Sterling Lake Campground
Closed through 2026 for a dam repair project. Expected to reopen in 2027.
National Forest System Roads
Follow California Vehicle Code on National Forest System Roads
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.…
Downieville Downhill Closure Order
Closure of identified forest roads and trails for Downieville Downhill.
About
Sterling Lake Campground offers a secluded backcountry-lite experience in the Tahoe National Forest. Located at 7,000 feet elevation adjacent to Sterling Lake, the campground features six walk-in sites accessible via a roughly 400-foot trail from the parking area. The access road itself is steep and winding, adding to the remote character of this destination. The campground operates as a primitive facility with vault toilets but no potable water. Campers should come prepared to filter or treat water from the lake and pack out all trash. The lake provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddle boating, with motorized boats limited to 10 MPH. Day hiking and backpacking opportunities are available in the surrounding national forest. The campground is operated by PG&E rather than the Forest Service directly. Sites cost $15 per night with check-in at 2:00 p.m. and check-out at noon. Quiet hours run from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Directions
From I-80: Take Cisco Grove exit and turn north. Take a left on the frontage road after crossing over the freeway. Turn right before Cisco Grove campground onto Rattlesnake Road. Continue 5 miles to Sterling Lake Campground.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $15 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| recinfo@pge.com | |
| Phone | +1 (916) 386-5164 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| USFS Sterling Lake Campground | |
| PG&E Recreation |
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