- Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
The best cabins in Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, CA
94% (123)
Beautiful lakeside views and endless exploration on the Nevada/California border.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
4,000 Ft Closer to Heaven
4,000 Ft Closer to Heaven
94%
(771)
36mi from Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit · 13 sites
Discover the untamed beauty of this incredible 48-acre paradise, which far exceeds our initial expectations of 4.8 acres. From the moment we set foot on this stunning land, we became enchanted by its charm, and we’re excited to share it with you.
This is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Picture yourself basking in breathtaking sunsets and marveling at star-studded nights that will make you want to sleep under the open sky, savoring every invigorating breath of fresh air. Whether you bring your bikes, ATVs, fishing poles, hiking boots, horses, or beloved dogs, there’s an adventure waiting for you at every turn.
For those who seek tranquility, this is the perfect spot to relax with a good book and immerse yourself in nature's serenity. Set at an elevation of 4,000+ feet, the panoramic views are endless, and the crisp, clean air invigorates the soul.
With minimal light pollution and sweeping open skies, this spot offers front-row views to a nightly celestial show. Whether you’re watching the Milky Way stretch across the horizon or catching surprise meteor streaks and the occasional asteroid, the sky truly comes alive here. Bring your telescope or just a blanket—either way, you’re in for an unforgettable cosmic experience.
Nestled between the North and Middle Forks of the Cosumnes River and surrounded by the flourishing Fairplay Wine Region, you’ll also find historic Placerville just a short drive away. Come and create unforgettable memories in this remarkable slice of paradise!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$85
/ night
Sage
Sage
93%
(15)
44mi from Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sage (named for our beloved 15 year old lab who passed) is a conveniently located property right on Highway 88 in Pioneer, California.
Warm and inviting, Sage is a relaxing, modern spot for people heading up to Kirkwood for skiing or for nature, lakes, and fishing.
Our place offers a fully operational commercial style communal outdoor kitchen, a small stage, huge redwood, slab dining table, and 14 acres of camping area.
It also offers a beautiful 8 foot stock tank hot tub with the freshest clean snowpack water. So clean that it shares an aquifer with Crystal Geyser bottled water.
These are all communal spaces. Please keep this in mind when booking, and be prepared to meet some great folks. Be kind to one another and enjoy the experience.
We have several stay options to choose from, including a loft and group rates.
Pets
Toilets
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from
$75
/ night
Lazy Bear Cabin
Lazy Bear Cabin
94%
(39)
46mi from Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit · 1 site
Minutes from highway 80 in quietly beautiful Blue Canyon, come relax in your very own Lazy Bear Cabin. This off the grid cabin features solar power with backup power being provided by generator. Enjoy the crackle of a camp fire,, plenty of parking for a few camper vans, and a large porch for all your fresh air desires. We have equipped our small cabin with a sleeper sofa, 42” tv, wood stove, full kitchen and running water for a full bathroom. Minutes from Yuba Gap, Lake Valley Reservoir, Boreal, Donner Ski Ranch and Sugar Bowl. Enjoy a 30 minutes drive to Truckee for shops and eats. We look forward to hosting your next vacation
Cabin is equipped with sofa bed along with a comfortable mattress.
***Please bring your preferred sheets, blankets, and pillows. You’ll also want to bring your own firewood, toilet tissue and paper towels . Feel free to gather wood from the forest bed through out the property while the burn ban is lifted.
Places to check out. Euchra bar hiking trail in Alta(experience hiker) Steven trails in Colfax Rollin lake in Colfax. Pennyweight trail in Colfax Lake valley in Emigrant Gap Emerald Pools in Emigrant Gap
Pets
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Showers
from
$139
/ night
Dog Woods
Dog Woods
94%
(99)
50mi from Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit · 1 site
Come enjoy the fresh air and quiet at this relaxing and serene 3bd/1.5 bath 1968 groovy A-frame cabin. Great WIFI! Located on 1.5 wooded acres, the backyard is the Calaveras Big Trees State Park. The cabin has a huge redwood deck surrounded by blooming Dogwoods during the
springtime. Our year-round Moran Creek runs on the edge of the property.
