Lower Little Truckee
3.7325 reviews317 SOUTH LINCOLN RD(HWY 89), PO BOX 95, SIERRAVILLE, CA, 96126, USA
Quick Facts
6,100 ftPrice
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Open from May 23, 20...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
6,100 ftPrice
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Open from May 23, 20...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsLower Little Truckee
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates are $20.00 per night during the peak season from May 23 to October 12, 2025. Additional vehicle fees cost $5/each per night for all...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$40.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(530) 994-3401
What Campers Say
3.73
Mixed Reviews
Based on 25 reviews
31 Google reviews
Some mention
noisedusty
"User reviews provide mixed feedback. While some appreciate the location and proximity to the Little Truckee River, others criticize the lack of privacy, road noise, and limited shade."
Fees & Passes at Lower Little Truckee
$20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Cancellations prior to the day of check-in incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations also forfeit the ...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Tahoe National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Lower Little Truckee
The high Sierra climate here tells a story of dramatic seasonal changes. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though temperatures can plunge well below freezing. As spring melts into summer, the campground awakens to warm, dry days that invite outdoor exploration—though the sparse tree cover means you'll want to pack extra shade and sun protection. The sweet spot for camping falls between late spring and early fall, when mild temperatures and clear skies create perfect conditions for riverside relaxation. Seasoned campers know to watch for those magical weeks of stable weather that make for unforgettable outdoor memories.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
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: May 23, 2025 - October 12, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 23, 2025, to October 12, 2025, with reservations available from June 22, 2025.
- Current Alerts: There are no active alerts specified for the campground at this time.
About Lower Little Truckee
Nestled along the banks of the Little Truckee River, this intimate campground offers a genuine Sierra Nevada camping experience. Each single-family campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Modern vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort during your stay. While the proximity to Highway 89 means you'll hear the occasional hum of passing traffic, it also provides convenient access to this outdoor paradise. Adventure seekers will find themselves perfectly positioned for exceptional trout fishing in the river, exploring nearby hiking trails, mountain biking through pine forests, or venturing out for seasonal hunting opportunities.
Lower Little Truckee Campground provides standard nonelectric campsites suitable for tents and small RVs or trailers. Group camping and cabins are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the pines here, where modern campers sleep just miles from where pioneers once struggled through these same mountains. The nearby Donner Camp Interpretive Trail tells the haunting tale of the ill-fated Donner Party, while the Overland Emigrant Commemorative Trail traces the footsteps of thousands who sought new lives in California during the Gold Rush era. These sacred pathways remind visitors that they're camping in a landscape that has witnessed both triumph and tragedy, making every sunset feel connected to the greater story of the American West.
Weather and SeasonsThe high Sierra climate here tells a story of dramatic seasonal changes. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though temperatures can plunge well below freezing. As spring melts into summer, the campground awakens to warm, dry days that invite outdoor exploration—though the sparse tree cover means you'll want to pack extra shade and sun protection. The sweet spot for camping falls between late spring and early fall, when mild temperatures and clear skies create perfect conditions for riverside relaxation. Seasoned campers know to watch for those magical weeks of stable weather that make for unforgettable outdoor memories.
ElevationPerched at 6,100 feet above sea level, the campground sits in that magical elevation where mountain air turns crisp and stars shine with extraordinary clarity. This alpine setting means evenings arrive with a refreshing coolness that provides welcome relief from summer days, making campfire gatherings all the more inviting. The thin mountain air adds an invigorating quality to morning coffee and reminds lowlanders to take it easy on their first day while acclimating.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 6,100 feet, where lodgepole pines stretch skyward alongside trembling aspens and hardy junipers, Lower Little Truckee creates a classic Sierra Nevada tableau. The Little Truckee River threads through the campground like a liquid silver ribbon, its gentle murmur providing nature's soundtrack to your stay. While the tree canopy offers dappled shade rather than dense cover, the interplay of sunlight through pine needles creates an ever-changing pattern of light and shadow. The characteristic dry, dusty soil of the high country adds an authentic wilderness touch, reminding visitors they've truly escaped into nature's realm.
Geological RegionDeep within the Tahoe National Forest, the campground occupies a special niche along the Little Truckee River corridor at 6,100 feet elevation. This geological wonderland showcases the diverse forest ecology of the Sierra Nevada, where lodgepole pines dominate the landscape, punctuated by groves of quaking aspens that turn brilliant gold each autumn. Scattered junipers, twisted by mountain winds, add character to the forest mosaic. The partial shade created by this mixed conifer forest offers natural respite while still allowing campers to feel connected to the vast Sierra sky above.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit information regarding accessibility features is provided in the source material.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as being small. 'The sites at this campground are incredibly close to each other.' Users also noted that larger RVs and trailers may have difficulty fitting in certain spots.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited. 'The campsites are VERY CLOSE together, so don’t expect any privacy.' Another user stated, 'you are less than ten feet from the campers next to you depending on the campsite you get.'
