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Humboldt-Toiyabe/Bootleg
Overview
Bootleg Campground, managed within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, offers a serene escape for RVers seeking a deep connection with the Eastern Sierra landscape. Situated along the banks of the West Walker River, this federal campground provides a rustic and refreshing alternative to commercial parks. The atmosphere is defined by the soothing sound of rushing water and the shade of mature Jeffrey pines, making it a peaceful stopover for those traveling through the scenic US Highway 395 corridor.
Location & Surroundings
Located just south of Coleville, California, the park sits in a transition zone where the high desert meets the rugged mountain peaks. The surrounding Humboldt-Toiyabe area is known for its dramatic canyon walls and expansive vistas. The campground's proximity to the river provides a lush riparian environment that contrasts beautifully with the arid hillsides nearby, offering a unique geographic setting for travelers exploring the Eastern Sierra region near the Nevada border.
Amenities & Park Features
As a Forest Service site, the amenities here lean toward a traditional, primitive camping experience. Visitors will find several key features to make their stay comfortable:
- Access to potable water and well-maintained vault toilets.
- Campsites featuring a heavy-duty picnic table and fire ring.
- Level parking spurs that accommodate self-contained RVs and trailers.
While there are no utility hookups, the park offers an authentic dry camping experience that prioritizes privacy and natural integration. The generous spacing between sites allows travelers to enjoy the forest without feeling crowded by neighbors.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Anglers frequent this location for its world-class trout fishing on the West Walker River, which is easily accessible directly from the campground. A short drive north leads to Topaz Lake, a popular spot for boating, swimming, and seasonal bird watching. For history buffs, the famous Bodie State Historic Park ghost town is within a reasonable driving distance, offering a glimpse into California's gold mining past before you return to the quiet shade of the pines.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for self-contained RV travelers who enjoy being off-grid and value scenic beauty over resort-style facilities. It is particularly well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts and trout fishers who want a quiet basecamp for exploring Mono County. If your travel style involves falling asleep to the sound of a river and waking up to crisp mountain air, this Humboldt-Toiyabe gem is a perfect fit for your itinerary.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
John Spruce
Great camping spot. Quiet, cannot hear cars passing by. Lots of space between spots. Most sites have only one tent spot unless you place another one or two in the RV parking which every spot has. Large fire pits. No bear boxes, luckily my tool box had room in the truck bed. No showers or soap in the bathrooms. Plague of chipmunks, same as every campsite in this area. Will definitely come back for walker river fishing trips. Cash or check payment. $28/night, $6 for additional vehicles.
edward campbell
Passed this place hundred times fishing the Walker. Had no idea how nice it was , plus easy to get larger rigs in , just peace and quiet with plenty of space between sites. Plus easy to find a spot , to top it off the camp hosts are fantastic.
jona jetter
This was the perfect campground on our travels from Southern California to Washington and back in August! There were open campsites that were 1st come. Clean bathrooms and friendly camp host! We will definitely return.
Wing Chang
We planned to stay at this campground for two nights but something unexpected happened (Our car got stuck on the snow). So we had to stay for an extra day to recover our car. Our food was running out and water in our camper running low, but thanks to the camp hosts (Amanda and Andy), they made the situation much easier for us. They concerned our well being and shared some of their delicious food and filing up water in our rig. Of course I wanted to thanks to Kris (camp neighbor) who gave me a big hand to tow my car out of snow. After all, this campground is amazing and super clean, especially the toilet. The con is lacking of cell signal, but if you choose the sites by entrance you might get a bar or two. I highly recommend this campground to all campers!!!
Anna Compton
Great campground. First come first served only. Many big spots to camp in. Great for rvs and travel trailers up to 40ft long. Expensive for how primitive it is, $24 per site. We came on Friday night and were one of 7 campers at this 37 spot campground. Bathrooms were clean. There is running water at the campground. Camp host wasn't there when we arrived, but came back at 9:45 pm and started his generator. At midnight, we started wondering who do we complain to! Went to see him an hed ran away slamming the door in my face, but fortunately turned of his generator. I guess we interrupted his solo camping experience by using the campground. 🤷🏻♀️