Lake Tahoe Basin

Outdoor recreation in Lake Tahoe Basin

Explore the diverse landscapes of the Lake Tahoe Basin, from the granite peaks of the Desolation Wilderness to the sandy shores of the east and west banks. This collection features established campgrounds like Fallen Leaf and Nevada Beach, as well as backcountry sites near Marlette Peak. Discover historic sites such as the Vikingsholm mansion in Emerald Bay State Park or engage in winter activities at Echo Summit's Adventure Mountain. The list covers essential recreation areas providing access to the Tahoe Rim Trail and alpine lakes.

Lake Tahoe Outdoor Recreation — Map

A

Kings Beach State Recreational Area

You have many options what to do in this recreation area. Take a walk, go boating or fishing or just swim in the clear water.

B

Lake Tahoe State Park

Spanning the Nevada shore, this park includes Sand Harbor's granite boulders, the Spooner Lake backcountry trails, and the secluded beaches of Secret Cove.

C

William Kent Campground

Wooded sites located on the west shore, offering access to a beach area across Highway 89 and proximity to Tahoe City.

D

Bayview Campground

Situated at the Emerald Bay overlook, this site provides direct access to the Desolation Wilderness via the Maggie’s Peaks trailhead.

E

Tahoe Valley Campground

A large-scale facility in South Lake Tahoe featuring amenities such as a swimming pool, tennis courts, and full RV hookups.

F

Adventure Mountain Lake Tahoe

A 40-acre high-altitude recreation area at Echo Summit used for sledding, tubing, and snow play during winter months.

G

Lake Valley State Recreational Area

An area surrounded by forests and mountains that's an ideal escape from the busy city.

H

Nevada Beach Campground

Located on the eastern shore, this site offers tent and RV camping with direct access to a wide sandy beach and views of the Sierra Nevada.

I

Moon Dunes Beach

The locals keep this place secret and they know why. The sandy beach is lovely, dog-friendly and has relatively warm water.

J

Emerald Bay State Park

Home to the 1929 Vikingsholm mansion, Fannette Island, and the Eagle Falls trailhead, this park is a National Natural Landmark.

K

Marlette Peak Campground

A remote backcountry site located along the Tahoe Rim Trail, accessible only by hiking or mountain biking near Marlette Lake.

L

Watson Lake Campground

Small, primitive sites located on the Tahoe Rim Trail next to a high-elevation alpine lake on the north shore.

M

Fontanillis Lake

A high-altitude lake within the Desolation Wilderness, known for its granite surroundings and proximity to the Upper Velma Lake trail.

N

Camp Concord

A rustic family camp located on the south shore, offering cabin rentals and proximity to Baldwin Beach.

O

Fallen Leaf Campground

Located near the shores of Fallen Leaf Lake, this campground features sites among old-growth pines and access to Taylor Creek.

P

Camp Richardson

A historic year-round resort featuring a marina, bike rentals, and the Beacon Bar & Grill on the south shore.

Q

North Tahoe Regional Park

A multi-use facility in Tahoe Vista featuring disc golf, tennis courts, and the Treetop Adventure Park.

R

Spooner Lake Management Area

A hub for hiking and mountain biking that serves as the gateway to the Marlette-Hobart Backcountry and the historic Flume Trail.

S

Meeks Bay Resort RV and Tent Sites

A lakeside facility on the west shore featuring a white sand beach, marina, and volleyball courts.

T

Meeks Bay Campground

A National Forest campground adjacent to Meeks Bay Resort, providing easy access to swimming and boating on the west shore.

Other Lists

Ski Resorts & Winter Sports Best Mountain Views Lake & Beach Activities