- Waterside Camping
The best waterside camping near Truckee
96% (3.6K) • 148 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Truckee
Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄
1. Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄
97%
(115)
43mi from Truckee · 3 sites
Our property is lakeside at Rollins Lake In Colfax.
We live on over 30 private, beautiful acres with footpath access to Rollins Lake. (3 minute walk from the dome or house, and 10-15 minutes from the cabin) where most summer days here are spent swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing ect., down at the water. Please note the Cabin is set on a seasonal CANNABIS garden. All three sites are vacation spots with AC and WIFI, not just simple accommodations, but experiences.
The remarkable property is very hilly with pines and oaks. You can follow our driveway to the bottom and access the beginning of The Bear River which has a nice hiking trail alongside it or drive 8 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 10 minutes to the town of Colfax where you will find gas, groceries, and restaurants.
We have a beautiful spot where you will not see any neighbors so it is peaceful and private with gorgeous 360-degree views. It is also very safe! Bask in nature, quiet, and privacy!
In summer there is a 3-night minimum for the cabin and dome. Occasionally a two day midweek will pop up on the schedule last minute. To see correct pricing, enter your dates as they can fluctuate with holidays, weekends. Prices are decreased midweek.
We have 3 accommodations on the property
-A GUEST SUITE (lakeside), up to 5 people.
-A CABIN (15 min walk or 3 min drive/5 min walk, up to 4 people.
-A GLAMPING DOME with an additional teepee tent site (lakeside)! Up to 6 people.
We have fishing boat, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent.
If you want an epic stay in the forest, private and away from others, this is your place.
Also close to Grass Valley (15min), Nevada City (20 min), Colfax (less than 10).
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$113
/ night
Finnon Lake Recreation Area
2. Finnon Lake Recreation Area
95%
(2340)
48mi from Truckee · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON - OPEN IN MARCH OR APRIL - ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). These vehicles will not fit and cannot cross the single-lane suspension Mosquito Bridge. These vehicles and trailers will be forced to turn around or back up to take Rock Creek Road. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060. Hours are limited.
Use caution - twisty, narrow country road If it's your first time, you might want to check out the route beforehand.
From Sacramento on Hwy 50:
At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile.
Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road.
Turn onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER "Smoke on the Water" is open only Saturday and Sunday.
Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe:
make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions.
Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area!
Our lovely lake to discover.
The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky.
This private lake supports the fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District and the firefighters of this community. Community volunteers manage the lake for the residents and the Fire Station.
The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website.
Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 18-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Smoke on the Water Diner, which is open on weekends only
530-622-1060. During your stay, you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking.
Sites are from post to post.
Our property is located in Placerville, California.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Lake Davis Campground
3. Lake Davis Campground
45%
(10)
39mi from Truckee
The Forest Service decided they couldn't serve the public. Nothing has changed.
Tahoe National Forest
4. Tahoe National Forest
93%
(255)
National forest 24mi from Truckee · 1382 sites
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
5. Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
94%
(123)
National forest 31mi from Truckee · 933 sites
Beautiful lakeside views and endless exploration on the Nevada/California border.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Eldorado National Forest
6. Eldorado National Forest
93%
(136)
National forest 38mi from Truckee · 980 sites
Sierra Nevada gem offers lush forests, lakes, rivers, and peaks for year-round outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Plumas National Forest
7. Plumas National Forest
95%
(67)
National forest 52mi from Truckee · 821 sites
Hike, cross-country ski, or even drive into the deep wilderness of this Sierra Nevada forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Plumas Eureka State Park
8. Plumas Eureka State Park
100%
(9)
State park 39mi from Truckee · 62 sites
Experience California history at an authentic, historic mining area.
Auburn State Recreation Area
9. Auburn State Recreation Area
92%
(12)
State park 56mi from Truckee · 61 sites
Gold panning, whitewater rafting, and dirt-bike riding are just a few of the unique activities here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
96% (3.6K) • 148 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Truckee
Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄
1. Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄
97%
(115)
43mi from Truckee · 3 sites
Our property is lakeside at Rollins Lake In Colfax.
We live on over 30 private, beautiful acres with footpath access to Rollins Lake. (3 minute walk from the dome or house, and 10-15 minutes from the cabin) where most summer days here are spent swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing ect., down at the water. Please note the Cabin is set on a seasonal CANNABIS garden. All three sites are vacation spots with AC and WIFI, not just simple accommodations, but experiences.
The remarkable property is very hilly with pines and oaks. You can follow our driveway to the bottom and access the beginning of The Bear River which has a nice hiking trail alongside it or drive 8 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 10 minutes to the town of Colfax where you will find gas, groceries, and restaurants.
