Woodcamp Campground

Star4.22
25 reviews
SIERRAVILLE RANGER DISTRICT, 317 SOUTH LINCOLN ST (HWY 89), PO BOX 95, SIERRAVILLE, CA, 96126, USA
Woodcamp Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for standard non-electric campsites is $24. Additional fees include $5 per night for extra vehicles. Utility hookups, showers, and...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$24.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
530-265-8861

About this campground

Tucked away on the tranquil shores of Jackson Meadow Reservoir, Woodcamp Campground is a hidden gem that promises solitude and natural beauty far from the crowds. This intimate campground, thoughtfully managed by the Nevada Irrigation District, features just 20 sites spread across two peaceful loops, creating an atmosphere where the sounds of nature take center stage. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear reservoir waters, launching your boat for a sunrise paddle, or setting off on nearby hiking trails, Woodcamp offers an authentic Sierra Nevada experience for those seeking a quieter connection with the outdoors.
Woodcamp Campground caters to a variety of campers, offering primitive and standard non-electric sites suitable for tents and RVs. Specific group camping options or cabins are not mentioned.
Weather and SeasonsLate summer and early fall transform Woodcamp into a haven of perfect camping weather, with refreshingly cool temperatures that surprise and delight visitors expecting the typical August heat. Open from August through October, the campground captures the sweet spot of Sierra seasons, when warm days give way to crisp evenings perfect for campfires, and the changing light paints the surrounding peaks in golden hues. Many campers return year after year for these ideal conditions, discovering that Woodcamp's unique microclimate offers comfortable camping when other areas might be sweltering.
ElevationPerched high in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Woodcamp sits at an elevation that delivers all the benefits of mountain camping - cool, pine-scented air, stunning vistas, and that special quality of light found only in the high country. While the exact elevation remains part of the campground's understated charm, visitors immediately sense they've climbed into a different world, where the air is thinner, the stars shine brighter, and the everyday world feels wonderfully distant.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering pines and fragrant firs create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The campground's premier location offers breathtaking vistas of the jagged Sierra Crest and the imposing presence of English Mountain, views that shift and change with the day's light. Jackson Meadow Reservoir adds its own magic to the scene, its waters reflecting the surrounding peaks and providing a stunning backdrop for morning coffee or evening contemplation.
Geological RegionNestled within the rolling, forested valleys of Tahoe National Forest, Woodcamp occupies a special place in Sierra Nevada geography. This gently undulating landscape, carved by ancient glaciers and shaped by millions of years of geological forces, creates a natural amphitheater where campers can marvel at the dramatic Sierra Crest rising to the east and the distinctive profile of English Mountain commanding the horizon. The surrounding forest tells its own geological story, with granite outcroppings and volcanic remnants providing fascinating glimpses into the powerful forces that shaped this magnificent region.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessible trails and paved sites are available. Specific accessibility details, such as for restrooms, are not provided.
Sites SizeSites vary in size. Reviews mention spacious areas suitable for tents and RVs, with some sites described as "big and on the corner" with privacy. Site sizes may not always be level, particularly for tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some are described as "very privately situated," while others are more open. Reviewers noted sites 16-18 and 4-5 as having better privacy.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid Site 13 if tent camping as it is steep and more suitable for RVs. Site 6 is adjacent to a noisy group site.
Best CampsitesSites 3, 5, and 16-18 are highly recommended for their privacy and level ground. 'Site #3 was big and on the corner so it had privacy and the parking spot was pretty level' (Review by IYA J).

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people and 2 dogs
Groups
No specific group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of two loops with approximately 20 sites. Sites are not heavily wooded and vary in privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from August 1 to October 12, 2025. Closed the rest of the year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySeveral first-come, first-serve spots are available, but reservations are recommended as the campground is completely full from Thursday to Sunday (Review by West Gill).
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to a day before check-in. A $10 fee applies, and additional penalties include forfeiting the first night's fee for late cancellations.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Woodcamp Campground offers diverse recreational activities, making it suitable for a broad range of interests. Highlights include water-based activities such as boating, canoeing, water skiing, swimming, and fishing. The Jackson Meadow Reservoir provides opportunities for anglers to catch rainbow and brown trout. Land-based activities include hiking, with a half-mile interpretive nature trail within the campground and access to the Pacific Crest Trail nearby. Hunting and biking are also popular in the area. Wildlife viewing is another activity noted, as a bear and other wildlife were observed by visitors.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include a half-mile interpretive trail within the campground and access to the Pacific Crest Trail along the eastern shore of the reservoir. Trails offer varying terrains suitable for casual walkers and experienced hikers.
Fishing
Fishing is a highlight at the Jackson Meadow Reservoir, with prospects for catching rainbow and brown trout. However, one review noted that water levels can affect accessibility and the fishing experience.
Swimming
Swimming is supported with a designated swim beach within the recreation area. However, low water levels were noted in some reviews, which might affect swimming conditions.
Biking
Biking is a popular activity around the campground, with trails offering a mix of terrains for bikers of different skill levels.
Boating
Boating activities include canoeing, water skiing, and kayaking on Jackson Meadow Reservoir. A boat ramp is available, though low water levels may limit accessibility, as noted by a reviewer: "The boat launch near this site has dried up." Alternative boat launches like Pass Creek are suggested.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is common, with sightings of bears and other animals reported by visitors.
Beach activities
Beach activities are possible at the designated swim beach. However, some reviews note that low water levels may affect the quality of beach experience.
Winter Activities
Winter recreation opportunities are not specifically described in the authoritative sources.
Water Sports
Water sports such as water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking are facilitated by the reservoir's conditions. However, water levels can impact these activities.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are allowed unless otherwise restricted due to fire conditions. Firewood is not sold on-site.
  • Quiet hours are in effect, but enforcement can be inconsistent due to the lack of a resident camp host.

