Glamping experiences near Martis Creek Lake range from basic to premium, with seasonal availability typically from May to October. Located at elevations around 6,000 feet in the Tahoe National Forest region, the area experiences dramatic temperature shifts between day and night even during summer months. Most glamping accommodations include bear boxes at each site due to active wildlife in the region.
What to do
River access activities: At Boyington Mill, camping spots are positioned along the Little Truckee River. "Wake up with the Little Truckee River a stones throw from your window. Bear boxes because we are in bear country. Ample space, lots to explore in the area," notes camper Dustin D. The river offers opportunities for fishing and wading.
Swimming at alpine lakes: Lake of the Woods provides a secluded swimming spot. "Nice water for swimming. Fire rings and benches for each site. A dirt road to get to the campsite, but doable for experienced drivers or high clearance cars," reports Robert. The lake features shallow areas with white sand bottoms according to visitors.
Dog-friendly beach areas: For those with pets, Nevada Beach has designated dog areas. "We were right near Dog Beach where your pooch can play on the beach unleashed," writes Kerry V. about Nevada Beach Campground. Walking access to both regular and dog-friendly sections of the beach is available directly from the campground.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Many campers praise the sound of running water near their sites. James K. from Boyington Mill notes, "The river is right there, most sites have direct access. Very clean vault toilet, I think all sites have bear boxes." While he cautions about exposure, he adds "sleeping with the sounds of the river is pretty sweet."
Early season quiet: Some campers recommend visiting before peak season. At William Kent Campground, Layla D. reports, "Very clean campground with very nice facilities. We visited in November and we were the only ones there. This was one of the few campgrounds where we weren't bothered by raccoons."
Resort amenities: For those seeking a blend of outdoor and indoor activities, glamping options with resort access provide additional entertainment. A visitor to Grand Sierra Resort notes, "They have a bowling alley, swimming pool, casino, escape rooms, movie theater, arcade, fitness center, Starbucks, more than 5 restaurants, and it goes on."
What you should know
Road noise varies: Highway proximity affects some glamping sites. At Upper Little Truckee, Mike C. reports, "You're about 30 feet from highway 89. Traffic nonstop." However, Char P. adds, "it quieted substantially for nighttime sleeping hours so we slept fine."
Site spacing considerations: Proximity to neighbors varies by location and timing. At Meeks Bay, Steve & Ashley G. advise, "The sites are on top of each other. So you will need to pick your site carefully. This is also a popular campground and you will need to plan ahead or get lucky claiming a walk up site."
Wildlife management: Bears are active throughout the region. Jeff K. observes, "Poor bear management as a bear wandered right through the campground each night, leading to pandemonium and more noise from overly panicked campers." Most sites provide bear boxes, and proper food storage is mandatory.
Tips for camping with families
Bicycle-friendly options: Fallen Leaf Campground offers extensive biking opportunities. Shane T. shared, "We loved the bike paths all though out the area. Rode in to south Tahoe and had a great experience." Many glamping sites connect to regional trail systems.
Quiet time enforcement: Consider management style when booking with children. At Tahoe Valley Campground, one camper noted, "Nicely kept campground but no night enforcement for quiet hours. Had several rowdy groups keeping us up til 2am. A few air horns, car alarms going off. No camp hosts or ground keepers around."
Fishing for beginners: Small lakes offer easier fishing experiences for children. At Lake of the Woods, Samantha T. describes it as a "Small lake perfect for kayak fishing," while Rachel M. reports, "Kids had the best time fishing we caught 2 little guys."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions matter: Many glamping sites have specific limitations. At Zephyr Cove Resort, Randy J. explains, "Our pad was paved, but pretty skinny. Our fold out stairs did not reach the ground due to the small drop off from the pavement. I added a few boards to solve that."
Check in procedures vary: Understanding registration logistics prevents confusion. Randy J. adds, "Remember you have to park in the campground and then walk across the street to check in."
Pad quality variations: Even at developed glamping sites, leveling can be challenging. Stacie L. notes about William Kent Campground, "Our pad was really not very flat so leveling the trailer was tough. But beyond that, we had a great site."