All wood inside: tongue-in-groove pine ceilings and walnut paneling, large wood-burning stove which has three flat places to cook. We offer a fully stocked kitchen with vintage pink and white formica counters and breakfast bar which seats four. Dining on resin-topped circular table made by designer of first chair-lift in Squaw Valley. Gigantic
redwood wrap-around deck set up with comfy furniture, table and chairs to enjoy the bliss of Big Trees-Calaveras State Park. On the main floor there are two bedrooms: both with queen beds, a full bath with large bathtub/shower; in loft: one queen and one twin, and a 1/2 bath. Extra airbeds are located in the closet. Sofa is down filled. Retro decor with orange glass lamps, kilim rugs and down comforters on all beds. Vintage electric keyboard and full stereo system. Can sleep 7-8. You can enjoy weekend dinners at Snowflake lodge or make use of the
full kitchen or gas barbecue at the cabin. 35" to Bear Valley Ski Area, downhill or cross country, Lake Alpine in Summer. 20" to wine tasting in 1850's historic Murphys. So much to do or not!
Overlook Trail is 1/2 mile from the cabin.
Cabin has access to Snowflake Lodge (weekend dinners), Recreation area (swimming, tennis, basketball, ping-pong, beach volleyball) and Fly-In Lake for lake-swimming.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$225
/ night
Ludlow Hut
Ludlow Hut
14mi from Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit · 2 sites
Set near Lost Corner Mountain on Lake Tahoe’s west shore, Ludlow Hut is a classic Sierra Club backcountry shelter that rewards capable travelers with a true hut-in-the-woods experience and a real sense of solitude.
You can drive to Ludlow Hut in summer. In winter, there is no car access—expect a challenging ~5.2-mile approach on skis or snowshoes, with approximately 1,100 ft of elevation gain from the Rubicon–McKinney trailhead area. The traditional winter route follows the summer road along McKinney Creek past Miller Lake toward Richardson Lakes.
Set back from the lake and blended into the snow and trees, the hut can be difficult to spot in winter. Once you arrive, you’ll have a simple, communal base for exploring the surrounding terrain—whether you’re heading out for winter touring and snow travel or summer hiking in the high country.
This is serious mountain terrain. Please use extra caution: surrounding slopes are steep, avalanche hazard can be frequent, and conditions can become dangerous quickly when weather turns.
Inside the hut you’ll find:
• Upstairs sleeping loft accommodating up to 15 people.
• Main room with a wood-burning stove, tables, and a kitchen area.
• A two-story outhouse is approximately 100 ft southeast of the hut.
By booking Ludlow Hut, you’re helping support the Sierra Club’s ongoing stewardship of these historic huts so they can continue welcoming visitors for generations to come.
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from
$55
/ night
Bradley Hut
Bradley Hut
26mi from Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit · 2 sites
Bradley Hut is a classic Sierra Club backcountry hut in the Tahoe region, reached via an approximately 4.7-mile hike or ski approach. It’s a favorite among ski tourers planning multi-day adventures, with backcountry terrain in all directions from the hut.
The hut sits near Silver Peak in the Pole Creek area (north of Olympic Valley/Palisades Tahoe). The approach is a steady climb, with roughly 1,600 ft of elevation gain from the Pole Creek trailhead area.
This is serious mountain terrain. Please use extra caution: surrounding slopes are steep, avalanche hazard can be significant, and conditions can become dangerous quickly when weather turns.
Inside the hut:
• Upstairs loft accommodating up to 15 people
• Main room with wood-burning stove, tables, and kitchen area
• Two small side rooms used for firewood and limited maintenance supplies
• A two-story outhouse is approximately 40 ft north of the hut.
