Boca Campground
4.1372 reviews12927 Boca Road, Truckee, CA, USA
Boca 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
Peak season fees apply for both standard nonelectric and tent-only nonelectric sites at $20 per night. Fees may increase with additional vehicle costs ($5 per night).
About this campground
Perched on a plateau overlooking the sparkling waters of Boca Reservoir, Boca Campground invites you to experience the perfect blend of mountain serenity and waterfront adventure. Each single-family campsite is thoughtfully nestled among towering Jeffrey pines and fragrant firs, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy onto your picnic table and fire ring. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling across the reservoir's glassy surface, or exploring nearby hiking trails, this scenic retreat offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to create lasting memories.
Boca Campground offers single-family sites with options for tent camping. RV camping is not specifically highlighted, and no group or cabin accommodations are mentioned in official sources.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time along the fascinating Boca Townsite Interpretive Trail, where weathered remnants tell the story of this once-bustling railroad community. In the 1860s, hammers rang and steam engines whistled as workers built the Central Pacific Railroad through these mountains. After the rails were complete, enterprising settlers transformed Boca into a thriving mill town, even establishing a brewery to quench the thirst of hardworking locals—a testament to the ingenuity and determination that shaped California's frontier.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Sierra Nevada summers at Boca, where warm, sun-soaked days invite you to play on the water and comfortable temperatures in the 70s and 80s make every outdoor activity a pleasure. As evening falls, the mountain air brings a refreshing coolness, with temperatures dipping into the 40s—perfect for gathering around your campfire under a canopy of stars. Come winter, a blanket of snow transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland, though heavy snowfall typically closes access to this summer paradise.
ElevationFrom your campsite high on the plateau, breathtaking panoramic views stretch across the reservoir and surrounding peaks, offering a photographer's dream at every turn. This elevated vantage point not only provides spectacular sunrise and sunset opportunities but also ensures cooling mountain breezes throughout your stay.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient Jeffrey pines and stately firs create a natural cathedral above your campsite. The shimmering expanse of Boca Reservoir serves as your backyard playground, its waters reflecting the surrounding peaks and endless sky. This corner of Northern California showcases nature at its finest—from wildflower-dotted meadows to rugged hiking trails that wind through forests alive with birdsong and the whisper of wind through pine needles.
Geological RegionDiscover your home away from home on a scenic plateau along Boca Reservoir's western shore, deep within the protected wilderness of Tahoe National Forest. This unique geological setting combines the stability of ancient bedrock with the dynamic beauty of a mountain reservoir, all shaded by a mature forest of Jeffrey pines and firs that have stood sentinel here for generations. The natural terracing of the plateau creates intimate camping spaces while maintaining those coveted reservoir views that make this destination truly special.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described. Some sites are uneven, which might pose challenges for campers with mobility issues.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as large and spacious in some reviews but uneven in others (Linda H, 2022).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at campsites is mixed. Some sites are close together, reducing privacy, while others offer serene views and seclusion (Sean Reyes, 2023; Rachel Brown, 2022).
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers suggest sites 16, 18, and 26 for lake views and proximity to trails. Sites at the far end of the campground are closer to the water but farther from restrooms.
Best CampsitesSite 16 is highlighted for its excellent lake and mountain views, stargazing, and proximity to bathrooms.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights per visit. Maximum annual stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people and 2 dogs are allowed per single site.
