Lakeside (Truckee)

If you and your buddy are looking for a Fido-friendly Tahoe National Forest getaway, Lakeside Campground near Truckee, CA is a pawesome place for you two to pitch your tent! Lakeside doesn’t have a lot to offer in terms of facilities -- there aren’t any showers, electricity, or RV hookups.

The location might just make up for the primitive facilities, though! Lake Tahoe is just thirty minutes away from Lakeside, but you’ll find plenty of lovely scenery and recreation options a little closer to camp. The campground sits on the shores of the serene Prosser Reservoir, and sites are surrounded by tall pines and firs. Careful, though -- not all sites are shaded! You’ll also be treated to wonderful views of the mountains. Lakeside is a heavy usage campground, so it’s best to make your reservations early.

You and your buddy are sure to sniff out something to do near Lakeside! Proximity to Lake Tahoe is the main draw to the campground, but Prosser Reservoir is a lovely spot for a swim, and keen anglers might be glad to know that the lake is well-stocked with trout. Hound-dog hikers, cultured canines, and morbid mutts alike might enjoy the Donner Camp Interpretive Trail, a short walk that brings visitors through the events that led to the ill-fated Donner Party of explorers’ grisly demise in the 1840s. 

If you’re looking for a longer trek, consider walking a stretch of the fifteen-mile-long Commemorative Overland Emigrant Trail, a moderate route that features some gorgeous mountain views, as well as colorful wildflowers in early summer. Head into the charming town of Truckee and you and your buddy can take a ride on the Northstar Gondola, a cable car that offers free lifts to the mountains for hikers in the summer months.

Wifi isn’t available at Lakeside, and cellular coverage varies from network to network, Fires are permitted, but as with most campgrounds in California, regulations can change with the weather. You’ll also find drinking water available on-site. Remember to bring waste bags for your doggo, and have a furrific trip!