Woodcamp Campground

If you’re looking for a canine-friendly camping option for your Tahoe National Forest getaway, consider staying at Woodcamp Campground! You’ll need to sacrifice some of your creature comforts, of course -- you won’t find any showers, electricity, or RV hookups.

If you’re willing to "ruff" it a bit, though, you can reap the benefit of Woodcamp’s beautiful location. The campground sits on the shore of the serene Jackson Meadow Reservoir, and the sites are well shaded by tall, mature pines. Expect fabulous views of the mountains in the distance! The US Forest Service has designated Woodcamp as a heavy-usage campground, so it’s best to make your reservation early, particularly if you’ll need to stay at one of the accessible sites. There’s no entrance fee to the area, and sites start at $24, with an extra $2 fee charged on some holiday weekends.

You and your buddy shouldn’t find it too difficult to sniff out some entertainment during your stay! Keen anglers might be glad to know that the reservoir is well-stocked with many different species of trout, and you can cook your catch on one of the grills provided with every site. Woodcamp Campground is located within Woodcamp Recreation Area, and is close by to the preserve’s swimming beach -- non-furry family members are free to take a dip, but unfortunately, your pooch will have to stay on dry land.

Nevermind, though -- you two should be able to get some exercise in on the area’s hiking trails! Laid-back lapdogs can enjoy a sedate stroll on the half-mile Woodcamp Creek Interpretive Nature Trail, which starts just outside the campground. Feel like getting a little more adventurous? There’s an entrance to the Pacific Crest Trail just across the reservoir on the eastern shore. Avid birders may want to keep an eye out for geese, ducks, teal, and even the occasional bald eagle!

Wifi isn’t available at Woodcamp, and cellular coverage varies from network to network. Fires are permitted, but 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 time!