The best dog-friendly campgrounds in Lake Tahoe

Bringing your dog to Lake Tahoe? You’re in luck—over 3,500 pet-friendly campsites dot the region, from lakeside spots to forested clearings. Average nights run $75, but you can snag a site for as little as $15. Showers, campfires, and four-legged companions are welcome at most sites. Swim in clear water, catch the winter snowfall, or watch for eagles overhead. Locals swear by Finnon Lake Recreation Area (1,225 reviews), Camp Nauvoo (721 reviews), and 4,000 Ft Closer to Heaven (311 reviews) for their space, scenery, and easy access to trails. Forget leaving your pet behind—Lake Tahoe makes room for everyone.

92% (4.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Bringing your dog to Lake Tahoe? You’re in luck—over 3,500 pet-friendly campsites dot the region, from lakeside spots to forested clearings. Average nights run $75, but you can snag a site for as little as $15. Showers, campfires, and four-legged companions are welcome at most sites. Swim in clear water, catch the winter snowfall, or watch for eagles overhead. Locals swear by Finnon Lake Recreation Area (1,225 reviews), Camp Nauvoo (721 reviews), and 4,000 Ft Closer to Heaven (311 reviews) for their space, scenery, and easy access to trails. Forget leaving your pet behind—Lake Tahoe makes room for everyone.

92% (4.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Sugar Pine Springs Resort

93%

(14)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Somerset, CA

Get back to nature at our campground located in the El Dorado forest amongst towering evergreen pine, fir and cedar trees. Bordered by a stream, the Sopiago. Natural pools to cool down in during the hot Summer months. Natural Springs. Equipped campsites include a tent area, picnic table, BBQ. Spring water. Gold Pan in this central Gold Rush area. Nearby attractions include Gold Rush towns, Shanadoah Valley Wineries, Bear Lake River Reservoir, Silver Lake.

2. Earth Castle Retreat

98%

(230)

6 sites · Lodging · Grass Valley, CA

Gorgeous forested ten-acre land with great access to to the Yuba River, American River, hiking, biking, Historical Nevada City, Grass Valley, and more. Our charming and secluded retreat is nestled in the heart of nature, offering the perfect escape if you are seeking tranquility and a connection with the great outdoors. Bask under the breathtaking stars at night and feel the healing effect of nature all around you during your stay. You can visit the historical Empire Mine, The National Hotel, or the Nevada Theater (the first Theater in California). Or just chill up here. It's nice and quiet! Enjoy the simplicity and privacy that a public campground doesn't offer. Earth Castle is also a great place for groups! Plenty of space! We can support pull-through sites for RVs, space for Tents, and room for multiple cars. Your host is passionate about stewarding this beautiful land. She is an author and Evolutionary Astrologer. Interested in having an astrology reading while you are here? Message Anna-Thea and, schedule permitting, she would love to give you a reading!

3. Pequena Huts

98%

(24)

3 sites · Lodging · Soda Springs, CA

Cute little cabin nestled in Tahoe National forest . This little gem is on an acre of land surrounded by national forest land. Close enough to Lake Tahoe to get to but also away from the Tahoe chaos. Host lives on property , but will most likely be out and about most of the day. There are two neighbors but both own 20 acres so you can not see them, feels very private. The front of the property where the cabin is located there will be some highway noise being close to highway 20 , especially during a busy weekend. you can’t hear highway noise while in the cabin and towards the back of the land. However it is nice to be so close to highway 20 because it leads to several different destinations. ( west : Nevada city. east: towards Tahoe, and both directions there are soo many lakes/ rivers ) Tiny house: •Full sized futon downstairs and king sized mattress in loft. Electric fireplace, all the game boards , cards, chess, fire pit, projector for movies if requested!!! •Additional guests are welcome to pitch a tent on the land if needed. •Hot plate, toaster oven, mini fridge, kitchen appliances, coffee (French press, drip, mocha pot). Black stone grill outside. Fire pit , check if fires are allowed during booking •Separate bathroom with compost toilet or a short walk to outhouse. Outdoor shower in the making, message if available. FUN: •Lake Spaulding is about 1/4 mile hike down from the property. There is a boat launch and plenty of room to park it on the property if you want to bring a boat. Also have two paddle boards you are welcome to use. Rivers/lakes/swimming holes: •emerald pools, crystal clear water , cliff jumping , waterfalls . 10 minute drive •south yuba river 5-15 minutes depending on the spot (ask for recommendations ) •bowman lake road connects to several lakes . 10 minute drive •lake valley reservoir , 10 minute drive •donner lake, rent kayaks, paddle boards or a boat. 20 minutes • eagle lakes rd swimming hole about 5 minutes •truckee, the cutest town with fun shops, restaurants and bars, 25 minutes . Truckee Thursdays start 6/22, live music &vendors!!! Food: •rustic table, 10 minutes •subway . 10 minutes •Burger King, 10 minutes •soda springs market , 15 minutes •truckee , 25 minutes •Nevada city, 35 minutes @lil_pequena_huts

