Beach camping near South Lake Tahoe

Nature and history collide on South Lake Tahoe camping trips offering mountain and water recreation.

98% (1379 reviews)

United States
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California
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South Lake Tahoe

98% (1379 reviews)

Popular camping styles for South Lake Tahoe

Public campgrounds near South Lake Tahoe

100%

(14)

Stories from the community

2 nights at Strange Ranch - River and Gold

What a magical place! Not only is the site very well kept and easy to use, but the swimming hole is perfect! Such an amazing place to spend some hot summer days. The mine was cool to explore (after a moderate, rocky hike) and site #2 had a tree which provided some welcome shade in the afternoon hours. Thanks for such a lovely stay!

2 nights at Strange Ranch - River and Gold

It’s was a great experience. Beautiful and peaceful.

2 nights at Strange Ranch - River and Gold

This is one of the best Hipcamps I’ve ever experienced! Terry’s land is absolutely stunning—beautifully maintained with thoughtful structures that make the river easily accessible while preserving its natural beauty. We stayed at Site 3, which sits just above Sites 1 and 2 and the stairs to the main swimming hole. The river is crystal clear, and the area is landscaped in a way that complements the natural setting. The sites are fairly close together but spaced out enough to maintain privacy. We had our own water spigot at our site, which was a great bonus. The shared porta-potty was clean and well-maintained. The river area is large enough for everyone to enjoy, but if all campers are there at the same time, the flat spots with chairs can get a little crowded. It wasn’t a big deal as the other campers were friendly. This place is incredible!

3 nights at Strange Ranch - River and Gold

This was a beautiful property. We pretty much had the river to ourselves and enjoyed the surrounding nature, birds, butterflies, dragonflies and fish. Terry was very helpful and made sure we were set up when we arrived. The road is very narrow and you definitely need a four-wheel drive to get down to the bottom sites. It was not a problem to drive down to the river so you don't have to walk up the big hill. Definitely recommend this to campers who are looking for a more remote true camping experience. Just be sure to bring shade tents for over your picnic table. Most of the sites are in the trucks on light. But it's very shady at the river.

2 nights at Strange Ranch - River and Gold

Amazing. amazing. AMAZING. That’s sums up all of it. Site #1 is the best site of all the ones there but in case it isn’t available that doesn’t take away how amazing this campsite is. It has a beautiful river, amazing scenery, and lots things to explore. The hikes were beautiful, the cave was a one of a kind exploration of history preserved, and the fishing was very relaxing. Very clean campsites and bathrooms/ showers. Campground aside the hosts are very welcoming and friendly. They made sure we were comfortable and answered all the questions we had. Our vehicle had gotten stuck at one of sites and they were amazing because they helped us get our vehicle pulled out and were very understanding. All in all I would %1000 come back again.

3 nights at Strange Ranch - River and Gold

we stayed 3 nights and wished we had booked more..... Terry is a fantastic Host and happy to share his knowledge about the biodiversity and eco system of his property in general and the stream running through in particular. Very interesting to visit the abandoned gold mine and processing site and just hiking along the stream (sometimes a bit challenging, but you will be rewarded with stories to tell....). Also, the swimming in the waterhole is refreshing and makes you feel you are part of nature again. Needless to say, the campfire at the water and dazing at the stars in the night is just another highlight. We certainly want to come back to this special place. Thanks

Weekend Trip to Strange Ranch - River and Gold

Terry is a wonderful host who has put a lot of thought into creating great camping trips for his guests. I really appreciated the ease of accessing potable water. We camped in site #3 and had plenty of privacy. There is no shade which Terry was upfront about, so I recommend bringing a canopy. Definitely make sure you check out the waterfront. The cold mountain water is perfect for a dip on a hot day, and there are plenty of spots to just rest on the rocks if you don’t feel like jumping into the swimming hole.

2 nights at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

Beautiful quiet lake. The site was spacious and we had our own lake access. There were a lot of families and we had a great time.

2 nights at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

By far, one of the best camping places I have been! Small so there weren’t too many people, but still really great campers in near us. other kids to entertain mine but not a huge gaggle. The water was beautiful and warm and calm, so safe for the kids. It was so magical, watching the bald eagles, nest, and watching them fishing in the lake.! The bullfrogs sing you to sleep at night. The views of the sky are gorgeous. This will definitely be at least an annual spot if not more often for us.