By booking Bradley Hut, you’re helping support the Sierra Club’s ongoing stewardship of these historic huts so they can continue welcoming visitors for generations to come.
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from
$55
/ night
Benson Hut
Benson Hut
29mi from Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit · 2 sites
Benson Hut is a historic Sierra Club stone refuge built in 1939, tucked beneath the north face of Anderson Peak at roughly 8,350 ft. Set along the Pacific Crest Trail, it offers extraordinary views to the east, north, and west—and a true high-Sierra hut experience for experienced, well-prepared groups.
Access varies by season: in summer, Benson Hut is reachable by vehicle, while in winter it requires a ~5.5-mile hike or ski approach (expect roughly 1,800 ft of elevation gain on the typical route). Many guests use it as an overnight stop as part of more advanced backcountry routes and multi-day traverses.
This is serious mountain terrain. Please use extra caution: surrounding slopes are steep, avalanche hazard can be frequent, and conditions can become dangerous quickly when weather turns.
Inside the hut you’ll find:
• Upstairs sleeping loft accommodating up to 12 people
• Main room on the ground floor with wood-burning stove, table, & kitchen area.
• (Six fold-down bunks can be used when the main room isn’t crowded)
• Side rooms for firewood and limited maintenance supplies
• A two-story outhouse approximately 100 ft west of the hut.
By booking Benson Hut, you’re helping support the Sierra Club’s ongoing stewardship of these historic huts so they can continue welcoming visitors for generations to come.
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from
$55
/ night
Coldstream Ice Haus
Coldstream Ice Haus
100%
(1)
29mi from Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit · 1 site
Located on 20 acres in Tahoe Wilderness, this is a cool off the grid, solar-powered, rustic cabin situated next to a stream. Sleeps 6-8 people. There is running hot and cold water, shower and a plumbed toilet. Kitchen with refrigerator, propane powered stove/oven, toaster, coffee maker.
One bedroom on first floor. Dining/hang out area with firebox and cubbies for hanging/drying outdoor clothing. Upstairs loft has 5 single beds divided by 'pony' walls with shelving and 1 full bed.
For winter use, there is a generator when needed. Heat from firebox will keep entire cabin warm. For winter, access provided by snowcat; guided trips only.
Pets
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from
$800
/ night
Village Camp Truckee
Village Camp Truckee
88%
(98)
30mi from Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit · 134 sites · RVs, Lodging
Village Camp Truckee is nestled in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada mountains of Northern California, offering easy access to the best outdoor activities, shopping, and dining Truckee, CA, has to offer. Situated at nearly 6,000 ft., Village Camp Truckee is open year-round, making it the perfect basecamp for winter sports enthusiasts headed to Northstar or Palisades Tahoe, and for those looking to enjoy mild summer days fishing or exploring the Truckee River. Just a short drive from the stunning beauty of Lake Tahoe, Village Camp Truckee also features modern cabins and RV sites surrounded by majestic redwoods, thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$70
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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Sean
1 week ago
Group trip
I had an incredibly rejuvenating time at the Scotts Dear Lodge! Krysten went out of her way with little gestures to make the space feel clean, comfortable, and inviting. A home away from home, if you will. It was also incredible waking up with a cup of coffee while it snowed outside! The kitchen was fully stocked with all the supplies you would need to prepare a nice home-cooked meal for yourself, and the wood-burning stove was also a highlight! I recommend this spot to anyone looking for a trip for a small family, couples, or solo adventurers! Don't miss out on this charming spot
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Samantha
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Lazy Bear Cabin
This cabin is a cute as it it’s cozy! Shout out to Jeff for helping us get the wood burning stove going. It kept the cabin toasty all night. Looking for a chill spot to get away from it all and connect with nature (with creature comforts), this is the place for you!
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Zachary
November 2025
With pets
Everything was excellent! It was exactly what we needed! Definitely still a work in progress but what has been completed is very cool!
