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    Shirttail Creek

    4.0 (19 reviews)

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    Campsite 22 is a double site. We were a group of 9 and it fit 5 tents comfortably (2 large family size, 2 medium, 1 small), and could have still fit another 2 tents. The sight had 2 picnic tables, 2 grills, and 1 fire pit. The bathroom was a close walk (under a minute) but not in view from the site. There was 2 water stations near, 1 being at the bathroom. All the bathrooms were very clean and maintained. The lake was less than a 5 minute walk from the campsite and there were multiple bathrooms on the way. We enjoyed a few hours at the lake each day. It was very clean and pretty. Bring water shoes as it's mostly rocks underneath. Everyone played in the water. We had floaties and tossed a football. Fortunately none of us got stung by the occasional wasp that came around every time we cooked but we did get bit a lot by the mosquitoes even though we wore repellent. We brought a netted canopy we put right over the picnic table and ate inside of it. This site had a good portion of shade with the sun draping in through the tall trees. We were able to enjoy most of the day without having to worry about sunscreen unless we went down to the water. Campsites are close together but we stayed during the week days following Labor Day weekend and only had a couple other campers who were not in view. Had we stayed during the weekend there definitely would had been people at the site right next to us very close in view and no doubt could hear everything. For that reason I would definitely not stay at this campground during a busy holiday weekend like Labor Day. Between the 9 of us we had 4 different cell providers and none of got service at all, not even walking around or at the lake. It was very nice to spend time with no one on their phones. The nearest store is about a 30 min drive. I wouldn't want to drive there at night as there's no light and lots of turns. Our site allowed 4 cars, we had 3. It was an amazing family camping trip and we will definitely go back and book site 22 again.

    I have been camping here since I was little! It is still such a great campground. The campsites are very well maintained and the camp hosts that we have had these last few trips this summer have been awesome. We have a few more trips planned this year here and we are definitely looking forward to it!

    Sugar Pine Resevoir from the shore below Shirttail Creek Campground
    Lance L.

    We stayed here in late June and had a wonderful camping experience. The campground was very clean. When we arrived our campsite had been raked and the fire pit cleaned out by the campground hosts. We did not experience any problems with noisy campers, loud radios, etc. The campground hosts cleaned the restrooms at least twice a day and were very friendly. The lake is walking distance from the campground and there is a very good paved path that leads down to the waterline making it easy to get your gear down to the water. The surface temperature of the lake was in the 70s and very comfortable to swim in. Of the two campgrounds on the lake (Shirttail and Giant Gamp), this was the quieter of the two. We camped here in a 38' motorhome and found the paved sites, roads and ample water connections adequate. If camping here in a large RV like ours, I recommend sites 3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 25, 29, 30 all of which are relatively level.

    beautiful campground

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    Ask the Community - Shirttail Creek

    Is it still run by the same couple everyone appears to be upset over? Is there reception?

    I believe it is but I didn't have a bad experience at all. No reception

    Are there trees big enough to tie a hammock to at the campground?

    I want to say yes. I would guess it depends on the site but there are lots of trees

    Does anyone know if site 30 has one or two bear boxes?

    I do not know about 30. But if it's any indicator, site 22 which was one of the big multi-family sites had two picnic tables and one bear box.

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    Review Highlights - Shirttail Creek

    In the middle of everything but still close to two bathrooms, three if you don't mind walking past the camp host.

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    Halsey Forebay Picnic Area

