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Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Loch Leven Lakes

Loch Leven Lakes is located in the Tahoe National Forest, surrounded by forested terrain and several lakes. The area experiences temperatures ranging from the 30s to 80s Fahrenheit, depending on the season. Nearby attractions include the Pacific Crest Trail and Donner Memorial State Park, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring nature.

Description

USDA Forest Service

Tahoe National Forest

The Loch Leven begins at Placer County Road Pla-9140-2 and ends at High Loch Leven Lake. At the south end of lower Loch Leven, a trail junction continues left to middle and high Lochs, or right to Salmon Lake. Fishing is generally good, and camping is dispersed throughout the basin. Campfire permits are required for campfires, backpacking stoves, BBQs, and lanterns.

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Location

Loch Leven Lakes is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

The trail begins one-eighth mile east of the Big Bend Fire Station on old U.S. 40 (Big Bend exit off I-80). A restroom is available at the trailhead. The trail begins across the road from the parking area. Trail Length: 1.1 miles to railroad tracks 2.5 miles to 1st lake Salmon Lake trail 2.8 miles to 2nd lake 3 miles to Cherry Point trail 3.6 miles to Upper Loch Leven

Coordinates

39.28567455 N
120.49747397 W

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Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

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Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Loch Leven Lakes needs a permit.

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 24, 2022

Loch Leven lake

We took Salmon lake trailhead which is shorter trail.

Sitewest end of lake
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Loch Leven Lakes by Roger L., June 24, 2022
  • Review photo of Loch Leven Lakes by Roger L., June 24, 2022
  • Review photo of Loch Leven Lakes by Roger L., June 24, 2022
Reviewed Sep. 21, 2021

Quiet dispersed camping

We backpacked up to the high loch levens lake where we found many available campsites. But also a lot of the nice view spots were occupied since we didn’t start our hike up early, we started at 5:30pm. The middle lake is very large and had many beautiful spots to camp. But we headed to the upper lake since a lot of day hikers go to the middle lake and don’t always pack out what they pack in. All the sites are very dispersed and you have so much privacy. We saw some people even camping on the boulders! It was very serene and quiet with very respectful campers. The trail up is a bit confusing if you don’t pay absolute attention to where you are going. You can find some orange markings or stacked rocks that help you stay on the path. Reaching our destination was amazing. We swam in the lake and napped in our hammocks. I will say that there was a lot of mosquitos. Even with bug spray I left with 7 bites. But, it’s the outdoors what do you expect? Overall very beautiful area to camp!

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Loch Leven Lakes by Azizah T., September 21, 2021
  • Review photo of Loch Leven Lakes by Azizah T., September 21, 2021
  • Review photo of Loch Leven Lakes by Azizah T., September 21, 2021
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Loch Leven Lakes?

    Loch Leven Lakes is located at 6000 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Loch Leven Lakes?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Loch Leven Lakes, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.