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PG & E/Carson Pass/Upper Blue Lake
Overview
Overview
Upper Blue Lake, managed by PG&E, offers a quintessential high-altitude escape near the Carson Pass in the Sierra Nevada mountains. This destination is defined by its rugged beauty and serene atmosphere, making it a favorite for those who prefer a primitive camping experience over modern, high-density resorts. Situated at a high elevation, it provides a tranquil retreat where the primary soundtrack is the rustling of pine trees and the gentle lapping of alpine water against the shoreline.
Location & Surroundings
Located in the heart of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest near Markleeville, California, the park is nestled within the dramatic scenery of the Carson Pass region. Accessible via winding mountain roads, the journey itself offers breathtaking vistas of jagged peaks and lush meadows. The surrounding area remains largely untouched, preserving the natural wilderness that makes this part of the Sierra Nevada range so appealing to outdoor enthusiasts seeking true seclusion.
Amenities & Park Features
As a forest service-style facility, Upper Blue Lake is designed for self-sufficient travelers. The site features vault toilets and fire rings, but guests should be prepared for a dry-camping environment as there are no electric or water hookups available. RVers should note that access roads and site layouts are better suited for smaller rigs or camper vans. It is a place to disconnect completely, as cell service is generally unreliable throughout the area.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw of this location is access to pristine alpine waters, perfect for non-motorized boating and fishing. Hiking trails surround the lake, offering varied terrain that caters to both casual walkers and experienced backpackers looking to explore the Mokolumne Wilderness. Photography is a popular pastime here, especially during the fall foliage season or early mornings when the reflection of the surrounding granite peaks creates an iconic mountain scene.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for the off-grid RVer who thrives in nature and does not require modern conveniences like full hookups or Wi-Fi. If you are looking for a base camp to launch hiking adventures or simply want to escape the noise of urban life, Upper Blue Lake is an excellent choice. It is perfect for those who value quiet, dark night skies, and a direct connection to the alpine wilderness of 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!