Tunnel Mills Ii

Star4.37
15 reviews
Tunnel Mills Group Campground, Texas Hill Rd., Emigrant Gap, CA

Quick Facts

4,619 ft

Price

$99/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Peak season runs fro...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Tahoe 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
Tunnel Mills Ii
$99.00 - $99.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group Standard Non-Electric and Group Tent Only Area Non-Electric sites are charged $99 per night during peak season. Fee does not include taxes,...
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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$99.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
530-265-4531
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What Campers Say

4.37

Recommended

Based on 15 reviews

9 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulspacioussites

"User reviews emphasize the remote and scenic nature of Tunnel Mills Group Campground and appreciate the large group capacity and shade provided by the surrounding cedar, pine, and fir trees. However, visitors raised concerns about the road conditions, vault toilets, and lack of on-site water."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Tunnel Mills Group Campground, Texas Hill Rd., Emigrant Gap, CA

Tunnel Mills Ii

Tunnel Mills Group Campground, Texas Hill Rd., Emigrant Gap, CA

Driving directionsFrom eastbound Interstate 80 take exit 158A or westbound Interstate 80 take exit 158B south to Emigrant Gap. After exiting the interstate take a right on Texas Hill Road towards Emigrant Gap. Continue on Texas Hill Road for about 8 miles and turn right into the campground.
The road to the campground is paved but has deep potholes and narrows to a single lane at certain points. Campground entrance is visible from the road.
Nearby places
Emigrant Gap (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive)
Nyack (30 minutes drive)
Camptonville (address of ranger station, distance not specified)
Nearby supplies
Nyack sells firewood (30-minute drive). Trash bins are shared at the entrance of the camping area.

Best Time to Camp at Tunnel Mills Ii

Experience the dramatic seasonal transformations of this mountain paradise. Winter brings a crystalline wonderland where temperatures dance between 32°F and 47°F, with fresh snowfall blanketing the forest floor and moderate winds whispering through the pines. As spring emerges, the landscape awakens with wildflowers and rushing streams. Summer rewards visitors with sun-dappled trails and warm, clear days perfect for outdoor adventures, while autumn paints the forest in golden hues. Each season offers its own magic, from cozy winter campfires to endless summer stargazing.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Peak season; pleasant but mosquitoes after rain and no on‑site potable water noted in reviews.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Autumn likely offers cooler, drier conditions and good scenery; fewer summer pests expected.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring transitional: snowmelt/high flows and mud possible; peak season begins late May.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed for bookings outside peak season; winter camping not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 27, 2025 - September 27, 2025 and May 29, 2026 - September 13, 2026.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Peak season runs from May 27, 2025 to September 27, 2025 and May 29, 2026 to September 13, 2026. Closed for bookings outside these dates.

About Tunnel Mills Ii

Escape to Tunnel Mills Group Campground, where towering cedars, pines, and firs create a natural cathedral perfect for memorable group gatherings. This secluded mountain retreat offers two spacious group sites ideal for family reunions, scout troops, or outdoor clubs seeking adventure in the heart of the forest. Cast your line for rainbow trout in the pristine waters, explore miles of hiking trails that wind through ancient groves, or venture out on thrilling OHV routes that showcase the rugged beauty of the backcountry. For those seeking a true wilderness experience, the surrounding forests provide excellent hunting opportunities in season.
The campground offers two group camping sites. Site 1 is suitable for tents and RVs, while Site 2 is exclusively for tent camping.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in anytime during the reserved day.
Check-out
Check-out by the following day after scheduled arrival date.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Tunnel Mills Group Campground offers fishing, hiking, biking, hunting, and camping activities. The nearby East Fork of the North Fork of the North Fork American River is popular for rainbow trout fishing. The surrounding area is ideal for hiking and OHV trails.
HikingMany hiking opportunities are available nearby, including foot trail access into the North Fork American Wild and Scenic River canyon and additional trails at Grouse Ridge Non-Motorized Area and Donner Summit.
FishingRainbow trout fishing is a popular activity along the East Fork of the North Fork of the North Fork American River.
BikingOHV trails are available nearby. Bike trails are in the surrounding area.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo food storage lockers available despite bear warnings. The creek has a strong current making it unsuitable for swimming. Deep potholes and narrow roads to the campground pose driving challenges.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Tunnel Mills Ii

Reviews

4.4
15 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Tunnel Mills Ii is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the remote and scenic nature of Tunnel Mills Group Campground and appreciate the large group capacity and shade provided by the surrounding cedar, pine, and fir trees. However, visitors raised concerns about the road conditions, vault toilets, and lack of on-site water.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive themes include spacious group sites, proximity to trails and the river, and a secluded, peaceful atmosphere. The campground's natural shading and ample firewood are also appreciated.
Based on 15 reviews

Common Concerns

Visitors frequently mention the poor maintenance of the road leading to the campground and the vault toilets. Other concerns include the lack of potable water on-site and the absence of bear boxes...
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Based on 15 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring sufficient water as there is no potable water on-site; the nearest source is 1.5 miles away at North Fork Campground. Carry offline maps as there is no network coverage. Firewood can be...
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Based on 15 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight mosquito prevalence after rain and note the campground's lack of water as a recurring issue. Winter reviews are not available.
Based on 15 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great campground, good shade throughout, lots of space for tents, remote location." – Alina. "Bathrooms were not maintained well, looked unhygienic." – Pavan. "Remember that bug spray and citronella...
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Based on 15 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 1: Praised for its proximity to the river and spaciousness. Site 2: Described as quieter and more secluded, but also lacking water.
Based on 15 reviews

Accessibility Features

No accessibility-focused reviews are available.
Based on 15 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but no specific reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 15 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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