Trip · 3-day backpacking trip
For · Friends and new backpackers
Vibe · Moderate and fun
Distance · 19 miles and 2,995 feet of elevation gain
Permits · Nope, just apply for a CA campfire permit online
Drive · 3.5 hours from SF
Ideal dates · May to September
Pets · Welcome on trails and campgrounds!
Tahoe National Forest (THN) is 871,400+ acres of breathtaking mountains, wildflower meadows, and crystal clear reservoirs. It's one of the most popular national forests in the country, and you don't need a permit to explore its backcountry. TNF is located northwest of the popular Lake Tahoe, but swap the crowds for climbing the Sierra Buttes, hiking a section of the Pacific Crest Trail, or swimming in the Yuba River. TNF has it all.
Official Forest Service Website
Latest Forest Alerts and Notices
Main image credit: Reddit
Tahoe is one of eight national forests along California's Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Washoe and Maidu Native American tribes were the first to traverse Tahoe National Forest, before the Gold Rush brought thousands of emigrants to CA.
Black bears roam TNF all year, but keep your site clean and store food and scented items properly, and you'll rarely spot them. Learn more.
A fancy stove for campers who want compact, portability, and performance all in one.
Kitchen
This spacious loveseat is designed for cuddling with loved and furry ones at camp.
Essential Items
We can confirm that these camp tables withstand hot bevvies and rock collections.
Shared Gear
Bezzi's Picks
A fun camping cot for siblings to share and sleep in overnight.
Sleep
Sleep
Bugs be gone with this rechargeable and refillable mosquito repeller.
Essential Items
Self-care
This small play tent will keep your kids busy and your main sleeping tent clean.
Essential Items
Shelters
A colorful mug with a lid to keep your bevvies warm and cool at camp.
Kitchen
Kitchen
Coolers are made for chilling and rolling in and out of camp. This one is top-notch.
Essential Items
Kitchen
Lighten the load from car to camp with this highly-rated collapsible wagon.
Essential Items
Keep water cold and your family hydrated with this sleek, non-leak water jug.
Kitchen
Kitchen
Enjoy the small town charm and enchanting wilderness in Idyllwild for this beginner camping trip.