This past week I wasn’t able to make it back to Mammoth like I usually do, and my August vacation didn’t work out. Instead, I managed a quick day trip to a beautiful area just outside of Truckee, CA—only about 30 miles from Reno, NV. If you hop off I-80 at the Hirschdale Rd exit, cross the train tracks, you’ll first come across Boca Reservoir, and a little farther up the road you’ll hit Stampede Reservoir. Both bodies of water have plenty of paid campgrounds with easy access to hundreds of miles of off-road trails, singletrack, and forest roads.

Personally, I’m not much for packed campgrounds with noise and distractions. I usually head farther up until the pavement turns to dirt. From there, you can camp almost anywhere. Some spots even allow fire pits, but you’ve got to arrive early—especially before a holiday weekend—if you want to claim a good spot.

The trail network here is impressive. Dirt bike riders can dive into Dog Valley for some great singletrack, while side-by-sides, quads, and trucks have endless options. Dirt roads will take you down to the reservoirs to spend the day by the water, or you can climb up to Verdi Peak for sweeping views over Reno Valley. From there, you can connect all the way to Peavine Mountain, or even take the back route into Border Town, with countless detours and side trails to explore along the way.

One thing I love is that most of the side-by-side roads aren’t completely beat up with washboards or endless whoops. Some are mellow cruising, while others will definitely keep you on your toes.

If you’re in Northern California or Northern Nevada and looking for a great spot to ride and camp when the temps climb, I highly recommend checking this area out. Just do me a favor—keep it close to family and friends. Even though I’m sharing it here, I’d hate to see it get overrun like so many other California riding areas once word gets out.

If you’re local and planning a trip up, let me know—it’s easily one of my favorite nearby places to ride and camp.