Notable campgrounds
- Boat-In Campground: Accessible only by water or foot, offering a serene lakeside camping experience.
- Eagle Point Campground: A family-friendly campground with easy access to the Rubicon trailhead and stunning lake views.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early, as reservations can be made six months in advance from the current date.
- Consider off-peak times for better availability and a quieter experience.
- Have flexible dates ready in case your first choice is not available.
- Explore nearby camping options if Emerald Bay State Park is fully booked.
When to go
The best time to visit Emerald Bay State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and all facilities are open. Winter offers a quiet, snowy retreat, but be prepared for cold temperatures and limited access due to snow.
Know before you go
- Check weather updates and bring layered clothing to adapt to the High Sierra's changing conditions.
- Be aware of park hours, open from sunrise to sunset, and plan your visit accordingly.
- Note that dogs are not allowed in most areas of the park, so plan for pet care if needed.
- Remember that parking is limited; arrive early or later in the day to secure a spot.
- For those interested in scuba diving, explore the underwater trail showcasing Lake Tahoe's historic watercraft.
Emerald Bay State Park
Ripples of water and spirals of clouds merge at Emerald Bay at this national natural landmark.
This California State Park is the land of the sheer Sierras, a maze of coves and lakeside campsites. This is one of Lake Tahoe's secrets that's impossible to keep to yourself. Situated right off highway 89, this park covers more than six miles of Lake Tahoe's west shore.
This national landmark includes one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture. The enchanted Vikingsholm Castle sits on an island in Emerald Bay and it looks like a wizard lives there. Dive even deeper in the surreal at the haunted tea house on Fannette Island, located in South Lake Tahoe.
Summer in Lake Tahoe is practically synonymous with watersports and you can also find boat-in camping at Emerald Bay. Even for explorers that prefer foot to paddle, this lush area has plenty to hike to. Try Eagle Falls, Maggie's Peaks, or just wander down to
This California State Park is the land of the sheer Sierras, a maze of coves and lakeside campsites. This is one of Lake Tahoe's secrets that's impossible to keep to yourself. Situated right off highway 89, this park covers more than six miles of Lake Tahoe's west shore.
This national landmark includes one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture. The enchanted Vikingsholm Castle sits on an island in Emerald Bay and it looks like a wizard lives there. Dive even deeper in the surreal at the haunted tea house on Fannette Island, located in South Lake Tahoe.
Summer in Lake Tahoe is practically synonymous with watersports and you can also find boat-in camping at Emerald Bay. Even for explorers that prefer foot to paddle, this lush area has plenty to hike to. Try Eagle Falls, Maggie's Peaks, or just wander down to the lake from the parking area.
Activities in the park
3 campgrounds in Emerald Bay State Park
Paddle or motor yourself to a lakeside campsite and sleep above the leftovers of sheer Sierra cliffs that descend into the slender bay to create a designated underwater park where scuba exploration is permitted! Boat-in camp features twenty primitive campsites tucked between the shade of trees, just a hop, skip and a jump from the sweet waters Read more...
The Lower Eagle Point loop at Emerald Bay State Park offers a scenic camping experience with stunning views of Lake Tahoe. This campground features a variety of campsites, including tent sites and RV sites, all without hookups. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, and boating, as well as exploring the historic Vikingsholm castle and Fannet Read more...
The Upper Eagle Point Loop at Emerald Bay State Park offers a scenic camping experience with stunning views of Lake Tahoe. This campground features a variety of campsites, including tent sites and RV sites, all without hookups. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, and boating, as well as exploring the historic Vikingsholm castle and Fannet Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Notable campgrounds
- Boat-In Campground: Accessible only by water or foot, offering a serene lakeside camping experience.
- Eagle Point Campground: A family-friendly campground with easy access to the Rubicon trailhead and stunning lake views.
Read more...Notable campgrounds
Tips for snagging a campsite
When to go
The best time to visit Emerald Bay State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and all facilities are open. Winter offers a quiet, snowy retreat, but be prepared for cold temperatures and limited access due to snow.
Know before you go
Frequently asked questions
Are dogs allowed in Emerald Bay State Park?
No, dogs are not allowed in most areas of Emerald Bay State Park. Please refer to the Emerald Bay SP dog information section for more specific areas and descriptions.
Can visitors explore an underwater trail at Emerald Bay State Park?
Yes, visitors can explore California's first maritime heritage underwater trail at Emerald Bay State Park, showcasing Lake Tahoe's historic recreational watercraft and barges that now rest below the surface of the bay.
Public campgrounds (book externally) —