Boyington Mill Campground

For those of us living in California, the allure of the Sierra Nevada mountains, with their crisp air, towering pines, and rushing rivers, is a constant invitation to escape. The Truckee area, in particular, offers a quintessential mountain experience, blending stunning natural beauty with a vibrant outdoor scene. Among the many camping options available, Boyington Mill Campground stands out as a "very classic simple riverfront campground" that captures the essence of a peaceful and authentic Sierra getaway.

Boyington Mill Campground is a beloved spot for those who appreciate understated charm and direct access to nature. Visitors consistently praise its lovely setting right next to the river, the friendly camp hosts, and its surprisingly serene atmosphere. While it embraces a more rustic approach to amenities, its clean facilities and the overall wonderful experience it provides make it a highly recommended destination for locals looking to reconnect with the beauty of the Truckee River and the surrounding Tahoe National Forest. It's a place where you can truly unwind and let the sounds of the river wash over you.

Boyington Mill Campground is conveniently located on County Road 894, Truckee, CA 96161, USA. This places it directly adjacent to the beautiful Truckee River within the Tahoe National Forest, just a short drive from the charming mountain town of Truckee. Its proximity to Truckee means relatively easy access to supplies, dining, and other amenities, while still providing a secluded feeling once you are in the campground.

Access to the campground is typically via paved or well-maintained gravel roads from the main highways leading into Truckee. County Road 894 is generally accessible for most standard vehicles. As it is situated in the Sierra Nevada, it is important to remember that road conditions can vary seasonally, particularly during late spring or fall. Checking with the Tahoe National Forest for current road conditions and any alerts, especially regarding snow or fire restrictions, is always a wise practice before heading out. The journey to the campground offers scenic views of the pine forests and provides a smooth transition into the natural environment of the Truckee River corridor.

Boyington Mill Campground provides a rustic yet clean and functional set of services, emphasizing a traditional camping experience rather than extensive modern amenities. Campers should be prepared for a self-sufficient stay, particularly concerning water.

• Campsites: The campground offers 12 individual campsites. These sites are described as "lovely little" spots, suggesting an intimate atmosphere.
• Pit Toilets: There is "a single pit toilet for 12 sites." While this might seem like "a bit of a challenge" for the number of sites, it was positively noted as being "clean at least" and implies a focus on basic, well-maintained facilities.
• No Potable Water: A crucial point for all campers is that there is "NO potable water" available at the campground. Visitors must bring all their own drinking water for the duration of their stay. This is a standard expectation for many primitive or rustic campgrounds in national forests.
• First-Come, First-Served Site: Site 1 is specifically noted to be kept for "FCFS" (first-come, first-served) basis. While the marking for this can be "confusing," it offers an opportunity for last-minute campers to secure a spot. It is common for other sites to be reservable, so checking with the forest service is recommended.
• Camp Hosts: The campground benefits greatly from having "very nice" and friendly camp hosts. Their presence often ensures the cleanliness of facilities and provides a welcoming atmosphere.
• No Showers or Hookups: As a classic, simple campground, there are no shower facilities or electric/water/sewer hookups for RVs. This reinforces the expectation of a more primitive camping experience.

• Classic Riverfront Setting: The most significant highlight is its "riverfront" location, right next to the Truckee River. This provides a "lovely little campsite" atmosphere, with the soothing sounds of the river creating a peaceful backdrop for your stay. It's ideal for those who love to camp directly by water.
• Friendly and Welcoming Camp Hosts: The "very nice" camp hosts are consistently praised, contributing significantly to a positive and enjoyable camping experience. A good host can make all the difference in a rustic setting.
• Clean Pit Toilet: Despite being a single facility for multiple sites, the fact that the pit toilet was "clean at least" is a noteworthy positive, ensuring a more comfortable basic amenity.
• Serene and Peaceful (Overall): While simple, the campground is described as "wonderful" and capable of providing an "amazing" trip, particularly due to its relaxing atmosphere. It offers a true escape into nature.
• Convenient for Truckee Exploration: Its location near Truckee makes it a convenient base for exploring the town, enjoying its restaurants, shops, and nearby attractions like Donner Lake, Lake Tahoe (a short drive away), and numerous hiking and biking trails.
• Potential for Fishing: Being on the Truckee River, the campground likely offers opportunities for fishing, a popular activity in this region.
• Ideal for Return Visits: The sentiment of "Will definitely stay here again next on the next camping trip to Truckee" speaks volumes about the positive impression it leaves on visitors.

Address: County Road 894, Truckee, CA 96161, USA

Phone: (530) 265-4531

Mobile Phone: +1 530-265-4531

The provided phone number is for the Tahoe National Forest, Truckee Ranger District, which manages Boyington Mill Campground. It is highly recommended to contact them directly for the most current information regarding campground status, operational dates (seasonal), any potential reservation policies (especially for sites other than FCFS Site 1), road conditions, and any fire restrictions that may be in place.

For us Californians, Boyington Mill Campground in Truckee embodies the kind of authentic, no-frills mountain getaway we often seek. We appreciate places that offer direct connection to nature without unnecessary distractions, and this "very classic simple riverfront campground" delivers precisely that. Its location right next to the beautiful Truckee River means the soothing sounds of flowing water become the soundtrack to your escape, providing a profound sense of relaxation that only nature can offer.

While it's important to remember to bring your own potable water and that there's only one pit toilet for all sites, the fact that these basic facilities are kept clean speaks volumes about the care put into the campground. The presence of "very nice" camp hosts further enhances the experience, making you feel welcomed and supported. For locals looking for a serene and uncomplicated camping trip in the heart of the Sierra, a place to fish, unwind by the river, and easily access the charm of Truckee, Boyington Mill Campground is an excellent choice. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of California's natural beauty and the simple joys of a well-located, friendly camping spot. It's the kind of place that makes you say, "Will definitely stay here again."

Boyington Mill Campground

County Road 894, Truckee, CA 96161, USA