Camping in Lake Tahoe
The jewel of the Sierra offers dazzling clear water, epic scenery, and year-round outdoor adventure.
91% (1585 reviews)
- Lake Tahoe
91% (1585 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Lake Tahoe
Available this weekend
Dog-friendly getaways
12 top wheelchair-accessible campgrounds in Lake Tahoe
95%
(1974)
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). 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.
Use caution - twisty narrow country road. If it's your first time you might want to check out the route ahead of time.
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 right 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 offers serenity in a beautifully unique setting, nestled deep into the forest. Enjoy the scenic and exhilarating drive to our hidden gem along the South Fork of the American River- this is all for you 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. The lake is managed by volunteers of the community for the benefit of the residents and 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. Open on weekends only. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking during your stay.
Potable water, picnic tables, campfire rings, and toilets on site. The property can not accommodate horses. 2 dogs per site limit. Sites are from post to post.
Our property is located in Placerville, California. Placerville is a charming California gold rush town named after the placer gold deposits found in its riverbeds and hills in the late 1840s.
PLEASE NOTE, there is construction on the Mosquito Bridge. Expect delays, RVs/trailers must use Rock Creek Road (even if your GPS says Mosquito Road). Please message me with any questions.
Please see our website: finnonrecreationarea.com for full directions.
Diner: https://www.facebook.com/smokeonthewaterplacervilleca
NO FIREWORKS OF ANY KIND ARE ALLOWED.
Smoking is only allowed in an enclosed vehicle.
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$40
/ night
96%
(355)
Cosumnes River Somerset Camp
11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents23 acres · Somerset, CA
This land was home to the Miwok, then European and Chinese miners, then a cattle rancher. It was also home to a former nun who quit the dominican order to purchase this land for inner city kids to have a chance to ride, swim, hike and fish. We moved here in 2017 and purchased this land with the main goal to raise our large family here, but we have found that good things must be shared! There is NOTHING like being in the wilderness of this area for a good re-centering of the soul! We have found it to be a true blessing for our family, and we hope you can experience this blessing as we share this space with you.
We feel certain you will not be disappointed with this beautiful river canyon. Our property is situated right on the middle fork cosumnes river. We have 2 sleeping cabins and several tent sites (can be rented separately). The cabins offer a rustic/minimalist type vibe - bring your own bedding/pillows to sleep on the comfy futon. A table and chairs are provided for the cabins. Tent sites have a wood table (bring your camp chairs) and a fire pit when the season is open for burning. The swimming is awesome and the stars at night will put you into a state of awe! Many family owned wineries in the area, most of them offering free tasting. It’s a short drive to Tahoe and the Marshall gold discovery site as well as the historic hangtown Placerville. The recent Caldor Fire was VERY close to our property and a back burn was initiated nearby the cabins. It is still as beautiful as ever but please know there are lots of slash piles. Falling trees and burned up stump holes are also a risk and it is presumed campers will be cautious and use at their own risk. Please don't hesitate to shoot us a message if you have any questions!
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$45
/ night
97%
(245)
Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard
8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Somerset, CA
A six acre organic vineyard & natural winery on 21 acres awaits you at Gold Dust Vineyard. A working natural winery and cidery, come enjoy a glass, relax in the breezes at 2’700 feet. Decomposed granite soils and high elevation make for sweeping views and even better natural wine and cider!
We welcome guests year round!
Surrounded by nature, there is so much to do!
Up in the Foothills, we experience all four seasons!
Come relax☮️
March - May
🌸Don’t miss the wildflowers & babbling brooks, steams & rivers
June - September
🏞Swimming in the Consumnes River or paddle boarding at Jenkinson Lake
September - December
🍂🍁Fall foliage, wine harvest, apple picking and alpaca petting
December - March
❄️⛷Snowy hikes, mushroom hunting and quick trips to South Lake Tahoe
We accept reservations for wine and cider tastings and typically host guests between the hours of 11 am and 5 pm.
Occasionally, during very hot and busy holiday weekends, we will host an evening tasting.
We have running water on the side of the winery building.
Please note, we are a mom and pop shop with just two of us and our young son running the show. We live on site in a tiny house and use the tasting area as our 'back yard' during off hours. We ask that guests please respect our area and off hours requests. We do not permit live fires or generators.
