- AGENCY & STATE: U.S. Forest Service, California
- SEASON: Annual
- FACILITIES: None
- FEES: $5
- TOTAL CAMPSITES: Dispersed
- GROUP SITES: None
- PHONE NUMBER: 5306475405
Desolation Wilderness, California
Desolation Wilderness is one of the largest wilderness areas near Lake Tahoe at almost 64,000 acres.
It is also one of the most popular wilderness areas in the country due to its proximity to South Lake Tahoe, breathtaking views, numerous lakes & waterfalls, and stunning granite geography.
Permits are required year round. Quotas are in effect during the summer. There are 45 quota zones offering dispersed backcountry tent camping.
This map shows all of the Desolation Wilderness trailheads.
Read this page for more information about Desolation Wilderness permits & rules.