The best beach camping in Lake Tahoe

·

Straddling California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a beach lover's paradise, with more than 40 beaches around its 72-mile shoreline, and no matter what shore you're on, you'll find plenty of Lake Tahoe beach camping options, spanning tent sites, RV sites, yurts, and cabins. On the North and West shores, several public Lake Tahoe campgrounds offer tent camping and RV campsites near Tahoe City—try Sugar Pine Point State Park or D.L. Bliss State Park. Nearby, Emerald Bay State Park features epic views, access to waterfalls, and a boat-in campground on the water. Meanwhile, campgrounds near South Lake Tahoe, like Camp Richardson, offer even more amenities, including wifi, RV hookups, and cabins within walking distance to sandy beaches. On the Nevada side of the lake, Nevada Beach Campground and Zephyr Cove Resort are your best bets. Although Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, with ski resorts and snow play in winter, lakeside beach camping spots are more limited then, when private lakeside cabins are the best option.

96% (1.5K) 159 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Tahoe

Finnon Lake Recreation Area

1. Finnon Lake Recreation Area

95%
(2340)
39 sites · Tents, RVs · Placerville, CA
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON - OPEN IN MARCH OR APRIL - ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). These vehicles will not fit and cannot cross the single-lane suspension Mosquito Bridge. These vehicles and trailers will be forced to turn around or back up to take Rock Creek Road. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060. Hours are limited. Use caution - twisty, narrow country road If it's your first time, you might want to check out the route beforehand. From Sacramento on Hwy 50: At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile. Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road. Turn onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER "Smoke on the Water" is open only Saturday and Sunday. Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe: make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions. Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area! Our lovely lake to discover. The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky. This private lake supports the fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District and the firefighters of this community. Community volunteers manage the lake for the residents and the Fire Station. The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website. Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 18-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Smoke on the Water Diner, which is open on weekends only 530-622-1060. During your stay, you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking. Sites are from post to post. Our property is located in Placerville, California.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄

2. Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄

96%
(112)
3 sites · Lodging · Colfax, CA
Our property is lakeside at Rollins Lake In Colfax. We live on over 30 private, beautiful acres with footpath access to Rollins Lake. (3 minute walk from the dome or house, and 10-15 minutes from the cabin) where most summer days here are spent swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing ect., down at the water. Please note the Cabin is set on a seasonal CANNABIS garden. All three sites are vacation spots with AC and WIFI, not just simple accommodations, but experiences. The remarkable property is very hilly with pines and oaks. You can follow our driveway to the bottom and access the beginning of The Bear River which has a nice hiking trail alongside it or drive 8 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 10 minutes to the town of Colfax where you will find gas, groceries, and restaurants. We have a beautiful spot where you will not see any neighbors so it is peaceful and private with gorgeous 360-degree views. It is also very safe! Bask in nature, quiet, and privacy! In summer there is a 3-night minimum for the cabin and dome. Occasionally a two day midweek will pop up on the schedule last minute. To see correct pricing, enter your dates as they can fluctuate with holidays, weekends. Prices are decreased midweek. We have 3 accommodations on the property -A GUEST SUITE (lakeside), up to 5 people. -A CABIN (15 min walk or 3 min drive/5 min walk, up to 4 people. -A GLAMPING DOME with an additional teepee tent site (lakeside)! Up to 6 people. We have fishing boat, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent. If you want an epic stay in the forest, private and away from others, this is your place. Also close to Grass Valley (15min), Nevada City (20 min), Colfax (less than 10).
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$113
 / night
Water front on Topaz Lake

3. Water front on Topaz Lake

96%
(92)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Topaz, CA
Learn more about this land:Beautiful lake front property on Topaz Lake , we have 6 rv sites to choose from on 4 acres .First come first serve . Bring your Rv or pitch a tent . Bring your whole family. We have kayaks and paddle boards . Fishing boat available to rent . Life jackets available and a peddle boat too ! Lots of float toys !!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Tahoe National Forest