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$31.50
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86%
(61)
Village Camp Truckee
134 sites · Lodging, RVs50 acres · Truckee, CA
Coachland RV Park is situated in the picturesque Sierra Nevada mountains in Northern California and is within close proximity to all the outdoor activities, shopping, and dining that Truckee, CA has to offer.
Located at an elevation of 5,996 ft., Coachland RV Park welcomes visitors year-round and is a short distance from Northstar Ski Resort and Squaw Valley. During the summer, visitors can enjoy fishing and watersports on the nearby Truckee River.
All the beauty that Lake Tahoe offers is just a short drive away from Coachland RV Park.
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$70
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94%
(40)
Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf
12 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Norden, CA
300 acres at 6200’ elevation. Located on donner summits west slope. Great views and easy access. The sites are spaced very well from each other to give great privacy. Nestled among large pines and granite boulders. Union Pacific tracks at the southern edge of the property. Developed camp sites with no hookups. 36 holes of Disc golf on property. Seasonal creeks and South Yuba river very close. 20 mins to Kidd lake, cascade lake and donner lake. 5 mins from Donner Summit and miles of hiking. 20 minutes from Truckee. 45 mins from lake Tahoe. Great on site pizzeria. Please no check-ins after 10pm.
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$50
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97%
(65)
Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Nevada City, CA
Bright Bear Camp is a private two-acre property bordering Tahoe National Forest. We are located at 4300' elevation down a mostly dirt road along the beautiful Bear River and Bear Valley. This is a very peaceful spot among the trees with a small meadow and creek on the property.
As our name suggests, bears are occasionally in the area so keep an eye out. You may also see the spotted owls that live nearby - listen closely for their calls (https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Spotted_Owl/overview).
There is much to explore in the area and more with only a short drive to the South Yuba River, Emerald Pools, Lake Spaulding, Donner Pass, Donner Lake, and Truckee.
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$40
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95%
(53)
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 !!
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$50
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78%
(41)
Big Yeti Tiny Village
8 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Washington, CA
As you know Hipcamp lets you book and enjoy your travel plans seamlessly, So....We make every effort to be open year round, even in a blizzard. Please make sure you are equipped completely for your perfect stay over. This is a Mountain Location please check local weather conditions before you arrive.
This is located 25 minutes from Truckee.
Emigrant Gap has some hidden GEMS.
The State park at the end of the road hosts the North Fork of the North Fork of the American River and its water Fall.
Bowman Lake and Yuba Gap reservoir are one exit away.
This small camping area backs up to
100,000 acres of Tahoe National forest. You can walk to a restaurant with regular bathrooms and wifi. Here we have out door compost toilet and cold out door shower. ATM we are nothing special. Lots of cool things to do minutes from here, but we mainly boast a safe place to park on your journey. Historic and epic rock climbing is minutes from your campsite. Also there are 4 ski destinations less then 20 minutes from us. fishing lakes can be hiked to. Quads, snow mobiles, xcountry skiing, hiking, downhill and horse back riding can all happen without getting back on the freeway.
September 1, 2023. In and effort to make stayovers more comfortable, Site 4 and 5 are being removed and site 6 is being modified to host a full time 34Ft RV available for nightly use.
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$21.88
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Chili Bar Private River Tent Resort
8 sites · Tents5 acres · Placerville, CA
Located in the heart of gold country, the property provides direct access to the South Fork of the American River.
3 miles from Placerville.
Come enjoy the beautiful mountain setting directly on the river with fresh air that only the mountains bring. Typically all you can hear is running water and laughter when others are around.
Chili Bar is well known for whitewater rafting, kayaking and in the past big gold nuggets!
Our private riverfront property is located just down river of the Chili Bar Park. We have a shared Cabana (with other hip campers and guests).
The cabana is complete with a large picnic table and an outdoor kitchen.
Guests have free river access for put in of rafts and kayaks and can just relax at the river for a picnic or day play.
Rafters and kayakers can enter the river here taking out roughly 7 miles down in Coloma or can go the 14 miles all the way to Folsom Lake!
You can even sign up for a guided rafting adventure with an outfitter but let us know before your stay so you get on their schedule.
Pets love it here too!
Other things to note:
White water rafting, kayaking, skiing, hiking, biking, dirt bike riding, motorcycling, 4 wheeling (Rubicon Trail), horseback riding and adventure are all very close to our location.
If you enjoy wine tasting (10 minutes away) or brewery hopping or golfing we are close to all of them.
