Camping & backpacking

Do I need reservations for campgrounds near Truckee?

Yes, especially for weekends and holidays during summer months. Popular campgrounds like Donner Memorial State Park book up months in advance. Reservations for most state park and national forest campgrounds can be made through Recreation.gov or ReserveCalifornia.com up to six months ahead.

What permits do I need for backpacking in the Truckee-Tahoe area?

For overnight stays in wilderness areas like Desolation Wilderness or Granite Chief Wilderness, wilderness permits are required. California campfire permits are needed for any cooking or campfires in dispersed areas. Check with the appropriate ranger district for current requirements and reservation systems.

What should I know about bear safety when camping?

Truckee is bear country.

• Use bear boxes at campsites or bring an approved bear canister if backpacking.
• Make noise on the trail, especially near water or at dawn/dusk.
• Never leave food, trash, or scented items in your tent or unattended at your campsite.

What are the best backpacking trips for beginners near Truckee?

For novice backpackers, the Five Lakes Trail to Alpine Meadows offers a relatively short hike (2.5 miles one-way) to beautiful alpine lakes with established campsites. The Warren Lake Trail (5.5 miles one-way) provides another good option with moderate elevation gain and is a stunning lake destination.

Are campfires allowed in the Truckee-Tahoe area?

Campfire regulations vary by location and season. In established campgrounds with fire rings, campfires are typically permitted unless fire restrictions are in place. During high fire danger periods (usually late summer), campfires may be completely prohibited. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip.

Summer into fall in the Sierra is wildfire season. Plan your trip with this Visitor's Guide to Wildfire Season and follow these tips to Prevent Wildfires in Truckee and Lake Tahoe.

What should I pack for camping & backpacking?

Whether you're car camping near Donner Lake or trekking deep into the Sierra, having the right gear can mean the difference between "best weekend ever" and "I cried in my tent."

Essentials for Any Camping Trip

• Tent
• Sleeping bag (rated for mountain temps)
• Sleeping pad or inflatable mattress
• Camp stove or portable cooking system
• Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder
• Cooler (for car camping), bear canister (for backpacking)
• Headlamp or flashlight (plus extra batteries)
• Layers: base, insulating, waterproof—because it’s warm until it’s not
• First aid kit
• Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, and TP
• Trash bags

Backpacking-Specific Add-ons

• Lightweight stove + fuel
• Water filter or purification tablets
• Compact cooking kit and utensils
• Backpacking tent or tarp
• Trekking poles
• Extra socks
• Map, compass, or GPS (and enough stubbornness to use them)

Nice-to-Haves

• Camp chair
• Instant coffee or tea
• Book or journal
• Marshmallows + skewers (s’more IQ = higher trail cred)
• Hammock for peak lounging
• Portable solar charger
• A sense of humor (mandatory)

Need Gear? Shop Local!

Forgot something? Need an upgrade? Support Truckee’s outdoor shops that specialize in saving camping trips (and campers who occasionally forget, say, the tent).

• Tahoe Mountain Sports - High-quality camping, hiking, and backpacking gear, with expert advice from outdoor pros.
• Mountain Gear & Ski Shop
  A Truckee staple for decades—offering camping essentials, technical clothing, sleeping bags, stoves, and more.
• Truckee Rents - Your go-to for camping gear rentals, including bear canisters, stoves, and recreation equipment.
• Tahoe Sports Hub - Top spot for technical outerwear, backpacks, hiking gear, and solid trail advice (from people who actually hike, not just sell gear).
   

Pro tip: Rental gear availability varies by season, so call ahead if you’re hoping to rent bigger-ticket items like bear canisters, sleeping pads, or stoves.

Can I camp anywhere in the forest?

Not exactly. Dispersed camping is allowed in some areas of Tahoe National Forest, but you must follow specific rules:

• Camp at least 100 feet from water sources
• No camping in day-use areas or within ¼ mile of developed campgrounds
• Practice Leave No Trace and pack out everything you brought in
  Check Tahoe National Forest’s website for current restrictions and maps.

What's the best time for backpacking in the Truckee-Tahoe high country?

Mid-July through September offers the ideal backpacking window for the high country around Truckee-Tahoe. By mid-July, most trails are snow-free, wildflowers are blooming, and mosquito populations begin to decline. September brings cooler temperatures, fall colors, and fewer crowds.

Are there RV campgrounds with hookups near Truckee?

Yes! Truckee-Donner Recreation & Park District operates the Truckee River Regional Park Campground with electrical hookups. Nearby Coachland RV Park offers full hookups including water, electric, and sewer. Several campgrounds around Prosser and Stampede Reservoirs accommodate RVs but without hookups.

Is camping accessible for all users?

Developed campgrounds like Donner Memorial offer ADA-accessible sites, restrooms, and nearby paved trails. Many public campgrounds also accommodate mobility devices and have accessible picnic areas and tent pads.
Learn more about Trails for EveryBODY™ →

Where can I find more information or maps?

Helpful links for planning your trip:

• Recreation.gov – Reservations & Campground Info
• California State Parks – Donner Memorial Info
• Tahoe National Forest – Camping & Regulations
• Truckee Trails & Recreation Map
• Truckee Donner Land Trust – Backcountry Access