Searching for glamping near Carson City? Glamping is not only a fun alternative to traditional tent camping, but also allows you to pack more or less gear as you see fit. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the woods or a site closer to all the action, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect glamping spot.
Fallen Leaf Campground is situated on the north shore of Fallen Leaf Lake and adjacent to Taylor Creek. The south shore of Lake Tahoe is less than a mile away. The campground features 206 sites that include six yurts and standard tent and RV sites. The campground is typically open from mid-May through mid-October. Fallen Leaf Lake is less crowded and not as well-known as Lake Tahoe, making this a great base camp for exploring the many sights and recreational activities in the area. It's a popular campground and tends to fill quickly.
Both Fallen Leaf Lake and Lake Tahoe offer opportunities for non-motorized and motorized boating, tubing, waterskiing and windsurfing. Fishing is available at both lakes, but anglers generally have better luck at Lake Tahoe. Guests can swim in Fallen Leaf Lake, even though there are no designated swimming areas. The south shore of Lake Tahoe offers the Pope and Baldwin swim beaches. Hikers can access the 1-mile Moraine Trail from the campground. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is directly across Highway 89 and has interpretive programs, guided walks on the Rainbow Trail and to the Stream Profile Chamber. The Glen Alpine and Mt. Tallac trailheads are nearby for excellent day hiking and backpacking in the Desolation Wilderness. The Pope-Baldwin bike path parallels Highway 89.
The campsites do not offer views of either the lake or Taylor Creek, but they are nestled among towering native pine, cedar, fir and aspen. Some are adjacent to wildflower meadows. Guests only need to walk a short distance to Fallen Leaf Lake, where the forested shoreline and surrounding mountains are reflected in its crystal-clear waters. Prominent peaks include Cathedral Peak (8,200 feet) and Mount Tallac (9,735 feet). The surrounding woods provide habitat for squirrels, racoons, chipmunks and a variety of birds. The campground has some resident black bears that are often seen by guests; please be safe around bears.
This location has limited staffing. Please call (530) 541-1537 for general information.
A century ago, what is now the Tallac Historic Site held the ''Grandest Resort in the World'' and the summer retreats for three of San Francisco Bay Area's socially elite families. Today, the remains of the resort and the restored estates attract thousands of visitors annually to recapture this bygone and significant era in Tahoe's history.
Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will have unique requirements and policies. Please check individual facility pages for pertinent information for those sites. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Tours & Tickets: You may request changes to tour dates at no cost before the arrival date. If you cancel before your tour date, you may be eligible for a refund. Cancellation fees apply. Please check the tour facility description details page for cancellation policies. Permits: Varies by location. Please check the permit details for the permit location. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees. Tours: A tour or ticket no-show is one who does not cancel a ticket before arrival and does not arrive for the tour. Tour no-shows are not entitled to a refund. Refunds Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure. Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location. Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card. Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy. Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure. Recreation.gov Billing Information Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as "Recreation.gov 877-444-6777." Changes to Policies and Procedures Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July
$47 - $128 / night
Zephyr Cove Resort & Campground is located on the south east shore of Lake Tahoe on Highway 50. Few places on earth rival Lake Tahoe for unspoiled beauty, making it a natural choice for those who love to explore the great outdoors through RV cruising and camping. What better place to stay than at Tahoe's most complete lakefront resort, Zephyr Cove Resort & Marina. Zephyr Cove's award-winning RV Park & Campground offers you the creature comforts of an outstanding facility and the serenity of its lovely wooded setting and lake views. Please note: Campfires and portable charcoal grills are not allowed on the beach.
$59 - $94 / night
Whether you prefer the luxuries of an RV or the excitement of tent camping, you'll be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of towering pines and mountain vistas at Tahoe Valley Campground. You'll enjoy the beaches or a stroll by the river from this South Lake Tahoe RV park. When you've finished playing and relaxing in the great outdoors, the fabulous casinos of Stateline, Nevada offer world famous dining and casino night life for your pleasure.Encore's Tahoe Valley RV Resort offers something for everyone. Bring the whole family to a Lake Tahoe RV park. Some call it camping. We call it fun!
Nevada Beach Campground sits in the Lake Tahoe Basin of Nevada. Minutes from the bright blue water of Tahoe's eastern shores, campsites are nestled in a sparse forest of pine trees and evergreen shrubs. The lake and its sandy beaches provides ample recreation opportunities and restaurants and casinos are just moments away.
Just minutes away from the campground, 22-mile-long Lake Tahoe provides sunbathing, swimming, boating and water skiing. Anglers can look forward to healthy fish populations of kokanee salmon and mackinaw, rainbow and brown trout. Nearby, the 2.6-mile Lam Wa Tah Trail traverses the perimeter of the lake, providing scenic views and opportunities for exploration.
The campground is located on the California-Nevada state line, adjacent to the popular and beautiful Lake Tahoe, at an elevation of 6,100 feet. Tall pines have left a bed of dry needles on the ground and the lake is visible from most sites within the campground. The nearby Nevada Beach is less than a mile long and is wider than any other beach on the lake. Its subdued atmosphere is a welcomed characteristic, as visitors come to enjoy the peace and quite of the mountain landscape.
