RV Rental Independence Lake, CA

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Independence Lake is located on the eastern edge of California. The lake is located less than 40 miles from the state border with Nevada, which is around 40 miles to the east. The nearest town to Independence Lake is Truckee, CA, which is about 20 miles to the southwest, while the nearest true city is Reno, NV, found around 50 miles to the east.

Independence Lake is nestled among the pine trees and mountains of the Tahoe National Forest. It is situated in a pretty rural part of the state, so be prepared that you may have to drive a distance to reach other attractions. However, this secluded site lends itself to peace, quiet, and relaxation. Numerous activities are available here to enjoy, including picnic sites, hiking trails, and water sports.

Discover Independence Lake


Getting Outdoors

An RV rental in this region will allow you to fully experience the beauty this site has to offer. Water-based activities are the primary draw here. This is partially due to the fact that the site's claim to fame is that it is one of the cleanest mountain lakes you'll find in this area. They want to keep it that way! Due to this, no outside watercraft of any kind are allowed. Motorboats and kayaks are available to rent, on-site, from Memorial Day weekend through the first part of October. Reservations cannot be made; these rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.

This site is actually a wildlife preserve. Several rare species are found here, including Lahontan Cutthroat Trout. This is actually one of the very few places in the world where this species of fish is able to sustain itself. There are other fish species found here that scientists believe have been native to this area for as long as the last 10,000 years! These factors make this site a prime place to enjoy fishing, especially of certain exotic fish.

Some trails for hiking and mountain biking are available at the lake. They can be used for winter sports such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the snowy months as well. However, the site may be difficult to reach at times due to snowfall. The trails meander around the lake, offering picturesque views of that site, as well as the surrounding mountains.

Camping at Independence Lake

Camping with an RV is not allowed at Independence Lake per se. However, there are several national forest campgrounds available nearby, and some RV parks are available within a short drive.

The nearby national forest campgrounds include Lower Little Truckee and Sagehen Campgrounds. These sites all tend to be a bit more rustic. Expect there to be little to no hookups and only the most basic amenities available, such as vault toilets. Potable water is usually offered for guests during the summer months.

Coachland RV Park is found in nearby Truckee. This site offers short and long-term site options. It is one of the few, full-service RV parks nearby, so reservations are encouraged as it tends to fill up. Full-hookups are offered, and the camp is open year-round. Motorhome camping in this area will give you easy access to all the attractions available nearby.

Exploring the Area

Rent a camper in Nevada County, CA, and you will find all sorts of activities to participate in. There are several museums found in the nearby area. The Kidzone Museum is intended for younger children and offers hands-on exhibits for them to learn and explore. The Truckee Railroad Museum features the history of that industry in the local area. The attraction is held in a historic rail car. An RV rental allows you to explore many hidden gems available nearby.

There are several local sights dedicated to the infamous Donner Party, a wagon train that became stranded in this area when attempting to cross the mountains. These attractions include a state park and museum that gives the history of the party and are a memorial to the people who were lost. You are also able to explore the actual mountain pass, and a mountain bridge near it, where the group became stranded. This includes some historic tunnels throughout the nearby mountains.

Downtown Truckee is known for its historic places. The city also offers scores of unique shops to enjoy. There are numerous historical buildings to view, as well. The local Visitor's Center and Historical Society offer more information on these locales. If you find yourself hungry while touring, check out one of the locally-owned restaurants available in town.

If you've been looking for a serene, mountain lake, where you can enjoy plenty of recreational activities, consider renting a camper near Independence Lake. Fish for exotic species, explore a historic town and learn about the plight of wagon trains during the days of the pioneers. Look into renting an RV in this area and enjoy exploring this region with the family.

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Popular nearby hiking trails and campgrounds


  • Hiking TrailLocation
  • Sawtooth Loop Trail, CATahoe National Forest, CA
  • Coldstream Trail to Tinker Knob, CATahoe National Forest, CA
  • Old Emigrant Trail to Donner Peak, CADonner Memorial State Park, CA
  • The Nature Trail, CADonner Memorial State Park, CA
  • China Cove Trail at Donner Lake, CADonner Memorial State Park, CA
  • Lake Ella, CAKings Beach, CA
  • Martis Creek Trail, CATruckee, CA
  • Emigrant Trail to Alder Creek Out-and-Back, CATahoe National Forest, CA
  • Split Rock Loop Trail, CADonner Memorial State Park, CA
  • Negro Canyon Overlook Trail, CADonner Memorial State Park, CA

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