Alpine Meadow Campground
4.48130 reviews11989 Martis Dam Road, Truckee, CA, 96160
Alpine Meadow Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Nightly/daily peak season rate is $20. Payment is made online through Recreation.gov and additional non-refundable reservation and cancellation fees apply (e.g., $8-$9 reservation fee, $10 change fee).
About this campground
Escape to Alpine Meadow Campground, where tranquility meets adventure in the heart of the Sierra Nevada. This hidden gem provides generous, well-spaced sites surrounded by pristine mountain scenery, all within easy reach of Lake Tahoe's crystal waters, the charming town of Truckee, and the peaceful shores of Martis Creek Lake. Whether you're casting a line for catch-and-release trout, paddling through mirror-like waters in your kayak, or exploring endless mountain trails by foot or bike, Alpine Meadow serves as your perfect basecamp for High Sierra adventures.
Alpine Meadow Campground offers a mix of camping accommodations, including sites for tents, RVs, and group camping. It is a primitive camping site with no electrical or sewer hookups.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late spring through early autumn, Alpine Meadow transforms into an outdoor paradise blessed with seemingly endless blue skies and crisp mountain air. While temperatures can dip to a refreshing 25°F during cooler periods before warming to a comfortable 41°F, the campground enjoys remarkably stable conditions throughout peak season. Rain and snow rarely interrupt the summer camping experience, making this an ideal destination for those seeking reliable weather for their outdoor plans.
ElevationPerched at 6,200 feet in the Sierra Nevada, Alpine Meadow offers that perfect sweet spot of mountain camping—high enough to escape the summer heat and enjoy cool, pine-scented breezes, yet accessible enough for comfortable camping. This elevation creates an invigorating atmosphere where crisp mornings give way to warm afternoons and starlit evenings that will take your breath away.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled in a stunning alpine valley, the campground feels like nature's amphitheater, with towering mountains forming dramatic walls around expansive meadows dotted with wildflowers. Majestic pines provide natural shade and privacy between sites, while the open meadows invite exploration and wildlife watching. Keep your camera ready—the resident woodpeckers tap out morning rhythms, brilliant bluejays flash between branches, and industrious beavers can be spotted engineering their homes along nearby waterways.
Geological RegionAlpine Meadow sits in a remarkable geological crossroads where ancient volcanic activity and glacial carving created today's spectacular landscape. This alpine valley, cradled by weathered peaks and carpeted with meadows and pine forests, showcases the Sierra Nevada's dramatic geological history. The proximity to both Martis Creek Lake and Lake Tahoe places campers at the heart of a region shaped by millions of years of natural forces, creating the diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas that make this area a true natural wonderland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne reviewer mentioned accessibility concerns for site #4, which was described as far from parking and difficult for a senior with walking disabilities. Beyond this, there is no comprehensive information on accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, with ample room for vehicles and tents. For example, one reviewer noted, "Our campsite #16 was spacious enough for our 10-person tent."
Sites PrivacyThe sites are spaced far apart, offering considerable privacy for visitors. Reviewers frequently commented on this, with one stating, "Sites are spaced a nice distance apart," and another mentioning, "You do have a little privacy."
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 18 is noted for its spacious design and suitability for tent camping. Site 15 offers unlimited views of the surrounding forest and meadows.
