The 5 Best Campgrounds Around Truckee/North Lake Tahoe Region

Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the pines or pulling your camper into a lakeside haven, the Sierra Nevada offers some of California’s most memorable camping experiences. The region’s high-elevation campgrounds blend convenience with untamed wilderness, making them favorites among outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes. Voters participating in the Best of North Lake Tahoe and Truckee shows appreciation for the campgrounds that go beyond just a fire ring and picnic table. These special places offer access to adventure, quiet morning light and the kind of star-filled nights you tell stories about later.

D.L. Bliss

D.L. Bliss State Park doesn’t try to hide its charms. Perched on the southwestern shore of Lake Tahoe, this historic park is known for its dramatic granite cliffs, Caribbean-blue coves and family-friendly campground. Though technically outside the town of Truckee, it’s a beloved destination for many North Tahoe locals and visitors alike. Campers here can hike down to the iconic Rubicon Trail, explore the photogenic Balancing Rock or wade into the clear waters at Lester Beach. Established in 1929, the park was named after Duane Leroy Bliss, a lumber baron whose vision preserved this stretch of shoreline for public enjoyment. With a campground that feels tucked away without being cut off, D.L. Bliss balances accessibility and immersion, letting campers wake up just steps from alpine lake views.

Tahoe Donner Campground

Operated by the Tahoe Donner Association, the Tahoe Donner Campground is a favorite among those looking to stay close to Truckee while still enjoying a classic mountain camping experience. Set among towering pines and adjacent to Alder Creek, this campground offers a peaceful, semi-rustic setting with practical touches that make longer stays more comfortable — think hot showers, bear boxes and direct access to the Tahoe Donner trail system. The campground accommodates both tents and RVs, with shaded sites that appeal to weekenders and extended-stay visitors alike. From mountain biking to wildlife spotting, there’s plenty to do without ever getting in a car, and the proximity to town means ice cream and gear shops are never far away.

Weber Lake

Hidden in the Sierra crest just outside Truckee, Weber Lake Campground offers the rare chance to camp beside a private alpine lake with a public welcome. The campground is managed by the Truckee Donner Land Trust, an organization focused on preserving open spaces and ensuring public access. Formerly part of a private fishing club, the lake and surrounding property were acquired by the Land Trust to expand recreation opportunities. The result is a serene camping experience with a conservation-minded ethos. Campers here can paddle the calm waters, hike the nearby Hole in the Ground trail or simply unplug in the quiet stillness of the forest. The vibe leans rustic, with basic facilities and an off-grid feel, but that’s part of what makes it memorable. Weber Lake invites you to slow down, breathe deeper and stay longer.

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