Granite Flat (California)
9500 River Road, Truckee, CA, USA
Granite Flat (California)
$22.00 - $44.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Single-family sites are priced at $22/night, while double-family sites cost $44/night. Additional vehicle fees are $5/night. Reservation fees vary:...
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Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$22.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$44.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider(530)587-3558
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, Granite Flat Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect basecamp along the rushing waters of the Truckee River. This riverside retreat seamlessly blends convenience with wilderness, positioned along scenic Highway 89 for effortless exploration of both downtown Truckee's mountain charm and Lake Tahoe's crystalline shores. While the nearby highway provides easy access to endless recreational opportunities, visitors should note that the sounds of passing traffic accompany the symphony of the river - a trade-off many find worthwhile for the prime location and abundant activities at their fingertips.
Granite Flat Campground offers various types of camping accommodations, including single-family, double, and walk-in tent sites. Sites #69 through #75 are walk-in tent sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into the pages of American history at Granite Flat, where your camping adventure unfolds near legendary pioneer routes that shaped the West. Just minutes away, the haunting Donner Camp Interpretive Trail tells tales of courage and survival, while the historic Overland Emigrant Trail traces the footsteps of thousands who journeyed westward in search of new beginnings. These sacred pathways transform a simple camping trip into a profound connection with the pioneers who first gazed upon these same mountain vistas.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the quintessential Sierra summer at Granite Flat, where golden afternoons give way to crisp mountain evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. The Tahoe National Forest climate delivers sun-drenched days ideal for river adventures, while cool nights invite cozy sleeping under star-filled skies. As summer progresses and conditions become drier, responsible campfire practices become essential, with seasonal fire restrictions helping preserve this pristine wilderness for generations to come.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable Sierra Nevada elevation, Granite Flat offers the perfect balance of mountain atmosphere without the challenges of high-altitude camping, though specific elevation details await discovery upon your arrival.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering Jeffrey and lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral at Granite Flat, their vanilla-scented bark and emerald canopy providing shade and serenity along the Truckee River's banks. The crystalline waters paint an ever-changing canvas of rapids and pools, offering photogenic vistas that vary dramatically from campsite to campsite. While some spots boast direct river access for wading and fishing, others provide elevated perches perfect for peaceful contemplation of the flowing waters below.
Geological RegionGranite Flat rests within the majestic Tahoe National Forest, where ancient geological forces carved a landscape of granite peaks and river valleys now cloaked in aromatic Jeffrey and lodgepole pine forests. The Truckee River, born from Lake Tahoe's pure waters, has sculpted this corridor through countless seasons, creating a diverse ecosystem where mountain meets river in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites at Granite Flat are accessible, catering to individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeMost of the sites are described as compact, and some are not level. Some users stated, "The site lengths listed online are optimistic."
Sites PrivacyThe campsites have minimal privacy. Multiple reviews mention that sites are cramped, with some stating: "All the campsites are like 5 ft away from each other. No privacy."
Total Campsites75 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid highway-adjacent sites (#7, #9, #11, #13, #15, #17, #19, etc.) due to noise. Choose riverside walk-in tent sites (#69-75) for more privacy and better access to the river.
Best CampsitesRiverside sites such as #31, #50/52, and #64 are frequently recommended for their scenic views and relative distance from the highway.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights per visit and 14 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people maximum per single site and 12 people maximum per double site.
Groups
No specific group camping information provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes single-family, double-family, and walk-in tent sites. Sites are laid out in loops with one-way roads and variable proximity to Highway 89 or the Truckee River.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 to October 12 for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov via website or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available, but popularity suggests early arrival is recommended to secure desirable sites.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with the forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. Changes incur a $10 fee unless modifying within the original reservation dates.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Visitors enjoy fly-fishing for rainbow trout, swimming, and tubing on the Truckee River. Numerous hiking and biking trails, such as the Western States Trail, Five Lakes Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail, are nearby.
Hiking
Popular hiking trails include Western States Trail, Five Lakes Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail. "Be sure to hike the spectacular Rubicon trail which starts at the D.L. Bliss Campground," mentioned one reviewer.Fishing
Fly-fishing for rainbow trout on the Truckee River is a highlight for campers. The river offers a serene and scenic fishing experience.Swimming
Campers can swim and tube in the Truckee River. However, caution should be taken as "the current is quite strong" in some areas.Biking
Biking opportunities abound with trails like the Five Lakes Trail and Pacific Crest Trail being easily accessible.Wildlife viewing
Bears are frequently seen in the area, and some users noted sightings of wolves. Visitors are advised to use bearproof food storage lockers.Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation options are mentioned.Water Sports
Tubing and swimming in the Truckee River are popular water-based activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during hot, dry conditions. Campfire rings are provided at each site.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned but implied through general campground rules.
Hazards
General hazardsHighway noise and bear activity are key hazards mentioned by users and official sources. The river's strong currents may pose a risk for swimmers.
Active alertsNone currently noted, but users should contact the Truckee Ranger District for fire restrictions or weather-related closures.
Weather forecast
54
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.8 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Truckee is the nearest emergency services location, with hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations available within a 1-mile radius.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to October 12.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are available at the campground. Campers are encouraged to keep their sites clean, and use proper bins for waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to the Truckee River, offering opportunities for fishing, swimming, tubing, and scenic views.
Common complaintsTraffic noise from Highway 89 was the most common complaint. Other issues include crowded sites lacking privacy and outdated facilities like vault toilets.
HostScott, the camp host, is widely praised in reviews for his dedication and helpfulness. Users report the host maintains clean campsites and provides bear safety tips.
Campground Map
9500 River Road, Truckee, CA, USA
Driving directionsFrom Truckee, take Highway 89 south approx. 1 mile to the campground.
The campground is easily accessible from Highway 89, located approximately 1 mile south of Truckee. While the roads leading to the campground are paved and maintained, the proximity of the highway makes road noise a significant factor.Nearby places
Truckee (1 mile, ~5 minutes), Tahoe City (15 miles, ~20 minutes), Reno (~31 miles, ~40 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Truckee offers groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other amenities within a 1-mile radius. Review notes mention SaveMart, Grocery Outlet, and other local stores.
Camper Reviews
4.0
165 reviews

Granite Flat (California) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Granite Flat receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment of 3.87. While its natural beauty and proximity to the Truckee River are praised, frequent complaints include loud road noise from Highway 89 and cramped sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 165 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the convenient location near Truckee and Tahoe City, access to the Truckee River, and the cleanliness of the facilities. "This was one of the most beautiful campsites I have...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints about road noise from Highway 89 dominate user feedback. Many also mention the cramped layout of campsites, lack of showers, and minimal privacy. For example, "All the campsites...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend avoiding sites close to Highway 89 due to noise—specifically sites #7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 47, 49, 51, 53, 67, and 68. They also suggest bringing earplugs. For a quieter...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during the summer, with road noise being a more significant issue in peak traffic months. Winter camping experiences are not detailed, as the campground may not be fully...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This campground is awful. Extremely loud from the highway noises. All the campsites are like 5 ft away from each other," said one camper. However, another noted: "Super clean space where we stayed...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site recommendations highlight riverside sites for better views and quieter experiences. Sites #69-75 are walk-in tent sites with parking available outside.
Based on 165 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited but some sites cater to individuals requiring accessible amenities.
Based on 165 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but a maximum of two dogs per site is enforced. "2 dogs maximum per single site. Dogs shall always be kept on leash no longer than six feet or otherwise confined."
Based on 165 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025