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United States
California
Placer County

Watson Lake Campground

Discover
Places to see

Lakes

United States
California
Placer County

Watson Lake Campground

Highlight • Lake

Watson Lake Campground

Recommended by 6 hikers

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for: Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

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    Location: Placer County, California, United States

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    Best Hikes to Watson Lake Campground

    3.0

    (1)

    1

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    1. Watson Lake & Tahoe Rim Trails — Carnelian Bay, Lake Tahoe

    4.96km

    01:28

    140m

    140m

    Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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    Easy

    2

    hikers

    2. Watson Lake Campground – View of Lake Tahoe loop from Carnelian Heights

    11.1km

    03:26

    380m

    380m

    Intermediate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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    Intermediate

    3

    hikers

    3. Watson Lake Campground loop from Ridgewood

    13.6km

    04:05

    450m

    450m

    Intermediate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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    Intermediate

    Tips

    December 1, 2023

    Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, the Watson Lake Campground offers a picturesque setting surrounded by forest along the tranquil lake. It doesn't feature any amenities and works on a first-come-first-serve basis.

      January 14, 2022

      It is a really peaceful place, where you will find some nice bivouac spots.

      Translated by Google •

        July 23, 2025

        Lots of mosquitos during the summer, Good amount of shade and places to sit off the ground, however no water. There was some cellular service here though. (on AT&T)

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          Details

          Informations

          Elevation 2,380 m

          Weather

          Powered by AerisWeather

          Wednesday 29 October

          15°C

          5°C

          0 %

          If you start your activity now...

          Max wind speed: 4.0 km/h

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          Location: Placer County, California, United States

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