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Donner Memorial State Park Ridge Campground
State Park

Donner Memorial State Park Ridge Campground

Soda Springs, California
4.6 (41 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Donner Memorial State Park Ridge Campground

Campground in California.

Donner Memorial State Park Ridge Campground sits in one of California's most historically significant and naturally beautiful locations, nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains near Truckee. This state park campground offers RV travelers an exceptional combination of outdoor recreation, dramatic alpine scenery, and access to year-round activities that make it a destination unto itself.

The campground's location at elevation provides a cool, refreshing escape during summer months, with towering pine forests creating a peaceful canopy overhead. The nearby Donner Lake is a stunning alpine gem, perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating during warmer months. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating postcard-perfect views that justify the journey to this mountain paradise. Winter transforms the area into a snow sports wonderland, with skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts and cross-country skiing opportunities throughout the region.

Beyond water activities, the park offers excellent hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. Whether you're looking for a casual nature walk or a more challenging alpine hike, the surrounding terrain delivers stunning vistas and peaceful communion with nature. The historic Donner Party Museum located within the park provides fascinating insight into the region's compelling frontier history, making it an educational stop for the entire family.

The Truckee area surrounding the campground caters well to RV travelers, with nearby dining, shopping, and services ensuring you have access to supplies and entertainment. The community has a welcoming mountain town atmosphere with local restaurants and shops that reflect the area's outdoor culture. Summer brings vibrant events and activities throughout the region, while winter sports enthusiasts find world-class recreation minutes away.

This location appeals to families seeking outdoor adventure, history buffs interested in California's Gold Rush era, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone craving mountain air and genuine natural beauty. The elevation and scenic surroundings make it ideal for those escaping summer heat, while winter visitors appreciate the proximity to ski resorts and snowy landscape photography opportunities. With its 4.6-star rating, visitors consistently praise the natural beauty and recreational opportunities available at this exceptional mountain retreat.
4.6

Rating

41

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Soda Springs is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Soda Springs.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Soda Springs. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Donner Memorial State Park Ridge Campground Reviews

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Murilo Pinto

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Murilo Pinto

Wonderful place. Campground clean, safe, camp hosts super friendly. Amazing nearby visitor center. Part of the American history. Decent cellphone reception.

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Da ILLEST

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Da ILLEST

This place is magical. It is the best of all worlds. Nice campsites, multiple swimming areas. Great Fishing with huge fish. Very peaceful area. On top of all this just one exit away is a full city where you can get in any shopping that you need or may have forgot to bring up. But just because the city is so close does not mean you have to deal with noise and traffic by the campgrounds. These camp... This place is magical. It is the best of all worlds. Nice campsites, multiple swimming areas. Great Fishing with huge fish. Very peaceful area. On top of all this just one exit away is a full city where you can get in any shopping that you need or may have forgot to bring up. But just because the city is so close does not mean you have to deal with noise and traffic by the campgrounds. These campground are surrounded by wilderness and you cant even tell you are that close to the city. Lovely place to just get away wit you and your buddies for a fishing trip or for your whole family. There is plenty to do for all.

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Peter Schorr

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Peter Schorr

Come here all the time. Dry camping at it's best. Friendly staff. Quick walk to Donner Lake which has several water activity options. Nearest dump station is at the Chevron just outside the park. Plenty of great golfing nearby.

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Chuck Kight

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Chuck Kight

Love it, clean, well kept, nice restrooms and showers. Donner Lake nice for open water swimming and most all water sports with rentals for water toys on lake within walking distance. Close to Tahoe and rock climbing as well as hiking and biking.

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John Sikes Sikes

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by John Sikes Sikes

Intended to camp there 10/1/24. Even though weather was still great, sign said closed as of 9/13/24. Rode thru on my m/c-it would be a beautiful place to stay. Shaded by tall dense pines. Close to town, walk to lake, Donner Pass museum near main entrance, and Donner Pass itself a short drive away. found Upper Little Truckee River campground was still open ( but they got notice to close 10/15/24 wh... Intended to camp there 10/1/24. Even though weather was still great, sign said closed as of 9/13/24. Rode thru on my m/c-it would be a beautiful place to stay. Shaded by tall dense pines. Close to town, walk to lake, Donner Pass museum near main entrance, and Donner Pass itself a short drive away. found Upper Little Truckee River campground was still open ( but they got notice to close 10/15/24 while I was there. Next trip for sure.

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