EAST MEADOW CAMPGROUND
Tahoe National Forest, CAEast Meadow Campground sits on the northeastern shore of Jackson Meadow Reservoir, where pine and fir forests meet a 1,000-acre lake backed by Sierra Crest views. It's built for horse people and anyone wanting a base camp for water activities, with some sites offering lake views and nearby boat mooring.
Campground Details
- 💵Fee per Night
- $24
- 📍GPS
- 39.50102, -120.53256
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- summer, fall
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- 530-265-8861
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The campground spreads through pine and fir forest along Jackson Meadow Reservoir's northeastern shore. Single- and double-family sites come standard with picnic tables and fire rings, plus flush toilets and drinking water. Some sites score lake views, and you can moor boats nearby if you're bringing watercraft.
The setting delivers on mountain lake scenery — rolling forested valley with the Sierra Crest and English Mountain providing the backdrop. It's designated for equestrian use, so expect horse trailers and riders sharing the area.
On the Water
The adjacent reservoir covers 1,000 acres and handles the full range of lake activities: boating, canoeing, water skiing, swimming, and fishing for rainbow and brown trout. A boat ramp sits at Pass Creek Campground, and there's a designated swim beach within reach.
One heads-up: Jackson Meadow serves as an irrigation source, so water levels drop as the season progresses. Plan accordingly if you're counting on deep water for larger boats or specific swimming spots.
Trails and Riding
A section of the Pacific Crest Trail runs along the lake's east side, open to both hiking and horseback riding. The area draws hunters during season and offers mountain biking opportunities in the surrounding forest. Wildlife viewing comes with the territory along the PCT corridor.
The campground's equestrian focus means it's designed to handle horse trailers and riding groups, making it a solid choice if you're bringing horses or want to be around the horse camping community.