Glamping and yurt camping options around Kings Beach, California provide alternative accommodations during Tahoe's peak season from May through October. The area sits at approximately 6,300 feet elevation, with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during days and dropping to 40-50°F at night. Campers should prepare for dramatic temperature shifts and occasional summer thunderstorms when planning yurt stays.
What to do
Hiking with lake views: Access to hiking trails directly from Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe connects campers to both Fallen Leaf Lake and Lake Tahoe. "Great hiking. Chill vibes. I can't recommend this spot enough. Compared to the parking lot style campgrounds or resorts throughout Tahoe-region, this is really camping," noted a visitor in July 2025.
Water activities on two lakes: Glamping sites near Fallen Leaf Lake offer access to a less crowded alternative to Lake Tahoe. "The lake, oh my, maybe the most beautiful lake in the entire Tahoe region. It isn't as big, but it is flat like glass, deep, and crystal clear," reports a recent camper. Morning hours provide optimal conditions for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Winter camping experiences: Unlike seasonal glamping sites, Tahoe Valley Campground offers year-round camping with winter accommodations. "We ended up camping in a truck camper at Tahoe Valley Campground after being caught in a snow storm. For a last minute find, it turned out to be an awesome choice. And nothing beats making a fire in the snow and waking up to a couple of feet of white fluffiness!"
What campers like
Proximity to multiple water bodies: Nevada Beach Campground offers options for both lake views and beach access. "Great location with views of the beach. Walking distance to beach. Sites are spacious enough. Saw 2 falling stars while stargazing on the beach!" a visitor shared in July 2020.
Campground amenities: Facilities at various campgrounds include bear boxes, fire rings, and designated areas for group activities. "The sites have bear boxes and even though they are very close to each other with little separation, they are big sites with lots of tall trees. Flush bathrooms and showers dispersed throughout camp," noted a camper at Fallen Leaf.
Urban-adjacent camping: When choosing a yurt or glamping accommodation near Kings Beach, Zephyr Cove Resort offers proximity to both wilderness and town amenities. "Crossing the highway to the lake you'll find the lodge with great bloody Mary's and full service restaurant. The beach boasts great views and ferry rides with jet ski rentals," a visitor explained.
What you should know
Bear awareness requirements: Bears are common throughout the Tahoe region, especially at established campsites. "You really need to pay attention to your food. Bears are not just possible here, they are likely," warns a Fallen Leaf camper. All food items must be stored in provided bear boxes overnight and while away from camp.
Reservation timing strategies: Most yurt and glamping sites fill months in advance, particularly for summer weekends. "It is hard to get a site. Be ready. Set alerts," advises a camper. Book at least 6 months ahead for summer stays, especially for larger accommodation options.
Seasonal weather considerations: Even summer campers should prepare for cold nights and potential weather changes. "Even in the summer it can snow...BE WEATHER AWARE," notes a recent visitor to William Kent Campground. Packing layers and rain gear is essential year-round.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: Request specific sites when booking yurt accommodations. "Getting the right site is important, most of the sites on the river are right up next to each other. Still, it is a nice location and sleeping with the sounds of the river is pretty sweet," advises a visitor to Boyington Mill.
On-site activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled activities for families. "They put on a ton of events like karaoke nights, live music, and smores nights. Hot showers and well lit clean bathrooms," reports a Tahoe Valley visitor, though they noted it can be difficult to "find solitude or silence" during peak season.
Pet restrictions at beaches: Dog-friendly beach areas are limited and separate from main beaches. "There is a smaller dog-friendly area of the beach, so if you're bringing your pup(s), your beach access will be limited to that area only," notes a Nevada Beach visitor. Always verify pet policies before booking yurt accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most glamping and yurt sites have minimal or no RV hookups in the Kings Beach area. "We got a 'standard' site, so we could get a nice steak at the Charlie Palmer Steakhouse, drop some money at the blackjack tables and get a good night sleep in our trailer," a visitor to Grand Sierra Resort & Casino RV Park noted, though they were disappointed with amenities.
Maneuvering challenges: Some campgrounds have tight turns and obstacle hazards. "This was our first campground after buying an RV. We had planned to be there before night fall but those plan didn't work out. So we had to maneuver in the dark. We bumped a big rock and a tree branch smacked out antenna on top," reported a William Kent visitor.
Off-season advantages: Consider spring or fall for better availability and fewer crowds. "We stayed here in our roof top camper in October 2018. The absolutely best thing about camping here was being a short, short walk from the shore of Lake Tahoe... And in October, I can almost guarantee you'll have the beach to yourself," reported a Nevada Beach camper.
