Best Lake Tahoe Campgrounds

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Lake Tahoe isn’t just one of the most popular California lakes to camp at, it’s one of the most popular cities in California. This lake has beautiful, clear blue water. Plus miles and miles of shoreline, tons of nearby hiking trails and charming towns nearby. But there are some things you’ll want to consider when deciding the best Lake Tahoe campgrounds for your next family vacation.

One thing to note is that not a lot of Lake Tahoe campgrounds allow dogs. And I’m not just talking about at the lake–they don’t allow them anywhere in the campground. Another thing to note is that a lot of the campgrounds are better for tent campers or for very small RVs and trailers.

But there are campgrounds that allow furry friends and larger RVs–you just need to know which ones do if that is something you’re looking for. Here’s my list of the best Lake Tahoe campgrounds, complete with important information about each one.

If you’re having trouble finding availability, use this app to alert you of cancellations.

And if you prefer staying in a beautiful lodge instead, check out this list of the best family resorts in Lake Tahoe.

Best Lake Tahoe Campgrounds on the West Shore

DL Bliss State Park:

• Known for its pristine beaches and clear waters, this park has great hiking trails and picnic areas. The campsites are on the smaller side and are nestled among pine trees, providing a serene atmosphere.
• This campground is listed as one of the best campgrounds in Northern California.
• The sites are pretty compact and many are sloped.
• Lake-front sites available.
  • Motorhome max length: 18 ft.
  • Trailer max length: 15 ft.

Meeks Bay Resort Campground – One of the best Lake Tahoe Campgrounds with RV hook-ups:

• A beautiful sandy beach, full hook-up sites, tent sites, and even cabins. That’s what you’ll find at the Meeks Bay Resort Campground. There’s also an on-site store and snack shack.
  • Pets are not allowed at this campground.
  • Token showers on site.

Emerald Bay State Park:

• Famous for its breathtaking views of Emerald Bay, this campground offers a more rustic experience. You can choose between the Eagle Point Campground or the Emerald Bay Boat-in Camp.
  • Located near the popular Eagle Lake hiking trail.
  • Extremely popular campground that books up months in advance.
  • Can accommodates tents and small RVs.
  • Dogs only allowed within the campground.

William Kent Campground:

• This campground is nestled in a pine forest across the highway from the lake, and just two miles outside of Tahoe City. This campground is great because it allows you to access nearby beaches and trails, nature and metropolis with equal ease.
  • Tent and RV camping allowed here.
  • Yurts with futons and bunk beds are also available.

Best South Lake Tahoe Campgrounds

Camp Richardson – One of the best Lake Tahoe Campgrounds that is open year-round

• A family-friendly option with a variety of amenities, including beach access, bike rentals, a lake-front restaurant and an ice cream parlor. This campground is broken up into three parts, and you can choose to be on the lake-side of the highway, or more tucked into the forest. There are also cabins and a beachside inn.
  • Two of the campground sections are tent-only.
  • Not a pet-friendly resort. Service dogs only.
  • This campground is one of the few that’s open year-round.

Campground by the Lake:

• This campground is great for those wanting to be close to all the action. It is located directly on Lake Tahoe Blvd., and offers both full-hookup and non-hookup sites right across from the lake.
  • For a small daily fee, you can access the gym, swim complex and more.
  • Dogs are allowed.

Sugar Pine Point State Park:

• With a mix of forest and lake views, this campground offers easy access to hiking trails and the historic Hellman-Ehrman Mansion.
  • Dogs are allowed in this campground, but not on unpaved trails or on the beach.
  • This campground offers wi-fi.
  • Max trailer length: 32 ft.

Best Lake Tahoe Campgrounds on the East Side

Nevada Beach Campground:

• Located on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, this campground offers easy beach access and beautiful views of the lake and mountains.
  • Allows dogs.
  • Can accommodate larger RVs and tents.
  • Feels serene, but option for nightlife and casinos nearby.

Kaspian Campground:

• Situated near the shores of Lake Tahoe, Kaspian is great for swimming, fishing, and kayaking, with lovely wooded campsites. It’s a tiny campground, which is great for those looking for a a quiet getaway, however there can be a bit of road noise here.
  • There are only 9 tent-only sites here, so this campground is extremely quaint.
  • Park your car and climb a flight of stairs to get to your campsite.

Make sure to check availability and any specific regulations before you go, especially during peak seasons!

And remember, Lake Tahoe campgrounds are most popular during the summer months and they do get reserved months in advance. For tips on securing some of the most popular campgrounds, check out this blog post.

Lake Tahoe is one of the best places to celebrate the 4th of July. But something to keep in mind is that even in the summer months, the nights can be chilly. We were tent camping mid-June one year and had beautiful, warm weather during the day, but absolutely froze at night. Check out these tips on how to stay warm while tent camping if you plan to tent camp.

Looking for more family camping tips? Check out my other popular blog posts like Top 10 Things to Bring Tent Camping, Our Favorite Camping Games, and The Best Mammoth Lakes Campgrounds.