Hazards

General hazardsBears are frequent visitors to the area, so all food must be stored in bear-proof containers.

Weather forecast

52
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 46%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 2.5 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

The closest emergency services are available in Sierraville, CA, approximately 35 minutes away by car.

Good to know

Peak season datesAugust 1 to October 12, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site, as confirmed by multiple user reviews. Recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is a short walk from Jackson Meadow Reservoir, which offers a swim beach and a boat ramp. However, the water level can vary seasonally ('Lake access is a short walk from camp,' Review by West Gill).
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the lack of on-site wood, uneven ground for tents, and issues with toilet cleanliness ('extra stinky', as noted by West Gill). Another concern is the absence of a camp host, leading to noise disturbances ('loud party went on until 2 AM,' Review by Warren B).
HostThere is no resident camp host, but hosts may visit the site periodically. 'The camp hosts were excellent but they're not resident hosts' (Review by West Gill).

Campground Map

SIERRAVILLE RANGER DISTRICT, 317 SOUTH LINCOLN ST (HWY 89), PO BOX 95, SIERRAVILLE, CA, 96126, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 80, exit onto Highway 89 in Truckee. Follow Highway 89 north for 17 miles to the Jackson Meadows turnoff. Travel west for 18 miles, to Jackson Meadows Reservoir. Cross over the dam and continue to the junction. Turn left and continue to the Woodcamp Recreation Area.
The route to the campground involves mostly paved roads. However, there is approximately one mile of dirt road which users have described as rough in some areas. 'The gravel can be a bit rough in places--slow going for cars or folks pulling trailers' (Review by Steve Seebart).
Nearby places
Truckee (approx. 35 miles, 50-minute drive)
Sierraville (approx. 22 miles, 35-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
No nearby stores are directly next to the campground. Supplies, including firewood, are available in Sierraville or Truckee, which are 35 and 50 minutes away respectively. 'No nearby store at which you might buy something you forgot to bring' (Review by James Lewis).

Camper Reviews

4.2
25 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Woodcamp Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Woodcamp Campground highlight its scenic location, range of activities, and basic amenities. While many appreciate its quiet and less-visited atmosphere, some note areas for improvement, such as the condition of restrooms and the lack of cell service. "Nice campground in the mountains," said one reviewer, while another enjoyed its "peaceful and quiet" setting.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the campground's beautiful and quiet setting, proximity to the reservoir, well-maintained sites, potable water availability, and activities like fishing and hiking. Reviews...
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Based on 25 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints involve the lack of showers, the condition of vault toilets, and occasional noise disturbances. Some users also noted the impact of low water levels on activities like boating and...
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Based on 25 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend reserving sites in advance, especially during weekends. Site #3 is highlighted for privacy, and sites #16-18 are recommended for their flatness and space. Visitors suggest bringing...
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Based on 25 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season for camping, with activities like swimming and fishing. However, some facilities such as flush toilets may close during certain periods, as noted in a fall review.
Based on 25 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Water spigots of potable water with strong flow at several spots," "No running water in bathrooms," "The boat launch near this site has dried up," "Lovely, quiet campground and cool, clear water for...
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Based on 25 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback includes praise for site #3 for its privacy, #13 for RVs, and #16-18 for their flatness and spaciousness. Complaints include issues with levels at some sites and disturbances...
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Based on 25 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews are sparse. Paved roads and accessible trails are noted, but specific feedback on accessibility features is limited.
Based on 25 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, with a maximum of two dogs per site. One review highlighted the importance of keeping pets on leashes, as required by the rules.
Based on 25 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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