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.
Description
Lake of the Woods is a nice small lake. It can be quite popular especially on weekends. There are approximately 15 camping spots with fire pits and picnic tables situated along the shoreline. There is no piped water available. This lake generally opens later in the spring as it sits at a high elevation and takes longer for winter snows to melt to gain access. Camping is free and on a first come - first served basis. The lake has both public and private property. Fire restrictions may be different depending on where you locate your camp.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsLake of the Woods is located in California near Sierraville
Coordinates
39.50266478 N
120.39115855 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 7 min from Reno, NV
- 1 hr 38 min from Carson City, NV
- 2 hrs 21 min from Yuba City, CA








