Upper Blue Lake Campground

For Californians seeking a truly immersive mountain escape that combines breathtaking scenery with essential comforts, Upper Blue Lake Campground near Markleeville stands as an exceptional choice. Nestled in the stunning high-alpine environment of the Sierra Nevada, this campground offers a serene retreat far from the everyday hustle. As locals, we are incredibly fortunate to have access to such pristine wilderness areas, and Upper Blue Lake provides an ideal setting for those looking to disconnect, breathe in crisp mountain air, and reconnect with nature's grandeur. It's a destination that promises both adventure and tranquility, inviting you to discover the serene beauty of California's high country.

Upper Blue Lake Campground is notably located "at the end of the road past all of the other blue lakes campgrounds," emphasizing its secluded and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors consistently praise its beauty, calling it "such a beautiful spot!" It’s recognized for its well-maintained facilities, including "very clean" vault toilets, and its welcoming hosts who are "really good about maintaining the bathrooms." Beyond its practical amenities, the campground provides direct access to a picturesque lake, abundant hiking trails, and thrilling off-road adventures. This comprehensive guide will equip California residents with all the necessary information to plan a memorable trip to Upper Blue Lake Campground, ensuring you're prepared for its unique charm, its natural inhabitants (bears!), and the unforgettable experiences it offers.

Upper Blue Lake Campground is located in Markleeville, CA 96120, USA. More specifically, it is situated at the highest elevation among the Blue Lakes Basin campgrounds, which are part of the larger Carson Pass area of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, though operated by PGE (Pacific Gas & Electric). It is positioned "at the end of the road past all of the other blue lakes campgrounds," emphasizing its relatively remote and secluded feel within the chain of Blue Lakes.

Accessibility to Upper Blue Lake Campground involves driving on a paved road that eventually "ends" past the Lower Blue Lake Campground. From that point, the road continues, but reviewers note that "Some sections are narrow and lots pot holes," implying that while it's generally passable, it requires careful driving, especially for larger vehicles. Reviewers state that "all the car parking are long enough for 2 cars," suggesting it can accommodate various vehicle types, though caution is advised on the unpaved sections. The campground's elevation is around 8,100 feet, meaning it is subject to typical mountain weather patterns, including cold nights ("it got COLD at night") and potential snow, especially outside of the main summer season. The access road (Blue Lakes Road) itself can be closed in winter due to snow. This high-elevation setting contributes to the pristine environment and the "beautiful spot" feeling, but campers should always check current road conditions and seasonal closures before planning their trip, particularly if visiting early or late in the operating season.

Upper Blue Lake Campground, managed by PGE, offers essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable and safe camping experience in a beautiful, natural setting.

• Designated Campsites: The campground features 32 spots, with 9 of them being available on a "first come first serve" basis. Each campsite includes a "fire pit, bear box, and picnic tables."
• Potable Water: Reviewers explicitly state there is "potable water" available via "water spigots around" the campground, which is a significant convenience in a high-elevation setting.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides "vault toilets that were very clean," with camp hosts doing a "really good job about maintaining the bathrooms." This ensures a higher level of cleanliness than many primitive sites.
• Bear Boxes: "Decent size" bear boxes are provided at each site, a critical service given the active bear presence ("There are bears! So be careful!") to ensure proper food storage and wildlife safety.
• Trash Service: Reviews confirm that "There are trash at the site," indicating regular trash collection, which helps maintain cleanliness and prevent wildlife conflicts.
• On-Site Camp Hosts: The presence of "host are really good about maintaining the bathrooms" highlights their active role in campground upkeep and guest assistance.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome for an additional "Pets are $2 a night," allowing Californians to bring their furry companions. Dogs must have current rabies vaccinations.
• No Hookups: Campers should be aware that there are "no hookups" for RVs, meaning campers need to be self-sufficient regarding power and water for their vehicles.

Upper Blue Lake Campground boasts several unique features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for California outdoor enthusiasts.

