About GIANT GAP
Overview Giant Gap Campground is located on the north shore of Sugar Pine Reservoir, in the Tahoe National Forest. It is just 15 miles from Foresthill. Visitors enjoy the surrounding area for its fishing, canoeing, OHV and hiking opportunities.Recreation Fishing, canoeing, swimming and boating are popular activities on the reservoir. A paved, non-motorized trail circles the campground and connects to the day use area and Shirttail Creek Campground. The North Fork of the American River is nearby, with additional fishing and swimming. Many miles of hiking and off-road vehicle trails are in the surrounding area.Facilities The campground offers several single- and double-family campsites, a few of which are accessible. Picnic tables, campfire rings and grills are provided, as are vault toilets and drinking water. Firewood is available for purchase from the host. Natural Features The campground and the adjacent 160-acre Sugar Pine Reservoir are situated at an elevation of 3,600 feet. The campground is situated in stands of cedar and ponderosa pine trees. Summertime temperatures are hot during the day and cool at night.
How to Get There
From Interstate 80, take the Auburn/Ravine Road exit. Continue east for 17 miles to Foresthill. Travel through town, about 9 miles, to Forest Road 10/Sugar Pine Road. Turn left and drive 9 miles, crossing a boat ramp and the dam, to the Sugar Pine Campground. Turn right and continue over a mile to 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 GIANT GAP
Heading to GIANT GAP? 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 GIANT GAP?
No central reservation system listed for GIANT GAP. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232888) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to GIANT GAP?
From Interstate 80, take the Auburn/Ravine Road exit. Continue east for 17 miles to Foresthill. Travel through town, about 9 miles, to Forest Road 10/Sugar Pine Road. Turn left and drive 9 miles, crossing a boat ramp and the dam, to the Sugar Pine Campground. Turn right and continue over a mile to the campground.
How do I contact GIANT GAP?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-367-2224.
References & Official Resources
