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Lake of the Woods

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Snow can linger on the access road through Memorial Day weekend, so the window for visiting Lake of the Woods in Tahoe National Forest typically opens in early June. The campground sits beside a small lake in open terrain, with sites that are free and first-come, first-served. A dirt road leads in, and while one reviewer drove it in a Honda Fit after the snow cleared, those arriving earlier in the season may find dispersed pull-off spots along the blocked stretch worth considering instead.

The lake draws most of the activity here. It has shallow sections with white sand along the shoreline and enough open water for swimming. Samantha T. describes it as a "small lake perfect for kayak fishing," and the site layout supports that kind of low-key water use. Each site includes a fire ring and bench. Wind picks up at night, and mosquitoes are common near the water, though they tend to thin out by morning. A pit toilet is on-site, and drinking water is available.

Spots fill quickly on summer weekends given the free access and lake proximity, so arriving early in the day is practical advice. Cell service is listed as available. Campers who want a developed alternative nearby can look at Webber Lake Campground, about two miles to the southwest, or browse camping near Sierraville for a broader range of options in the area.

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RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsLake of the Woods is located in California near Sierraville

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

39.50266478 N
120.39115855 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time


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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Lake of the Woods

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4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 11, 2024

Lake of the Woods

Sites are free, first come first served. There was still snow blocking the road the Memorial Day weekend but by June 6th, the road was clear and passable with my Honda Fit. Great, free campground. If the road is blocked with snow part way up there are a few dispersed pull off spots available also.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Lake of the Woods by Aaron A., June 11, 2024
  • Review photo of Lake of the Woods by Aaron A., June 11, 2024
  • Review photo of Lake of the Woods by Aaron A., June 11, 2024
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Jul. 29, 2022

Great lake with campground

Nice campground at great lake. Nice water for swimming. Fire rings and benches for each site. A dirt road to get to the campsite, but doable for experienced drivers or high clearance cars. Pit toilet.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 16, 2021

Nice experience

Took my wife here for her first backpacking trip. Was over all a great experience. Went at the end of June . The lake is shallow in some areas with white sand . It got a bit windy at night and the mosquitoes were gone by the morning but mosquitoes do love hanging out by the water. Cool spot to stay a few nights

Siten
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed May. 27, 2019

Great fishing spot

Campground is beautiful. Spots are first come first served and can fill up quickly. Small lake perfect for kayak fishing.

  • Review photo of Lake of the Woods by Samantha  T., May 27, 2019

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lake of the Woods Campground near Truckee or Tahoe?

While specific proximity to Truckee or Lake Tahoe isn't directly indicated, Lake of the Woods Campground is situated in California's mountain region. The campground's characteristics - seasonal snow blocking road access until early June and high-elevation features - suggest it's in the general Sierra Nevada region where both Truckee and Tahoe are located. For exact distances and directions, contacting the campground management or consulting an official map would provide precise location details.

What activities can I enjoy while camping at Lake of the Woods?

Lake of the Woods offers excellent opportunities for kayak fishing, swimming, and water recreation on its small, peaceful lake that features areas of white sand and shallow water. The campground is also suitable for backpacking trips. Visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings, with each campsite equipped with fire rings and benches for comfortable evenings outdoors. The serene environment makes it perfect for nature appreciation, though be prepared for mosquitoes around the water areas, particularly in the evenings.

Where is Lake of the Woods Campground located in California?

Lake of the Woods Campground is located in Northern California, nestled beside a small, scenic lake. The campground is accessible via a dirt road that may require high clearance vehicles during certain conditions, though standard cars can access it when the road is clear. The area features beautiful natural surroundings typical of California's mountain regions. During spring, the road may be blocked by snow, but it generally clears by early June, allowing full access to this serene camping destination.

How do I make reservations at Lake of the Woods Campground?

Lake of the Woods Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. The sites are free of charge, making it an affordable camping option. During peak times, especially weekends and holidays, the campground can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. The campground is seasonal, typically inaccessible until snow clears from the access road, which generally happens by early June. For the most current status on accessibility, contacting the managing agency is advised.