California State Park Campground Openings Delayed Due to Historic Snowpack

California State Parks has issued a travel notice for outdoor enthusiasts planning a trip to the Tahoe region, as the historic snowpack in the Sierra has led to delays in the opening of several state park campgrounds. Many state parks still have 3-6 feet of snow throughout campgrounds and day-use areas.

While temperatures in the forecast should assist the snow in melting, park staff do not have the access they normally have at this time of year to begin cleaning facilities, repairing damage, and charging water systems.

As a result, the opening of campgrounds at Emerald Bay State Park, Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park, Grover Hot Springs State Park, Plumas-Eureka State Park, and Tahoe State Recreation Area will be delayed for Memorial Day weekend. Donner Memorial State Park may also see a delayed opening, with staff reassessing the situation in the coming weeks.

Reservations for affected parties will be canceled, and full refunds will be issued. Park websites and the State Parks’ reservation system, ReserveCalifornia.com, will have the most up-to-date information on scheduled opening dates.

According to California State Parks, current conditions and re-scheduled openings are as follows:

• Donner Memorial State Park: Still under snow coverage, with ponding after snowmelt. Originally, scheduled to open on May 26, opening of one or more loops MAY be delayed. Staff will reassess within the next two weeks.
• Emerald Bay State Park: Eagle Point Campground still has significant snowdrifts and a large melt pond in the roadway. Originally scheduled to open on June 8, now on reservations starting Friday, June 16.
• Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park: Currently there is 3-6’ of snow in the campground and many areas areinaccessible for staff, including facilities and water valves. Originally scheduled to open for Memorial Day weekend, now scheduled to open for reservations on Thursday, June 15.
• Grover Hot Springs State Park: Sparse snowdrifts, some ponding of standing water, and repairs to the water system being made. Campground will be on reservations starting Friday, June 2.
• Plumas-Eureka State Park: This campground has the most snow of any of the Sierra campgrounds, there is still unassessed damage under snow. Originally scheduled to open on Memorial Day weekend, now scheduled to open Friday, June 16.
• Tahoe State Recreation Area: Still under several feet of snow withwater system repairs scheduled. Originally opening on Memorial Day weekend, now scheduled to open Friday, June 16.

Please be aware that the reopening dates could be further delayed if additional damage or conditions warrant. Conversely, if conditions improve, camping may reopen sooner on a first-come, first-served basis. The public’s patience and understanding are appreciated during this time.

Recent photos from April show the snow still evident at Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park, indicating the severity of the situation and the impact on the campgrounds.

This news is also relevant to private campground owners and operators, who may be experiencing similar delays due to the snowpack. These owners and operators depend on the seasonal business of campers and outdoor enthusiasts, and such delays can significantly impact their revenue and bookings.

Private campground owners should monitor the situation closely, as the reopening of state park campgrounds may signal an increase in demand for camping spots in the region. By staying informed and prepared, private owners can better adjust to the changing conditions and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the reopening of state park campgrounds.

California State Parks provides for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation.