directions can also be found in the Northwind Campground Recreation Opportunity Guide (ROG).
Accessible via paved roads (Highway 50 and Ice House Road). Road conditions are generally good, but always check for seasonal weather impacts.
Nearby places
Placerville (23 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, are available in Placerville (23 miles away).

Best Time to Camp at Northwind Campground

Experience the Sierra Nevada's captivating seasonal rhythm at Northwind, where golden summer days invite endless outdoor adventures under crystal-clear skies. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a tapestry of amber and gold, while winter brings a hushed blanket of snow that turns the landscape into a wonderland. Spring awakens the forest floor with wildflowers and rushing streams, creating perfect conditions for those magical camping moments that become lifelong memories.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

'Golden summer days' and crystal-clear skies noted for summer appeal.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Text notes the forest 'transforms' in autumn, implying strong fall colors/appeal.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Morning mist and forest rebirth implied; spring likely pleasant though not detailed.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

No winter open/closure info; elevation suggests winter weather could limit access.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season is not explicitly stated.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season dates are not specified for Northwind Campground.

About Northwind Campground

Tucked away in the heart of Eldorado National Forest, Northwind Campground beckons those seeking solitude amid towering pines and whispering aspens. This hidden gem rewards visitors who venture off the beaten path with pristine natural beauty and the kind of peaceful atmosphere that's increasingly rare in today's busy world. The smooth paved roads leading to this intimate campground make it an accessible retreat where the only sounds you'll hear are birdsong and wind through the trees.
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Stay Limit
Regular stay limit applies as per Eldorado National Forest rules.


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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBears frequent the area. Campers must use approved food storage containers.

Weather at Northwind Campground

Reviews

4.8
25 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Northwind Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Review Summaries

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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