Cottonwood Creek

Tucked away on the side of Cottonwood Creek just a five-minute drive from Sierraville, CA, Cottonwood Creek Campground is a pawfect place for you and your pooch to pitch your tent while you explore Tahoe National Forest. The campground doesn’t have any hook-ups or showers, so you and your buddy will have to "ruff" it a bit, but you two might find the location worth it! The sixty-two well-shaded campsites are located right in the forest itself, and if you’re looking for privacy, you’re in luck -- the tall trees create natural barriers between sites. Cottonwood Creek Campground is rarely busy, but you’ll still need to make a reservation at least four days in advance to ensure you get your spot!

Hound dog hikers and nature-loving pups will be glad to know that there are two short but scenic trails just outside your tent. The Cottonwood Botanical Trail is less than a mile long and features some gorgeous wildflowers and a gradual incline. The Cottonwood Overlook Trail has some inclines that might appeal to four-pawed fitness freaks, but it boasts fabulous views over the Sierra Valley. If you’re willing to go a little fur-ther, the fabled beaches and trails of Lake Tahoe are just a forty-five-minute drive away, and you and your buddy are just thirty-five minutes away from Stampede Reservoir, making Cottonwood Creek a great base camp for those trying to avoid the crowds.

There’s no wifi available at Cottonwood Creek Campground, and cellular coverage varies from network to network. Although there aren’t any water hook-ups, there are drinking fountains at the campground -- be sure to fill up with enough water before you go hiking! Campfires are permitted in designated rings, but as with many California campgrounds, fire regulations can change with the weather conditions. Remember to bring waste bags for your doggo, and have a furrific time on vacation!