Boca Rest Campground
4.2762 reviews10811 Stockrest Springs Road, Truckee, CA 96161, USA
Boca Rest 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 rates from May 23 to October 12 are $20 per night for standard non-electric sites. Additional fees include $5 per extra vehicle and service fees for reservations made online, contact center, or in person.
About this campground
Perched on the northeastern shores of the sparkling Boca Reservoir, Boca Rest Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its dramatic wilderness vistas and endless water adventures. Here, well-spaced campsites dot the open landscape, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for memorable evenings under the stars. While the exposed terrain offers little shade—perfect for sun-seekers and stargazers—it provides unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and water. Modern conveniences include vault toilets and fresh drinking water, ensuring comfort without compromising the authentic camping experience. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, diving into refreshing waters, or launching your boat for an afternoon expedition, Boca Rest serves as your gateway to aquatic adventure.
Boca Rest Campground accommodates both tent campers and RV users but lacks hookups for utilities. Some sites are located near the water.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time along the nearby Boca Townsite Interpretive Trail, where the echoes of the Old West still resonate through the landscape. This fascinating historical journey reveals the area's remarkable transformation from a bustling railroad construction camp to a thriving industrial hub, complete with the legendary Boca Brewery. These remnants of frontier life add depth to your camping experience, reminding visitors that long before modern recreationists discovered these shores, pioneers and railroad workers called this rugged terrain home.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Boca Rest brings the perfect mountain climate—warm, sun-drenched days that invite water play, followed by refreshingly cool nights ideal for campfire gatherings. The campground's signature feature is its spirited breeze, which sweeps across the open landscape with little resistance from the sparse tree cover. While this wind keeps temperatures comfortable and insects at bay, savvy campers come prepared with sturdy tent stakes and windbreaks. As winter approaches, the landscape transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, though heavy snowfall may temporarily close access roads, making this primarily a warm-weather destination for most visitors.
ElevationElevation data not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's setting is a study in contrasts—where the shimmering waters of Boca Reservoir meet the austere beauty of high desert terrain. Aromatic sagebrush carpets the ground between scattered pines, creating a uniquely Western landscape that changes color with the light. The Little Truckee River winds nearby, adding its gentle soundtrack to the scene. This open ecosystem supports an impressive array of wildlife: majestic bald eagles soar overhead, while deer browse through camp at dusk, and honking geese announce the changing seasons. It's a photographer's paradise where every sunrise paints the reservoir in different hues and every sunset silhouettes the distant peaks.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Tahoe National Forest, Boca Rest occupies a unique ecological niche along the northeastern shores of Boca Reservoir. This distinctive landscape showcases the transition zone between forest and high desert, where resilient sagebrush communities thrive alongside scattered pine groves. The open terrain reveals the geological story of the Sierra Nevada foothills, offering campers an intimate connection with the raw beauty of California's diverse mountain ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit information about accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious in some reviews, though others highlight uneven ground at certain sites.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are well-spaced, ensuring privacy, but lack natural shade due to limited trees.
Total Campsites38 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid camping near dirt bike and ATV activity for quieter spaces; select waterfront sites for proximity to water recreation.
Best CampsitesSite #38 received praise for its location, citing excellent views and spacing provided by the layout.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights during a single visit, up to 14 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people and 2 dogs per single site.
Groups
No specific information on group camping sites is available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are well-spaced with some waterfront options but mostly exposed with minimal shade.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 to October 12, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov, through the app, or by calling the contact center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are first-come, first-served according to user reviews; no specific numerical data is provided.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival for a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (starting midnight one calendar day prior to check-in) will forfeit the first night's recreation fee in addition to the $10 cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Boca Rest Campground enjoy a wide range of recreational activities including boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, and off-highway vehicle trails. The nearby Boca Reservoir offers opportunities for water skiing and kayaking. Wildlife viewing is another popular activity, with sightings of bald eagles, deer, and foxes noted in user reviews.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible nearby, including the Boca Townsite Interpretive Trail which provides insight into local history.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at Boca Rest Campground, with options for both reservoir and Little Truckee River catch-and-release fly fishing.Swimming
Swimming is available in Boca Reservoir, though user reviews highlight the rocky shoreline which may require water shoes for safety.Biking
Several trails suitable for biking are present in the area.Boating
Boating at Boca Reservoir is supported by a boat ramp on the west shore and an unimproved launching area south of the campground.Wildlife viewing
Campers report sightings of bald eagles, deer, foxes, and bobcats. Wildlife viewing is a key attraction in the area.Cultural and Educational Programs
The nearby Boca Townsite Interpretive Trail offers insights into the historical transition of the area from construction camp to industrial activities.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing and hiking are mentioned in reviews.Water Sports
Water skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and general water play are popular at Boca Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed during dry conditions. Firewood is available on-site from the host, subject to availability.
- Quiet hours are officially in place but reportedly not enforced during busy periods.
Hazards
General hazardsBear country (though no bears were seen according to reviews); snakes in water reported at campsite 1; windy conditions affecting tents and awnings.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.2 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 (contact: (530) 587-3558) for fire and weather updates; other emergency services are likely in Truckee, CA.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 – October 12
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but no specific details on recycling facilities or pickup schedules are provided.
Proximity to water featuresSituated along Boca Reservoir and near the Little Truckee River; water activities like boating, kayaking, and fishing are popular.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include noise from ATVs, disregard for quiet hours, uneven campsite terrain, and lack of shade.
HostMixed reviews on camp hosts: some users found hosts extremely helpful, while others experienced rudeness.
Campground Map
10811 Stockrest Springs Road, Truckee, CA 96161, USA
Driving directionsFrom Reno, take I-80 west to the Hirschdale Exit. Drive north on Hirschdale Road approximately 3 miles to the campground. From Truckee, take I-80 west 10 miles to the Hirschdale Exit. Drive north on Hirschdale Road approximately 3 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from Hirschdale Road, located off Interstate 80. Seasonal closures or difficult terrain are not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Truckee (20 minutes away)
Reno (approximately 30 minutes away)
Lake Tahoe (approximately 30 minutes away)
Nearby supplies
Truckee offers amenities like grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and hotels approximately 20 minutes away from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.3
62 reviews
Boca Rest Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Boca Rest Campground are mixed. Positive reviews highlight the beautiful location, spacious campsites, and range of activities such as fishing and boating. Negative reviews frequently mention the lack of shade, noise from off-road vehicles, and issues with other campers disregarding quiet hours.
Review Summaries
Based on 62 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, helpful camp hosts, beautiful lake views, spacious campsites, and proximity to recreational activities such as hiking and water sports.
Based on 62 reviewsCommon Concerns
Dusty conditions, lack of shade, noisy campers and off-road vehicles, uneven ground at some sites, and windiness.
Based on 62 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a pop-up canopy for shade, water shoes for the rocky shoreline, and a dust mask for dry conditions. Arrive during daylight hours for easier navigation and site setup.
Based on 62 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight high activity levels and noise, while winter reviews focus on the serenity and opportunities for snowshoeing. Visitors recommend mid-week stays for quieter experiences.
Based on 62 reviewsCamper Quotes
"You will see wilderness here! Upon arriving a spotted a bald eagle flying to what I think is its nest northeast of the campground." (Pete Puebla) "Super dusty and really loud. Lots of 4 wheelers...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific issues include uneven terrain and windy conditions at campsites like #5 and #32. Positive reviews highlight sites like #38 and #26 for their proximity to water and helpful camp hosts.
Based on 62 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features for disabled visitors.
Based on 62 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some reviews mention issues with unleashed dogs roaming campsites.
Based on 62 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025