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8 Best Camping Spots to Explore at Lake Tahoe

Jyoti Babel
The largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe is situated at a height of 6,225 ft. and touches the state borders of both California and Nevada. Camping is the most sought after outdoor activity in Lake Tahoe, for all good reasons. The clear blue waters and the stunning panoramic views of the mountains around it attract visitors in throngs.

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With about 71 miles of shoreline and stunning alpine landscape, there are some amazing camping spots to choose from, once you are at Lake Tahoe.

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Whether you are looking for a beach campsite, an RV site, or wanting to have fun biking, hiking or photography, we have got you covered with a list of 8 best camping spots in Lake Tahoe.

D.L. Bliss State Park

Named after the railroad and timber tycoon Duana Leroy Bliss, the D.L. Bliss State Park situated on the western side of Lake Tahoe is home to some really spectacular scenic views.

It is also home to the highest-elevation lighthouse in the country – the Rubicon Point Lighthouse.
The campsite is located high above the lake and you have some really good views of the waters through the pine trees.

However, strolling down to the beach from here is not feasible. This campsite is a good choice if you want to spend some time nestled among the woods in the lap of nature.

Meeks Bay Resort

If beach camping is on your mind in Lake Tahoe, Meeks Bay Resort is the place for you to be. Situated 20 miles south of Tahoe City, it lies on the west shore on the Californian side.

With white sandy beach with crystal clear waters, it is a very popular location, so it is advisable to book a spot in advance.
The resort has all the facilities for you to make the maximum of your camping experience here; rent a kayak, go boating in the marina nearby or ride in the powerboats for a thrilling experience. Just be informed that Meeks Bay Resort has a strict no pets policy.

Camp Richardson

The best camping spot for South Lake Tahoe, Camp Richardson’s amenities and location makes for a perfect family camping getaway.

The campsites are close to the shore and there is a trail through the forest that is perfect for biking. This is again a no pet camping location, so your pet cannot join you on your holiday here.
You will find bike and boat rentals conveniently located near the marina and yes, there is a good ice-cream parlor here if you want to indulge in a scoop or two.

Sugar Pine Point State Park

Looking for a camping site with excellent biking trails, then Sugar Pine Point State is the best for you.

With excellent tent camping options, spots on loop numbering 126-175 are closest to Lily Pond biking and hiking trail. You can also explore the paved bike path that connects the park to Tahoe city.
A 10 minute walk can also bring you to the lakeshore at Edwin Z'berg Natural Preserve. There are plenty of opportunities for clicking pictures. Pets are allowed here, but certain restrictions apply, so check before booking.

Zephyr Cove Campground

Situated in South Lake Tahoe on the Nevada side, Zephyr Cove Campground boasts of a beautiful beach and an excellent marina.

With an RV park just across the beach, it is perhaps the best RV camp site in Lake Tahoe with reliable wi-fi and cable connectivity.
Indulge in biking, fishing or boating while you are here. Don’t miss the catamaran trips that depart daily from the cove and enjoy some spectacular sunset sights on the evening champagne cruise.

Emerald Bay State Park

With blue-green shimmering waters, rugged rocky shore and plenty of photo shoot opportunities, the Emerald Bay State Park offers a one of its kind experience. It is accessible only via boats as there are no roads leading up to it.
It is a beautiful secluded area that gives a taste of wilderness; a haven for bird watchers – look out for bald eagle - a common sight here. With just twenty-one lakefront campsites and a shared dock, it gets booked pretty soon, so book early for a camping trip here.

Sand Harbor

Looking for a campsite on the east shore of Lake Tahoe in Nevada side, then check out Sand Harbor. Azure blue waters and beautiful sandy shore makes it a favourite among camping enthusiasts.
Hike on a nature trail, have a family picnic, swim in the shallow lake waters or go kayaking or boat riding, the options are varied here. Do check out the lakeshore concert that takes place bi-weekly here.

Fallen Leaf Campground

Located in South Lake Tahoe, Fallen Leaf Campground is a pet-friendly camping spot. It lies along the north shore of the Fallen Lake near the Taylor Creek and two beaches – Pope and Baldwin are conveniently located near the campsite.
The site doesn’t have direct lake views, but there are a lot of activities to indulge in the waterbodies nearby – tubing, windsurfing, boating and waterskiing. There is also a 3 miles long paved bike trail along the highway 89 if you fancy biking there.