4. Chris Haven RV And MH Park

1 site · RV · South Lake Tahoe, CA

Chris Haven RV Park is a peaceful, pet-friendly retreat in the heart of South Lake Tahoe. With roughly 100 paved, full-hookup sites (30/50 amp), laundry, showers, and easy big-rig access, it’s the perfect basecamp for your Tahoe adventure. Relax under the pines, then head out to explore nearby beaches, trails, Emerald Bay, and local dining. A quiet, secure stay with all the essentials—just minutes from the best of Tahoe.

5. 70+ Acre Historic Goldmine Mountain

2 sites · Lodging · Dutch Flat, CA

Scenic 70-Acre Campsite with Forest Trails, Cliffs, Lake Access, and Historic Gold Mine Caves Welcome to your next unforgettable camping adventure! Nestled in the heart of historic Dutch Flat, California, this private 70-acre paradise offers campers a rare chance to explore rugged forests, hidden trails, rocky cliffs, and real historic gold mine caves — all in total privacy and surrounded by untouched natural beauty. Wake up to the sound of rustling pines and birdsong, spend your day hiking winding trails or exploring the old gold mine entrances tucked into the hillsides, and cool off with a swim in our private lakefront area, complete with sunny rocks perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. This is a perfect spot for campers looking to truly disconnect and experience the raw beauty of Northern California’s mountain country — without the crowds. Whether you’re pitching a tent in a shady forest clearing, setting up camp by the water, or parking your van in one of our open meadow spots, you’ll have space to roam, explore, and make your own adventure. Amenities: • 70 acres of private land to explore • Forest trails, rocky cliffs, and mining caves • Lake/swimming hole with sunny shoreline • Designated campfire rings (where permitted) • Rustic outhouse-style restrooms available • Easy vehicle access to most sites • Pet-friendly — bring your adventurous dogs! • Stargazing at night with minimal light pollution Things to Know: • This is true back-to-nature camping — no hookups • 4WD not required, but recommended for adventurous spots • Pack it in, pack it out — help us keep the land beautiful • Quiet hours after 9PM to preserve the peacefulness of nature • Families, solo adventurers, and small groups welcome Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend getaway, a basecamp for Sierra Nevada adventures, or a unique group camping experience, our 70-acre property invites you to slow down, explore, and reconnect with nature. Book your stay with us today — your next great story starts here!

Public campgrounds in and near Lake Tahoe

100%

(1)

North Canyon Camground

4 sites · in Spooner Lake

100%

(4)

Kaspian Campground

9 sites · in Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

95%

(20)

Meeks Bay Campground

40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

96%

(12)

William Kent Campground

73 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

92%

(6)

Zephyr Cove Resort and Campground

150 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

Stories from the community

M

Marina

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pequena Huts

We had such a fun and peaceful time at Ari’s little piece of heaven. It’s a very cute getaway surrounded by tall trees, so it’s in the shade most of the day. It never felt hot in the tiny house, even though the temps where in the high 80’s. It is obvious that a lot of love and thoughtfulness is being put into the property to make sure the guests have a lovely stay. We loved everything about it. Taking a shower outdoors under the blue skies and trees was very nice. Enjoyed the outdoor meals and sink. She had just finished the bathroom and it was a very nice and appreciated addition. The lake is a 15 min nice hike away. Ari greeted us upon arrival and showed us how to get to the trail. We went to the water first thing and had a good time before a beautiful sunset dinner. Ari lives in the main house 20 feet away from the tiny house, but went away for the weekend so it felt very private. Me made great memories there and the kids can’t wait to come back! Thank you!

Brian

August 2025

With pets

1 night at Pequena Huts

Arianne's place was awesome. The hut itself was nice and cozy for my girlfriend and I, and our dog. The blackstone out near the fire pit was my personal favorite! Spaulding lake was a short drive away and made for a nice swim on the hot day we stayed. Overall, would def stay here if you're looking for a comfy place to stay.

