Upper Little Truckee
4.4153 reviews317 SOUTH LINCOLN STREET (HWY 89), PO BOX 95, SIERRAVILLE, CA 96126, USA
Upper Little Truckee
$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
The campground charges $20 per night for standard nonelectric sites and $66 per night for group sites during peak season (May 23 - October 12). Additional vehicle fees apply, costing $5 per night per vehicle beyond the one included for single-family sites and 10 for group sites.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Tahoe National Forest, just 12 miles north of Truckee along the scenic Highway 89, Upper Little Truckee Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its prime riverside location and endless recreational opportunities. Here, where lodgepole pines, junipers, and quaking aspens create a natural canopy overhead, campers find the perfect launching point for fishing expeditions along the pristine Little Truckee River, mountain biking adventures on nearby trails, and hiking excursions through the surrounding wilderness. This tranquil retreat offers the best of both worlds—easy access to outdoor activities while providing a peaceful escape among towering trees and the gentle sounds of flowing water.
Upper Little Truckee Campground offers standard campsites for single families and group camping areas. Sites can accommodate RVs, tents, and group gatherings.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Upper Little Truckee into a sun-drenched paradise, where warm days give way to refreshingly cool evenings—though afternoon breezes can pick up, adding a natural air conditioning to your camping experience. The mild summer temperatures make this the ideal season to pitch your tent and explore all the campground has to offer. As autumn approaches, the aspens burst into golden flames against the evergreen backdrop, while winter blankets the landscape in snow, with freezing temperatures creating a crystalline wonderland that's best admired from afar. Most visitors agree that summer provides the perfect combination of comfortable camping weather and dry conditions for outdoor adventures.
ElevationPerched at 6,200 feet above sea level, Upper Little Truckee Campground offers a natural climate advantage that transforms summer camping into a refreshing mountain retreat. At this elevation, you'll escape the valley heat while enjoying crisp mornings perfect for that first cup of campfire coffee, pleasantly warm afternoons ideal for river activities, and cool evenings that invite stargazing. The altitude frames spectacular vistas of the surrounding forest landscape and creates those magical mountain moments where the air feels lighter and the sky seems closer.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Little Truckee River serves as the campground's centerpiece, its crystal-clear waters babbling past campsites and creating a natural soundtrack for your stay. Towering lodgepole pines stand sentinel throughout the grounds, their straight trunks reaching skyward while casting dappled shade across the camping areas. Interspersed among them, graceful aspens shimmer in the breeze, their leaves creating a gentle rustling that mingles with the river's song. Aromatic junipers add their distinctive scent to the mountain air, completing a diverse forest tapestry. Lucky campers might snag one of the coveted riverside sites, where you can fall asleep to the water's lullaby and wake to the sight of morning mist rising from the river's surface.
Geological RegionUpper Little Truckee Campground occupies a special place within the vast Tahoe National Forest, where millennia of geological forces have carved out the perfect mountain camping destination at 6,200 feet elevation. The Little Truckee River has shaped this landscape over countless years, creating the gentle riverside terraces where campsites now rest. The diverse forest ecosystem tells a story of adaptation and resilience—lodgepole pines dominating the well-drained soils, aspens colonizing areas near water, and hardy junipers thriving in the drier spots. This elevation creates a unique microclimate where these three distinct tree species converge, offering campers a front-row seat to nature's diversity while providing natural shade and shelter from the elements.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details are not extensively covered, but Vernon, the camp host, has been described as attentive and helpful by reviewers. Specific wheelchair-accessible features are not mentioned.
Sites SizeSites vary in size and layout. Reviewer Michelle M noted, 'Site 12 is great for a large RV,' while site 3 is described as 'a big, flat, shaded area' suitable for gatherings.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies. Michelle M observed that some sites lack privacy: 'Site 13's picnic table and fire pit were SUPER close.'
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFamilies should avoid sites near Highway 89 due to road noise. Site 3 is optimal for camper groups. Sites near the river (e.g., Site 16) are great for fishing access.
Best CampsitesSite 3 is recommended for groups due to its large, flat, shaded area and spacious circular driveway. Site 12 is suitable for large RVs offering proximity to the river but lacking shade. Site 16 offers a riverside view and its own water spigot.
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 at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people and 2 dogs maximum per single site.
Groups
The group site is described as 'very spacious and accommodating,' providing ample space for large groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground's layout includes single-family and group sites. Sites are spaced to offer varying degrees of privacy, with some closer to Highway 89 and others near the Little Truckee River.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 to October 12 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up reservations are available as per user reviews, though these are limited.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 1 calendar day before individual site check-in) result in forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. Group site cancellations within 14 days of arrival are considered late and incur additional penalties.
