Silver Creek-Truckee

Star4.04
109 reviews
10811 Stockrest Springs Road, Truckee, CA 96161, USA
Silver Creek-Truckee
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Nightly rates for all site types during peak season are $20. These rates are subject to taxes and incremental charges. Additional vehicle fee is...
Show more
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$40.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
(530) 587-3558

About this campground

Nestled along the pristine waters of the Truckee River, Silver Creek Campground offers an idyllic basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventures. This Tahoe National Forest gem invites you to cast a line into crystal-clear waters, explore scenic hiking trails, or simply float downstream on a lazy summer afternoon. When you're ready to explore beyond camp, the vibrant mountain towns of Tahoe City and Truckee await just a short drive away, offering dining, shopping, and endless recreation opportunities.
Silver Creek Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping and small camper setups. The campground features single-family sites, with seven designated as tent-only and walk-in sites near the river. RV camping is limited due to narrow roads and restrictions on RV length.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time and walk in the footsteps of pioneers and emigrants who shaped California's history. Silver Creek Campground serves as your gateway to the legendary Donner Camp Interpretive Trail, where you can discover the compelling story of the Donner Party's fateful journey. The nearby Overland Emigrant Commemorative Trail traces the routes of thousands who crossed these mountains seeking new lives in the West, offering a profound connection to America's westward expansion.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Silver Creek unfold under brilliant blue skies, with temperatures hovering in the comfortable mid-70s to low 80s – perfect for riverside activities and trail exploration. As evening falls, the mountain air cools to a crisp mid-40s, ideal for gathering around the campfire under a canopy of stars. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall creating a dramatic seasonal shift that showcases the Sierra's raw beauty.
ElevationPerched at the characteristic elevation of the Tahoe National Forest, Silver Creek Campground offers that perfect mountain atmosphere where the air feels refreshingly thin and pure. This prime Sierra Nevada positioning provides cooler temperatures than the valley below while remaining accessible throughout the camping season.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering lodgepole pines and majestic firs create a natural cathedral around Silver Creek Campground, their branches filtering dappled sunlight onto moss-covered ground below. The melodic soundtrack of the Truckee River provides constant companionship as it rushes past your campsite, its clear waters reflecting the forest canopy above. Each site offers its own pocket of tranquility, whether tucked into a grove of evergreens or positioned for prime river views, ensuring an intimate connection with the surrounding wilderness.
Geological RegionSilver Creek Campground occupies a spectacular riverside setting within the greater Tahoe National Forest ecosystem. Here, the legendary Truckee River has carved its course through ancient granite formations, creating a riparian corridor where lodgepole pines and firs thrive in the rich soils. This unique geological positioning places you at the intersection of river and forest, where the Sierra Nevada's dramatic landscapes unfold in every direction.
Advertisement

Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground is described as having narrow roads, which can pose challenges for larger vehicles. Walk-to campsites near the river require carrying gear from parking areas, which could make them less accessible for those with mobility issues.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally spacious, with some noted as being excellent for tent camping and others providing enough room for small campers. However, certain sites contain features like large rocks or ant hills that may affect usability.
Sites PrivacyReviews suggest that the level of privacy varies, with some sites offering good separation from neighbors and others being closer to the highway, where traffic noise is a concern. Sites near the river are favored for tranquility and a greater sense of seclusion.
Total Campsites28 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReserve a riverside site for better views and quieter surroundings. Avoid sites near the highway for reduced noise.
Best CampsitesSites closer to the river are preferred for their views and tranquility. Sites 4, 5, and 24 are frequently praised.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit and 14 nights total at this campground within each year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people and 2 dogs maximum per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutConsists of single-family sites, tent-only walk-in sites, and standard nonelectric sites. Sites are spread out with some close to the river and others near the highway.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 23, 2025, and closes October 12, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailability for walk-in sites is limited, especially during holidays. Campers are advised to book ahead.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made online or through the app before the arrival date. A $10 fee applies for cancellations. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night’s use fee.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