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rosemarie
October 2025
With pets
Bobby's skills and his creativeness shine through with he has accomplished thus far. Sage Camp is a true piece of art as well as a comfortable atmosphere. Bobby's vision for Sage Camp is amazing. I had a fabulous stay.
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Makali
October 2025
With pets
We enjoyed our time at this little cabin so much. We originally planned to camp elsewhere but the place ended up being flooded, so last minute we were able to book this place and head here within a few hours. The host was planning to close the cabin down for this time but allowed our booking anyway and was very accommodating. He even came from out of town a few hours away to make sure we had everything we needed. Any questions we had he answered right away and even came in the middle of the night to change out the propane tank for us. The atmosphere was wonderful and our dogs were very welcomed. We will definitely be back!
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Oleksandr
October 2025
1 night at Canyon Ranch
We liked everything, the house was warm at night, and the owner helped to solve small details, it's really far from the hustle and bustle, we enjoyed the bonfire, nature, and a glass of single malt, I recommend
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Tanner
October 2025
With kids
Bud’s cabin was a great stay. Nice views with the essentials already set up, he made sure the site was easy to find & ready for us. My kids enjoyed the campfire area & exploring the forest!
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Joe
September 2025
Group trip
Homey, quirky and comfy! This was our first experience with Arnold - and the Dogwood Cabin is great centralized home base for all-season fun.
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Tracy
August 2025
With pets
We had a relaxing stay, Jeff is a great host. Property is private, and well kept. The added amenities are definitely a BONUS! Our pups love it here. We look forward to returning some time soon! 🙂
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zsante
August 2025
Group trip
I loved this property!! It was beautiful and had plenty of space!! The cabin was very clean and cozy!! Highly recommend this place to anyone who is looking to have a get together with friends or even have a private romantic getaway.
Jeff was very kind and went out of his way to further educate me on local fire practices. Even through my gross negligence Jeff was very patient and kind to me. He took care of me and prevented me from having a serious problem all before I even called him back. DON’T BE LIKE ME!! Please double check after booking to see if you can burn in Placer County!!
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De La Luna
August 2025
1 night at Lazy Bear Cabin
Loved the escape under the stars. Got rest and re energized to continue my trip ✨
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Wendy
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Sage
This property is a hidden gem, it is so beautiful and Bobby is very welcoming. My husband and I were looking for a quick getaway for a night. Like the description says, bring you snacks. That’s exactly what we did, this spot has everything else you need. Everything from cooking on the open fire to the spa was a great experience. We will definitely be back for another glamping trip!
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Alyssa
August 2025
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Ani
August 2025
With pets
We had a wonderful two-night stay—it was exactly what my husband and I were looking for to celebrate our 5-year anniversary. Jeff was great to communicate with and made everything easy.
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Grant
July 2025
With pets
The cabin is just like my home with the usual amenities, yet has the added benefit of being out in nature. It is very close to Hwy 80, so no guesswork of where to find it. The bathroom/shower, the firm bed, the great kitchen/dining nook layout and the living room all make for a very comfortable stay. My pup and I enjoyed exploring the 'hood; I saw only one person during my four day/three night visit, so the remoteness and quiet away from suburbia was most welcome. Krysten was most responsive to my questions. Will visit, again, for sure.
See moreD
Dhaksha
July 2025
Group trip
We had an amazing weekend at this cozy cabin! From the start, Robin was an incredible host, he provided detailed and thoughtful information about the cabin, which made everything so easy. The directions were clear, and check-in was seamless. The cabin itself was beautiful, clean, and had everything we needed for a relaxing stay. It truly felt like a home away from home. Our dog had the time of his life exploring and lounging around … he probably enjoyed it more than we did! Highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a peaceful, well-hosted getaway.