4. Tahoe National Forest

93%
(255)
1382 sites · Graniteville, California
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Eldorado National Forest

5. Eldorado National Forest

93%
(136)
980 sites · Kirkwood, California
Sierra Nevada gem offers lush forests, lakes, rivers, and peaks for year-round outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cedar Glen Lodge

6. Cedar Glen Lodge

1 site · Tahoe Vista, CA
Discover the charm of Cedar Glen Lodge, a unique Eco-friendly resort in North Lake Tahoe that has recently undergone stunning renovations. This award-winning destination is nestled in a serene woodland setting, just steps away from the pristine lake, making it an ideal choice for a variety of occasions, including romantic getaways, family reunions, business retreats, and unforgettable weddings. At Cedar Glen Lodge, guests can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying breathtaking views and a wealth of outdoor activities. The property offers easy access to nearby attractions, including scenic hiking trails, swimming holes, and a variety of water sports. After a day of adventure, unwind in our comfortable accommodations, which are designed to provide privacy and relaxation. Whether you're looking to explore the vibrant local dining scene or shop at charming boutiques, Cedar Glen Lodge serves as the perfect base for your Lake Tahoe experience. Come and enjoy all that our resort has to offer while reconnecting with nature and creating lasting memories.
Meeks Bay Resort & Marina

7. Meeks Bay Resort & Marina

1 site · Tahoma, CA
Meeks Bay Resort stands out as a unique family vacation destination, steeped in history and surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe (Da ow aga). Nestled on the western shore of this iconic lake, the resort offers a serene escape from the fast-paced city life. The rich heritage of the Washoe Tribe, who have called this area home for thousands of years, adds to the charm and cultural significance of Meeks Bay, making it an ideal place to rejuvenate and connect with nature. Visitors can enjoy the sandy shores of Meeks Bay beach, or take to the crystal-clear waters by renting a kayak or paddleboard. For those who love hiking, the area boasts numerous trails that meander along the lake, as well as the Meeks Bay Trail, which ascends into the stunning Sierra Nevada Desolation Wilderness Area, leading to Phipps Pass and beyond. For additional information, guests can download resources from the US Forestry Service. The resort features ample Day-Use parking and a grill for those looking to satisfy their appetites after a day of adventure. Guests are encouraged to visit the main building for supplies, recreational gear, and clothing, and to engage in conversation with members of the Washoe Tribe. Accommodations at the resort cater to a variety of
Stanislaus National Forest

8. Stanislaus National Forest

93%
(173)
1530 sites · Strawberry, California
An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
D.L. Bliss State Park

9. D.L. Bliss State Park

100%
(50)
202 sites · Tahoma, California
Bask on the shore of Lake Tahoe and gaze in awe at the natural beauty.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Donner Memorial State Park

10. Donner Memorial State Park

94%
(17)
223 sites · Truckee, California
A gripping piece of history meets up with a mountain lake and spectacular mountain views.
Auburn State Recreation Area

11. Auburn State Recreation Area

92%
(12)
61 sites · North Auburn, California
Gold panning, whitewater rafting, and dirt-bike riding are just a few of the unique activities here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grover Hot Springs State Park

12. Grover Hot Springs State Park

100%
(14)
72 sites · Markleeville, California
Ease the tension out of your muscles and your mind with a soak at Grover Hot Springs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Emerald Bay State Park

13. Emerald Bay State Park

100%
(15)
116 sites · South Lake Tahoe, California
Ripples of water and spirals of clouds merge at Emerald Bay at this national natural landmark.
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

14. Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

94%
(122)
933 sites · South Lake Tahoe, California
Beautiful lakeside views and endless exploration on the Nevada/California border.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Washoe Lake State Park