A wide range of recreational activities is available at Silver Creek Campground. Popular activities include fly-fishing for rainbow trout in the Truckee River, as well as swimming and tubing. The area is also a hub for hiking and biking, with access to trails like the Western States Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail. Nearby attractions such as Lake Tahoe and Olympic Valley add to the variety of outdoor adventures accessible from the campground.
Hiking
The surrounding area includes trails such as the Western States Trail, Five Lakes Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail. These trails cater to a range of difficulty levels, offering scenic views and opportunities for exploration.
Fishing
Fly-fishing in the Truckee River is a favorite activity among visitors, with rainbow trout being a common catch. Some campers recommend early morning or late afternoon as the best times for fishing.
Swimming
Swimming is possible in the Truckee River, although the fast-moving water in certain areas may not be suitable for all visitors. Tubing is also a popular activity.
Biking
Biking trails are abundant, with some offering connections to nearby attractions like Squaw Valley and Tahoe City.
Water Sports
Tubing is noted as a popular water activity on the Truckee River. Lake Tahoe nearby offers additional water sports opportunities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Advertisement

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are permitted subject to fire restrictions. Firewood is available for purchase from campground hosts.
  • Quiet hours start at 10 PM.

Hazards

General hazardsBears frequent the area; food must be stored in bear-proof containers. Limited space for RVs, and proximity to Highway 89 introduces road noise.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be enacted during dry conditions. Contact the Truckee Ranger District for updates.

Weather forecast

50
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 61%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 3.2 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Nearest emergency services include Truckee Ranger District office (530)587-3558, Tahoe Forest Hospital in Truckee.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - October 12, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are available. Some users commented on the presence of dumpsters and bear-proof trash cans, which helped maintain cleanliness within the campground.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Truckee River, some campsites have direct access to water for fishing, tubing, and swimming.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints about road noise from Highway 89, aggressive yellowjackets, and narrow roads. Some campsites are described as small and difficult to access.
HostSeveral reviews praise the hosts for their friendliness and helpfulness. Notable hosts include Dave, Karen, and Mary's diligence and attentiveness.

Campground Map

10811 Stockrest Springs Road, Truckee, CA 96161, USA
Driving directionsFrom Truckee, travel south on Highway 89 for about 8 miles. Campground is on the left.
Limited turnaround space restricts RVs longer than 24 feet. Road access is via Highway 89, which is paved and accessible year-round.
Nearby places
Truckee (10 minutes north, approximately 8 miles), Lake Tahoe (10 minutes south, approximately 10 miles), Tahoe City (approximately 10 miles south)
Nearby supplies
Truckee offers grocery stores, gas stations, camping supplies, and shopping 10 minutes north. Additional supplies are available in Lake Tahoe 10 minutes south.

Camper Reviews

4.0
109 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Silver Creek-Truckee is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Silver Creek Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment score of 3.804. Positive aspects include the friendly and helpful camp hosts, clean bathrooms, and proximity to natural attractions like the Truckee River. Complaints often focus on road noise from Highway 89, the presence of yellowjackets, and challenges with site accessibility for larger vehicles.
Review Summaries
Based on 109 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers appreciated the clean vault toilets, spacious campsites, and the helpfulness of the camp hosts. Many highlighted the scenic location along the Truckee River and the proximity to amenities...
Show more
Based on 109 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include loud road noise, the lack of showers, and issues with certain campsites, such as ant hills or being too close to the highway. Some users also noted disorganization in site...
Show more
Based on 109 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing earplugs to mitigate road noise and a wagon for transporting gear to walk-in sites. For those sensitive to insects, a screen tent is advised due to aggressive...
Show more
Based on 109 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, but it can be crowded, and road noise is more noticeable. Late spring or early fall may offer quieter stays while still benefiting from warm weather.
Based on 109 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The bathrooms were the cleanest bathrooms I’ve ever experienced while camping." - Crystal J "Proximity to the river is great! Otherwise, the camp hosts were top notch!" - Remy Hennessee "Dave the...
Show more
Based on 109 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 26: Spacious, near the river, but impacted by yellowjackets. Site 24: Very spacious, close to the river, and relaxing. Site 17: Located near the highway with significant road noise. Site 10:...
Show more
Based on 109 reviews

Accessibility Features

Campground roads are narrow and may be difficult for larger vehicles. Walk-in sites require carrying gear and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
Based on 109 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, with a limit of two dogs per site. All pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Several users brought dogs and noted the proximity to the river as an advantage for...
Show more
Based on 109 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in California

Campgrounds
Tahoe National Forest
Silver Creek-Truckee