Talbot Campground
The campground is currently closed, likely due to seasonal snow conditions. Access depends on Mosquito Ridge Road clearing, which typically occurs in late spring. No fees or reservations required when open; first-come, first-served only.
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
Talbot Campground sits five miles above French Meadows Reservoir in one of the most remote sections of Tahoe National Forest. The campground provides 5 tent-only sites at approximately 5,600 feet elevation, offering access to the nearby Granite Chief Wilderness. This is a truly primitive camping experience with vault toilets as the only amenity; all water must be filtered or purified from nearby sources. The campground is located within a California state game refuge, which means firearms, bows, arrows, and slingshots are strictly prohibited. Horses are not allowed inside the campground boundaries, though equestrian hitching posts are available outside for visitors passing through. Camping is only permitted within designated sites. Reaching Talbot requires a 36-mile drive east from Foresthill on Mosquito Ridge Road (Forest Road 96), a winding mountain road with no services along the way. Visitors should fill up on fuel in Foresthill as there are no gas stations or supplies beyond that point, and cell phone coverage is extremely limited to nonexistent.
Directions
From Foresthill, travel 36 miles east on Mosquito Ridge Road (Forest Road 96). The campground is located five miles above French Meadows Reservoir. Fill your gas tank in Foresthill as there are no services beyond that point.
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 | $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
| USFS Talbot Campground | |
| USFS French Meadows Reservoir |
Community Posts
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