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PG & E/Carson Pass/Upper Blue Lake Dam
Overview
Overview
Upper Blue Lake Campground, managed under the PG&E recreation umbrella near the Carson Pass, offers a truly authentic mountain escape for those seeking to unplug. This location is defined by its rugged beauty and high-alpine elevation, providing a serene environment away from the noise of modern life. It serves as a rustic, primitive basecamp for adventurers who appreciate the raw, natural landscape of the Sierra Nevada mountains over luxury resort amenities.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the high country of Markleeville, CA, this site is positioned near the Carson Pass, an area renowned for its dramatic vistas and historical significance. The surrounding terrain is characterized by dense forests and granite peaks, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors will find that the high-altitude setting requires careful preparation, as the weather can shift rapidly and the air remains crisp throughout the summer months.
Amenities & Park Features
Because this facility prioritizes natural preservation, it operates as a dry camping site. Travelers should expect vault toilets and picnic tables rather than modern full hookups. It is essential to arrive with a self-contained RV, as there are no water or electrical connections provided on-site. The beauty of the park lies in its simplicity, offering fire rings that allow guests to enjoy quiet, starlit evenings in a secluded wilderness setting.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The area surrounding Upper Blue Lake is a paradise for those who enjoy active mountain recreation. Hikers can access numerous trails that lead into the Mokelumne Wilderness, while anglers often spend their days fishing on the lake for trout. The Carson Pass region is particularly famous for its spectacular wildflower displays in early summer and challenging backcountry terrain. Photography enthusiasts will also find endless opportunities to capture the pristine alpine scenery found at every turn.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for self-sufficient RVers who prefer boondocking and quiet, low-density camping experiences. It is perfect for those who do not require Wi-Fi or laundry facilities and instead value proximity to nature and outdoor adventure. If you are an experienced camper who thrives in off-grid environments and respects the regulations of managed wilderness areas, this Markleeville site provides one of the most immersive outdoor experiences in Northern California.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Priscilla “Mizz P” Cannon
First time visiting and it was beautiful. Dirt road but not bad to travel. no service but best place to fish. Clear water
Yanet Peregrina
Beautiful place to camp, the maintenance is excellent, the hosts are incredibly friendly, I forgot the marshmallows for my daughters and they kindly gave us some. Also, due to the weather, we couldn't make a wood fire and they offered us their gas fire pit, Thank you for helping my family have an incredible weekend.
Maya Hawj
Past the lower blue lake CG the paved road ends. Some sections are narrow and lots pot holes . The bear box are decent size please use them. We had an incident where someone left trash out and their cooler and a bear came into camp. There are trash at the site, potable water, and the host are really good about maintaining the bathrooms. Some of the sites have space for only 1 tent however all the car parking are long enough for 2 cars and If needed can put a tent there as well.
Andy Eissinger
Sorry for the terrible photo but I wasn’t there to take pictures, so…. Beautiful campground. Clean, quiet and fairly remote. Easy dirt road getting in. This campground isn’t built for the huge, house sized monstrosity RVs so don’t try bringing one of those here. You won’t make it. Sites are huge and private but NOT level at all, so bring stuff to level your camper. All in all one of my favorite campgrounds.
Emily Kenny
This is such a beautiful spot! The campground is at the end of the road past all of the other blue lakes campgrounds. It has 32 spots 9 of which are first come first serve. During the week it is not too busy but can get quite full on the weekends. There are vault toilets that were very clean. It is $23 a night with no hookups but there are water spigots around! Pets are $2 a night. Very close to the lake, hiking, and off road trails. Campsites all have fire pits, bear boxes, and picnic tables. There are bears! So be careful! Definitely some fickle fish in the lake, some people have luck but we didn't! Highly recommend this amazing campground!