• End-of-the-Road Seclusion: Its location "at the end of the road past all of the other blue lakes campgrounds" provides a greater sense of peace and quiet, with less through-traffic.
• Stunning Lakeside Access: The campground is "Very close to the lake," offering easy access for various water activities and picturesque views.
• Excellent Recreational Opportunities: It's situated near "hiking, and off road trails," providing ample options for exploration, from scenic walks to more adventurous excursions.
• Consistent Cleanliness: Visitors frequently commend the cleanliness of the "vault toilets" and the overall maintenance by the camp hosts, contributing to a more pleasant stay.
• Wildlife Presence: While requiring caution ("There are bears! So be careful!"), the presence of abundant wildlife, including bears, is a highlight for those seeking a true wilderness experience.
• High-Altitude Beauty: The elevated location offers crisp air, stunning mountain vistas, and a distinct alpine feel, especially with cooler nighttime temperatures ("it got COLD at night").
• Night Sky Views: The remote location and cooler temperatures often lead to incredibly clear skies, making it an ideal spot for "incredible" stargazing, as experienced by many campers.
• Reliable Water Source: The availability of "potable water" is a significant convenience, reducing the need to pack in all water supplies.
• Spacious Parking: While some tent sites might be smaller, "all the car parking are long enough for 2 cars and If needed can put a tent there as well," offering flexibility for vehicle and tent placement.

For information, reservations (for non-first-come, first-served sites), or current conditions at Upper Blue Lake Campground, you can contact the managing entity, which is typically Pacific Gas and Electric (PGE) for campgrounds in the Blue Lakes Basin area.

Address: Upper Blue Lake Campground, Markleeville, CA 96120, USA.

Phone: (916) 386-5164

Mobile Phone: +1 916-386-5164

It is highly advisable for Californians to call this number before planning a trip to Upper Blue Lake Campground. This is particularly important for:

• Checking Current Road Conditions: As the paved road ends and sections are narrow with potholes, confirming the road's passability, especially for specific vehicle types or after heavy weather, is crucial. Alpine County's road department may also have information on Blue Lakes Road closures.
• Verifying Site Availability: While 9 sites are first-come, first-served, confirming the general busyness, especially on weekends, can help manage expectations.
• Confirming Fire Restrictions: California frequently has varying fire restrictions. Calling ahead ensures you know if campfires are permitted and if a California Campfire Permit is required for your stove.
• Asking About Pet Regulations: While pets are allowed for a fee, confirming any specific rules or restrictions can prevent issues.
• Understanding Bear Activity: Given the explicit mention of bears, asking for current bear safety guidelines or any recent incidents can be beneficial.

A proactive call will help ensure a safe, well-prepared, and enjoyable camping experience at this beautiful high-country destination.

Upper Blue Lake Campground is an excellent choice for Californians seeking an authentic, high-elevation mountain camping experience with a balance of ruggedness and convenience. For locals, its location at the "end of the road" offers a sought-after sense of seclusion and tranquility, making it ideal for escaping the urban sprawl and connecting with nature. The relatively short drive from areas like Sacramento and Stockton makes it an accessible weekend getaway for many.

The campground's appeal is amplified by its beautiful setting "very close to the lake," providing abundant opportunities for fishing (even if "fickle fish" means you might need patience!), hiking, and off-road adventures. The presence of potable water, well-maintained "vault toilets," and proactive camp hosts significantly enhances the comfort level, addressing common concerns for campers. While the presence of bears requires diligence with food storage ("use the bear box!"), it also contributes to the authentic wilderness feel that many Californians crave. Whether it's the "incredible" stargazing on a new moon night, the refreshing "COLD" mountain air, or the chance to immerse oneself in a true Sierra Nevada landscape, Upper Blue Lake Campground offers a quintessential California outdoor adventure that is both rewarding and memorable. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to embrace the wild beauty of their home state.

Upper Blue Lake Campground

Markleeville, CA 96120, USA