Jackson Boat-in Campground
Closed — Closed for the season due to snow. Typically opens mid-June through October, depending on snowpack. Note that Jackson Meadows boat launches are closed to motorized watercraft for 2025 due to golden mussel threat; access is by non-motorized boat only.
Downieville Downhill Closure Order
Closure of identified forest roads and trails for Downieville Downhill.
Big Chief Sale Closure
This order closes forest system roads and trails within the Big Chief project area. This closure is to provide for public safety while 675 acres of forest are treated to enhance wildfire defense in the area.
Parking Restrictions
Parking or leaving a vehicle is prohibited on Tahoe National Forest where posted.
14-day Camping Occupancy Restrictions
Camping on the Tahoe National Forest is limited to 14 days in a calendar year.
2026-27 OHV Grant Applications Notice of Public Review and Comment Opportunity
This grant cycle the Tahoe National Forest will be submitting grant applications for:Ground Operations (OHV trails and facilities maintenance)Law EnforcementEducation and Safety – Focused education at Tahoe NF OHV “Hotspots” through Forest Service personnel, Volunteer Trail Rangers and…
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
Grooming operations have ceased pending new storms. Trailhead location for Little Truckee Summit staging is being evaluated. 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…
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
Jackson Boat-in Campground provides a true backcountry camping experience on the east shore of Jackson Meadow Reservoir in Tahoe National Forest. This primitive campground is accessible only by boat, located approximately half a mile southwest of the Pass Creek boat launch. At over 6,000 feet elevation, the reservoir offers stunning mountain scenery and excellent fishing for rainbow and brown trout. The campground operates as a no-fee, first-come, first-served facility with basic amenities. Campers must be self-sufficient, as the only water source is the reservoir itself, which must be treated or filtered before drinking. A vault toilet is provided for sanitation. The site attracts visitors seeking solitude and a more primitive camping experience away from developed campgrounds. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the Pacific Crest Trail, which meanders along the east side of Jackson Meadow Reservoir, offering excellent hiking opportunities. The reservoir is popular for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Note that as of 2025, motorized boats are prohibited at Jackson Meadows due to invasive species concerns, making this an ideal destination for paddlers and non-motorized watercraft.
Directions
From Truckee, drive 17 miles north on Highway 89 to Little Truckee Summit. Turn left onto Forest Road 7 and continue 16 miles west to Jackson Meadow Reservoir. Launch non-motorized watercraft at Pass Creek boat ramp and paddle approximately half a mile southwest to the campground on the east shore.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| 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 | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (530) 994-3401 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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