Fir Top Campground
3.7312 reviews317 SOUTH LINCOLN ST (HWY 89), PO BOX 95, SIERRAVILLE, CA, 96125, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$24/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Open August 1st - Oc...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$24/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Open August 1st - Oc...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsFir Top Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Nonelectric sites are priced at $24 per night during peak season (August 1st to October 12th). Additional vehicle fees are $5/night per...
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Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$24.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider530-994-3401
What Campers Say
3.73
Mixed Reviews
Based on 12 reviews
6 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsquietpeacefulclean
"Mixed reviews highlight the beauty of the campground's natural setting and its quiet, less-crowded atmosphere. Some complaints center on the prevalence of insects, maintenance of restrooms, and difficulties with road access."
Fees & Passes at Fir Top Campground
$24/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum 14 nights per visit.
Cancellation: Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee for switching dates outside original reservation. Late cance...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Nevada Irrigation District in cooperation with Tahoe National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Fir Top Campground
Summer days at Fir Top unfold with gentle warmth and brilliant sunshine, perfect for lakeside activities and trail exploration. As the sun dips behind the mountain peaks, however, the high-elevation climate reveals its alpine character—temperatures can plummet dramatically, transforming balmy afternoons into crisp, star-filled nights. Seasoned campers know to pack layers and thermal clothing, as evening campfire gatherings often require cozy fleece and warm beverages. Mountain weather keeps visitors on their toes with its unpredictable personality—one week might offer endless blue skies, while another brings dramatic cloud formations and the possibility of refreshing summer rain or even surprise snow flurries.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: August 1st - October 12th.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open August 1st - October 12th (reservable).
About Fir Top Campground
Nestled along the pristine western shores of Jackson Meadow Reservoir, Fir Top Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain tranquility and waterfront adventure. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, or exploring scenic hiking trails that wind through towering forests, this lakeside retreat offers endless possibilities. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite comes complete with picnic tables and campfire rings, where families gather to share stories under starlit skies. Modern amenities including drinking water and flush toilets ensure comfort without sacrificing the authentic camping experience. This scenic haven is lovingly maintained through a partnership between the Nevada Irrigation District and Tahoe National Forest, ensuring pristine conditions for every visitor.
Fir Top Campground primarily supports single-family tent and non-electric RV camping. No group camping, cabins, or glamping options are available.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Fir Top unfold with gentle warmth and brilliant sunshine, perfect for lakeside activities and trail exploration. As the sun dips behind the mountain peaks, however, the high-elevation climate reveals its alpine character—temperatures can plummet dramatically, transforming balmy afternoons into crisp, star-filled nights. Seasoned campers know to pack layers and thermal clothing, as evening campfire gatherings often require cozy fleece and warm beverages. Mountain weather keeps visitors on their toes with its unpredictable personality—one week might offer endless blue skies, while another brings dramatic cloud formations and the possibility of refreshing summer rain or even surprise snow flurries.
ElevationPerched high in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Fir Top Campground offers that coveted high-altitude camping experience where the air feels crisp and clean, and every breath reminds you that you've escaped to something special above the everyday world.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle lapping of reservoir waters against the shore, surrounded by a cathedral of towering pines and majestic firs that stretch toward azure skies. The campground's prime location in a rolling forested valley creates an intimate atmosphere where nature embraces every campsite. To the east, the dramatic peaks of the Sierra Crest paint an ever-changing backdrop of shadow and light, while English Mountain stands sentinel to the north. Morning mist often dances across the water's surface, while afternoons bring sparkling reflections of the surrounding forest. This diverse landscape offers photographers endless inspiration and provides families with a natural playground where children can explore tide pools, discover woodland creatures, and learn the names of wildflowers that dot the meadows.
Geological RegionFir Top Campground sits within the magnificent tapestry of Tahoe National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of rolling valleys, crystalline waters, and soaring peaks. This corner of the Sierra Nevada tells a story millions of years in the making—from volcanic activity to glacial carving that created the perfect basin for Jackson Meadow Reservoir. The surrounding forest showcases nature's resilience, with stately pines and firs that have adapted to thrive in this mountain environment. The iconic Sierra Crest rises dramatically to the east, its granite faces catching the first light of dawn, while English Mountain provides a stunning northern anchor to this geological wonderland. This diverse terrain offers not just scenic beauty but a living classroom where visitors can witness the powerful forces that continue to shape California's most treasured landscapes.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible trails and paved sites are available within the campground. However, no additional accessibility features are specified.
Sites SizeStandard-sized single-family campsites are available in this campground.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary depending on the site. The campground is nestled among pine and fir trees, which provide some natural shade and seclusion.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and shade, bring a canopy for naps and choose sites with tree cover (e.g., Campsite 011).