    Halsey Forebay Picnic Area

    4.8
    (5 reviews)
    18.1 km

    On a recent mild sunny winter weekend afternoon, I visited the Halsey Forebay fishing access area…read more It's a water reservoir that's occasionally stocked with trout and crawfish. It's managed by PG&E. The reservoir is a lake with shallow rocky edges. It's just for casting fishing, no humans or animals should go into the water. The access and parking is FREE. And as always, anglers 16 and older need a CA fishing license to fish. I didn't fish here. I looked about and soaked in the sights though. It was rusticly beautiful. However the perimeter doesn't have any shade trees. But vibes were super quiet, I call it library fishing. Shhhh. As I walked about the perimeter of the lake, I noticed folks were quiet even amongst their own groups. Even the elementary school age children there were super quiet. An incredible feat. QuietPlace. And about the fishing situation, not much luck with the anglers that day. Stock was low. Near the parking lot is a short concrete pier with fishing rod holders. This is closest to the water shed. The picnic area is across the watershed. To get to the area from the parking lot, you will have to walk, on a narrow steel grate walkway, over the watershed. The rushing water provides for a dizzying visual effect. The picnic area is set back enough from the lake so if you bring the kiddos, this is the area where they can go about hooting n hollering. The area has 3-4 concrete picnic tables and a several bbq pits. It's first come, first serve. This area is not paved, dirt packed; shaded with big growth trees. Plus let me tell you I learned the hard way that the walking path doesn't connect fully around the lake. I don't recommend attempting the mythical loop. The path is mostly gravel with the other parts being dirt. Watch where you step; there was a lot of poop along the trail. There is a stretch of the path that ends and funnels you out to the narrow bike lane on Christian Valley Road near Bancroft Road. There is no adjacent room to the side of the bike lane, only a chain link fence. Cars are going 50plus miles a hour inches away from you; and they are on a curve. So wait until traffic clears for a significant distance to hightail yourself across that stretch which runs about 50 feet. Don't try to walk with cars coming at you; don't risk getting impaled by a side view mirror or worse. There is a paved parking lot and a public restrooms with vault toilets. Sorry ladies, I can't provide any additional info about the restrooms. As always, I try my best to avoid public park restrooms. But at least they have a restrooms. And to add the landscape of area doesn't provide for any natural discrete spots to answer the call of nature.

    It's gorgeous out here…read more.. We've been fishing at Halsey Forebay Picnic Area quite a few times now. We've caught trout and crawfish! Along with some gnarly mosquito bites. You can pull in and park in a parking space where it leads right up some picnic benches. Just beyond that, a l is a fence with holders for your pole. About 10-12 of them lined up. If you are fishing here, this is where having a 2nd and 3rd pole comes in handy - just be sure to get your license for that!! The water current starts off strong over here and, depending on what you are using, could float downward towards our into the next person's line, so use wisely! Figure it out! On this cool evening, we were catching them left and right. Everyone fishing here is so friendly. It's fun to meet people and see what they're using. When the sun goes down, and most of the heat goes away, Halsey Forebay becomes a sight for sore eyes... as I said... so gorgeous

    Photos
    This pathway is near the corner of Bancroft and Christian Valley Road.
    This pathway is near the corner of Bancroft and Christian Valley Road.
    Halsey Forebay Picnic Area
    Halsey Forebay Picnic Area

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    Lake Theodore

    Lake Theodore

    5.0
    (2 reviews)
    56.8 km

    We have come here a handful of times now for fishing. Not only do we always have a blast, but it is…read moreabsolutely gorgeous here. We haven't been here at sunrise, but the sunsets and stars are so beautiful... you can't help but slowly walk out when it is time to go. Lake Theodore is right off the road and not too hard to spot the entrance. For parking, you can park on the side of the road, right up to the entrance. There is a park & route below about 50 yards away, but that's quite a walk. You do go through a swirly gate and down a path, and there is a trail that leads to the back of the lake. There are spots you need to really pay attention to because of rocks and tree roots. Some trees are growing into the path. There is also some scat along the way, but hey! It's nature. What else do you expect! I have yet to take the path all the way around the small lake, but I have gotten halfway. It's easy to get stuck casting in spots because you'll see some big fish swimming by, or we start catching. In this small lake, you can expect to catch big mouth bass, small mouth bass, lots of blue gill, green sun fish, and a few extras swimming around. For us, the most popular bait we use is the natural big earth worms and night crawlers. For the big mouth bass, the seenkos are pretty popular... 3"-4" long (and we use the watermelon ones). I do like to head back to the front before it gets dark. You can see random spiders building their webs as the sun starts to set and heaven forbid I walk through those trees and go through a web and end up with a creepy crawly! I love bugs and fishing... but a random bug will make me shriek bloody murder, lol! When the sun goes down(on my side of town), there are so many stars to look at. Planes mostly fly over from the backside of the lake and those are fun to watch, too. I think we sat one night until 11pm casting and watching the stars. It was nice the moon was not out this particular night because it made it nice and dark and the stars shined so bright... As precautions, I suggest bringing bug spray and sun block. Bring some small collapsible chairs. Stock up on some water or whatever you drink. I easily spend 4+ hours at a time here admiring the beauty of nature. For those of you that know... tight lines!

    I drove here today with a friend. We did not mean to come here...just found it by accident…read more It is located off his 80 a little above Auburn ca. As you drive up...there is a small parking area. You cannot drive in...there is a gate...so you park on the outside and walk in. There is a dirt path you can walk or ride a bike. By the water you will find places to put a chair and fish. This is a small lake. It is not for boating...or swimming.. There is a sign that clearly states no boats. It is so beautiful here. Peaceful. It would be a great place for lunch or just to sit for a while. I saw some ducks...and birds but no other wild life. It would be a nice place to walk your dogs. Don't wear new shoes...lots of red dirt.