Best CampsitesSites 10 and 11 are recommended for their views of Martis Valley.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 Noon
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights during a visit and 14 nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of eight people per campsite, including children.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 25 sites, many of which are pull-off designs offering privacy and ample space.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15, 2025, to October 14, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by phone at (877) 444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is reportedly limited due to frequent bookings during weekends. Reservations are now required for all sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed any time before scheduled arrival, but incur a $10 cancellation fee and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. Modifications are allowed with a $10 change fee in applicable scenarios.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Alpine Meadow Campground is known for its proximity to various recreational activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The area also supports birding, wildlife viewing, and photography. Campers can enjoy the natural surroundings, including views of snow-clad mountains and Martis Valley.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding areas. One reviewer mentioned, "We took a nice hike up to Dry Lake/Lake Ella from the campground," indicating the presence of nearby trails.Fishing
Fishing is available at Martis Creek Lake, which is a catch-and-release lake. One reviewer stated, "We enjoyed fishing at Martis Lake and caught several perch."Biking
Biking opportunities are available, with trails close to the campground. One reviewer noted, "Great walking and bike trail by the Truckee River."Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed at Martis Creek Lake. Activities such as kayaking and canoeing are popular. One reviewer appreciated the lack of motorboats, saying, "No power boats allowed. It makes kayaking the lake so lovely!"Wildlife viewing
The campground is noted for its wildlife, including woodpeckers, bluejays, eagles, and beavers. One reviewer stated, "So much wildlife; woodpeckers, bluejays, eagles, beavers in the lake."Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are described for this campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular at the lake, as noted by campers.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood may be available nearby.
- Quiet hours are 9:00 PM to 6:30 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to Truckee Airport may lead to airplane noise during daytime hours. Wildlife such as bears may be present, requiring use of bear-proof storage lockers.
Active alertsNo active alerts reported.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.5 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
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
Emergency services are closest in Truckee, CA, including hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - October 14, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThe campground provides bear-proof dumpsters and trash facilities. One reviewer mentioned, "Bear-proof dumpsters were great," which highlights their functionality.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Martis Creek Lake, suitable for fishing and kayaking. However, the lake is not ideal for swimming.
Common complaintsReviews mention poorly maintained restrooms, occasional noise from airplanes, and rough road conditions leading into the campground.
HostCampground hosts are praised for their friendliness, though availability may vary. Some reviews note absence of hosts during wildfires.
Campground Map
11989 Martis Dam Road, Truckee, CA, 96160
Driving directionsFrom State Highway 267, turn onto Martis Dam Road. Continue on Martis Dam Road for approximately 1.2 miles. Turn right after 0.2 miles to reach the campground entrance.
The road leading to the campground is paved but reportedly in poor condition, requiring slow driving. The immediate entry road features mogul-like terrain that can disturb vehicles' interiors.Nearby places
Truckee (~5 minutes), Northstar (~5 minutes), Kings Beach (~15-20 minutes), Reno (~40 minutes), Virginia City (~1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and gas are available approximately 5 minutes away in Truckee. A large supermarket (Rally's) is nearby for essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.5
130 reviews
Alpine Meadow Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground generally receives high praise for its tranquility, spaciousness, and cleanliness, but users have noted recurring issues such as smelly pit toilets and occasional noise from the nearby airport.
Review Summaries
Based on 130 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciate the clean, spacious campsites, quiet surroundings, and proximity to attractions like Lake Tahoe and Truckee. Many also highlighted the privacy between sites and the natural...
Based on 130 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the smell of the vault toilets, noise from the nearby Truckee Airport, and the poor condition of access roads leading to the campground.
Based on 130 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing soap, as it is not provided in the bathrooms. Campers also suggest visiting Donner Lake for swimming and planning ahead due to limited on-site staff availability.
Based on 130 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is popular in summer and early fall, with positive reviews emphasizing warm weather and clear skies. Some reviews noted the impact of wildfire smoke during certain times of the year.
Based on 130 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This campground was immaculate! Logs and sumps lining the roads and camping spots." "Beautiful dry camping campground. Sites are clean and nicely maintained." "The campsites are well maintained and...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #10 offers sunrise views, while site #16 is noted for its spaciousness, accommodating a 10-person tent. Site #8 has a view of the water, and site #18 is described as suitable for tent camping...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility concerns were noted for site #4, which was challenging for a senior with walking disabilities due to its distance from parking. No other specific accessibility issues were highlighted.
Based on 130 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews focused on pet-related experiences.
Based on 130 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025