Milton Reservoir Camping Area
Open for dispersed camping when access roads are clear of snow. No reservations or fees required. 14-day stay limit applies.
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions
Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect from October 9 through November 30, 2026. To protect natural resources and provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Tahoe National Forest:1. Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, except…
Floriston Fire Closure
Tahoe National Forest and Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest has issued a forest closure order for national forest lands impacted by the Floriston Fire.
About
Milton Reservoir offers true backcountry-style dispersed camping on the shores of a 12-acre wild trout lake at 5,650 feet in Tahoe National Forest. Part of California Department of Fish and Wildlife's wild trout program, the lake has special fishing regulations including a zero trout limit, year-round fishing, and bait prohibition. No motorized boats are allowed. This is a minimalist camping experience with only a vault toilet provided. There is no potable water, no developed campsites, no picnic tables, and no fire rings. Campers must bring all water or be prepared to filter from the reservoir. Pack out all trash. The maximum stay is 14 days per district. The nearest developed camping facilities are at Jackson Meadow Reservoir to the south. Access roads may be impassable during winter and early spring due to snow at this elevation.
Directions
From Sierra City, head east on CA-49 for approximately 5 miles. Turn left onto Gold Lake Highway and continue for about 7 miles. Then, turn right onto Forest Service Road 24 and follow it for 3 miles to reach Milton Reservoir Camping Area.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| 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 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| Tahoe NF - Milton Reservoir | |
| Tahoe NF Current Conditions |
Community Posts
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