Kirkwood Campground

Closed

Currently closed for the season. Scheduled to open June 26, 2026. The campground operates from late June through September and is first-come, first-served only.

Winter Weather Advisory issued October 29 at 11:13AM PDT until November 1 at 7:00AM PST by NWS Sacramento CA

October 29th, 11:13 AM — 3:00 PM

* WHAT...Snow expected for elevations above 7000 feet. Total snow accumulations up to 8 inches, with up to 12 inches at the highest peaks. Minor accumulations of up to 2 inches possible down to 6000 feet. * WHERE...Northern Sierra above 7000 feet, including Highway 50 and Interstate 80. * WHEN...From 8 AM PDT Saturday to 7 AM PST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels initially 7000 to 8000 feet Saturday, lowering to 6000 to 7000 feet Saturday night into Sunday. Heaviest snowfall expected Saturday evening into Sunday.

Eldorado National Forest

Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited

Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…

Eldorado National Forest

Fire Restrictions are in Effect Forest Wide

Fire Restrictions are in effect forest wide.  No campfires except in existing stoves, charcoal grills, or fire rings provided in the Recreation Sites listed in Exhibit A in the Forest Order and actively serviced by a camp host.No charcoal firesCamp stoves, lanterns and propane fire rings are…

About

Kirkwood Lake Campground sits at 7,600 feet along the Highway 88 corridor in Eldorado National Forest, providing direct access to beautiful Kirkwood Lake. This tent-only campground features 12 campsites, each equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. Vault toilets and potable water are available, and trash service is provided. A campground host is present during the operating season. The lake offers excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, paddleboarding, and non-motorized boating such as kayaking. The area borders the Mokelumne Wilderness, providing access to backcountry hiking and exploration. Kirkwood Corrals and Kirkwood Stables are nearby for horseback riding. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations. Single sites accommodate up to 6 people and 2 vehicles; double sites allow up to 12 people and 4 vehicles. The maximum stay is 14 days per district annually. Trailers are not recommended due to difficulty maneuvering in and out of the area.

Directions

57 miles east of Jackson on Highway 88.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi —
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups —
Water Hookups —
Sewer Hookups —
Camp Store —
Price $36 - $72

Vehicle

Max RV Length —
Max Trailer Length —
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (209) 259-3774

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile Yes

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