Boca Spring
4.2759 reviews10811 Stockrest Springs Road, Truckee, CA 96161, USA
Boca Spring
$20.00 - $66.00 / 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$66.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates are $20/night for standard non-electric sites and $66/night for the group site.
About this campground
Tucked away in a pristine forest just east of the sparkling Boca Reservoir, Boca Spring Campground invites families and adventurers to experience the tranquility of the Tahoe wilderness. This secluded gem features thoughtfully spaced single-family campsites beneath a protective canopy of ancient trees, plus a spacious group site perfect for reunions and gatherings. Modern conveniences like vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort while maintaining the authentic camping experience.
Boca Spring Campground offers camping accommodations for single-family sites and one group site. The group site can accommodate up to 25 people and eight vehicles. Tent camping and RV camping are supported, although the gravel roads might pose challenges for certain vehicle types. Primitive camping is available due to limited amenities at the sites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time along the nearby Boca Townsite Interpretive Trail, where remnants of California's colorful past come alive. This fascinating historical journey reveals how a bustling railroad camp evolved into an unexpected center for brewery operations and ice production—crucial industries that once thrived in these mountain heights. Walking the trail connects modern visitors to the enterprising spirits who first recognized the area's unique potential.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full spectrum throughout the year at Boca Spring. Summer days bring warm sunshine filtering through the forest canopy, while evenings cool dramatically thanks to the mountain elevation—perfect for campfire stories and stargazing. As autumn arrives, crisp air and changing colors transform the landscape. Winter blankets the campground in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for those seeking cold-weather adventures, though temperatures can drop significantly.
ElevationPerched at mountain elevation, Boca Spring offers a natural escape from summer heat. The higher altitude creates an ideal microclimate where warm days give way to refreshingly cool nights—bring that extra layer for evening campfires! Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered retreat, where the elevation ensures a reliable blanket of white from the season's first storms through spring's arrival.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering pines and majestic firs that have stood sentinel for generations. The campground borders a lush meadow nourished by the crystal-clear waters of Boca Spring, creating a serene backdrop for morning coffee or evening wildlife watching. Just beyond the trees, Boca Reservoir beckons with endless water recreation possibilities—from peaceful paddling to exciting fishing adventures. This harmonious blend of forest, meadow, and water creates an unforgettable Sierra Nevada experience.
Geological RegionBoca Spring Campground sits within the magnificent Tahoe National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of dramatic beauty. Surrounded by dense stands of towering conifers—including stately pines and aromatic firs—the campground occupies a special niche where forest meets meadow. The spring-fed grassland provides a gentle contrast to the surrounding woodland, while nearby Boca Reservoir adds the final element to this diverse mountain ecosystem, creating a perfect basecamp for exploring the greater Tahoe region's geological wonders.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe camp roads are gravel with rocky areas, which may pose challenges for individuals with accessibility needs or low-clearance vehicles. Toilets are located a distance away from some campsites, potentially causing difficulties for older campers or those with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious and well-maintained, with one user stating: 'The camp sites are huge and well kept.'
Sites PrivacyMost campsites are moderately spaced, providing a fair level of privacy. However, some reviews note that the campground overall lacks significant privacy due to its open layout.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose site #2 for proximity to natural features. Sites #16 and #3 offer privacy and shade.
