• Q: What should people expect when camping at Lake Tahoe?
    • A: Camping at Lake Tahoe isn’t exactly what most people expect. Those who’ve never been there think of pitching their own tent near the water, but that isn’t the case. However, you can still get something close to that experience.
  • Q: Where are the campgrounds located around Lake Tahoe?
    • A: Lake Tahoe campgrounds are primarily found on the South and West parts of the lake.
  • Q: Who manages the campgrounds at Lake Tahoe?

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1. Zephyr Cove


Swim, sunbathe, or cruise the lake on a relaxing summer trip.

Zephyr Cove

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  • Where is the campsite located?
    • The campsite is located just across the street from the Zephyr Cove Resort on the east side of the lake.
  • Are any of the campsites adjacent to the lake?
    • None of the sites are adjacent to the lake, but some offer nice views of the lake.
  • What types of RVs can the campsite accommodate?
    • The RV sites can accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet long.
  • How many campsites are available?
    • There are about 90 sites in total, each offering access to water and cable TV hookups as well as a sewer connection.
  • Are there tent camping options?
    • Yes, there are some tent sites that are within walking or driving distance.
  • Where can visitors access showers and laundry facilities?
    • Visitors can use the laundry and shower facilities at the Zephyr Cove Resort.
  • How can reservations be made?
    • Reservations can be made online via the Zephyr Cove website.

2. Nevada Beach


Picnic, paddle, and enjoy easy lake access with the family.

Nevada Beach

© ShutterMary/stock.adobe.com

  • Where is Nevada Beach located?
    • Nevada Beach is located within a national forest and is managed by the US Forest Service.
  • What is the elevation of Nevada Beach?
    • The beach is situated in a pine forest at an elevation of 6,100 feet above ground.
  • Are there campsites available?
    • Yes, there are campsites for both tents and RVs, most of which offer views of the lake.
  • What facilities are available at the campsites?
    • The campsites have flush toilets, but they do not have any hookups.
  • How close is the campground to the lake shore?
    • The campground is located near the lake shore, which can be accessed by walking.
  • Are pets allowed?
    • Yes, visitors can bring up to two pets per site. However, pets are not allowed on the beaches.
  • How can reservations be made?
    • Reservations can be made online through the Nevada Beach website.
  • Are there any check-in requirements?
    • Yes, the reservation holder must check in personally.
  • Is there an extra fee for additional vehicles?
    • Yes, visitors bringing extra vehicles will need to pay an additional fee.

3. Camp Richardson Resort


Bike, boat, and explore fun attractions on an affordable weekend getaway.

Camp Richardson Resort

© Camp Richardson Resort

  • What is Camp Richardson Resort?
    • Camp Richardson Resort is a year-round vacation destination, perfect for families looking to experience award-winning accommodations, dining, and a variety of outdoor activities.
  • What activities does Camp Richardson offer?
    • Camp Richardson, or Camp Rich as it’s lovingly called, offers exciting excursions including camping, hiking, skiing, biking, and marina tours.
  • What accommodations are available for campers?
    • Guests can pitch a tent at the Lake Tahoe Camping and RV park or enjoy various lodging options.
  • What winter activities can visitors enjoy?
    • During the winter months, guests can rent snowshoes or skis to explore the mountainside.
  • What summer activities are available?
    • In the summer, Camp Richardson is great for biking, hiking, and taking marina tours and cruises.
  • What special tours are available?

1900 Jameson Beach Road, South Lake Tahoe, California 96150, Phone: 800-544-1801

4. Fallen Leaf


Hike quiet trails and admire alpine beauty on a peaceful fall escape.

Fallen Leaf

© Pop Sujinun/stock.adobe.com

  • Where is Fallen Leaf located?
    • Fallen Leaf is located within a national forest. It is a pine forest with no direct lake views, but it is nearby Fallen Leaf Lake, which visitors can walk to.
  • How many camping spots are available?
    • The site has 206 spots for RVs and tents as well as six yurts or tent cabins.
  • What amenities are available at the campground?
    • The campground features coin-operated showers, restrooms, water spigots, and flush toilets.
  • When is the campground open?
    • The site is open from mid-May until mid-October.
  • How can reservations be made?

5. Emerald Bay State Park


See iconic views and kayak to Fannette Island on an exciting trip.

Emerald Bay State Park

© MelissaMN/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Emerald Bay State Park?
  • Was the park previously closed?
    • Yes, the park was closed in 2015 but was set to reopen in June 2018.
  • Does the park have a campsite?
    • Yes, the park features a boat-in campsite that opens during the summer.
  • How can visitors check for reopened areas?
    • To find out which parts of the park have reopened, visitors should check the official website, which is also where reservations can be made.
  • Where can I watch a video about Emerald Bay State Park?
    • You can watch a video about the park here.

6. D. L. Bliss State Park


Walk the Rubicon Trail and discover scenic sights on a romantic hike.

D. L. Bliss State Park

© susanne2688/stock.adobe.com

  • What is D. L. Bliss State Park?
    • D. L. Bliss State Park is part of the California State Park system and features 150 campsites for families, located within walking distance of the lake’s shore.
  • Are there hiking trails nearby?
    • Yes, the park is located very close to many hiking trails.
  • Does the park accommodate RVs and trailers?
    • Yes, there are campsites for RVs up to 18 feet and trailers up to 15 feet.
  • What amenities are available?
    • The park provides restrooms and showers for campers.
  • Are dogs allowed in the park?
    • Yes, dogs are allowed in campgrounds, paved roads, and picnic areas, but they must be leashed. However, they are not allowed on the beach or in other areas.
  • Is the park open year-round?
    • No, D. L. Bliss State Park closes during the winter.
  • Are there alternative campgrounds nearby?
    • If D. L. Bliss is closed or full, visitors can try the nearby Sugar Pine Point Campground.

7. Meeks Bay


Relax on sandy shores and swim with kids in clear summer water.

Meeks Bay

© MNStudio/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Meeks Bay Resort?
    • Meeks Bay Resort is a privately owned resort that features lodges and cabins, perfect for groups who want to experience camping with modern comforts.
  • What amenities does Meeks Bay Resort offer?
    • The resort has its own restaurant, and the campsites come complete with hookups, picnic tables, and tent-pitching areas.
  • Are pets allowed at Meeks Bay Resort?
    • No, pets are not allowed at Meeks Bay Resort.
  • Is the resort open year-round?
    • No, Meeks Bay Resort closes during the winter season.
  • When can reservations be made for the summer?
    • Reservations for the summer season can be made as early as May.

8. Sugar Pine Point State Park


Tour the mansion and stroll forested paths on a retirement-friendly outing.

Sugar Pine Point State Park

© Michael/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Sugar Pine Point State Park?
    • Sugar Pine Point State Park is part of the California State Parks system, located on Lake Tahoe’s shores, just 10 miles south of the city.
  • How many campsites are available at the park?
    • The park has up to 100 campsites available for visitors.
  • What amenities does the campground provide?
    • The park has restrooms and a dumpsite for RVs.
  • What size RVs and trailers can the park accommodate?
    • The park can accommodate RVs up to 32 feet and trailers up to 26 feet long.
  • Are dogs allowed in the park?
    • Yes, but dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet. They are not allowed inside buildings, on unpaved trails, or on the beach.
  • Does the park get busy?
    • Yes, Sugar Pine Point State Park can get busy at certain times of the year, so it is recommended to make reservations in advance.

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