California / El Dorado County / Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

Hope Valley

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates mid-June through September 30, with dates subject to change based on snow conditions.

About

Hope Valley Campground sits in its beautiful namesake valley at an elevation of 7,300 feet, surrounded by Jeffrey and lodgepole pines on the edge of Hope Valley. Located just 40 minutes south of Lake Tahoe, the campground offers stunning views of the scenic valley and surrounding forested mountains. The facility was completely reconstructed in 2012 and now features modern single and double-family campsites with picnic tables, campfire rings, grills, food storage lockers, and tent pads. The West Fork Carson River runs nearby, offering excellent rainbow and cutthroat trout fishing opportunities. Numerous trails in the area provide excellent hiking and backpacking access into the surrounding wilderness. The campground serves as an ideal base for exploring the Carson Pass area and is only 40 miles from Lake Tahoe, where visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, additional fishing, and scenic driving opportunities. Black bears frequent the area, so all food must be kept in the provided food storage lockers or approved containers. The campground includes both reservable and first-come, first-served sites, making it accessible for both planned trips and spontaneous visits.

Directions

From South Lake Tahoe, take Highway 89 over Luther Pass. At the junction of Highways 88 and 89, turn right and travel 2 miles west on Highway 88, then turn south onto Blue Lakes Road and proceed to the campground.

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