Pass Creek Campground

Star4.28
84 reviews
317 SOUTH LINCOLN ST (HWY 89), PO BOX 95, SIERRAVILLE, CA 96126, USA
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

6,200 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open from August 1 t...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Nevada Irrigation District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Pass Creek Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The daily rate during peak season is $24. Additional vehicle fees apply at $5 per night, and reservation fees are $8-$9 depending on method.
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

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Provider
530-265-8861
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What Campers Say

4.28

Satisfactory

Based on 84 reviews

21 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanlocationlake

Some mention

noise

"Overall, user reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, proximity to Jackson Meadow Reservoir, and variety of recreational opportunities. However, some concerns were raised about maintenance and crowding during peak seasons."

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Campground Map

317 SOUTH LINCOLN ST (HWY 89), PO BOX 95, SIERRAVILLE, CA 96126, USA

Pass Creek Campground

317 SOUTH LINCOLN ST (HWY 89), PO BOX 95, SIERRAVILLE, CA 96126, USA

Driving directionsTake Interstate 80 to the Truckee/Highway 89 exit. Follow Highway 89 north for 17 miles to the Jackson Meadows turnoff. Travel west on Forest Road 07 for 18 miles to Jackson Meadows Reservoir. Turn at the Pass Creek Campground sign.
The campground is accessed via paved roads up to Forest Road 07. Road conditions are subject to seasonal closures or challenges due to snow or weather events. GPS navigation is not recommended.
Nearby places
Truckee: 35 miles (~1-hour drive), Sierraville: 17 miles (~30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
The nearest stores and supplies are in Truckee, approximately 35 miles away. Local shops may offer limited groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Pass Creek Campground

Experience the crisp mountain air where daytime temperatures hover around a refreshing 43°F and nights dip to a cozy 28°F during peak season. The campground enjoys wonderfully dry conditions with gentle mountain breezes that whisper through the pines. Early spring arrivals and late fall adventurers should come prepared for possible snow dustings that transform the landscape into a winter wonderland.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak summer use (Aug) offers swimming, boating and hiking but can be crowded.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open through Oct 12; pleasant dry conditions and scenic fall views; quieter than peak.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Site is closed in spring; seasonal opening begins Aug 1.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside Aug 1–Oct 12; winter stays not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: August 01, 2025 - October 12, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from August 1 to October 12, annually.
  • Current Alerts: Water may be unavailable late in the season. Fire restrictions occur frequently due to dry conditions.

About Pass Creek Campground

Nestled along the sparkling shores of Jackson Meadow Reservoir, Pass Creek Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain serenity and waterfront adventure. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, launching your boat for a day of exploration, or setting off on scenic hiking trails, this hidden gem offers endless possibilities. Thoughtfully managed through a partnership between Nevada Irrigation District and Tahoe National Forest, the campground serves as your gateway to authentic Sierra Nevada experiences.
Pass Creek Campground offers options for both tent camping and RV camping. Group camping and cabin lodging are not explicitly mentioned.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights per reservation.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to Pass Creek Campground can enjoy a variety of recreational activities including boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming. The nearby Jackson Meadow Reservoir is particularly popular for water sports. "Jackson Meadow Reservoir offers excellent opportunities for boating, canoeing, water skiing, swimming and fishing."
HikingHiking opportunities are available, including access to a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail that meanders along the east side of Jackson Meadow Reservoir. However, some users noted limited options directly near the campground.
FishingFishing is a popular activity, with anglers targeting rainbow and brown trout in Jackson Meadow Reservoir. Reviews indicate fishing can be hit or miss, depending on the season and weather conditions.
SwimmingA designated swim beach near the campground offers opportunities for swimming. Laura-Ann C. mentioned, "In mid-summer, lake is just warm enough for swimming... water temp 70°F."
BikingBiking is another popular activity in the surrounding area. Sandra H. appreciated the biking opportunities: "Beautiful area to play in the lake and go bike riding."
BoatingBoating is supported, with amenities such as a boat ramp and opportunities for water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking. Linda B. shared, "Lake is big enough to paddleboard, canoe and boat."
Wildlife viewingFrequent wildlife sightings are reported, with golden mantle squirrels and other creatures being common. Laura-Ann C. noted, "There are Golden Mantle Squirrels everywhere."
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFrequent bear activity requires food storage in approved containers. Wildlife hazards include abundant insects and golden mantle squirrels.
Active AlertsWater may be unavailable late in the season. Fire restrictions occur frequently due to dry conditions.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.
Food Storage RequiredAvailable food storage lockers are essential due to bear activity. Usage rules require securing all food.

Weather at Pass Creek Campground

Reviews

4.3
84 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Pass Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, proximity to Jackson Meadow Reservoir, and variety of recreational opportunities. However, some concerns were raised about maintenance and crowding during peak seasons.
Review Summaries
Based on 84 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the campground's cleanliness, scenic location, and recreational amenities. Positive sentiments include "clean and quiet" (by Glorydog11) and "Beautiful area to play in the lake and go...
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Based on 84 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include lack of potable water during certain times, trash overflow, and crowding. Dustin C. noted, "With a little bit of effort put into maintenance, Pass Creek could be amazing."
Based on 84 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Recommended to bring sufficient supplies due to the site's remoteness and lack of nearby stores. Laura-Ann C. advised, "There are no stores closer than about 30 miles (Truckee), so make sure you have...
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Based on 84 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak summer months are popular but can be crowded and noisy. Off-peak visits offer quieter experiences but more limited amenities.
Based on 84 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The reservoir goes back and forth as to levels but still lots of fun for fishing, kayaking, boating and just playing in the water." (Cindy S.) "Flush toilets with lav sinks in restrooms" (Laura-Ann...
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Based on 84 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific sites like #16, noted by Laura-Ann C. as a favorite, offer good proximity to water and amenities. Conversely, site #21 received criticism for being too sloped.
Based on 84 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are not detailed in reviews, though paved pads and proximity to water sources may aid some visitors.
Based on 84 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but reviews highlight the importance of keeping them leashed. Josimar K. expressed concerns about unleashed dogs: "My other negative are people not picking up after their dogs."
Based on 84 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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