    Photos
    Perfect day, yesterday
    Perfect day, yesterday
    Beautiful at almost 11 pm one evening
    Beautiful at almost 11 pm one evening
    Such a beautiful evening...

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    Such a beautiful evening...
    Loon Lake Reservoir

    Loon Lake Reservoir

    4.0
    (18 reviews)
    45.4 km

    This is for the northshore campground at loon lake spot 21…read more Ok here's the sitch, amazing views and vibes but just beware NO SHOWERS HERE. Also if you are at lot 20/21 you are RIGHT by the entry for off roading people who are on the way to do the rubicon trail. On our camping experience here they would make loud noise starting at 11pm- 1 am so it was not quiet by any means and felt like the cars were right next to the tent. Despite that the camp itself is nice, bathrooms are well maintained, shade comes in the evening, and off the beaten path from Tahoe

    Loon Lake? More like ANT Lake!…read more Went to this campground with my husband last weekend. I would highlight how pretty the place is, but unfortunately the campground design had many flaws. First, the elevation was pretty high, so right away, we were noticeably winded even after the shortest walk. They should really consider lowering the campground. Then, we went to sit on the lakeshore, and what did we see?? Not a single loon, but THOUSANDS of ants. Less than 5 minutes after I laid my towel down, it was covered in ants. Turns out there were several ant hills....ON THE BEACH. This is an unacceptable flaw in design. I would suggest the camp hosts or Forest Service relocate the ant hills, so that people can actually enjoy the shore. Just as we were settling down later in the evening and trying to sleep, I heard someone making a God awful owl hooting noise, from high up in the trees. It was very obnoxious. And I know it wasn't an actual owl because birds aren't real. All in all, it's a pretty place but I'd recommend visiting a campground that values comfort and caters to your needs. Wide regards, Slop Doppolis

    Photos
    One more from the top of the trail.
    One more from the top of the trail.
    On the trail from Loon Lake to Rubicon Reservoir
    On the trail from Loon Lake to Rubicon Reservoir
    Been going there pas 11 years! My favorite spot!

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    Been going there pas 11 years! My favorite spot!
    Tahoe Trout Farm

    Tahoe Trout Farm

    4.7
    (240 reviews)
    74.2 km

    My family and I went to Tahoe Trout Farm for fishing, and it was an absolutely amazing experience!…read moreWe caught the biggest fish for the day! The price was reasonable. The owners were incredibly kind, welcoming, and friendly, which made the visit even more enjoyable. We had a wonderful time and would definitely go back again. Highly recommend!

    We had an absolute blast at the Tahoe Trout Farm! Our group of six arrived right when they opened…read moreat 10:00 AM and had an amazing experience from start to finish. As soon as we parked, we were greeted by the friendly "grandpa" who welcomed us in. Once inside, a younger gentleman got us started and did an excellent job explaining everything in detail, answering questions, and making sure everyone felt comfortable before we began. The setup is fantastic. Your rod, bait, and bucket are all provided, and the facility is clean and well maintained. Fish are priced by the length of your catch, and there is no catch-and-release. They even have a smaller pond with larger fish if you're looking for more of a challenge. The fish were biting! In just about two hours, our group caught 10 fish. There are picnic tables, benches, and a hand-washing sink, making it easy to relax and clean up afterward. When you're done fishing, they offer several processing options at very reasonable prices. For just $2 per fish, they'll clean it, and they also offer filleting, vacuum sealing, and even fun photo opportunities with your catch. The customer service throughout the entire experience was outstanding. A couple tips: there's very little shade, so definitely bring sunscreen, and the mosquitoes can be active, so bug spray is a good idea. If you're visiting South Lake Tahoe, this is an absolute must-do activity for families, couples, or groups of friends. The staff genuinely made the experience memorable. And don't forget to tip--they absolutely deserve it! You can leave cash or simply add it to your credit card transaction.

    Photos
    Tahoe Trout Farm
    Get ready to fillet!!!
    Get ready to fillet!!!
    Tahoe Trout Farm

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    Ramshorn Campground

    Ramshorn Campground

    4.7
    (3 reviews)
    61.6 km

    Great campground! There are two loops, the higher numbers being further away from the highway. The…read morescenery is beautiful and the view of the stars at night is breathtaking. The campground itself is kept very clean. There are no showers and the toilets are vault. The toilets are kept exceptionally clean but are still pretty fowl smelling upon entering (just a heads up). There are several swimming holes you can hike down to (directly across the highway from campground). The town of Downieville is also very close and has some fun places to visit. Best camping trip thus far, I will definitely return next summer for more fun!

