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Where to go
Truckee and Tahoe National Forest
Just west of Truckee, Donner Memorial State Park offers access to Donner Lake, trails, campgrounds, and a museum where you can learn more about the ill-fated Donner Party. Truckee is surrounded by the 850,000-acre Tahoe National Forest, which offers more than 70 designated campgrounds. Camp alongside the Truckee River south of town at the Granite Flat, Goose Meadow, and Silver Creek campgrounds. For lakeside camping and water recreation, head to Prosser, Boca, or Stampede reservoirs.
Lake Tahoe
Truckee is just 12 miles north of Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear water and 72 miles of shoreline. Dozens of beaches and parks surround the lake, and offer great camping options close to the lake. Camp by the beach at Tahoe State Recreation Area, at Meeks Bay, or at D.L. Bliss State Park. Or spend the night overlooking Emerald Bay at Eagle Point. For proximity to amenities and the lake, stay at historic Camp Richardson or the Campground by the Lake, in the heart of South Lake Tahoe. On the Nevada side, Nevada Beach and Zephyr Cove offer campsites for tents and RVs near the lake.
Eldorado National Forest
South of the Tahoe National Forest, the Eldorado National Forest offers nearly 600,000 acres of wilderness, and more than 50 developed campgrounds, plus plenty of dispersed camping options in a backcountry dotted with lakes and rugged peaks. Escape the crowds and find a remote campsite in the Desolation Wilderness or Mokelumne Wilderness. Several lakes and reservoirs, including Union Valley Reservoir, Wrights Lake, and Silver Lake, offer easy lakeside camping and water recreation.
When to go
Summer is the most popular time for hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Most campgrounds are open from May to September or October. Campgrounds open over the winter will not have water or garbage collection. Look for wildflower displays in the spring and golden aspens in the fall. Winter is also a popular time for winter activities, especially downhill skiing, with half a dozen ski resorts nearby.
Know before you go
- Public transportation is available around Truckee and to select areas on the north and west shore of Lake Tahoe. You’ll want a vehicle to easily explore the area. In the winter, opt for an AWD/4WD drive vehicle and carry chains.
- Campfire permits are required outside of developed campgrounds. Fire restrictions may limit or prohibit fires entirely.
- Be bear aware, especially when camping. Store food and other attractants in a bear-proof container away from your tent.
- Fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 or over.