Just 5 minutes up the hill, you can go shopping or dining in historic downtown Placerville. This place has the location that will make your stay awesome! Whatever your passion is, we are centrally located on the river for a wonderful getaway.
Please call us if you need anything or have any questions before or during your stay.
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$42.50
/ night
94%
(9)
sierra Tahoe moutain bike adventure
2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Reno, NV
Welcome to sierra tahoe moutain bike adventure, your perfect mountain escape nestled right next to 11000 Mt. Rose Hwy! Our scenic campsite offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. With complimentary bike rentals for 1 hour - 1 day and a discounted rates there after. Shower,restroom,and bike repairs during business hours
Experience the Best of Mountain Living
**Breathtaking Scenery:** Wake up to panoramic views of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and breathe in the crisp, fresh alpine air. Our campsite provides a serene backdrop with stunning vistas that change with every season, offering a unique and beautiful experience year-round.
**Outdoor Activities Galore:** Situated just a short drive from Lake Tahoe, you can spend your days swimming, kayaking, or simply lounging by the crystal-clear waters. For those who crave a bit more excitement, Mt. Rose is right at your doorstep, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, climbing, and exploring the rugged terrain.
**Mountain Biking Trails:** Take advantage of our complimentary short-term bike rentals and explore the exhilarating mountain biking trails nearby. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you'll find trails that cater to all skill levels, ensuring a thrilling ride through the wilderness.
**Modern Amenities:** Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi available for all campers. After a day of adventure, share your photos and experiences with friends and family or simply unwind with your favorite streaming service.
**Nearby Attractions:**
- **Mt. Rose Summit Trail:** A challenging but rewarding hike to the summit for breathtaking views.
- **Tahoe Rim Trail:** Perfect for both hiking and biking, offering miles of scenic trails.
-** Sky tavern bike park right next door with so amazing repeatable trails
- **Diamond Peak Ski Resort:** Just a short drive away for winter sports enthusiasts.
Join us in tahoe for an unforgettable camping experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Book your spot today and start planning your mountain getaway!
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$45
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88%
(21)
Homestead Hideaway
2 sites · Lodging6 acres · Nevada City, CA
Welcome to Homestead Hideaway, an off-grid home site adjacent to the Tahoe National Forest. A mile and a half down a dirt road and 20 minutes to downtown Nevada City. Easy access to the Yuba River, Scotts Flat Lake, world class mountain biking trails, and rock climbing off Bowman lake road.
Homestead Hideaway is a six acres of secluded forest living. Its home to an array of wildlife including owls, foxes, bears, coyote and dear as well as an abundance of trees and flora. The property is also our home. We, along with our dogs, live in the green Quonset hut that you will drive past on your way in. We steward the land and live simply to reduce our impact on this wild place.
At 3,600ft and amongst the trees, you can expect much milder temperatures than in Nevada City- making for a pleasant respite during the heat of summer. Little Dear Creek is a 5 minute walk and has bathtub size pools to soak in.
The yurt was made locally by Living Intent Yurt Co and installed in 2021. Inside you will find two twin beds that can be combined to make a king, a giant pillow lounge, dining table, games, and some tableware for eating and drinking. Attached to the yurt is a large heptagonal deck perfect for lounging and yoga. On the deck there is a foot-pump sink for handwashing and dishes, a counter for cooking and a propane BBQ. There is no electricity or traditional running water and plumbing.
Expect a rustic camping experience with the luxury of a new yurt to stay in. This means no electricity, no shower and a simple compost toilet in an outhouse. There will be a 55 gallon drum full of water for the foot-pump sink to wash your hands and dishes.
Pack out your trash and leave food scraps in the compost.
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$85
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100%
(9)
Secluded + Peaceful Cozy Cabin
1 site · Lodging150 acres · Garden Valley, CA
Peaceful and private Bear Creek Lodge is tucked up against the El Dorado National Forest, surrounded by majestic oaks, pines, and cedars, in charming Garden Valley, CA. The 3,000-square-foot lodge is located on 150 acres, secluded from noise and light pollution, making for spectacular night skies. The park-like setting makes Bear Creek Lodge the perfect haven in the woods, while the beautifully-appointed four-bedroom home makes it the ideal place for rest, relaxation, & rejuvenation!
Bear Creek Lodge has been carefully designed and appointed to help you rest and relax on your getaway to the woods. While you will likely spend evenings listening to nature’s symphony, there are plenty of activities in the house to keep you entertained.