Groups
Group sites feature amenities such as multiple picnic tables and large fire pits. "Group site #1 has lots of room to set up tents, four tables, and a nice big fire pit" (Dan Vu, 2022).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spread across a peninsula with a mix of tent-only and standard sites; the layout includes loops and trails leading to the water.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 23, 2025 - October 12, 2025 (Peak Season)
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available for walk-up reservations on a first-come-first-served basis, but availability is not guaranteed during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime prior to the scheduled arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual campsites incur an additional forfeit of the first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Boca Campground offers a range of activities that include boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming, centered around Boca Reservoir. "Boca Reservoir is a popular location for boating, water skiing, swimming, and fishing. The Little Truckee River nearby offers some of Northern California's best catch-and-release fly-fishing." Hiking trails, biking paths, and off-road vehicle trails are also available.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include nearby trails such as the Boca Townsite Interpretive Trail, which showcases the area's historical significance. Several user reviews highlight the convenience of trails leading to the beach or water areas.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at Boca Reservoir and the nearby Little Truckee River, known for catch-and-release fly-fishing. "People catching fish by the dam" (Anthony O, 2023).Swimming
Swimming is popular at Boca Reservoir, although access to the water can be steep depending on site location (Michelle Brown, 2018).Biking
Boca Campground has biking paths available, but specific details about trail lengths or terrain are not provided.Boating
Boating activities are popular, with access to Boca Reservoir for water skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. "People having fun on boats and jet skis" (Anthony O, 2023).Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer and other animals in the area. "Deer and wildlife everywhere" (Anthony O, 2023).Beach activities
Beach activities include sunbathing and swimming. Some campsites have trails providing direct access to secluded beaches.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Boca Townsite Interpretive Trail provides cultural and educational insights into the area's history.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned for Boca Campground.Water Sports
Water skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are available at Boca Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings but may be restricted during fire hazard periods.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity in the area requires proper food storage. Dust is often cited as a nuisance during dry weather. Steep paths to the reservoir may pose challenges for small children or individuals with mobility concerns.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed due to weather conditions. Construction in the vicinity of Boca Dam may affect accessibility.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 82%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Truckee Ranger District Office (530-587-3558), Tahoe Forest Hospital (Truckee, approx. 15 minutes).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - October 12, 2025
Trash and recyclingCentralized trash collection is available near restrooms, but no individual bins are provided at campsites (Dan Vu, 2022). Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Boca Reservoir with most sites offering direct or nearby access to the lake.
Common complaintsDusty conditions, lack of running water, and occasional noise disturbances from nearby recreational activities or camp neighbors.
HostCampground hosts are noted as friendly and helpful, ensuring clean restroom facilities and assisting with reservations.
Campground Map
12927 Boca Road, Truckee, CA, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 80, take Hirschdale Road exit (exit 194) and proceed north on Hirschdale Road for one mile. Turn left onto Boca Dam Reservoir Road and proceed west for 0.6 miles. After the dam, bear right onto Boca Road for another 0.6 miles. Boca Campground is on the right.
Accessible via paved roads with minor detour challenges during nearby construction. Seasonal conditions such as dry weather may lead to dusty road surfaces.Nearby places
Truckee (15 minutes), Reno (40 minutes), Lake Tahoe (25 minutes), Stampede Reservoir (12 miles north)
Nearby supplies
Truckee (groceries, camping supplies, fuel). Boca Reservoir General Store (water available for $10).
Camper Reviews
4.1
72 reviews
Boca Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Boca Campground vary widely, highlighting its beautiful location and recreational opportunities but also raising concerns about dust, lack of water, and noise from neighboring sites. Some praise the cleanliness and spaciousness of campsites, while others point out issues like uneven ground and late-night disturbances.
Review Summaries
Based on 72 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews focus on the campground's scenic views, proximity to Boca Reservoir, and well-maintained facilities. "Beautiful, quiet campground" (Ben L, 2022). "Plenty of shade, campsites are...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include dust issues, lack of privacy, and noisy neighbors. "The dust is overwhelming" (Trenton Fugitt, 2022). "The campground was really noisy" (Michelle Brown, 2018).
Based on 72 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing sufficient water due to the lack of potable water on-site and planning for uneven ground at some sites. "Be sure to bring leveling equipment such as blocks and jacks" (Adrian O,...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight recreational activities and warm weather but also mention higher noise levels and lack of water. Fall reviews emphasize the campground's tranquility and scenic views.
Based on 72 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful spot. I can't wait to go back." (Robert K, 2023). "Dust. Dust. Dust! The dust is overwhelming!!" (Trenton Fugitt, 2022). "Boca was a great experience! We stayed at site 16. It had a...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes: Site 16 - "Beautiful view of the lake and mountains". Site 18 - "Nice table and fire pit with lots of shade". Site 26 - "Great spot". Site 14 - Uneven and better...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews highlight challenges with uneven campsites and steep paths to the water, which may be difficult for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 72 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. "Dogs shall always be kept on leash or otherwise confined."
Based on 72 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025