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Brad
June 2025
With pets
We had an amazing stay at this secluded cabin nestled right on a beautiful, peaceful creek. The setting is absolutely serene — perfect for a quiet escape into nature, and especially great for families with kids. Ours spent hours playing by the water, exploring the woods, and just being kids without screens or schedules.
The cabin itself strikes the perfect balance between rustic charm and cozy comfort. It’s a great “glamping” experience — you get all the perks of being out in nature without sacrificing a good night’s sleep, indoor restroom and shower. Thoughtfully stocked and very clean, it made us feel right at home.
If you’re looking for a place to unplug, unwind, and make some lasting family memories, this is it. We’ll definitely be coming back!
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James
June 2025
Group trip
Lovely, cosy space tucked up on a ridge near Emigrant Pass. Very hospitable owner who went out of his way to take care of us.
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Renelyn
June 2025
2 nights at Sage
We had such a relaxing stay!The host Bobby was so kind and responsive answering questions quickly and offering great local tips.The hot tub was a major highlight.At night,the stars were unbelievable— no city lights just a sky full of wonder!
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Erica
June 2025
3 nights at Lazy Bear Cabin
We had a wonderful stay at Jeff's cabin. Jeff was communicative and helpful. The cabin had all the basic necessities and worked well for my teenage daughter and myself. There was plenty of space to explore on the property, and the forest and creek areas were beautiful. If you travel during the summer months, be prepared for lots of mosquitoes. If you visit on a permissible burn day, I highly recommend using the fire pit for a campfire. It was a great way to end our trip. I suggest you bring your own extra toilet paper, towels, dish soap, and hand soap. Some of these items were provided, but it was nice to have extra since there are not any stores nearby. We look forward to visiting in the future.
See more 94%
123 ratings · 36 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
Very nice place
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Pieter S.
2 reviews
Great place
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Aaron J.
2 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Beautiful campground and location. Staff were extremely friendly. Place clean. Really close to pretty beaches and close to town. Loved the stars at night!
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Imuri P.
7 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Also a long time ago but very beautiful.
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Amy I.
4 reviews
Man oh man that crystal clear lake does a glorious number in you nervous system! Reset! Go float in that lake!!!
Sara G.
8 reviews
Way way way too busy.. Customer service is a joke and there so slammed thst they just don't care..
Jenny T.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
20 ft pop-up camper ·
William Kent Campground
👍
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Pieter S.
2 reviews
We could not get in. It looks like the most convenient place to camp.
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Jeanne T.
6 reviews
Mixed feelings
· June 2025
I didn’t go. We weren’t able to reserve a site.
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Jeanne T.
6 reviews
Spacious sites, beautiful views and very convenient to explore Tahoe without camping with crowds.
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Amy H.
8 reviews
Recommends
· February 2019
Fabulous - Book early!
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Judy H.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2018
Beachside camping with a little store that is cute!
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Terri G.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2018
Weather can change from warm to cool and rain
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Rose H.
3 reviews
Recommends
· September 2018
Was at site 123. Good site, near bathrooms but not close to other people. Wish there were more trees on the East side as the sun was blinding in the morning. If I were to go again I would stay around site 86, on the bottom of the loop. Close to the lake and bathrooms, trees on east and west, with a big open prairie nearby.
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Adam M.
7 years on Hipcamp
July 2018
Meeks Bay is congested and isn’t the most peaceful campsite. If you are okay with having a packed campground then I highly recommend it due to its location! You are right next to the lake, and our campground hosts were extremely kind and friendly. Lake Tahoe is a great place to be; there are a few Market/Delis which have lines out the door for food and beverages. We recommend driving into Tahoma and go to that market the food there is amazing. Also bring some cash so you can rent a kayak from the campground hosts instead of having to drive further. Reasonable price at $35 for the day compared to $80-$100. So great hikes as well if you drive further North such as Eagle Rock Trail. This is less then a mile up and the views are worth it.
Alexis B.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2018
A beautiful place to camp! Close to rafting and bike paths.
