Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone, near Lake Tahoe, California, is a stunning spot for those who crave a true wilderness experience. This area is all about immersing yourself in nature, with breathtaking views of alpine lakes and rugged landscapes that will leave you in awe.

Camping here is a bit of an adventure, as it’s a hike-in location with no amenities like drinking water or toilets. But don’t let that scare you off; visitors rave about the beauty of the surroundings. One camper shared, “Camping here is magical!” and many others echoed the sentiment, highlighting the peacefulness and gorgeous scenery. 

You can set up camp near Tamarack Lake or Aloha Lake, both of which offer incredible views and a serene atmosphere. Reviewers have mentioned the surreal experience of walking on rock paths surrounded by water, making it feel like you’re walking on water. If you’re not up for camping, day hikes are a fantastic option, allowing you to soak in the stunning vistas without the overnight commitment.

Just remember, this is a no-frills experience—bring your own supplies and be prepared to pack out what you bring in. The area is known for its strict no-trace policies, so leave no sign of your visit. If you’re looking for a place to disconnect and enjoy the great outdoors, Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone is a top-notch choice.

Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone

Join the fun near Twin Bridges. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Twin Bridges campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Twin Bridges, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Twin Bridges

The Best Camping Near Twin Bridges, California

Camping here is magical! The 5-stars are not for facilities or accessibility, as this dispersed camping experience is really in the wilderness. You can hike in for 6 miles each way (12 miles round trip) via the Echo Lakes trail, or park and take the water taxi ($12) to cut off 2.5 miles of the hike each way. You must obtain an overnight wilderness permit, year round. The permits have quotas enforced April through September. Permits cost $5 per person per night for first night, or $10.00 per person for 2+ nights (14 day max). Campfires are prohibited, so bring a camp stove. They are serious about no trace here, to conserve the amazing beautiful of the area. So pack out your trash, and bury your poop deep!

Lake Jabu in Desolation Wilderness

This is a great glimpse at what the High Sierra lakes further south look like... but better. Dispersed camp sites all over. (Make sure to follow signs and camp appropriately distanced from the lakes)

Alpine Lakes

Had a great time for 3 solid days at this lake and the area around it 
Very gorgeous views and friendly people around 
Didn’t see to much wild life but very peaceful 

Backpack hike 

awesome trip.  we just did 20+ miles, from echo lake in, around, and out to Aloha before heading back over 2.5 days.  Aloha is kinda surreal.  and in places there are rock path in the middle where a person can walk in a few inches of water and appear to the viewer to be "walking on water"

  

it was hot in July...

unbelievable

One of my top 5 favorite place to go backpacking. Love the feeling of being immersed in nature and the views of all the lakes. We took the water Taxi that shaved about 5 miles off our hike. Our first night we set up camp at tamarack lake then moved up to beautiful aloha lake. The best part of this is that if you don’t want to camp you can just go on a day hike 

Photos of Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone

Real photos from real campers