About SHIRTTAIL CREEK
Overview Shirttail Campground is located on the north shore of Sugar Pine Reservoir, in the Tahoe National Forest, 15 miles from Foresthill. Visitors enjoy the area for its fishing, boating, OHV, and hiking opportunities. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest. Recreation Fishing, swimming and both motorized and non-motorized boating are popular activities on the reservoir. A paved, non-motorized accessible trail connects recreation sites on the north shore with recreation sites on the south shore and has interpretive signs and shaded benches for rest breaks. The North Fork of the American River is nearby, with additional fishing, white water boating, and swimming. Many miles of hiking, biking and off-road vehicle trails are in the surrounding area. Facilities The campground offers single and double family campsites and one triple site; a few of the campsites are accessible. Picnic tables, campfire rings and grills are provided, as well as vault toilets and drinking water. Firewood is available for purchase from the host. Natural Features Sugar Pine Reservoir covers 160 acres at an elevation of 3600 feet. The campground lies above the north shoreline, in a forest of manzanita and ponderosa pine. Summertime temperatures are warm during the day and cool at night. Nearby Attractions Shirttail Creek Campground is a recreation site within the Sugar Pine Recreation Area which includes an additional family campground, a group campground, a boat ramp, and a day use picnic site, as well as a trail that circles the entire lake. The North Fork American Wild And Scenic River can be accessed near by. Other recreation opportunities include many hiking, equestrian, mountain biking, and OHV trails.
How to Get There
From either east bound or west bound Interstate 80 take exit 121, Auburn Ravine Road to Foresthill. Continue east for 17 miles, to Foresthill. Travel through town, about 9 miles, to Forest Road 10/Sugar Pine Road. Turn left and continue 9 miles to the Sugar Pine Campgrounds road (approximately 1 mile after crossing the Sugar Pine Reservoir dam). Turn right and continue about 1.5 miles, turn left into the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to SHIRTTAIL CREEK
Heading to SHIRTTAIL CREEK? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for SHIRTTAIL CREEK?
No central reservation system listed for SHIRTTAIL CREEK. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232887) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SHIRTTAIL CREEK?
From either east bound or west bound Interstate 80 take exit 121, Auburn Ravine Road to Foresthill. Continue east for 17 miles, to Foresthill. Travel through town, about 9 miles, to Forest Road 10/Sugar Pine Road. Turn left and continue 9 miles to the Sugar Pine Campgrounds road (approximately 1 mile after crossing the Sugar Pine Reservoir dam). Turn right and continue about 1.5 miles, turn left i…
How do I contact SHIRTTAIL CREEK?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-367-2224.
References & Official Resources