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people and 2 dogs maximum per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle-family campsites equipped with picnic tables and fire pits.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen August 1st - October 12th (reservable).
Reservation PlatformsReservations available at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated; campground hosts recommend reservations.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 fee for switching dates outside original reservation. Late cancellations (starting at midnight the day before arrival) incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's site fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Fir Top Campground offers a wide range of activities centered around its location by Jackson Meadow Reservoir. Popular recreational opportunities include boating, canoeing, water skiing, swimming, and fishing. The nearby Pacific Crest Trail provides excellent hiking options, and the surrounding area is ideal for biking and hunting. Wildlife viewing is another highlight for visitors.
Hiking
The area includes a half-mile interpretive nature trail in the adjacent Woodcamp Campground and segments of the Pacific Crest Trail, which passes along the eastern side of the lake. User reviews highlight the availability of good hiking trails with scenic views.Fishing
The reservoir supports fishing activities, with rainbow and brown trout being the primary catches.Swimming
A designated swim beach is located within the recreation area. User reviews do not indicate any additional details about swimming facilities.Biking
Biking is a popular activity in the surrounding area, although specific details on trails or terrain are not mentioned.Boating
Boating opportunities are abundant, with a boat ramp available for easy access to the water. Activities include canoeing and water skiing.Wildlife viewing
The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local wildlife, though no user reviews elaborate on specific species.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are detailed in the source material.Water Sports
Canoeing, water skiing, and other water activities are popular at the reservoir.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may be enforced during dry conditions. Designated campfire rings are available at each site.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are present in the area, and food must be secured. Some routes to the campground, such as Bowman Road, pose significant driving hazards with rough terrain and steep drop-offs.
Weather at Fir Top Campground
38
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Sierraville Ranger District (address same as above) for immediate needs. Full medical services may require traveling to Truckee or other nearby population centers.
Good to know
Peak season datesAugust 1st - October 12th.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available, but no specific recycling services are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the western shore of Jackson Meadow Reservoir with easy access to boating and swimming.
Common complaintsSeveral reviews cite issues with insects, particularly biting flies near the beaches. Complaints also include non-functioning bathroom facilities and inadequate booking system management.
Campground Map
317 SOUTH LINCOLN ST (HWY 89), PO BOX 95, SIERRAVILLE, CA, 96125, USA
Driving directionsTake Interstate 80 to the Truckee/Highway 89 North exit. Follow Highway 89 north toward Sierraville for 17 miles, to the Jackson Meadows turnoff. Travel west on Forest Road 07 for 18 miles to the Jackson Meadows Reservoir. Proceed across the dam and continue along the paved/gravel road for approximately four miles, to the campground.
Roads are paved for most of the route but include gravel and dirt sections near the campground. Some reviews warn against taking Bowman Road as an alternative route, citing rough conditions, large rocks, narrow paths, and steep drop-offs. A Subaru Crosstrek or off-road capable vehicle is recommended for some sections.Nearby places
Truckee (approximately 35 miles, 50 minutes), Sierraville (approximately 17 miles, 25 minutes), Sacramento (approximately 90 miles, 2 hours)
Nearby supplies
Sierraville offers some basic supplies. Truckee provides larger grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel options.
Reviews from booking and map sources
3.7
12 reviews
Fir Top Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mixed reviews highlight the beauty of the campground's natural setting and its quiet, less-crowded atmosphere. Some complaints center on the prevalence of insects, maintenance of restrooms, and difficulties with road access.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praise the clean and quiet environment, scenic views, and friendly staff. Specific comments include, "The lake and campsite were beautiful. Not crowded. A very peaceful experience" and...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users criticize the abundance of biting insects, with one stating, "I've never seen so many flesh-eating bugs...be ready to soak yourself in chemicals to enjoy the outdoors." Others expressed...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Many reviewers suggest taking the specified route to avoid road issues, noting that following GPS directions could lead to dangerous conditions. Bringing insect repellent is strongly advised due to...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention pleasant weather but emphasize insect problems. Few reviews touch on off-season visits, likely due to the campground's limited operating season.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This area is undeniably beautiful," but "be ready to soak yourself, and your animals, in chems to enjoy the outdoors." "The lake and campsite were beautiful. Not crowded. A very peaceful experience."
Based on 12 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 011 received multiple positive reviews, including comments on its proximity to the lake and flush toilet availability. Site 003 was noted for its quietness and cleanliness.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Users mention that pets are allowed but must remain leashed, with a maximum of two dogs per site.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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