Shirttail Creek
4.3053 reviews22830 Foresthill Road
Shirttail Creek
$24.00 - $72.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Single campsites (8 people) cost $24.00 per night, double campsites (16 people) cost $48.00 per night, and triple campsites (24 people) cost $72.00 per night. Additional fees may apply for day use parking ($5.00 per vehicle) and late cancellation.
About this campground
Nestled at 3,600 feet in the majestic Tahoe National Forest, Shirttail Creek Campground welcomes you to the tranquil north shore of Sugar Pine Reservoir. This versatile mountain retreat offers something for everyone—from intimate single sites perfect for couples to spacious double sites ideal for friends camping together, plus a generous triple family site that brings multiple generations under the starlit Sierra sky. Each thoughtfully arranged campsite comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables for memorable outdoor meals, traditional campfire rings where stories come alive, and convenient access to vault toilets and fresh drinking water. The friendly campground host keeps bundles of aromatic firewood ready for purchase, ensuring your evening campfire crackles well into the night.
Shirttail Creek Campground offers standard nonelectric sites, tent-only nonelectric sites, and one triple campsite. The campground accommodates tents and RVs but has no utility hookups.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain paradise into a perfect outdoor playground, where sun-warmed days invite swimming and exploration while refreshingly cool nights guarantee restful sleep under a blanket of stars. As autumn fades to winter, the landscape dons a pristine white coat, with substantial snowfall creating a wonderland of hushed forests and frozen beauty—though temperatures drop dramatically, rewarding only the most prepared cold-weather adventurers.
ElevationPerched at a perfect 3,600 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary strikes an ideal balance between accessibility and alpine atmosphere. The elevation gifts campers with nature's own air conditioning—crisp, pine-scented nights that demand cozy sleeping bags, followed by pleasantly warm days that beckon you to explore every trail and shoreline without the oppressive heat found at lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryRising above the pristine north shoreline of Sugar Pine Reservoir, the campground immerses you in a stunning tapestry of towering ponderosa pines and twisted manzanita shrubs that paint the landscape in rich greens and russet reds. The crown jewel remains the 160-acre reservoir itself, its surface mirroring the surrounding Sierra Nevada peaks in waters so clear that one enchanted visitor proclaimed it 'Absolutely gorgeous... with crystal clear water.' Whether catching the golden hour's reflection or watching morning mist dance across the glassy surface, the views here transform ordinary camping moments into lasting memories.
Geological RegionThis slice of Sierra Nevada paradise showcases the Tahoe National Forest at its finest, where ancient geological forces carved out the perfect basin for Sugar Pine Reservoir. The campground's north shore location places you amid a classic Sierra ecosystem where stately ponderosa pines stretch skyward while hardy manzanita shrubs carpet the forest floor with their distinctive smooth, burgundy bark. The surrounding terrain embodies everything adventurers love about the Sierra Nevada—dramatic granite formations softened by dense forests, all blessed with that perfect mountain climate of warm, energizing days melting into cool, star-filled nights that make summer camping an absolute delight.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has some accessible campsites, paved parking, and accessible vault toilets. A paved, non-motorized accessible trail connects recreation sites on the north and south shores of Sugar Pine Reservoir.
Sites SizeSites include single, double, and one triple campsite configuration. Site sizes are noted to vary significantly, with some being described as spacious and others smaller than expected.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies. Some reviewers mention trees providing good separation between sites, while others note the sites are closer together than they preferred.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended sites include Site 7 for proximity to the lake trail and Site 26 for larger groups. Site 27 is listed as a group site but is noted as too small for its intended capacity.
Best CampsitesSites 7 (closest to the lake trail), 6 (clean and quiet, according to reviews), 27 (unsuitable for groups despite being labeled as a group site), 26 (spacious for larger groups).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Standard check-in at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Standard check-out at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
- 15 consecutive nights during a visit
- 15 nights total within a year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single sites accommodate up to 8 guests, double sites up to 16, and triple sites up to 24.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops with single, double, and triple family sites. Some campsites offer accessible parking and trails.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 14, 2025, to October 31, 2025. Reservations start June 23, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, contact center, or in person at the campground self-pay station.
Walk-in AvailabilityUnclear availability for walk-up or first-come-first-served sites. Reservation is recommended, especially during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date for a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's fee. Same-day cancellations are not processed online but may be handled by on-site staff at their discretion.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Shirttail Creek Campground offers a wide variety of activities, including fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, biking, and OHV trails. The Sugar Pine Reservoir provides opportunities for both motorized and non-motorized boating. A paved trail encircles the lake, featuring interpretive signs and shaded benches. Wildlife viewing and nearby equestrian and OHV trails are also available.
