SCOTTS LAKE DISPERSED CAMPING

Closed

Seasonal access dependent on snow conditions. Highway 88 is currently open with no restrictions. The dirt access road typically opens late May through June once snowmelt permits. Forest-wide 14-day camping limit applies. Fire restrictions may be in effect during fire season; check current fire danger status before building campfires.

Winter Weather Advisory issued October 29 at 10:39AM PDT until November 1 at 7:00AM PST by NWS Reno NV

10:39 AM — October 30th, 2:15 PM

* WHAT...Snow above 7000 ft. Snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches with up to 9 inches along the highest peaks. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph. * WHERE...Greater Lake Tahoe Area. * WHEN...From 8 AM PDT Saturday to 7 AM PST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Heaviest snowfall expected late Saturday night. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Heaviest snowfall expected late Saturday night.

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Weed Free Hay Order 04-2021-03

Prohibited by this order: Possessing, storing, or transporting non-pelletized hay, straw, or mulch in the Intermountain Region, unless it is certified as weed free by the state where the product originated.

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Fireworks and Spark Arrestor Order 04-2021-01

Prohibited by this order: Possessing, discharging, or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device. 36 CFR §261.52(t)Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order as described…

About

Scotts Lake Dispersed Camping is located in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest's Carson Ranger District, positioned between Waterhouse Peak and Stevens Peak on the west side of Hope Valley. This free dispersed camping area sits at high elevation and features a small alpine lake surrounded by aspen groves, large meadows, and old-growth forest. The area is accessed via Scotts Lake Road, a high-clearance 4WD road that climbs approximately 1,000 feet over several miles from Highway 88. The site offers primitive camping without designated sites. A 2025 Forest Service project installed two vault toilets and an informational kiosk to improve the area. Campers must bring their own water and pack out all trash. The 14-day camping limit applies forest-wide. The access road is closed seasonally due to snow and typically opens in late spring or early summer once conditions allow. Highway 88 over Carson Pass provides the primary paved access, though the final stretch to the lake requires a capable vehicle. The area draws visitors for dispersed camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and kayaking.

Directions

From Highway 88 near Hope Valley, turn onto Scotts Lake Road after passing the cattle guard. The dirt road requires high-clearance 4WD and climbs approximately 5 miles to the lake. Drive slowly through camping areas. Access is also possible via dirt roads from the east side through Hope Valley.

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 —

Contact

Phone +1 (775) 882-2766

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile None

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