Bootleg Campground

Star4.50
41 reviews
Bootleg Campground, Walker Canyon, US-395, Walker, CA

Quick Facts

6,600 ft

Price

$12 - $24/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

63 campsites

Season

Late May to mid-Sept...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Bridgeport Ranger District site

Official Website
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Bootleg Campground
$12.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$22 per campsite, $6 extra vehicle fee. Discounted $12 fee available with national pass.
Standard Site Fee$22.00
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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Provider
760-932-7070
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What Campers Say

4.50

Recommended

Based on 41 reviews

39 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciousfriendlywell-maintained

Some mention

noiseroad noisesignal

"Bootleg Campground receives high praise for its spacious sites, cleanliness, and proximity to the West Walker River. However, some reviewers mention road noise and limited cell service as drawbacks."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Bootleg Campground, Walker Canyon, US-395, Walker, CA

Bootleg Campground

Bootleg Campground, Walker Canyon, US-395, Walker, CA

Driving directionsFrom Bridgeport, drive approximately 22 miles north on U.S. Highway 395. The campground is located on the left-hand side of the highway in Walker Canyon. Alternatively, from Walker, CA, take US Route 395 south for 7.7 miles, and the campground will be on the right.
Easy access from U.S. Highway 395. The routes to the campground are paved, and the campground accommodates any size RV. However, seasonal closures may affect accessibility due to weather.
Nearby places
Walker (7.7 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Bridgeport (22 miles, approximately 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Walker (7 miles): Basic supplies, small town amenities. Nearby restaurants include a burger place and BBQ options in Walker (user review mentions but did not visit).

Best Time to Camp at Bootleg Campground

Experience nature's perfect balance at Bootleg, where summer brings gloriously moderate temperatures that make June camping particularly magical, according to seasoned visitors. The dry mountain climate creates ideal conditions for outdoor adventures, with crisp, star-filled nights giving way to warm, golden days. As winter approaches, the campground transforms into a frosty wonderland with freezing temperatures, while late spring emerges warm and welcoming, painting the landscape in fresh greens and wildflower blooms.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open late May–mid-Sept; summer brings moderate temps and positive reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Open into mid-September; early fall pleasant but season ends mid-fall.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens late May; late-spring visits possible but season is limited.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is seasonal and closed in winter months.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Late May through mid-September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Late May to mid-September, weather permitting. Typical seasonal opening dates are May 24 through September 15.

About Bootleg Campground

Escape to Bootleg Campground, where towering Jeffrey pines create a natural cathedral of shade and tranquility. Nestled in the heart of Walker Canyon, this hidden gem rewards visitors with generously spaced sites that promise the privacy you've been craving. Whether you're passing through for a night under the stars or settling in for an extended wilderness retreat, Bootleg's thoughtful layout ensures every camper finds their perfect slice of solitude among the whispering pines.
Bootleg Campground provides facilities for tent camping and RVs, with 63 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Open 24 hours/day.
Check-out
Open 24 hours/day.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 30 nights.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Bootleg Campground offers opportunities for fishing and limited hiking. The campground is located near the West Walker River, known for its trout fishing, and a short trail above the campsites provides additional recreational options.
HikingA short trail is available above the campsites, providing an opportunity for light hiking and exploration.
FishingFishing is a highlight at Bootleg Campground. The West Walker River, located across the highway, is renowned for its trout fishing. One camper stated, 'The Walker River, if you know what you’re doing, is fabulous for trout.'
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRocky terrain makes tent pitching challenging. Proximity to the highway introduces daytime road noise. Wildlife hazards include chipmunks (noted as common). Users recommend avoiding feeding wildlife.
Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are provided at each site to protect from wildlife.

Weather at Bootleg Campground

Reviews

4.5
41 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Bootleg Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Bootleg Campground receives high praise for its spacious sites, cleanliness, and proximity to the West Walker River. However, some reviewers mention road noise and limited cell service as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 41 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean and well-maintained facilities, spacious and well-separated campsites, friendly camp hosts, and excellent trout fishing in the nearby West Walker River.
Based on 41 reviews

Common Concerns

Challenges include road noise during the day, rocky terrain making tent pitching difficult, and limited to no cell phone service.
Based on 41 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend choosing sites near the entrance for better cell service, bringing cash or checks for payment, and being prepared for rocky terrain if tent camping.
Based on 41 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is open from late May to mid-September, during which the weather is generally favorable. Reviews consistently highlight the clean bathrooms and well-maintained sites during this period.
Based on 41 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The Walker River, if you know what you’re doing, is fabulous for trout.' 2. 'Bathrooms were clean. There is running water at the campground.' 3. 'Lots of space between spots.' 4. 'Big trees shade...
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Based on 41 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

One camper mentioned that choosing a site near the entrance might offer limited cell service. Several campers also found the sites to be spacious and well-separated.
Based on 41 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are provided.
Based on 41 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. No specific reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 41 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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