3 nights at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

We loved our time here and cannot wait to come back! The road to get there is sketchy but this little lake is perfect! Super clean bathrooms with drinkable water. Most of the sites are along the water too. Ours was A9 and directly across the lake from the Eagles nest. Hubby caught and released a few large mouth bass and we even saw turtles. Floating in the lake was so relaxing and great for the kayak and paddle board too. Aside from the neighbors dog who barked the entire time it was a great 4 days!

2 nights at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

I think, other than the sketchy drive in and out, it is an amazing, fun , clean and safe camping grounds. I think it would be great if restaurant and store was open daily. I wish the disk golf course was still playable and maybe if some of the sites were more level. Will be visiting again soon.

Genevieve

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

Great camping spot! The drive is a bit much, but worth it! Lake was peaceful and super close to our camp site T-14. Lots of spiders coming from the trees. Clean bathrooms, drinking water available which was nice. If your looking for privacy then you want site T-14, the rest seemed pretty close together.

2 nights at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

This place is awesome! Beautiful, beach front campsite that is quiet and restful. Perfect for paddle boarding, kayaking, and watching bald eagles.

1 night at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

Really nice lakefront camping, kids had tons of fun swimming in the lake! Restrooms were also very well kept. Definately plan to return!

Weekend Trip to Finnon Lake Recreation Area

This was the best campsite location on the whole campground in my opinion. It’s right next to the bathroom, still close to the water on both sides. A large flat area for parking and RV with plenty of flat space for pitching a tent next to it. The fishing was good, we caught frogs, fires were allowed and very family friendly.

Weekend Trip to Finnon Lake Recreation Area

We loved tent camping here. Our spot was right on the water and we could launch straight from our site. Bathrooms were really close too. The only downside was the water spicket was kind of far. There was lots of cool wildlife: frogs, tons of bass fish, turtles and bald eagle nest. The water was so still and nice to paddle around on. Would easily come here again

Weekend Trip to Water front on Topaz Lake

Pam and Frank were wonderful hosts. Our site was great, overlooking Topaz Lake. We made last minute reservations and Pam was on it, communicating with us, making sure we were greeted and that we had a great experience. They take great care of their guests and the property as well. We booked it just as a layover, but will be back to make it our destination. Thank you Pam!

Weekend Trip to Finnon Lake Recreation Area

Loved the wild life! Saw a deer, turtle, frogs, lots of different birds and I bald eagle. Placerville is beautiful

3 nights at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

Beautiful small lake with a lot of access points - perfect for tent camping! Quiet, even when the campground is full. Clean bathrooms and trash area.

Bryan

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Strange Ranch - River and Gold

Beautiful campsite, awesome view, river was amazing. Host was great very nice and thoughtful. Very excited to come back.

5 top beach campgrounds near South Lake Tahoe

95%

(2165)

Finnon Lake Recreation Area

39 sites · RVs, Tents140 acres · Placerville, CA

ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). Mosquito Road CLOSED May 27 - August 3. These vehicles will not fit and can not cross over 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- 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 most parts of 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.

100%

(69)

Strange Ranch - River and Gold

4 sites · RVs, Tents117 acres · Wilseyville, CA

Secluded private river camping in a forest and oak woodland on the South Fork Mokelumne River. The site boasts incredible views with a pristine private gold-bearing trout stream with mining history and wildlife preserve located in the gold country of the Sierra Nevada foothills of northern Calaveras County. This unique property is adjacent to over 900 acres of public land and 2 miles of private stream for exploring. With a total of only 4 campsites, it is a great location for a group to reserve the entire campground. All campsites have potable well water spigots and access to a cool water shower. Guests will enjoy the privacy while swimming, stream exploring, hiking, spelunking, forest immersion, fishing for wild trout, gold panning, or simply relaxing in a breathtaking environment – come fall in love with this special private ranch. After one stay, you will be a repeat guest. PLEASE NOTE: An All-Wheel Drive or 4-Wheel Drive vehicle is needed to access campsites 1 through 3 due to the road incline and rock and gravel road surface. Campsite 4 is accessible with a 2-wd vehicle, and has both potable well water and 20 amps of power. All sites have beautiful open views of the property and river canyon with natural shade in the morning and late afternoon. Sounds of the river will lull you to sleep. Although partially shaded, please plan to provide your own portable shade structure(s) during late morning and afternoon as the direct sun can be an inconvenience. The Stranges are professional fish and wildlife biologists and have decided to share this special place for others to enjoy. The property hosts a diversity of plant and wildlife species that might be observed during your stay. Prehistoric and historic cultural resources can be observed along the river corridor. Please be aware that some wildlife species including rattlesnakes, bears, and mountain lions have been observed on the 117-acre property and could potentially be observed near the campsites. The Ranch's northern portion of the property supports a leased farming operation. No portions of the farming operations should interfere with camping operations. Day trips are possible to Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, Calaveras Big Trees State Park, local caverns and wine tasting, and historic gold towns.