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the highway if possible, as these experience higher noise levels. Choose river-facing sites for better views and proximity to water.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 6 people and 2 dogs per single site.
Groups
There are no group camping sites detailed in the available materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has approximately 10 campsites laid out closely together, with minimal spacing and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to October 12, 2025, with reservations available from June 22, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, through the app, or by calling the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst come, first served availability is not explicitly detailed.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to the day of check-in incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Changes made to reservations outside the original dates incur a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can engage in a variety of outdoor activities. The Little Truckee River offers fishing opportunities for rainbow and brown trout. Hiking and biking trails are available nearby. Additional recreational activities include camping, hunting, and scenic driving. Wildlife viewing and other water sports are not explicitly mentioned.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible in the surrounding area, but specific details such as trail lengths and difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Fishing in the Little Truckee River is a key attraction. 'Fishing for rainbow and brown trout in the Little Truckee River is a popular activity.'Biking
Biking is described as an available activity around the campground, but detailed information about the biking trails, such as their terrain or difficulty, is not included.Winter Activities
Winter recreation activities are not detailed in the available materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing are not explicitly mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless restrictions are imposed due to hot, dry weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are Generators are required to be off by 10:00 PM; other noise regulations are unspecified.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, requiring strict food storage rules. Dusty conditions and proximity to highway traffic pose minor hazards.
Active alertsThere are no active alerts specified for the campground at this time.
Weather at Lower Little Truckee
33
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Truckee, including hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - October 12, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site. Bearproof measures include locked dumpsters to prevent wildlife break-ins: 'The nearby dumpsters were kept locked to prevent bears from breaking in.'
Proximity to water featuresThe Little Truckee River runs through the campground, and several sites are within feet of the river, offering fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include noise from nearby Highway 89, closely spaced campsites lacking privacy, and dusty ground conditions. Some reviews highlight issues with campground management and cleanliness.
HostThe campground host Vernon received positive comments for being helpful and accommodating, though some reviews noted inconsistent enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
317 SOUTH LINCOLN RD(HWY 89), PO BOX 95, SIERRAVILLE, CA, 96126, USA
Driving directionsFrom either east bound or west bound Interstate 80 in Truckee take exit 188, Highway 89 north to Sierraville. In approximately 11 miles turn left into the campground.
The campground is accessible from Highway 89, approximately 11 miles north of Truckee. The road is paved and well-maintained, but tight maneuvering may be challenging for larger RVs or trailers exceeding 30 feet, as described in user reviews.Nearby places
Truckee (11 miles, 10-minute drive), Lake Tahoe (30 miles away, 30-minute drive), Stampede Reservoir (35-minute drive southeast), Sardine Lakes within Lakes Basin (40-minute drive northwest via Highway 49)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including grocery stores, gas stations, and other essentials, are available in Truckee, located 11 miles south of the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
3.7
25 reviews
Lower Little Truckee has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews provide mixed feedback. While some appreciate the location and proximity to the Little Truckee River, others criticize the lack of privacy, road noise, and limited shade.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
Proximity to the river is frequently praised: 'The river is so close, feet away, so that is lovely.' The campground's affordability is also noted: 'This was a really nice campsite especially for the...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include noise from the nearby road: 'The road noise was crazy.' Campsite sizes and privacy were also criticized: 'The campsites are VERY CLOSE together, so don’t expect any...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
'Bring your own firewood,' as it is not sold on-site. 'Spot #9 is wide enough for the trailer and a car next to it,' but privacy between spots is limited. Users suggest avoiding the campground if...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer appears to be the busiest time, as many reviewers mention warm weather and busy campsites during this season. Noise from road traffic is consistently noted regardless of the time of year.
Based on 25 reviewsCamper Quotes
'I'd rather sleep in the middle of traffic on interstate 5 then sleep there.' 'If you're just looking for a place to pull over and crash for a night it's perfect.' 'The campground is also right off...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Spot #7: 'I have a 27' RV and truck which just barely fit in spot #7.' Spot #9: 'Spot #9 is uncomfortably close to spot #10 but would be a great spot for a small group to use both.' Spot #12:...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Explicit feedback from users with disabilities was not provided in the available materials.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
'The campsites are beautiful and the river was so much fun to play in with the kids and dogs.' Pets are allowed, but users note that dogs must be leashed.
Based on 25 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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