River Access

Kit Carson Campground

Open

Open for the 2026 season. The campground operates May through September, weather permitting. Sites are first-come-first-served with some dates available for reservation via Recreation.gov. A California campfire permit is required for campfires, barbecues, and portable stoves.

About

Kit Carson Campground occupies a scenic location on the West Fork of the Carson River in Woodfords Canyon along Highway 88 in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. The 12 campsites are spread among Jeffrey pines and quaking aspens, with several sites positioned right along the riverbank. The rugged canyon walls provide a dramatic backdrop, and the area is particularly striking in autumn when the aspens turn golden. The campground offers basic amenities including potable water from a hand pump, vault toilets, and bear boxes at each site. Every campsite has a fire pit and picnic table. A camp host is on-site during the season, and firewood is available for purchase. The campground accommodates tent camping and smaller RVs, though parking spurs are compact. Recreational opportunities abound in the area. The Carson Pass Scenic Byway provides excellent scenic driving and photography. Anglers can fish the Carson River or nearby lakes, while hikers have access to trailheads for the Mokelumne Wilderness, Pacific Crest Trail, and Tahoe Rim Trail within a short drive. Grover Hot Springs State Park in Markleeville offers natural spring-fed soaking pools, and Lake Tahoe is approximately 20 miles away.

Directions

From South Lake Tahoe, take Highway 89 over Luther Pass to the 88/89 interchange. Turn left on Highway 88 and continue approximately 1 mile to the campground entrance on the left. From Carson City, Minden, or Gardnerville, Nevada, take Highway 395 to Highway 88, then head south on Highway 88 for approximately 19 miles to the campground entrance in Woodfords Canyon on the north side of the highway.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $29.64

Vehicle

Max RV Length 40ft
Max Trailer Length 45ft
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (775) 882-2766

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Availability

Photos

River Access
Nearby river
Restroom
Campsite 1

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