We have a beautiful spot where you will not see any neighbors so it is peaceful and private with gorgeous 360-degree views. It is also very safe! Bask in nature, quiet, and privacy!
In summer there is a 3-night minimum for the cabin and dome. Occasionally a two day midweek will pop up on the schedule last minute. To see correct pricing, enter your dates as they can fluctuate with holidays, weekends. Prices are decreased midweek.
We have 3 accommodations on the property
-A GUEST SUITE (lakeside), up to 5 people.
-A CABIN (15 min walk or 3 min drive/5 min walk, up to 4 people.
-A GLAMPING DOME with an additional teepee tent site (lakeside)! Up to 6 people.
We have fishing boat, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent.
If you want an epic stay in the forest, private and away from others, this is your place.
Also close to Grass Valley (15min), Nevada City (20 min), Colfax (less than 10).
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$113
/ night
Finnon Lake Recreation Area
2. Finnon Lake Recreation Area
95%
(2340)
48mi from Truckee · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON - OPEN IN MARCH OR APRIL - ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). These vehicles will not fit and cannot cross the single-lane suspension Mosquito Bridge. These vehicles and trailers will be forced to turn around or back up to take Rock Creek Road. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060. Hours are limited.
Use caution - twisty, narrow country road If it's your first time, you might want to check out the route beforehand.
From Sacramento on Hwy 50:
At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile.
Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road.
Turn onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER "Smoke on the Water" is open only Saturday and Sunday.
Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe:
make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions.
Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area!
Our lovely lake to discover.
The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky.
This private lake supports the fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District and the firefighters of this community. Community volunteers manage the lake for the residents and the Fire Station.
The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website.
Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 18-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Smoke on the Water Diner, which is open on weekends only
530-622-1060. During your stay, you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking.
Sites are from post to post.
Our property is located in Placerville, California.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Lake Davis Campground
3. Lake Davis Campground
45%
(10)
39mi from Truckee
The Forest Service decided they couldn't serve the public. Nothing has changed.
Tahoe National Forest
4. Tahoe National Forest
93%
(255)
National forest 24mi from Truckee · 1382 sites
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
5. Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
94%
(123)
National forest 31mi from Truckee · 933 sites
Beautiful lakeside views and endless exploration on the Nevada/California border.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Eldorado National Forest
6. Eldorado National Forest
93%
(136)
National forest 38mi from Truckee · 980 sites
Sierra Nevada gem offers lush forests, lakes, rivers, and peaks for year-round outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Plumas National Forest
7. Plumas National Forest
95%
(67)
National forest 52mi from Truckee · 821 sites
Hike, cross-country ski, or even drive into the deep wilderness of this Sierra Nevada forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Plumas Eureka State Park
8. Plumas Eureka State Park
100%
(9)
State park 39mi from Truckee · 62 sites
Experience California history at an authentic, historic mining area.
Auburn State Recreation Area
9. Auburn State Recreation Area
92%
(12)
State park 56mi from Truckee · 61 sites
Gold panning, whitewater rafting, and dirt-bike riding are just a few of the unique activities here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Erin
January 2026
1 night at Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄
What a treat this retreat is. While you are under the host family, they are not like those upstairs neighbors that you despise. I heard them, but it didn’t disrupt my peace and presence. I enjoyed the 420 friendly atmosphere outside on the lovely deck. The sunset was ridiculous and a whole family of deer walked by. I was able to cook a full breakfast getting creature with the stove. The host even helped me when using a hairdryer with the fireplace tripped a breaker. It waste too, and they responded quickly. Also got to check out late with an additional cost while I was theee. I truly loved it here. Will def come back. Once I checked in, I didn’t leave until check out.
See more
H
Heather
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄
This place was huge, cozy, and so cool. There were vintage guitars, lots of rock and roll posters, a cool playboy pinball machine, and incredible views. Unfortunately we couldn’t get the machine to work after plugging it in. The king bed was very comfortable and they had a nice heater in the living room. It was a challenge to get up to the house because of the steep driveway. It was raining. The key is to keep going, don’t stop. We were in a truck so it was manageable. This place is 420 friendly so it did smell like it in the place which wasn’t a big deal. Neither of us smoke but we didn’t mind the subtle smell. The only issue we had was with the coffee maker—it leaked all over the shelf and didn’t dispense through the coffee pod.