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is a base for fishing, hiking, biking, and scenic drives. The Little Truckee River offers opportunities for rainbow and brown trout fishing. Independence Lake and Webber Falls nearby are recommended for swimming.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are nearby, including a trail connecting Upper and Lower Little Truckee campgrounds. Melissa W noted, 'A trail connects to Lower Truckee campground.'Fishing
Fishing for rainbow and brown trout is popular. Reviewer Bethany Robertson noted that fishing in the Little Truckee River can be seasonal due to water levels.Swimming
Swimming is available nearby at Independence Lake and Webber Falls. Michelle M noted, 'Independence Lake is right up the road and good for a swim.'Biking
The area supports biking activities, though specific details about biking trails are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include osprey, snakes, and beavers. Monica U observed, 'We enjoyed seeing a toad, snakes, birds, beavers, and otters.'Winter Activities
Winter activities were not detailed in the source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding were not specifically mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire pits unless fire restrictions are imposed due to dry weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are Nighttime is typically quiet, as traffic noise decreases significantly. Specific quiet hours are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, and food must be kept in approved containers. The proximity of campsites to Highway 89 poses some risks for children and pets due to road noise and vehicle traffic.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Moderate rain
Precipitation: 3.1%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Very Light Rain - (3.10% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate rain
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
Sierraville Ranger District (317 South Lincoln Street, Sierraville, CA) provides forest management and emergency contact services. The closest full medical emergency services were not specified, but Truckee is the nearest city for amenities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - October 12 (peak season).
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities were mentioned, though there is a self-pay station near the entrance for additional vehicle fees.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located on the banks of the Little Truckee River. Independence Lake and Weber Falls are nearby attractions for swimming.
Common complaintsComplaints from user reviews include significant road noise, proximity of campsites to Highway 89, and lack of bear boxes for food storage. Some sites lack privacy due to close spacing.
HostThe camp host Vernon is frequently praised for being helpful and attentive. User reviews describe him as 'grandfatherly' and 'considerate,' often sharing local tips and ensuring camper safety.
Campground Map
317 SOUTH LINCOLN STREET (HWY 89), PO BOX 95, SIERRAVILLE, CA 96126, USA
Driving directionsFrom either eastbound or westbound Interstate 80 in Truckee, take exit 188, Highway 89 north to Sierraville. In approximately 12 miles, turn left into the campground.
The campground is easily accessible via Highway 89, which is a paved highway. However, user reviews mention significant road noise from this proximity. Seasonal closures or road maintenance conditions were not specifically noted.Nearby places
Truckee (12 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Lake Tahoe (approximately 42 miles, 30 minutes south), Stampede Reservoir (35-minute drive southeast), Sardine Lakes (40-minute drive northwest).
Nearby supplies
Truckee (12 miles south) offers groceries, gas stations, dining, and shopping options. Lake Tahoe, another nearby destination, provides additional amenities including resorts and lodging options.
Camper Reviews
4.4
53 reviews
Upper Little Truckee is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cleanliness of the campground, the attentiveness of the camp host Vernon, and the proximity to the river. However, road noise is a consistent complaint.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, friendly and attentive camp host, proximity to the river, and good stargazing opportunities. Reviewer Mark S noted, 'When camping, I have never seen restrooms so clean.'
Based on 53 reviewsCommon Concerns
Proximity to the highway causes significant road noise at times. Reviewer William Gentis stated, 'All night you hear vehicle traffic.'
Based on 53 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Site 12 is recommended for large RVs, site 3 for gatherings, and site 16 for a quieter experience with river views. Michelle M recommended setting up tents closer to the river for a better experience.
Based on 53 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with reviewers frequently mentioning high activity levels and the presence of the camp host. Road noise may be more noticeable during peak travel times.
Based on 53 reviewsCamper Quotes
Quotes from Michelle M: 'Don't choose site #2 unless you like toilet stank.' Monica U: 'We love our camp host Vern! He is always helpful and has tips and stories for us.'
Based on 53 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 12: 'Great for a large RV.' Site 3: 'Big, flat, shaded area.' Site 16: 'Perfect distance from the highway, close enough to the bathroom, and had its own water spigot.'
Based on 53 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews on accessibility features, aside from comments about the helpful camp host.
Based on 53 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are welcome but must be leashed. Michelle M: '6 people and 2 dogs maximum per single site.'
Based on 53 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025