Dispersed camping opportunities surround Martis Creek Lake, with elevations ranging between 5,800-6,000 feet creating dramatic temperature shifts between day and night. The area connects Truckee with Lake Tahoe via Highway 267, providing access to multiple Forest Service campgrounds within a 15-minute drive of town. Winter closures affect most sites from mid-October through mid-May due to significant snowfall.
What to do
Fishing at Boca Rest Campground: Located east of Martis Creek Lake, this campground offers direct lake access for anglers. "Little known lake that doesn't get too busy. It is basic dry camping. The lake has been low last few times I've been but the fishing is normally great," notes Alyssa S., who camps here regularly.
Hiking at Tahoe Donner Campground: Miles of trail systems start directly from this campground. "This place is a hikers/bikers paradise. Miles of trail systems for all skill levels that start from the campground," explains Kyle R., who visited the area in late season. The location provides excellent options for day hikes ranging from beginner to advanced.
Lake activities at Martis Creek: The lake behind Alpine Meadow Campground offers calm waters for paddling. "A quick trek on foot or by car will take you to Martis Creek Lake right behind the campgrounds," shares a camper named Chip, highlighting the easy access. Mornings typically provide the calmest water conditions before afternoon winds pick up.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Campgrounds near Martis Creek Lake generally provide ample room between sites. At Prosser Family Campground, "The campsites are dispersed, the vault toilets are clean and it is only 15 minutes to Truckee," according to Shanel M., who visited with small children.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards are high at most area campgrounds. At Davis Creek Regional Park, "The whole campground is just so clean. I give this campground 5 stars. It's just impeccable," reports Mea H., emphasizing the well-maintained conditions.
Wildlife viewing: Bears are common throughout the region, and proper food storage is essential. "We had respectful neighbors so it was not an issue. We were unable to pull out our awnings due to trees. They have great staff here," notes Dennis W. about his stay at Village Camp Truckee, pointing out the importance of proper site setup.
What you should know
Winter weather conditions: Despite summer temperatures that can reach the 80s, nights remain cool year-round. At Alpine Meadow Campground, "The sites themselves are large, and the ones on the far end of the park open up to the field between the grounds and the lake, yet every site is in the trees, keeping it a bit cooler in the summer (even a little chilly at night... in late May it got down in the 30s)," explains Chip.
Airport noise: The Truckee airport operates small aircraft near some campgrounds. "There is an airport nearby and heard one small jet engine aircraft take off in the morning," notes David B. about Alpine Meadow Campground, though many campers report the noise is minimal.
Reservations recommended: Most campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. At Prosser Family, a camper advised, "Despite being summer, the temperature drops significantly at night. Even with cold weather sleeping bags, my son and I were really cold. While there are some sites that cannot be reserved online, I highly recommend that you do not rely on getting one that is first come, first serve."
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety education: Teach children about wildlife safety before arrival. At Prosser Family Campground, rangers provide educational programs: "Earlier that day, the Forest Ranger came through the camp to do an interpretive by showing everyone various mammal furs, two of which were bears," shared Rebecca J., describing a valuable learning experience.
Water activities: Look for campgrounds with easy lake access. "Lots of RV sites and fairly busy campground. People were respectful of quiet hours," reports Andrea M. about Boca Rest Campground, mentioning its location "right next to the water" makes it ideal for families.
Bathroom facilities: Consider campgrounds with flush toilets for younger children. At Washoe Lake State Park, "Flush toilets and showers. Spacious spots," notes Randee S., highlighting amenities important for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven sites that require preparation. At William Kent Campground, one RVer mentioned, "The sites are definitely close together and the pads are tight. We have a 25 ft travel trailer and with my husband's truck it was definitely a tight squeeze. Plus our pad was really not very flat so leveling the trailer was tough."
Extension cords needed: At Village Camp Truckee, "The water and electric are at the very back of very looong spaces so you May need an extension, depending on how close you want to be to your neighbor," advises Alma L., providing practical information for RV setup.
Winter hookup availability: For off-season camping, check which loops remain open. "Winter camping is available on Loop A with full power hookups on a first come, first serve basis. Bathrooms are open all winter," notes Andrew R. about Washoe Lake State Park Campground, offering a pet-friendly camping option near Martis Creek Lake during colder months.
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