15. Washoe Lake State Park

100%
(1)
49 sites · Washoe Valley, Nevada
Just a stone’s throw from Reno and Carson City, this park sits on a lake at the base of the Tahoe Range.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Straddling California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a beach lover's paradise, with more than 40 beaches around its 72-mile shoreline, and no matter what shore you're on, you'll find plenty of Lake Tahoe beach camping options, spanning tent sites, RV sites, yurts, and cabins. On the North and West shores, several public Lake Tahoe campgrounds offer tent camping and RV campsites near Tahoe City—try Sugar Pine Point State Park or D.L. Bliss State Park. Nearby, Emerald Bay State Park features epic views, access to waterfalls, and a boat-in campground on the water. Meanwhile, campgrounds near South Lake Tahoe, like Camp Richardson, offer even more amenities, including wifi, RV hookups, and cabins within walking distance to sandy beaches. On the Nevada side of the lake, Nevada Beach Campground and Zephyr Cove Resort are your best bets. Although Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, with ski resorts and snow play in winter, lakeside beach camping spots are more limited then, when private lakeside cabins are the best option.

96% (1.5K) 159 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Tahoe

Finnon Lake Recreation Area

1. Finnon Lake Recreation Area

95%
(2340)
39 sites · Tents, RVs · Placerville, CA
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON - OPEN IN MARCH OR APRIL - ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). These vehicles will not fit and cannot cross the single-lane suspension Mosquito Bridge. These vehicles and trailers will be forced to turn around or back up to take Rock Creek Road. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060. Hours are limited. Use caution - twisty, narrow country road If it's your first time, you might want to check out the route beforehand. From Sacramento on Hwy 50: At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile. Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road. Turn onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER "Smoke on the Water" is open only Saturday and Sunday. Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe: make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions. Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area! Our lovely lake to discover. The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky. This private lake supports the fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District and the firefighters of this community. Community volunteers manage the lake for the residents and the Fire Station. The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website. Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 18-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Smoke on the Water Diner, which is open on weekends only 530-622-1060. During your stay, you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking. Sites are from post to post. Our property is located in Placerville, California.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄

2. Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄

96%
(112)
3 sites · Lodging · Colfax, CA
Our property is lakeside at Rollins Lake In Colfax. We live on over 30 private, beautiful acres with footpath access to Rollins Lake. (3 minute walk from the dome or house, and 10-15 minutes from the cabin) where most summer days here are spent swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing ect., down at the water. Please note the Cabin is set on a seasonal CANNABIS garden. All three sites are vacation spots with AC and WIFI, not just simple accommodations, but experiences. The remarkable property is very hilly with pines and oaks. You can follow our driveway to the bottom and access the beginning of The Bear River which has a nice hiking trail alongside it or drive 8 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 10 minutes to the town of Colfax where you will find gas, groceries, and restaurants. We have a beautiful spot where you will not see any neighbors so it is peaceful and private with gorgeous 360-degree views. It is also very safe! Bask in nature, quiet, and privacy! In summer there is a 3-night minimum for the cabin and dome. Occasionally a two day midweek will pop up on the schedule last minute. To see correct pricing, enter your dates as they can fluctuate with holidays, weekends. Prices are decreased midweek. We have 3 accommodations on the property -A GUEST SUITE (lakeside), up to 5 people. -A CABIN (15 min walk or 3 min drive/5 min walk, up to 4 people. -A GLAMPING DOME with an additional teepee tent site (lakeside)! Up to 6 people. We have fishing boat, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent. If you want an epic stay in the forest, private and away from others, this is your place. Also close to Grass Valley (15min), Nevada City (20 min), Colfax (less than 10).
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$113
 / night
Water front on Topaz Lake

3. Water front on Topaz Lake

96%
(92)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Topaz, CA
Learn more about this land:Beautiful lake front property on Topaz Lake , we have 6 rv sites to choose from on 4 acres .First come first serve . Bring your Rv or pitch a tent . Bring your whole family. We have kayaks and paddle boards . Fishing boat available to rent . Life jackets available and a peddle boat too ! Lots of float toys !!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Tahoe National Forest