95%

(84)

Water front on Topaz Lake

7 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · 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 !!

Beachside Cabin Lake Tahoe

1 site · Lodging1 acre · South Lake Tahoe, CA

This two-story cabin has been in our family over 50 years. It is located in a private community right next to one of the largest resort/marina's in South Lake. Also, right next door, is the famous Beacon Restaurant, one of only two restaurants located on the water on Tahoe. The cabin is rustic in design. 6 bedrooms, 3 downstairs and 3 upstairs. 3 bathrooms, 2 downstairs and 1 upstairs. 1 large open living room and kitchen. We have a large lake side deck that is where most people spend the majority of their stay, overlooking the vast beauty of Lake Tahoe and having easy access to the water. So much to do in Tahoe in both of our long seasons. We are located three minutes from an awesome sledding hill that mostly locals know about, eight minutes from Heavenly Ski Resort, ten minutes from state line, and 25-30 minutes from Tahoe City where the family can go white-water rafting in the summer. Within a walking distance you will find all manners of FUN.... physical activities to theatre and art shows. There is the famous Valhalla Estate available for weddings. Learn about the Indians and history of Tahoe in the various museum installations at the Three Historic Estates to the west. This is a great, family-owned, rental cabin that wants to make our renters feel like family and keep coming back to beautiful South Lake Tahoe. **Insurance requires renters to be over 25** Thank you! ELDORADO REQUIREMENTS: VHR: #072960 5BDS - MAX 12 OCCUPANCY 3. Notification that quiet hours must be observed between 10 PM and 8 AM. 4. Notification that occupancy is limited during 10 PM and 8 AM.

100%

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Guesthouse or Glamping Gold Country

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · River Pines, CA

We have owned our 20 acre ranch for 12 years. We enjoy the peace and quiet and beautiful views surrounded by oak trees. We love hiking down to the river. Very private; seldom do you come across other people. Amador brewing, Solid Ground brewing and the world famous Poor Reds are about 30 minutes away. Learn more about this land: Renovated guesthouse on 20 acres in the gold country. 1900 feet elevation. 30 minute hike to the Consumnes River, with beaches and swimming. Great sunrises, sunsets and stars. Mountain biking available. Rock outcroppings for climbers. About a 30 minute drive to numerous wineries and the foothill towns of Plymouth and Placerville. The kitchen has a vintage stove with four burners and two ovens, microwave, toaster oven, and sink. You will also have access to a full size refrigerator. Outside is a propane bbq with two side burners for your use. There is one bedroom with a full bed and in the living room is a trundle bed that converts to two twins. We have installed hardwood laminate flooring throughout guesthouse; some of the pictures show the prior cement floor. There is wifi, Verizon and At&t get good reception. We use our phones for internet and streaming. There is a 50 inch TV and dvd player. Bring your own hardware/cords if you want to stream from your phone. We have goats if you would like to feed or with. My wife and I live on the property in a house about 200 feet away. You will have as much privacy/interaction as you desire. Our garage is attached to the guesthouse, so I may need to access it occasionally during your stay. We also travel so you may have the property to yourself. We do have two dogs on the property. The Australian healeris very friendly. The Anatolian shepherd is a watch dog so he will bark at you upon arrival and then settle down and leave you alone. You may hear him barking at night at any moving wildlife (deer, turkey, etc.). There are two cats living in the attic of the guesthouse, which may or may not bother you if you have cat allergies. My wife has cat allergies and the cats don't bother her. The last 4.5 miles of the drive to the property is on a winding road. Please drive carefully.

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Other options near South Lake Tahoe

Meeks Bay Resort & Marina

1 site1 acre · 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

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Cedar Glen Lodge

1 site1 acre · 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.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Beach camping near South Lake Tahoe guide

Overview

Looking to camp near South Lake Tahoe, California and enjoy the beach? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 400 options to choose from, you'll find the perfect beach camping experience. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, Hipcamp has got you covered. And with prices as low as $20 per night, it's affordable too. Check out some of the top campsites like Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (388 reviews), Paradise Shores Camp (371 reviews), and Bridgeport Reservoir Campground (315 reviews). Plus, you'll have popular amenities like campfires, showers, and potable water, along with activities like whitewater paddling, off-roading, and exploring historic sites.