The Best Camping Spots at Lake Tahoe

Camp Richardson

The location and amenities on the California shores of South Lake Tahoe make the historic Camp Richardson an ideal family destination. RV and tent sites are close to the lake's shore, and a nearby bike path meanders through the forest.

It's almost unthinkable to have a family camping trip without a nearby ice cream parlor, and Camp Richardson has a great one. A mountain center with bike rentals is available, and boat rentals are convenient at the nearby marina.

Even though you might want Fido to be part of the holiday photos, Camp Richardson has a strict no-pet policy.  

Meeks Bay Resort

Meeks Bay Resort is on the west shore in California and 10 miles south of Tahoe City. This beautiful white sand beach has adjacent camping on a quiet bay, and it's the prime location for beach camping in Lake Tahoe.

You can rent kayaks, pedal boats, stand-up paddleboards, and powerboats at the adjacent marina. RV and tent sites are available but are limited and should be booked well in advance. Cabins are also available for those who would rather have indoor lodgings. Pets are not allowed at Meeks Bay. 

Zephyr Cove RV Park

A lovely beach and a full-service marina are convenient for campers at Zephyr Cove. Located on the Nevada side in South Lake Tahoe, the RV park is just across the street from the beach.

RV sites are equipped with full hook-ups, including cable and Wi-Fi, so you can camp with all the comforts of home. The main shower house even has heated floors and coin laundry.

When booking a site, ask for 178 or 179. Both places back up to the surrounding forest and have the most space.

A suggest excursion is a boat trip on the Paddle Wheeler or Lake Yacht. Boats depart daily from the Zephyr Cove Marina and the evening cruise is a great way to enjoy the sunset.

Emerald Bay Boat Camp

The Emerald Bay Boat Camp is a one-of-a-kind camping experience to enjoy the lake's beauty in the seclusion of a wilderness area. The scenic boat-in campground on the north end of Emerald Bay State Park can only be reached by boat; no roads reach the campground. 

Located on the southwest corner of the lake in California, Emerald Bay is famous for its emerald green water. It's one of the most popular destinations for daily boat tours and is an excellent location for bird watching; bald eagle sightings are common.

Ninety seven campsites, including twenty-one lakefront campsites, a shared dock, and buoys are available and must be booked a few months in advance. Boat rentals are available at one of South Lake Tahoe's marinas. Be prepared to get a little wet on your way to the camp.

Sugar Pine Point State Park

If part of your camping experience must including biking, Sugar Pine State Park is for you. The quiet and forested nature area at Sugar Pine State Park is excellent for tent camping, and the adjacent bike path and mountain bike trails are convenient for cyclists.

While all the sites are beautiful and forested, the 126-175 loop is closest to the Lily Pond hiking and biking trailhead.

The paved bike path connecting Sugar Pine Point State Park and Tahoe City, about 10 miles long, is a popular bicycling route. The ​lakeshore at Edwin Z'berg Natural Preserve is just a short pedal or 10-minute walk from the campground.

Sand Harbor

Sandy beaches, rocky coves, and turquoise water combine to make Sand Harbor a favorite destination for day camping on the east shore of Lake Tahoe.

Warm shallow water and Sand Harbor's lifeguards make swimming safe and fun for families. There's also a nature trail, picnic area, and marina with kayak and boat rentals.

The annual Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival and bi-weekly lakeshore concert schedule keep the park busy with activities. Note: A daily Nevada State Park fee is charged for entrance.