Desolation Hotel Campground

For Californians seeking an extraordinary outdoor adventure near the stunning Tahoe area, Desolation Hotel Campground stands out as a truly exceptional destination. More than just a place to pitch a tent, this campground offers a meticulously curated experience that combines the rugged beauty of the Sierra Nevada with comforts and hospitality often reserved for upscale resorts. As locals, we are always on the lookout for those rare gems that elevate our outdoor excursions, and Desolation Hotel Campground promises not just a stay, but an unforgettable immersion into nature, designed with the discerning camper in mind.

Visitors consistently rave about their experiences, describing it as "the most incredible camping experience we’ve had!" The allure lies in its perfect blend of natural beauty and top-notch facilities. Imagine falling asleep to the soothing sound of a river, waking up to breathtaking mountain views, and having access to some of "the cleanest bathrooms and showers we have ever seen in a campground." This introduction will guide you through what makes Desolation Hotel Campground a must-visit for Californians, from its prime location and accessibility to its remarkable services and the genuinely welcoming spirit of its camp hosts. It’s a place that redefines what camping can be, inviting you to create lasting memories amidst the serene beauty of the Hope Valley.

Desolation Hotel Campground is located at 14655 CA-88, Markleeville, CA 96120, USA. This prime address places it squarely in Hope Valley, a breathtakingly scenic area just outside of South Lake Tahoe. For Californians traveling from various parts of the state, accessing the campground is relatively straightforward via State Route 88 (CA-88), a well-maintained highway that winds through picturesque mountain landscapes.

The campground's location offers an ideal balance of being "within ear shot of a river" for that perfect ambient noise, while also providing "easy access to South Lake Tahoe," which is only about 25-30 minutes away. This means campers can enjoy the secluded tranquility of the campground while still having the option to explore the vibrant attractions and amenities of South Lake Tahoe. Being close to CA-88 ensures good road conditions for most vehicles, including RVs, making it more accessible than some more remote wilderness sites. Furthermore, the property boasts a shuttle service between the Hope Valley location and its sister hotel in South Lake Tahoe, providing convenient access to its private beach area on Lake Tahoe. This excellent accessibility, combined with the feeling of being truly immersed in nature, makes Desolation Hotel Campground a uniquely convenient and desirable destination for California residents looking for both adventure and relaxation.

Desolation Hotel Campground goes above and beyond typical campground offerings, providing an impressive array of services that enhance the guest experience.

• Pristine Bathhouse Facilities: Consistently highlighted, the "super clean" bathhouse includes "flushing toilets, showers with hot water and plenty of pressure," featuring "nice, new shower curtains along with teak wood floors and shelves." This level of cleanliness and comfort is a significant draw.
• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground offers a variety of accommodations, including dry tent sites, partial hook-up sites, full hook-up RV sites, and even glamping yurts, catering to a wide range of camping preferences.
• Welcoming Camp Hosts: Reviewers universally praise the "super kind, helpful, and welcoming" camp hosts who are "incredibly accommodating" and "really care about the camp and all of the guests." Their presence offers a perfect mix of being available when needed and respecting guest privacy.
• Provided Firewood and Starter: A thoughtful touch, "wood in the fire ring along with starter" is provided upon arrival, making it easy for campers to enjoy a campfire immediately.
• On-Site Market/Bar: A "little market/bar" is available, offering convenience for essentials and possibly a spot for a relaxing drink. (Note: other sources identify this as the Hope Valley Bar & Grill/Sorensen's Cafe.)
• Resort Amenities Access: Campground rates include access to all resort amenities, such as a full-service restaurant (Sorensen's Cafe/Hope Valley Bar & Grill), a wood-fired sauna, and filtered water filling stations.
• Private Beach Access to Lake Tahoe: Guests receive tickets at the front desk for access to a private beach area close to their sister hotel in South Lake Tahoe, offering an exclusive Lake Tahoe experience.
• Dog-Friendly Environment: The campground warmly welcomes dogs, even providing dog-friendly amenities like food and water bowls and pet waste bags.
• Bear Boxes: Each campsite is equipped with a bear-proof food storage locker, ensuring safety and compliance with wilderness regulations.
• Dishwashing Station: A dedicated dish station is available, simplifying meal cleanup.
• New Campground Map: Upon check-in, guests receive a "new campground map that was very easy to read while still giving us great directions for all that camp had to offer."

