Lakeside (Truckee)
4.13105 reviews10811 Stockrest Springs Road, Truckee, CA 96161, USA
Lakeside (Truckee)
$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
Rates are $20 per night for standard nonelectric and tent sites. Additional fees include $5 per night for extra vehicles.
About this campground
Perched on the northwestern shores of Prosser Reservoir, Lakeside Campground beckons adventurers to experience the pristine wilderness of Tahoe National Forest. This scenic retreat seamlessly blends water recreation with mountain exploration, offering everything from peaceful paddling sessions at dawn to exhilarating off-road adventures through rugged terrain. Thoughtfully managed by the Tahoe National Forest, the campground provides essential comforts including vault toilets and fresh drinking water, ensuring your wilderness escape remains both authentic and comfortable.
The campground primarily caters to tent and RV camping, offering no electric or sewer hookups. Primitive camping is also possible for those seeking minimal facilities. Group camping is not explicitly mentioned, but some visitors have reported utilizing multiple sites for larger parties.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure sits at the crossroads of American frontier history. Just a short drive away, the haunting Donner Camp Interpretive Trail and the inspiring Overland Emigrant Commemorative Trail tell tales of courage, hardship, and the indomitable pioneer spirit. The nearby town of Truckee serves as a living museum, where Victorian-era buildings house modern cafes and shops, creating a perfect blend of past and present for your exploration.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the High Sierra's dramatic seasonal transitions at Lakeside Campground. Summer days invite you to bask in warm sunshine before retreating to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire stories. As winter approaches, the landscape transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland, though extreme cold makes this a seasonal destination. Spring and fall bring their own charms, though occasional rain showers and varying drought conditions can influence water levels—adding an element of natural unpredictability to your adventure.
ElevationEmbrace the crisp mountain air at this High Sierra sanctuary, where the elevated terrain delivers a natural air conditioning system during summer months. The altitude creates perfect conditions for those seeking refuge from valley heat, though be prepared for the occasional mountain breeze that can turn into spirited winds, adding excitement to your outdoor experience.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to breathtaking panoramic views across Prosser Reservoir, where morning mist dances across the water's surface. The campground's open terrain, dotted with stately lodgepole pines and aromatic fir trees, creates a unique landscape that balances intimate forest moments with expansive vistas. While some sites offer sun-drenched spaces perfect for solar charging and stargazing, others nestle beneath protective canopies. The surrounding mountains frame every view, creating an ever-changing canvas of light and shadow throughout your stay.
Geological RegionDiscover the geological wonders of the Prosser Reservoir basin, where ancient forces carved out this stunning mountain sanctuary within Tahoe National Forest. The campground's distinctive open terrain showcases the area's unique ecology, where resilient lodgepole pines and majestic firs have adapted to the high-altitude environment. This remarkable landscape offers both intimate forest groves and sweeping mountainous vistas, with the shimmering reservoir serving as the centerpiece of this natural amphitheater.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are available; however, no additional details about accessibility accommodations are provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and large. Some sites offer lake views while others are more shaded. Specific sites such as #30 have been noted for their generous privacy and large area.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies significantly. Some sites, like #30, are reported to offer excellent privacy, while others are less defined and open to roadways.
Total Campsites42 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded spots like 1-7 or 13-16 for summer comfort. Lakeside sites provide proximity to water but may lack shade.
Best CampsitesSites close to the reservoir, such as 27, 38, 30, and 24, are highly rated for views and accessibility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay at the campground is 14 nights per visit and 14 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people and 2 dogs per campsite.
Groups
No specific group camping details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in loops, offering varied levels of shade and proximity to the reservoir.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen between May 23 and October 12 annually (reservable dates from June 23 within this season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the app, or by calling 1 (877) 444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are frequently available for impromptu trips. Walk-up options are limited, especially during peak season weekends.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations may incur a $10 fee; late cancellations include forfeiting the first night's fee and an additional $10 cancellation fee. Refunds are provided under specific circumstances.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of recreational activities, primarily centered around the Prosser Reservoir. Visitors can engage in swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating (subject to a 10 mph speed limit). Nearby trails also provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and off-road vehicle exploration. Wildlife viewing is highlighted by eagle and osprey sightings, and stargazing is excellent due to minimal tree coverage and wide-open spaces.
