Map showing campground location near Truckee, California

Camper submitted image from Lakeside Campground

Lakeside Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing draw campers to this lakeside spot in Tahoe National Forest, where small motorized boats are the norm and the water stays accessible directly from camp. No big boats here. That low-key atmosphere on the water carries over to the sites themselves, many of which face the lake and sit on level ground, making setup straightforward for a range of rigs, including RVs up to 35 feet.

The campground runs all year and sits close enough to Truckee that a supply run before arrival is easy to plan. One layout detail worth knowing: site #8 is surrounded by neighboring sites on multiple sides, which limits privacy. Site #6 is first-come, first-served, and the camp host has noted that weekday availability is generally good, while weekends tend to fill and warrant a reservation. Cell service is available on-site, and trash service is provided.

There is no potable water at the campground. Rachel M. puts it plainly: "Downer is no potable water. Bring your own water." Campers with self-contained rigs will find the setup workable, but those relying on campground water sources should plan accordingly. One visitor arrived in April to find the campground closed without explanation, so confirming current status before a long drive is worth the extra step.

Nearby options include Prosser Family and Prosser Campground less than a mile to the southeast, giving the area a cluster of Forest Service sites worth considering together when planning a trip.

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Map & DirectionsLakeside Campground is located in California near Truckee

Public Campground

Directions

From Truckee, CA, take State Rt. 89 north 1.1 miles to Prosser sign. Turn right at sign and go 1 mile to campground sign. Turn left onto gravel road and go 0.2 miles to campground on right.

Coordinates

39.38400032 N
120.17100067 W

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Connectivity

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VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 9 users
Last on 8/3/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 9 users
Last on 8/3/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

Trash
Picnic Table
Phone Service
Reservable
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Pull-Through Sites
Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Reservations

+18774446777

Drive Time

30 min from Reno, NV
1 hr 1 min from Carson City, NV
1 hr 36 min from Sacramento, CA
1 hr 43 min from Yuba City, CA

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Lakeside Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Guests frequently mentioned spacious sites with stunning lake views and peaceful atmosphere. However, visitors must come prepared for dry camping as there's no potable water, showers, or running water available.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

jay B.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 27, 2025

Great spot to dry camp near Tahoe

This campground is a hidden gem—just 10 minutes from Truckee and about 20 minutes to Tahoe. We stayed in site #6, which was a first-come, first-served spot. According to the camp host, weekdays are usually easy to snag a site, but you’ll definitely want a reservation if you're planning to stay Friday through Sunday. Most sites offer beautiful views of the lake, and many are on level ground, making setup easy. One tip: avoid site #8 unless you're in a pinch—it’s surrounded by other sites (island spot) and doesn’t offer much privacy, but it would work for a quick overnight stay. The campground feels spacious, peaceful, and scenic. Just keep in mind there are no showers or running water, so come prepared for dry camping. That wasn’t an issue for us since our camper is set up for boondocking. All in all, an awesome spot—we’ll definitely be back!

Site6

Month of VisitAugust

Heather B.

Scout

Reviewed Aug. 20, 2025

Stay-cation Perfection!

Perfect place for spacious campsites, lake views and stunning sunsets. Camp Host was so helpful and hospitable.

Site18

Month of VisitAugust

ray W.

Traveler

Reviewed Apr. 27, 2025

Beautiful but closed

Drove a long way to come to this campsite, but it was closed for some reason. The area is gorgeous though!

Month of VisitApril

Rachel M.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 6, 2023

Beautiful and peaceful

Such a peaceful place. No big boats, just small fishing boats, paddle boarding, kayaking. Downer is no potable water. Bring your own water.

Site27?

Month of VisitJune

Frequently Asked Questions

How do visitors rate Lakeside Campground in Truckee and what are common reviews?

Visitors generally rate Lakeside Campground highly, praising its peaceful atmosphere and spacious campsites. Campers consistently highlight the beautiful lake views and spectacular sunsets as standout features. The friendly and helpful camp host receives special mention for enhancing the experience. Water activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing are popular highlights. Some visitors note the lack of potable water as a minor drawback. The campground is appreciated for its convenient location, just 10 minutes from Truckee and about 20 minutes to Lake Tahoe, making it an excellent base for exploring the region.

Where is Prosser Lakeside Campground located and is there a map available?

Prosser Lakeside Campground is located approximately 10 minutes from downtown Truckee and about 20 minutes from Lake Tahoe. The campground sits alongside a lake that's perfect for small fishing boats, paddle boarding, and kayaking. For specific directions and maps, visitors should check with the U.S. Forest Service or the campground's managing agency. The site operates on a combination of reservation and first-come, first-served basis, with weekday visits typically easier for securing spots without advance booking.

What amenities and facilities are available at Lakeside Campground in Truckee?

Lakeside Campground in Truckee offers spacious campsites with beautiful lake views. The campground lacks potable water, so campers should bring their own water supply. The area is perfect for various water activities including paddle boarding, kayaking, and small fishing boats (no large motorized boats allowed). The campground has a helpful camp host who can assist visitors. While facilities are limited, the peaceful setting and stunning sunsets more than compensate for the basic amenities.

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