    This great campground is about 6 miles west of the town of Downieville, tucked among the trees of…read morethe Tahoe National Forest. As the other reviewer notes, there are two loops. The lower loop is almost parallel to Hwy 49, but the upper loop is up a bit further back. Though traffic noises could be heard, they weren't too intrusive. I booked campsite #13, which was in the upper loop. Great site! We didn't have any neighbors immediately next to us, in any direction. Though the campground was almost completely full during my July visit, most people seemed to be out and about exploring the area during the day, and were quiet during the night. This is a tent-only campground, so it was nice not having to hear the hum of RVs all day. The grounds themselves were kept neat and tidy, the vault toilets were some of the cleanest I've seen, and there is potable water available. The campground is really close to some awesome swimming holes on the Yuba River. There is a trailhead directly across Hwy 49 that provides access. My group walked down to the river most days we were there. The traffic on Hwy 49 isn't very heavy so we felt really safe walking across and along the Hwy. The small town of Downieville is a definite must visit while you're in the area. We were camping specifically to attend the Downieville Mountain Brewfest (which was awesome!) but the town itself is charming and full of interesting historical places and things to see. All in all, the Ramshorn Campground provided a great base to explore Downieville, the Yuba River, and Tahoe National Forest. I'll definitely be back to explore more of the area and camp here again.

    Photos
    View of the river across from the campground.
    View of the river across from the campground.
    Swimming hole close by.

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    Swimming hole close by.
    Independence Lake Preserve

    Independence Lake Preserve

    5.0
    (4 reviews)
    67.7 km

    Independence Lake is a beautiful glacier-cut lake located less than an hour's drive from Truckee…read more Here, you can borrow one of the small fleet of kayaks and fishing boats ~after first filling out a registration waiver~. No outside watercraft are allowed! This is to protect and preserve the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout that are native to this habitat. Outside watercraft are risky because they may unknowingly transport foreign mollusks that are detrimental to the health of the trout living there. If fishing waders are used, there is a wader scrubbing/washing station located at the registration area. There are Nature Conservancy staff people on site if you have further questions. I found them informative and helpful. The loaner kayaks are located to the left side of the lake. The ones on the right side are for staff members. Every other week, ~only~ the kayaks are allowed out. Call to check the calendar schedule to avoid disappointment if you want to use one of the motorized boats. They require a motorized boater's card {available online at https://www.boat-ed.com/california/) There are single person and tandem person sit-on-top kayaks available. after 8AM Thursdays through Sundays. Loaner PFDs are also available in standard sizes. I recommend getting there early morning after opening while the water is calm. I was told that later in the day, the wind can pick up. This makes paddling a kayak to get backk across a lot more difficult. You may fish using barbless hooks. Only artificial lures are permitted. All trout caught must be released. Kokanee salmon are an invasive species here. Fishermen are allowed to keep those. Limit 5 per day, or 10 per trip, total. No live bait. There is no overnight camping on the Conservancy's grounds. There are campgrounds at nearby Webber Lake and Lake of the Woods.

    Independence Lake Preserve is an amazing place to enjoy the high Sierras. The best part is the free…read morekayaks that are available to anyone who signs a waiver. How cool and inclusive is that? You get to Independence Lake Preserve from highway 80 by heading north on 89 and then turning L at the "Little Truckee Summit OHV/Snowmobile" area, which is on a road labeled "07." It's the turn you'd take if you wanted to go to the Mt. Lola trailhead or Webber Lake Campground, which are also nearby. You'll need an offroad capable vehicle to make it over a water crossing and two miles of rocky road. There are lots of signs that explain that no watercraft are allowed, because Independence Lake is one of the two places in the world with a wild, self-sustaining lake population of Lahontan cutthroat trout. That's why they care so much about not letting folks put their own watercraft on the lake: they might unintentionally introduce invasive species. When we pulled up (with a canoe on our Jeep: we didn't know the rules beforehand), a ranger came out to verbally explain things to us and to let us know about the free kayaks to use. I was pleasantly surprised that there were not a lot of bugs out in July 2022. The last time we were in this area, which was maybe July three years ago, there were so, so, so many bugs. We came armed with bug spray but didn't need it! There are hiking trails around the preserve as well. The lake is large and beautiful, and the view of Mt. Lola is spectacular.

    Photos
    Trail
    Trail
    Lizard
    Lizard
    Lake

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    Lake

    Shirttail Creek - campgrounds - Updated August 2026

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