Kidd Lake Campground sits in the Soda Springs area of Nevada County, operated by PG&E as part of its water storage and hydroelectric infrastructure. The campground wraps around a small lake with an island at its center, and the setting feels more remote than its proximity to Interstate 80 would suggest. It functions as a group facility, so you will be sharing the site with other parties — a good option for multi-family trips or dog-owner meetups where everyone benefits from having extra space and a shared campfire ring.
Dogs are welcome at the campground for a small fee, and the open layout gives them room to explore on leash without feeling penned in. The shoreline is accessible in several spots, and many dogs wade right in to cool off, especially on warm August afternoons. Current rabies vaccination is required, and dogs must stay leashed at all times — a reasonable rule given the mix of families and pets that typically occupy the group site. Bring a tie-out stake or a long line so your dog can lounge near your camp chair without you needing to hold the leash through every meal.
Long Lake, a short hike from the campground, is worth the side trip. The water is clear and cold, surrounded by granite slabs that make natural platforms for drying off after a swim. The trail to Long Lake passes through Sierra Nevada forest thick with fir and lodgepole pine, and dogs generally enjoy the variety of scents along the route. Pack extra water and snacks for both of you, since there are no services once you leave the campground. The terrain is moderate enough for most dogs in decent shape, though rocky sections may be tough on tender paws — consider booties if your dog is not used to granite trail surfaces.
Amenities at Kidd Lake are basic: pit toilets, shaded picnic areas, and group-size barbecue grills. There is no potable water on site, so bring everything you need. Summer weekends fill up fast, and reservations well in advance are the only reliable way to guarantee a spot. Call ahead to confirm current pet policies and any seasonal access restrictions, since snow can linger at this elevation into June. The campground is a straightforward, no-frills base camp for dogs and their owners who want to spend a few days exploring the lakes and trails west of Donner Summit.
