How much does camping cost at College?

Camping fees at College range from $47-$96/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is College first-come first-served or reservation?

College 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 College before I book?

Yes! College has 7 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 College?

College is open May 15 to September 11. 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 College?

College does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does College have?

College has 9 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at College?

Yes, pets are allowed at College. 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 College?

College offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at College?

Popular activities at College include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

College

Q: Can I have a campfire at College?

Fire policies at College: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. For current fire conditions or weather closures contact the High Sierra Ranger District, Sierra National Forest (559) 855-5355. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.33

105 reviews

P O BOX 152, LAKESHORE, CA 93634, USA

StargazingSwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Northern California

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

10,320 ft

Price

$47 - $96/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Open season is from ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Vista Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

10,320 ft

Price

$47 - $96/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Open season is from ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Vista Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

College

$47.00 - $96.00 / night

Campsite Fees

TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $92.00 (+$4.00 holiday); TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $47.00 (+$2.00 holiday). Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction...

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

559-893-2111vista@vista-rec.com

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to College

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

P O BOX 152, LAKESHORE, CA 93634, USA

College

P O BOX 152, LAKESHORE, CA 93634, USA

Nearby places

Clovis: Approx. 65 miles (~1.5 hours). Shaver Lake: Approx. 20 miles (~30 minutes). Fresno: Approx. 75 miles (~2 hours).

Weather at College

Current alerts(9)

Be bear aware; keep all food out of site in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from area after eating; always keep a clean camp and do not feed any wild animals.
Click here to learn more about the Sierra National Forest
Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.
Keep all food in bear-proof containers

Best Time to Camp at College

Best season: summer. Summer offers reliably warm, sun-filled days (typically 65–80°F at lake level, with cool nights dipping into the 30s–40s) that make Huntington Lake perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and long alpine hikes. Campground facilities are fully open between mid‑May and early September, trailheads and boat ramps are accessible, and clear high‑altitude skies make for excellent stargazing — expect busier weekends and holiday crowds, so reserve early. Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open mid-May–Sept; summer reviews positive for lake views, hiking and water activities; can be crowded.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to September 11. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season is from May 16 to September 6 during peak season.

About College

College Campground sits in Sierra National Forest near Huntington Lake, a high-elevation alpine destination operated by Vista Recreation. This very small campground offers flush and vault toilets, potable water, and direct access to lake swimming, boating, and fishing. Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness, attentive hosts, and proximity to the water, though sites tend to be compact with limited privacy.

College Campground is a tent-only facility located in a natural setting near Huntington Lake and the Kaiser Wilderness. The campground is designed to accommodate tent campers and does not support RVs or trailers.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers reliably warm, sun-filled days (typically 65–80°F at lake level, with cool nights dipping into the 30s–40s) that make Huntington Lake perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and long alpine hikes. Campground facilities are fully open between mid‑May and early September, trailheads and boat ramps are accessible, and clear high‑altitude skies make for excellent stargazing — expect busier weekends and holiday crowds, so reserve early. Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation10320 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryTall conifers provide shade across most of the campground, with views of Huntington Lake through the trees. The high-elevation setting creates a cooler microclimate than lower-elevation campgrounds in the forest. Some sites have bushes and shrubs that add greenery and partial screening, while others sit closer together with less natural separation. The lake's shoreline is within walking distance.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodges or alternative accommodations available; this is a tent-only campground.

Programs & ActivitiesCalifornia Land Management sponsors summer interpretive programs and nature walks in the Huntington Lake area.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay per visit is 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to two tents can fit in most sites—ideal for families or small groups.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Site SizeSites are generally small and suitable for one large tent or two small tents. One reviewer stated, 'The sites are small but loved camping,' while another noted, 'Small campsite. Enough for 1 large tent or 2 small.

PrivacyPrivacy varies depending on the site, with some offering good privacy due to bushes and shrubs, while others are in close proximity to neighboring sites. One reviewer mentioned, 'Campsite had enough bushes and shrubs for privacy,' but others described the sites as 'pretty small and crowded.

