Goose Meadows sits right on the Truckee River between Tahoe City and Truckee, making it a solid basecamp for hitting both Lake Tahoe and the northern reservoirs. The sound of Highway 89 traffic reminds you this isn't wilderness camping, but the river access and central location make up for the road noise.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Developed
- 💵Fee per Night
- Free
- 📍GPS
- 39.25750, -120.20917
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- (530)587-3558. FOR RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL: 1 (877) 444-6777.
- 🗺️Address
- CA
The Camp
The sites line up along the Truckee River under a canopy of lodgepole pine and fir. Each comes with the standard picnic table and fire ring with grill, plus vault toilets and drinking water throughout the campground. Lake Tahoe Hospitality runs operations here for the Forest Service, so expect maintained facilities rather than the bare-bones feel of some national forest camps.
The river frontage is the main draw. You can wade in for some relief on hot days or float downstream on tubes. The current moves along at a decent clip, so factor that into your swimming plans.
The Water
Fly-fishing for rainbow trout keeps many campers busy. The Truckee runs clear through here, and the camp's position gives you immediate access without driving to find river access elsewhere in the area.
Nearby
Trail access puts you within range of serious hiking. The Western States Trail, Five Lakes Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail all run through the surrounding area. For day trips, Prosser, Boca, and Stampede reservoirs spread out to the north, while Lake Tahoe and Olympic Valley lie 30 minutes south.
Truckee sits 10 minutes north when you need supplies, restaurants, or gas. The town covers all the basics plus some decent dining options if camp cooking gets old. Lake Tahoe's full range of boating, kayaking, and scenic driving opens up with a short drive south.