Best CampsitesCampsite #2 is praised for its proximity to the spring and meadow. Sites #16 and #3 are also highly recommended for privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights within a year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six people and two dogs maximum per single site.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 25 people and eight vehicles, providing ample space for gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground layout includes single-family sites and a group site. Sites are spacious but not well-defined.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to October 12, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov, via their website or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability may be limited during peak season due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made prior to the day of check-in incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual campsites incur an additional charge of the first night's 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Boca Spring Campground can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, biking, and horseback riding. Boca Reservoir, located a mile west of the campground, provides opportunities for water sports like boating and water skiing. The Little Truckee River offers exceptional fly-fishing, and the Boca Townsite Interpretive Trail gives an educational experience about local history. Nearby attractions like Stampede Reservoir and Lake Tahoe add to the rich activity options.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the Boca Townsite Interpretive Trail and trails around the Boca Spring area. The surrounding trails cater to different skill levels, and one user highlighted the enjoyable hike around the spring as relaxing.Fishing
Fishing is excellent at Boca Reservoir and the nearby Little Truckee River, which offers some of Northern California's best catch-and-release fly-fishing.Swimming
Swimming is available at Boca Reservoir, though no designated swimming areas are mentioned.Biking
Biking trails are available around the campground and nearby areas. Users have positively noted the biking opportunities in the heavily forested surroundings.Boating
Boating is popular at Boca Reservoir, which is located a mile west of the campground. A boat ramp is available on the southwest end of the reservoir.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing includes deer sightings near the meadow adjacent to the spring. The towering pine and fir trees also provide a habitat for local birds and other forest creatures.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Boca Townsite Interpretive Trail presents the history of the area, including the transition from a construction camp for the Central Pacific Railroad to the Boca Mill and Ice Company.Winter Activities
Winter-friendly activities are limited, as the campground operates seasonally and closes during the colder months.Water Sports
Water sports include water skiing, kayaking, and boating at Boca Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed but may be restricted during dry conditions. Firewood is available at the campground.
- Quiet hours are posted but reviews indicate enforcement may be inconsistent.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include active bears in the area, uneven terrain, and dust from ATV traffic.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed during dry conditions. Visitors are advised to check with the Truckee Ranger District.
Weather forecast
75
°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
Emergency services are located in Truckee, CA, which includes Tahoe Forest Hospital, law enforcement, and fire rescue.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025, to October 12, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available. Users reported storing trash safely in vehicles due to the lack of bear boxes at most sites.
Proximity to water featuresLocated one mile east of Boca Reservoir, with access to boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include noise from ATV traffic, lack of defined campsites, and absence of bear boxes at many sites.
HostHosts like Andrew and Hana are frequently praised for their attentiveness and friendliness, offering firewood and local recommendations.
Campground Map
10811 Stockrest Springs Road, Truckee, CA 96161, USA
Driving directionsFrom Reno, take I-80 west to Hirschdale Exit. Go north approximately 3 miles then turn right and go 1 mile to the campground. From Truckee, take I-80 east to Hirschdale exit. Turn left and travel approximately 3 miles then turn right and go 1 mile to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads until the last stretch, which transitions to a dirt road. Campground roads within Boca Spring can be rocky, and low-clearance vehicles may face challenges navigating the terrain.Nearby places
Truckee (20 minutes away, approximately 12 miles), Reno (40 minutes away, approximately 30 miles), Lake Tahoe (35 minutes away, approximately 25 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as grocery stores, gas stations, and camping essentials can be found in Truckee, approximately 20 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
59 reviews
Boca Spring is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user sentiment about Boca Spring Campground is positive, with many reviews praising the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and the host's attentiveness. However, some complaints about loud groups, the lack of bear boxes, and poor campsite definitions were noted. The presence of ATV noise and the rocky campground road were also mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 59 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include clean and well-maintained vault toilets, spacious campsites, a helpful and friendly host, and beautiful starry nights due to minimal light pollution. One user described the meadow...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include noisy groups, ATV disturbances, poor campsite markings, and the lack of bear boxes at many sites. Some users found the gravel roads challenging for low-clearance vehicles.
Based on 59 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend storing food and trash in vehicles due to the lack of bear boxes at most campsites. Low-clearance vehicles may face challenges on the gravel roads. Booking reservations early is...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews vary by season, with summer being the busiest and most noisy due to high demand and ATV activity. Off-season camping is quieter, as noted by several users who appreciated the serenity.
Based on 59 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The camp sites are huge and well kept.' - Fabian Hannemann
2. 'Beautifully situated campground, far enough from Boca Reservoir and the county road to keep the party animals at bay.' - David G.
3....
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Site-Specific Reviews
1. Campsite #003: Spacious, quiet, and well-maintained according to multiple users.
2. Campsite #002: Highly recommended for its proximity to the meadow and spring.
3. Campsite #016: Praised for its...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features include clean vault toilets, but their distance from campsites may pose challenges for older campers or those with mobility needs. Gravel roads with rocky sections could also...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, with users noting the two-dog maximum per site and the requirement for leashes no longer than six feet. Positive experiences were shared about camping with pets.
Based on 59 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025