4. Tahoe National Forest

93%
(255)
1382 sites · Graniteville, California
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Eldorado National Forest

5. Eldorado National Forest

93%
(136)
980 sites · Kirkwood, California
Sierra Nevada gem offers lush forests, lakes, rivers, and peaks for year-round outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cedar Glen Lodge

6. Cedar Glen Lodge

1 site · Tahoe Vista, CA
Discover the charm of Cedar Glen Lodge, a unique Eco-friendly resort in North Lake Tahoe that has recently undergone stunning renovations. This award-winning destination is nestled in a serene woodland setting, just steps away from the pristine lake, making it an ideal choice for a variety of occasions, including romantic getaways, family reunions, business retreats, and unforgettable weddings. At Cedar Glen Lodge, guests can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying breathtaking views and a wealth of outdoor activities. The property offers easy access to nearby attractions, including scenic hiking trails, swimming holes, and a variety of water sports. After a day of adventure, unwind in our comfortable accommodations, which are designed to provide privacy and relaxation. Whether you're looking to explore the vibrant local dining scene or shop at charming boutiques, Cedar Glen Lodge serves as the perfect base for your Lake Tahoe experience. Come and enjoy all that our resort has to offer while reconnecting with nature and creating lasting memories.
Meeks Bay Resort & Marina

7. Meeks Bay Resort & Marina

1 site · Tahoma, CA
Meeks Bay Resort stands out as a unique family vacation destination, steeped in history and surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe (Da ow aga). Nestled on the western shore of this iconic lake, the resort offers a serene escape from the fast-paced city life. The rich heritage of the Washoe Tribe, who have called this area home for thousands of years, adds to the charm and cultural significance of Meeks Bay, making it an ideal place to rejuvenate and connect with nature. Visitors can enjoy the sandy shores of Meeks Bay beach, or take to the crystal-clear waters by renting a kayak or paddleboard. For those who love hiking, the area boasts numerous trails that meander along the lake, as well as the Meeks Bay Trail, which ascends into the stunning Sierra Nevada Desolation Wilderness Area, leading to Phipps Pass and beyond. For additional information, guests can download resources from the US Forestry Service. The resort features ample Day-Use parking and a grill for those looking to satisfy their appetites after a day of adventure. Guests are encouraged to visit the main building for supplies, recreational gear, and clothing, and to engage in conversation with members of the Washoe Tribe. Accommodations at the resort cater to a variety of
Stanislaus National Forest

8. Stanislaus National Forest

93%
(173)
1530 sites · Strawberry, California
An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
D.L. Bliss State Park

9. D.L. Bliss State Park

100%
(50)
202 sites · Tahoma, California
Bask on the shore of Lake Tahoe and gaze in awe at the natural beauty.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Donner Memorial State Park

10. Donner Memorial State Park

94%
(17)
223 sites · Truckee, California
A gripping piece of history meets up with a mountain lake and spectacular mountain views.
Auburn State Recreation Area

11. Auburn State Recreation Area

92%
(12)
61 sites · North Auburn, California
Gold panning, whitewater rafting, and dirt-bike riding are just a few of the unique activities here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grover Hot Springs State Park

12. Grover Hot Springs State Park

100%
(14)
72 sites · Markleeville, California
Ease the tension out of your muscles and your mind with a soak at Grover Hot Springs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Emerald Bay State Park

13. Emerald Bay State Park

100%
(15)
116 sites · South Lake Tahoe, California
Ripples of water and spirals of clouds merge at Emerald Bay at this national natural landmark.
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

14. Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

94%
(122)
933 sites · South Lake Tahoe, California
Beautiful lakeside views and endless exploration on the Nevada/California border.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Washoe Lake State Park

15. Washoe Lake State Park

100%
(1)
49 sites · Washoe Valley, Nevada
Just a stone’s throw from Reno and Carson City, this park sits on a lake at the base of the Tahoe Range.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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