M

Marissa

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Pequena Huts

Great spot just a 2-minute drive to beautiful lake Spaulding. We loved it! Our boys & the dog camped outside in the tent while we slept in the tiny house. Hostess was very attentive and available. Recommend for a nearby lake glamping getaway!!

G

Gloria

August 2025

With pets

2 nights at Pequena Huts

We loved this quaint and charming little cabin. It had everything we needed for our trip. Host was gracious and attentive. Thank you Miss Arianne!

G

Grace

July 2025

With pets

3 nights at Pequena Huts

We had a wonderful stay at the Pequena Hut with our two large dogs! The hut is cozy, clean, and stocked with everything you need for basic cooking. We used the Blackstone grill for all our meals and loved eating by the fire each evening. The location is incredible — we visited Emerald Pools, but the real highlight was Blue Lake. It’s a bit off the beaten path, and we had it almost entirely to ourselves. The swimming was perfect and peaceful. We also checked out the trail to Lake Spaulding, which is doable for humans but a bit too rough for one of our pups. Each evening, we walked up to the rocks above the hut to watch the sunset — definitely a favorite moment. Pro tip: during hot days, aim the fan outward upstairs and keep the windows and door open to create a cooling draft. At night, turn the fan inward and you’ll get a nice breeze through the loft for comfortable sleep. We’d love to come back!

j

john

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Pequena Huts

Ari was extremely accommodating! Went here for my fiancé’s birthday as a surprise getaway and it was fantastic!

A

Amanda

July 2025

With kids

2 nights at Pequena Huts

Beautiful little home next to beautiful tall trees. Really very special. The owners were very kind and helpful. Next to a ton of lakes and river spots.

T

Tess

June 2025

16 ft car

Group trip

3 nights at Earth Castle Retreat

I was super happy with my stay and would highly recommend. As a host, Anna-Thea was wonderful, responsive and kind. While her house is nearby, it felt private and we had ample space for tents and lawn games. She allowed us to use the rented fire pit which was crucial to the vibe. The yurt itself is lovely and while you shouldn't forget to bring your own bedding to place on top of the bed, it was super comfortable. If you book here, I recommend that you bring your own jugs of water and plan to rent the port-a-potty (which is required for a party over 6). The alternative to the port-a-potty is to do #1 outside and #2 in bucket with sawdust to pour on top. It is also worth noting that you do have to pay an additional fee per person, to rent the firepit and to rent the port-a-potty, so costs really add up in the end compared to what is featured as the nightly rate. Despite all this, our stay was perfect for our group of 12 and I look forward to going back!

C

Chaja

May 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Earth Castle Retreat

We loved staying at the yurt, it was a beautiful location and we really enjoyed ourselves. Make sure to bring plenty of bug spray. We got completely destroyed by mosquitoes (maybe it’s the time of the year?)

J

Jb

May 2025

2 nights at Pequena Huts

Cozy camping hut with a loft sleeping area that was very comfortable, outdoor shower attached and a composting toilet in a separate outhouse just a couple steps away. There are both a large and a small gas grill available but we loved the fire pit with the optional cooking grate. Lake Spaulding is very near and Emerald Pools are just a few minutes' drive away. Plus there is nice dark-sky star viewing at night. We had a great time!

T

Tim

February 2025

Weekend Trip to Earth Castle Retreat

We enjoyed isolation from others had we gone to a campground, while still close to the activities we set out to do. This was late winter outing and choosing the tiny house made the stay for us very enjoyable. Saved me from trailering my camper over the Sierras with my camper! We had heat, shower, sleeping, cooked outdoors using our Trail Fire BBQ (propane). We enjoyed a morning rain, trekking the property, fresh air smells! Our small pups enjoyed the roaming opportunities too. Host Anna-Thea was available as needed, and we did have a meet and greet! The yurt was vacant allowing us to view that set up too. It’s so great to support providers on HipCamp, and I’m thankful to find Anna-Thea’s property!

s

sk

January 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Earth Castle Retreat

Loved the stay at this beautiful yurt! Will definitely come back in summer.

Chef Susan

December 2024

10 ft campervan

1 night at Earth Castle Retreat

Amazing location. Secluded, quiet & awesome host. Anna is the "Love Card Lady" and gave us all a reading according to our birthdates. Fun stuff! Feeling refreshed!

Chef Susan

December 2024

16 ft car

1 night at Earth Castle Retreat

Loved this amazing slice of nature! Bonus, my partner and I were able to experience a Partner Astrology Reading! OMG. A must do!