Best Campgrounds near Tahoe City, CA

Camping near Tahoe City, California, offers a mix of stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled family trip, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the many trails around the area. Campers love the access to hiking trails, with one reviewer mentioning, "Many excursions and hiking trails. Breathtakingly beautiful," at Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe.
• Water Sports: Enjoy activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. One camper at Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park shared, "We took down our inflatable kayaks and paddled to the Island," highlighting the fun water access.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at D.L. Bliss State Park Campground noted, "We did get a visit from a bear one night," reminding everyone to be cautious with food storage.

What campers like:

• Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at places like Tahoe Valley Campground. One reviewer said, "Camping spots are spaced out enough that you are not right on top of your neighbor."
• Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. A camper mentioned, "Toilets were well maintained and didn’t have an awful smell like most others."
• Beautiful Views: The scenery is a big draw. A visitor at Granite Flat said, "The campground is in a beautiful setting, easy to get to, and right off the Highway."

What you should know:

• Bear Activity: Be prepared for bear encounters. A camper at Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe warned, "Well there is a lot of bear activity, but we loved it here."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A reviewer at Tahoe Valley Campground noted, "The General Market was randomly closed for 4 days, for inventory."
• Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busy campgrounds during holidays. A visitor at Zephyr Cove Resort mentioned, "The campground was completely full," which can make for a less peaceful experience.

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. One camper at Sparks Marina RV Park said, "This is a great spot if you have kids. Lots of stuff to do just at the resort."
• Safety First: Always keep food secured to avoid attracting wildlife. A camper at Eagle Point Campground emphasized, "It’s crucial to store your food in the provided bear boxes."
• Plan for Restroom Breaks: Make sure to check restroom availability. A visitor at D.L. Bliss State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms are filthy," so be prepared for that.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Ensure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Granite Flat cautioned, "No way our 30’ travel trailer would fit in the site."
• Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. A camper at Washoe Lake State Park Campground noted, "Flat, wide spaces with mostly pull throughs, clean bathrooms and shower."
• Be Prepared for Dust: Dust can be an issue at some sites. A visitor at Tahoe Valley Campground mentioned, "My biggest issue with this campground is the dirt. It’s this ash dirt that gets everywhere."

Camping near Tahoe City, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful outdoors!