Bear Valley Campground
Closed — Closed for winter. The campground typically closes seasonally due to snow at 6,700 feet elevation. First-come, first-served when open with no reservation system.
Downieville Downhill Closure Order
Closure of identified forest roads and trails for Downieville Downhill.
Castle Peak Avalanche Closure Termination
A closure order restricting public access to national forest lands in the Castle Peak area was terminated on Feb. 23, 2026.
PRESCRIBED FIRE NOTICE: McNair & Quail Landings - 59 acres
Tahoe National Forest is planning to conduct a prescribed burn in the Calpine area, conditions permitting. Smoke will be visible from Calpine, Sierraville, Loyalton and surrounding areas. Smoke may settle overnight in valleys, drainages, and throughout the surrounding communities. Smoke will…
Snow Grooming Updates
Tahoe National Forest has lifted the Castle Peak Avalanche Closure. The area was closed for public safety and to support search and rescue operations following an avalanche that occurred on Feb. 17. All victims have now been recovered. Individuals that choose to enter the area are encouraged to…
PRESCRIBED FIRE NOTICE: Nyack - 200 acres
Total acreage: 200 Ignition dates: Jan. 14 - Feb. 28, 2026 (tentative, weather dependent)Location: Forest Service Rd. 19 between Fulda Creek and North Fork Campground, County Rd. 6001K between Casa Loma recreation cabins and Euchre Bar TrailheadAboutThe Nyack Fuels Reduction Project aims to…
Sierraville Ranger District Trail Closure
Forest Trail 16E87 (Boca-Loyalton Trail) is closed for public health and safety.
Camping and Campfire Restrictions-Truckee and Sierraville Districts
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a) and (b), and to provide for public safety and toprotect natural resources, the following acts are prohibited within the Truckee and Sierraville RangerDistricts of the Tahoe National Forest. This Order is effective from July 1, 2025, through…
Highway 20 Area Camping Restrictions
To provide for public safety and to protect natural resources, the following acts are prohibited within the Tahoe National Forest.
14-day Camping Occupancy Restrictions
Camping on the Tahoe National Forest is limited to 14 days in a calendar year.
Hoke Valley- Forest Road 860-07 (17E11 Trail) Closed
Forest Road 860 -01 (17E11 Trail) in the Hoke Valley area has been closed to allow for Hoke Valley Meadow restoration.
About
Bear Valley Campground is a remote, lightly-used campground nestled in the Tahoe National Forest at 6,700 feet elevation. The campground features 10 campsites suitable for both tents and RVs, with trailer space available at most sites. Located six miles east of Little Truckee Summit on Cottonwood Creek Road, it offers a quiet escape in a mixed conifer forest setting. The campground is particularly popular with off-highway vehicle enthusiasts due to its proximity to the Bear Valley OHV area, offering direct access to trail riding and OHV camping opportunities. Mountain biking is also popular in the area. The remote location ensures light usage and a peaceful camping experience for those seeking solitude. Bear Valley operates as a free, first-come, first-served campground with no reservation system. Basic amenities include vault toilets, but campers should note that only non-potable water is available and must be treated before drinking. The campground typically operates seasonally, closing during winter months due to snow and road conditions at this elevation.
Directions
From Sierraville: Drive 11 miles south on Highway 89 to Little Truckee Summit, then 6 miles east on Cottonwood Creek Road. From Truckee: Drive 17 miles north on Highway 89 to Little Truckee Summit, then 6 miles east on Cottonwood Creek Road.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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