Kit Carson Campground
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
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!