Desolation Hotel Campground offers a plethora of features and highlights that create an unparalleled camping experience in the Tahoe area.

• River-Side Camping: Many campsites are "within ear shot of a river," providing the "perfect noise to fall asleep to," and some even feature a "nice slow trickle stream with waterfall in the campsite."
• Immediate Access to Outdoor Activities: The "location was perfect" for "hiking, rock climbing, and even fishing in the immediate area," making it an ideal base for active adventurers.
• Exemplary Cleanliness: The "cleanest bathrooms and showers we have ever seen in a campground" are a standout feature, setting a high standard for campground facilities.
• Stellar Hospitality: The "super kind, helpful, and welcoming" camp hosts are a consistent highlight, contributing significantly to the positive guest experience.
• Stunning Scenery: The campground is surrounded by "scenery" that is widely praised, with opportunities for a "morning cup of coffee, sitting on a bridge above a river full of waterfalls."
• Thoughtful Touches: The provision of "wood in the fire ring along with starter" upon arrival is a "nice touch to make you feel welcome."
• Diverse Accommodation Choices: From traditional tent sites to full hook-up RV sites and luxurious glamping yurts, the variety caters to different comfort levels.
• Resort-Level Amenities: Access to a full-service restaurant, wood-fired sauna, and private Lake Tahoe beach access elevates the camping experience to a luxurious level.
• Eco-Conscious Operations: The Desolation Hotel brand is known for its commitment to sustainability, including tree planting initiatives for every night booked, aligning with environmentally conscious travelers.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about Desolation Hotel Campground, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Campground, 14655 CA-88, Markleeville, CA 96120, USA

Phone: (530) 694-2203

Mobile Phone: +1 530-694-2203

Email: infohv@desolationhotel.com (This email is for the Hope Valley location)

Website: Reservations can be made online via the Desolation Hotel Hope Valley website (desolationhotel.com/hope-valley/campsites). It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for peak seasons, given the glowing reviews and popularity. Calling the campground directly is also an excellent way to get the most up-to-date information on site availability, specific amenities, and any seasonal operating hours or restrictions. Inquire about their diverse site types (tent, RV, yurts) to ensure you book the perfect accommodation for your group. Don't hesitate to reach out to their accommodating staff for any specific needs or questions, as they are noted for their helpfulness.

Desolation Hotel Campground is an absolutely perfect fit for Californians looking to experience the Tahoe area's natural beauty without sacrificing comfort or convenience. For locals, this campground offers a unique opportunity to elevate their outdoor adventures. The combination of its "perfect location" for accessing hiking, rock climbing, and fishing in the immediate area, coupled with "easy access to South Lake Tahoe," means you get the best of both worlds: serene wilderness immersion and vibrant lakeside attractions.

The exceptional cleanliness of the facilities, particularly the "super clean" bathrooms and showers with hot water, addresses a common pain point for many campers, making it incredibly suitable for families, couples, and even first-time campers who might be hesitant about traditional campground amenities. The "super kind, helpful, and welcoming" camp hosts create an environment where every guest feels valued, a rare and cherished quality. Furthermore, the thoughtful touches like provided firewood and starter, coupled with access to resort amenities like a private Lake Tahoe beach and a wood-fired sauna, truly set this campground apart. For Californians who appreciate high-quality service, stunning natural surroundings, and a genuinely unforgettable outdoor experience, Desolation Hotel Campground is not just a place to stay, but a destination to return to "every time we come to the Tahoe area!" It embodies the ideal blend of adventure and relaxation that Californians seek in their escapes.

Desolation Hotel Campground

Campground, 14655 CA-88, Markleeville, CA 96120, USA