Jon E.
34 reviews
Recommends
· November 2017
Great place to camp, but make sure you utilize the bear containers or you'll have one mosey through your campsite! :)
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Danelle B.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2017
Don't be surprised to see a few bears stroll by!
Andrew T.
8 years on Hipcamp
June 2017
This is THE place to camp if you're visiting Lake Tahoe. That is if you can do without electricity & cable tv. Reservation only.
Beautiful campground. All sites seemed good. We had site 75, which is on the outside loop by the trailhead. There is a parking lot next to the site, but we had an entertaining time watching people.
The outside sites are the best. If I remember right, sites 52 & 64 have good views of the river. I would try for them if we ever get to come back.
The inside sites are tucked into the woods. Most are reasonably private. There is no view of Fallen Leaf Lake from any of the campsites.
Bears are active. We put a bag of sweet smelling candy in the bear box & guess who was trying to get at it? Be bear aware!
Cynthia K.
9 years on Hipcamp
June 2016
Also - this campground does accept bookings and is generally booked up so do not expect to be able to walk in.
B K.
10 years on Hipcamp
June 2016
Best part about this campground is that it has great beach access - all sites are just a short stroll away from the lake. Unfortunately, the sites are pretty small and tightly packed, so there is not much privacy. The campground is also really close to Highway 89 which makes it pretty loud during the day - you can hear the cars zooming by. Not a bad place to stay if you want to explore the Tahoe area but definitely not a campsite at which I would recommend spending too much time.
B K.
10 years on Hipcamp
June 2016
Phone number for this camp ground is actually 775-589-4907
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Lana T.
10 years on Hipcamp
May 2016
This was a great little spot just outside Tahoe city, about a 5 minute drive from the high street. We were really lucky to find a campground that was open on the east side of the lake as the summer season had only just opened the day before we arrived!! Situated right across the road from the lake, William Kent is a large campground fitted with about 70 sites. As we were staying really early in the season there was only about 4-5 other guests staying around the camp which made for a lovely peaceful night. There is the sweetest deli right across the road that is fully stocked with go that is fully stocked with gourmet produce that is open late on weekends! $35 to camp, large sites & clean toilets would definitely stay again!
Kate W.
9 years on Hipcamp
July 2015
Heavy traffic during daytime cause it´s located at the trail head of Cascade Falls and Desolation Wilderness. My tip is that you hike and play the whole day and come to sleep and enjoy the campground at night when everyone is gone!. Very convenient spot
Kalai L.
10 years on Hipcamp
July 2015
This campground provides no privacy or isolation. It's located next to the very busy Inspiration Point and the popular Cascade Falls hiking trail. Both those attractions are beautiful and crowded. The campground itself consists of car-camping spots packed.
Will R.
11 years on Hipcamp
July 2015
Visit nearby Camp Richardson if you're looking for some civilization. There's a general store, beach w/ rentals, bike rental, bar for a drink, or a giant ice cream cone. It's about a 15 min walk, 5 min bike ride, or 5 min drive.
Tam P.
10 years on Hipcamp
July 2015
Great place! Super clean fully enclosed bathrooms w/ showers, pressure-washed daily. Bring quarters - $1 for 3 min of hot showering. 5 min walk or less from your site to Fallen Leaf Lake, bring your floats/boards/kayaks.
Tam P.
10 years on Hipcamp
July 2015
http://alltrails.com/trail/us/california/big-meadow-to-dardanelles-lake-trail
Josh L.
17 reviews
July 2015
Dardanelles Lake is a beauty just a few miles from the Big Meadow trailhead. Dispersed camping, so no fire pits or picnic tables, but an alpine lake all to yourself is worth that.
Josh L.
17 reviews
March 2015
Take the Gondola at Heavenly up to Adventure Peak for absolutely incredible views!
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Hipcamper L.
10 years on Hipcamp