Hiking
Numerous trails are accessible from the campground, including designated OHV routes and Prosser Hill trails. Users have praised the trails' beauty and accessibility.Fishing
Fishing is available, primarily from kayaks or paddleboards due to limited catch along the shoreline. Fish such as trout are present in the reservoir.Swimming
Swimming is permitted, and users describe the lake as having warm, comfortable water. Shallow areas are available for children.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available nearby, with specific routes catering to intermediate and advanced riders. The campground also accommodates dirt bikes.Boating
Boating activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular due to the reservoir's calm water and no-speed boat policy. A boat ramp is located approximately one mile south.Wildlife viewing
Eagles and ospreys are frequently spotted, and the surrounding area hosts various nesting birds.Winter Activities
No information on winter activities was provided to indicate snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or other cold-weather options.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular water sports accessible from the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires may be restricted during dry seasons. Firewood is available from the host.
- Quiet hours are enforced after 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife like bears and raccoons. Seasonal dryness and dust can affect overall enjoyment.
Active alertsWater spigots are not functioning for the 2024 season. Fire restrictions may be applied during hot or dry weather.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.1 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; nearest hospital or emergency care is in Truckee, CA, approximately 10 minutes south.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - October 12 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available at the campground, but recycling facilities are not mentioned in the user reviews or official descriptions.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Prosser Reservoir for boating, swimming, and fishing. No speedboats allowed.
Common complaintsNoise from loud music and generators, host behavior, and lack of enforcement of rules are recurring issues.
HostThe campground host provides firewood and enforces rules but has received mixed reviews for responsiveness and attitude.
Campground Map
10811 Stockrest Springs Road, Truckee, CA 96161, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 80 in Truckee take exit 188, Highway 89 north toward Sierraville. In approximately 3.5 miles turn right at the sign for Prosser Recreation Sites. In one mile the campground will be on the left.
Road access is paved and relatively straightforward from Interstate 80. Seasonal closures or restrictions are not mentioned, but users should check for weather-related advisories.Nearby places
Truckee (10-minute drive), Boca Reservoir (30 minutes east), Lake Tahoe (30 minutes south)
Nearby supplies
Truckee offers grocery stores, gas stations, and other amenities 10 minutes south. Firewood is available from the campground host when in stock.
Camper Reviews
4.1
105 reviews
Lakeside (Truckee) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Lakeside Campground are polarized. Many praise its natural beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to town, while others criticize the lack of water, noisy campers, and inconsistent enforcement of campground rules. Common complaints include issues with generators, ATV noise, and unhelpful hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 105 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the campground's serene environment, great trails, and excellent lake access for boating and fishing. Users frequently mention specific sites such as #30 and #38 with...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include loud campers, late-night noise, misuse of OHV trails within the campground, and the absence of potable water due to operational issues. Specific incidents involve unruly...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing your own water, selecting shaded sites carefully, and avoiding weekends to minimize noise and crowding. Setting up near the lake provides excellent views but limited shade.
Based on 105 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer receives mixed reviews; campers enjoy warm lake temperatures and good weather but dislike dust and crowding. Winter camping details are unavailable, suggesting limited use during colder months.
Based on 105 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. Jennifer Patten: 'This was the worst camping experience ever... It's like being in the most white trash trailer park you can imagine.' 2. Paige Roberts: 'Beautiful campground with lots of empty...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #30 is praised for its privacy and size. Site #38 offers great views of the lake but limited shade. Site #3 has good shade but uneven ground, making tent placement challenging. Site #27 is noted...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets are available, but no additional reviews address specific accessibility experiences.
Based on 105 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly policies are appreciated by visitors, though strict leash rules are enforced. Dogs can roam off leash near the lake, but must be restrained elsewhere.
Based on 105 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025