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H
Hebe
November 2025
Tent
With pets
The lake front campsites are simply beautiful. We have a Ford transit van and also a sedan. A huge tent and we still have a lot of space on the site. The campsite has a downward slope just like described but we found a flat spot for our tent. The lake is beautiful for boating and fishing. How peaceful the campground is solely depending on how other campers are especially your neighbors, because the campsites are very close to each other. We didn't have a great night the first night because our neighbors arrived at 2 am and were setting things up and talking, laughing pretty loudly. So we essentially did not sleep at all that night. While the quite time is listed on the rules but seems like it is not enforced at all. So while I love this campground, I highly recommend going during the weekdays.
The bathroom is a very nice addition. Again, it's clean majority of the time but it depends on how the campers take care of it.
They are dogs friendly. They need to be on leash. We got a tie down which works amazing.
There's also a lot of wildlife. I didn't hear frogs but a lot of birds. We saw eagles and their nest which is so beautiful.
There is a restaurant called Smoke on the water. The food is AWESOME. They also have firewood for sale. Just need to double check their business hours.
The drive up there was good. Remember to pay attention the detours. The last 15 minutes was really twisty. We will be back for sure!
See moreC
Chris
September 2025
With pets
We had a great stay. Erin’s spot was perfect for our little weekend get away.
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Kelli
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
The camp ground and lake were beautiful. The bathroom were clean. Toilet paper, paper towels and soap to wash your hands. Also lights in the bathroom. No shower which was very hard to do. But we all enjoy the time spent at Finnon lake. We will be coming back next year.
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K
Krista
August 2025
With pets
Erin's getaway was a much needed step away from the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives. One step onto the welcoming deck reminded us of what is important - our family and spending time in nature. Easy access to food, grocery, day-trips and the beautiful lake make this a return destination for sure. We cannot thank Erin and her family for this opportunity to unwind and reconnect.
See moreM
MyDung
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
Finnon Campsite offers a peaceful atmosphere, safety, and cleanliness.
See moreS
SK
July 2025
With pets
Excellent mini vacation.
Great place, fun lake, beautiful garden, nice owners, entertaining pinball, guitars, and piano. Overall a super place to visit. Thanks!
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Jason
July 2025
1 night at Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄
This was a great place to stay! unfortunately, we were only able to stay 1 night and wished we could have stayed longer. Make sure you follow the instructions given. GPS loses contact when you get closer to the place.
See moreS
Sarita
July 2025
With pets
We had a very nice stay at Erin’s place for a little babymoon! The place had everything we needed. We enjoyed being able to sit out on the deck and chill. It was great to be able to walk to the lake and swim, especially since the rivers were so cold but the lake was warm. Thanks for the stay!
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A
Alex
June 2025
Tent
Lake Finnon is such a pretty lake, perfect for taking out a floaty tube and laying back and taking in the sunshine. The water was warm! Look out for a bald eagle nest. The sounds of the local birds are lovely. The stars at night are surreal.
Nicely kept bathrooms with flushing toilets.
Only things to be prepared for is the incline of the site, so prep your tent for that downward grade. Also, there isn't much seclusion from neighbors, but everyone we met there were super friendly.
See moreJ
Jessie
June 2025
With kids
Great spot! Apartment was clean and had everything we needed. Fun to swim and kayak the lake. Recommend a visit to empire mine state park for a hike and visiting grounds.
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Sherri
June 2025
Tent
Loved the wild life! Saw a deer, turtle, frogs, lots of different birds and I bald eagle. Placerville is beautiful
See more
S
Sarah
June 2025
19 ft campervan
Love Finnon !!
Little Smokey this stay . I might recommend limiting campfires as there’s not a lot of airflow near the lake.
See moreV
Victor
June 2025
With kids
Great hidden gem. SCREENSHOT DIRECTIONS internet doesn’t work great until you’re there, had to go back in to town for internet so I could see the gate code I was provided.
My kids and I loved the pinball machine and the three of us slept comfortably and had a great time.
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D
Debora
June 2025
Tent
Stunning. Serene. Peaceful. Quiet. Lovely
I would go often if I lived closer
See moreB
Brandon
June 2025
Tent
With kids
This place is always amazing. Definitely will be back
See moreJ
Jennifer
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄
This is the perfect little place for a getaway. Super close to the lake! Easy walk to get there.
See moreB
Bennett
May 2025
With kids
Great spot for a peaceful getaway! The cabin was clean, comfortable, and fairly close to the lake—just what we needed.
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Lindsay
May 2025
1 night at Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄
This location was such a great location to be immersed in nature. We enjoyed being near the lake that was walking distance. We saw so many deer,squirrels and loved sitting on the deck listening to nature and it's surroundings.
See more
The best waterside camping near Truckee guide
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.