Total Campsites9 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites closer to the lake for views and water proximity (e.g., Site 008). Site 003 is recommended for its clean facilities and privacy.

Best CampsitesSites 003 and 008 get frequent mentions in reviews for their proximity to restrooms and lake views. Both stay relatively clean despite heavy use.

Need help booking College?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

College Campground is located near Huntington Lake and offers a tent-only camping experience with a mix of open, meadow-like spaces and wooded sites among pine and fir trees. The campground features dirt and grass parking spurs, picnic tables, fire rings, and grills at each site. Potable water is limited on-site, and there is a pay phone available for emergencies. Both vault and flush toilets are provided. As noted by one user, 'The restrooms were kept well stocked and very clean,' while another stated, 'Bathrooms were also very well maintained.' However, the water system has had issues, as one reviewer mentioned that 'the normally potable water was polluted with a white substance.' Firewood is not provided and must be purchased locally.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

College Campground offers a variety of recreational activities for its visitors. Situated near Huntington Lake, campers can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. The campsite is also close to the Kaiser Loop Trail, which provides access to other trails in the Kaiser Wilderness. As one reviewer stated, 'Beautiful mornings, front to the lake,' and another mentioned, 'Close to hiking trails up the mountains behind the campground.'

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Food Storage RequiredLockers are provided to ensure safe storage of food and discourage bear activity.

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).

Fire PolicyFire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. For current fire conditions or weather closures contact the High Sierra Ranger District, Sierra National Forest (559) 855-5355

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not specifically described in the sources. Users are advised to keep the campground clean and use bear-proof containers for food storage.

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

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

105 reviews

Recommended

College is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the clean and well-maintained facilities at College Campground, as well as the beautiful natural surroundings and proximity to Huntington Lake. While many appreciate the friendly staff, clean restrooms, and great location, some concerns include the small campsite sizes, occasional water system issues, and noise from nearby campers.

Review Summaries

Based on 105 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 105 reviews.

Site 6Loved
Site 6: Noted for cleanliness and proximity to water but described as small.
Site 8Loved
Site 8: Criticized for being filthy upon arrival by one user but praised for its location by others.
Site 3Loved
Site 3: Described as secluded and near restrooms.

What Campers Love

Users praise the campground’s cleanliness, proximity to the lake, and friendly staff. Many reviews mention the well-maintained bathrooms and the beautiful natural setting. A reviewer stated, 'Our...

Based on 105 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the small size of campsites, water system issues, and occasional maintenance lapses. One user noted, 'The water system broke and the normally potable water was polluted,' and...

Based on 105 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own firewood as it is not provided on-site. Plan to arrive early to avoid maintenance issues, and consider reserving multiple sites if camping with a large group.

Based on 105 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews tend to be more positive, emphasizing the beautiful lake views and hiking opportunities. Negative reviews during peak season often cite crowded conditions and maintenance issues.

Based on 105 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Clean campground and located very close to the lake. Bathrooms were also very well maintained.' - John Wright 2. 'The location is perfect; this is our 4th year at College, and we plan on being...

Based on 105 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user comments on accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 105 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

A reviewer mentioned the campground as a 'super awesome place for dogs and family.'

Based on 105 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want clean facilities and easy lake access in a high-alpine setting with helpful staff.

Skip if

You need spacious, private sites or want to avoid dusty conditions and premium pricing.

Nearby Campgrounds

P O BOX 152, LAKESHORE, CA, USA, 93634

Deer Creek sits on the shores of Huntington Lake in Sierra National Forest, a high-elevation alpine campground operated by Vista Recreation. The small lakefront property offers tent, RV, and group camping with flush toilets, potable water, and direct access to swimming, boating, and fishing. Reviewers praise the clean facilities and scenic lake views, though some sites lack shade and privacy.