Hiking
The campground has access to many miles of hiking trails. A paved, accessible 4-5 mile trail circles Sugar Pine Reservoir. "On our second day, we walked the 4-5 mile semi-paved path around the lake and it was magical," noted Davin Jahns. Some trails lead to challenging areas with trail washouts.Fishing
Fishing is popular at Sugar Pine Reservoir and the nearby North Fork of the American River. However, one reviewer noted, "The lake doesn't get much fish anyhow...not the place for fishing."Swimming
Swimming spots are available around Sugar Pine Reservoir. The water is described as clean and refreshing, with "perfect water temps," by Davin Jahns.Biking
The paved trail around Sugar Pine Reservoir is suitable for biking. "The lake has a paved bike trail that surrounds it, which made long rides super simple for the kids," commented Brian. However, one section near the dam is rough and unpaved.Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating are permitted on the reservoir. Reviewers mentioned kayaking, paddleboarding, and stand-up paddling as popular activities. Be mindful of the $5 parking fee at the boat ramp.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as bears and other animals can be seen in the area. Campers are advised to store food in bear-proof boxes.Beach activities
The lake has areas with rocky beaches. Water shoes are recommended due to sharp rocks.Winter Activities
Forest management activities may occur during off-seasons, and there is no specific mention of snow-related activities within the campground.Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and stand-up paddling are popular water sports in the reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed due to dry weather conditions. Camp hosts monitor campfire safety, including limiting the number of logs in a fire.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCommon hazards include bears, rattlesnakes, and yellowjackets. "Be careful of bears and rattlesnakes" - user review. "Yellowjackets and mosquitoes were out at all hours" - user review.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
The closest emergency services are located in Foresthill, 15 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 14, 2025 - October 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash should be placed in dumpsters, which need to be properly closed to prevent wildlife access. If dumpsters are full, trash must be stored in bear boxes or taken to the nearest available dumpster.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly above the north shore of Sugar Pine Reservoir, which spans 160 acres. The reservoir is suitable for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
Common complaintsMultiple user reviews mention issues with the behavior of certain camp hosts, noise disturbances, crowded campsites, and high insect activity (yellowjackets, flies).
HostCamp hosts provide firewood for purchase and enforce quiet hours but have received mixed reviews regarding their behavior. "Camp host Mike is super nice guy!" - user review. "Campground hostess was AWFUL!" - user review.
Campground Map
22830 Foresthill Road
Driving directionsFrom either eastbound or westbound Interstate 80 take exit 121, Auburn Ravine Road to Foresthill. Continue east for 17 miles, to Foresthill. Travel through town, about 9 miles, to Forest Road 10/Sugar Pine Road. Turn left and continue 9 miles to the Sugar Pine Campgrounds road (approximately 1 mile after crossing the Sugar Pine Reservoir dam). Turn right and continue about 1.5 miles, turn left into the campground.
The route from Foresthill to Shirttail Creek Campground is accessible via paved roads, but large single unit RVs are not suitable for the campground roads due to navigation challenges. Visitors are advised not to take exit 133 as it leads to a narrow road with hairpin turns and sheer drop-offs, which can be dangerous.Nearby places
Foresthill (15 miles, approximately 30 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Supplies including groceries, camping essentials, and fuel can be found in Foresthill, approximately 15 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
53 reviews
Shirttail Creek is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Shirttail Creek is generally praised for its natural beauty, clean facilities, and the wide range of activities available. However, complaints include yellow jackets, small campsites, and issues with the camp host.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the clean bathrooms, peaceful environment, and range of activities. "Absolutely gorgeous lake with crystal clear water," noted Davin Jahns. Diego Salas mentioned, "Very...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include noise from other campers, overly strict or unpredictable camp hosts, and site size discrepancies. Angela Smith noted, "Site 27 is NOT suitable as a group site." Yellow jackets and...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and water shoes. Check site sizes ahead of time. Take the Foresthill exit (121), not exit 133, to avoid hazardous roads.
Based on 53 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season for camping. Bugs are particularly active in warmer months, and the campground can get crowded. Noise carries easily between sites, especially during high seasons.
Based on 53 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Sugar Pine: 10/10," noted Davin Jahns. "Voice really carries. Quiet time at 10 pm, outhouse bathrooms available. Very good and not too expensive," said Logan. "The water was clean and refreshing,"...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #001 has a small creek nearby and is close to the trail. Site #025 has limited flat ground. Site #027 is unsuitable for large groups despite being designated as a group site. Site #006 is noted...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Multiple users noted the accessibility of trails and vault toilets. However, some sites are not fully accessible for those with mobility challenges.
Based on 53 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and many visitors brought dogs. "Great place for dogs and kids," noted Cindy F.
Based on 53 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025