Bear Creek Lodge is 100% off the grid and utilizes an industrial generator that powers this large property. We are pet friendly, but you must register your pet on the site and there is a fee if you decide to bring your pet. Please let us know in advance.
Max. Occupancy: 4 bedrooms; There is a maximum occupancy limit of 14 guests between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m.
WiFi: Bear Creek Lodge includes high-speed Wifi thanks to fast satellite Internet.
Quiet Hours: While in a remote and secluded area, we must still abide by the local regulations. Quiet Hours must be observed between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m.
Wildlife: The peace and beauty of being tucked away into your own secluded retreat in the woods, comes with the additional steps of having to contend with wildlife and small critters. For your safety and enjoyment, it's important to be vigilant about keeping doors closed into the Lodge. It's also important to clean up ALL food debris at ALL times, both inside and outside the Lodge.
Suggestion to Bring: Remember to bring all necessary medications, as the nearest pharmacy is 14-15 miles away in Cool, CA if needed. And we also recommend bringing flashlights for each guest for moving between the main, upper, and lower levels at night time. Always check the weather app ahead of your arrival for weather forecasts at Georgetown & Garden Valley CA.
Here are only a few of the nearby adventures that Hipcampers can partake in: Skiing, snowboarding, white-water rafting, wine tasting, Apple Hill, Jeep Jamboree, Rubicon trail, El Dorado National Forest, Coloma gold discovery museum, Red Hawk Casino, antiquing, historic downtown Placerville, hidden local trails, hiking, fishing, water-sports and/or doing nothing but relaxing!
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$260
/ night
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Camping in Lake Tahoe guide
Overview
Straddling the California and Nevada border, North America’s largest and second deepest Alpine lake is also one of its prettiest, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and towering pine forests. With 72 miles of shoreline, beaches and coves, charming towns, miles of hiking trails and bike paths, and 15 area ski resorts, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them occupied year-round. There are a wide range of Lake Tahoe camping options for every type of camper—from tent sites and full hookup RV sites with lake views to cabins and yurts in the woods.
Where to go
South Shore
The South Shore is home to lively South Lake Tahoe, full of restaurants, shops, lodging options, and casinos across the state line. Options include the opportunity to stay in a tent, RV, or cabin, many of which come complete with picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, hot showers, and dump stations. Just outside of town, historic Camp Richardson offers tent and RV sites and cabins, along with sports rentals from bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards to snowshoes and cross-country skis. Near the Tallac Historic Site, find the Fallen Leaf Campground with campsites and yurts in the woods just north of Fallen Leaf Lake.
West Shore
The West Shore is home to some of the most scenic Lake Tahoe campgrounds and parks, including Emerald Bay State Park. Camp at Eagle Point Campground, on a promontory overlooking the bay, or spend the night at a boat-in campground right on the shore. D.L. Bliss State Park offers several campgrounds, including one near Lester Beach. Additional public options include the Meeks Bay Campground and the campground at Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park. To escape the crowds, head into Desolation Wilderness in Eldorado National Forest.
North Shore
The North Shore stretches from Tahoe City to Incline Village and includes several charming towns in between, with shops, restaurants, and beaches. Just south of Tahoe City, William Kent Campground offers yurts, cabins, and tent sites, while Kaspian Campgrounds offers tent-only campsites. Camp right by the lake at the Tahoe State Recreation Area, or head inland from Lake Tahoe to find camping options along the Truckee River toward Truckee and high up on Mount Rose.
East Shore
The east shore is Tahoe’s least developed area, home to the popular Sand Harbor beach and East Shore trail on the northern end. Halfway down the shore, find camping options near Spooner Lake in Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, including backcountry cabins and three developed hike-in campgrounds. Further south, Zephyr Cove Resort offers cabins, tent and RV sites, and scenic lake cruises. Near Stateline, camp with your motorhome or pitch a tent within walking distance of the lake and amenities at Nevada Beach Campground.
East Shore
The east shore is Tahoe’s least developed area, home to the popular Sand Harbor beach and East Shore trail on the northern end. Halfway down the shore, find camping options near Spooner Lake in Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, including backcountry cabins and three developed hike-in campgrounds. Further south, Zephyr Cove Resort offers cabins, tent and RV sites, and scenic lake cruises. Near Stateline, camp with your motorhome or pitch a tent within walking distance of the lake and amenities at Nevada Beach Campground.
Top regions near Lake Tahoe
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