This location has limited staffing. Please call (530) 541-1537 for general information.
Restaurants and casinos can be found in the nearby Nevada city of Stateline.
Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will have unique requirements and policies. Please check individual facility pages for pertinent information for those sites. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Tours & Tickets: You may request changes to tour dates at no cost before the arrival date. If you cancel before your tour date, you may be eligible for a refund. Cancellation fees apply. Please check the tour facility description details page for cancellation policies. Permits: Varies by location. Please check the permit details for the permit location. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees. Tours: A tour or ticket no-show is one who does not cancel a ticket before arrival and does not arrive for the tour. Tour no-shows are not entitled to a refund. Refunds Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure. Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location. Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card. Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy. Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure. Recreation.gov Billing Information Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as "Recreation.gov 877-444-6777." Changes to Policies and Procedures Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July
$47 - $49 / night
Meeks Bay Campground is now a part of the Meeks Bay Resort. Please go to the Meeks Bay Resort page to view sites and make reservations.
This location has limited staffing. Please call (530) 214-9422 for general information.
$55 - $57 / night
William Kent Campground is conveniently located on Lake Tahoe's west shore, a few miles south of Tahoe City. It straddles the highway and features not only a large area in which to camp, but also a day-use area that is popular among visitors.
Just minutes away from the campground, 22-mile-long Lake Tahoe provides sunbathing, swimming, boating and water skiing. Anglers can look forward to healthy fish populations of kokanee salmon and mackinaw, rainbow and brown trout. The campground is also ideal for people planning a full day of bike riding around Lake Tahoe. Bike trails that traverse the western shores of Lake Tahoe begin near the campground.
William Kent Campground is situated in a residential area, alongside a busy highway. The campground has more than 80 sites, each surrounded by tall pine, cedar and fir trees. Many of the sites are secluded with evergreen shrubs and the terrain, with its shallow gullies and low ridges, helps to keep each site separate from neighboring sites.
A day-use area is located across the street from the campground for lake access and other water activities. Tahoe City is less than 5 miles away.
This location has limited staffing. Please call (530) 541-1537 for general information.
Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will have unique requirements and policies. Please check individual facility pages for pertinent information for those sites. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Tours & Tickets: You may request changes to tour dates at no cost before the arrival date. If you cancel before your tour date, you may be eligible for a refund. Cancellation fees apply. Please check the tour facility description details page for cancellation policies. Permits: Varies by location. Please check the permit details for the permit location. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees. Tours: A tour or ticket no-show is one who does not cancel a ticket before arrival and does not arrive for the tour. Tour no-shows are not entitled to a refund. Refunds Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure. Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location. Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card. Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy. Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure. Recreation.gov Billing Information Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as "Recreation.gov 877-444-6777." Changes to Policies and Procedures Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July
$42 - $118 / night
Previously known as "Comstock Country RV Resort"
Spacious tree-covered, shaded RV sites
2 miles of walking, nature paths
Electricity, sewer and water hookups
RV Service and Repair Nearby
Free Wireless Internet Connection
Pets Welcome
Propane
Laundry Facilities
Free Book Exchange Facility
Club House
On-site Property Management
Bathroom
$86 / night
Recreation Opportunity Guides (ROG) - These guides contains information, maps, and directions to assist you in enjoying your trip to the Eldorado National Forest.Lovers Leap__CampgroundFees
Legend
The camp was buried in snow so it’s hard to judge it fairly.
Some of the sites had been plowed, so we were thankful for a spot and had fun with the snowy setting.
Well treed and seems to have great potential. Facilities seem updated.
Definitely a great location for exploring the area. Right across the street from Lake Tahoe. Plenty of retail and restaurants nearby and Carson City is 22 minutes away.
Scout
Lots of private sites; takes tents to big RVs. No cement or asphalt-all dirt. “Resort” is a bit of a stretch, this is no fancy “glamping.” Silver Lake, hiking, trails (tons!), kayaking, boating, fishing, swimming with ducks and geese, upper lakes to find. 8000 ft elev. some permanent loops with season-long residents. Open Jun-Sep. Has, market, bar and restaurant. There’s a few annual events i.e., BBQs, trail rides. Very kid friendly too. Bring your bike! Adjoins the El Dorado NF Allen Camp trailhead.
Guide
We just got back from a short 2 night trip to William Kent. It was a lovely little spot. The sites are definitely close together and the pads are tight. We have a 25 ft travel trailer and with my husbands truck it was definitely a tight squeeze. Plus our pad was really not very flat so leveling the trailer was tough. But beyond that, we had a great site. Someone else made the reservations but I think we really lucked out. Yes, we were on the back end, so as far from the lake as you could be, and yes there are cabins that butt up to some of the sites. But we rode our bikes and/or walked to the lake still, and we barely even saw any people in the cabins. Now there were other sites that were much closer to houses than that and I'm not sure I could've handled those but our site was great. The site itself was huge and really nice for my large family. There is a breakfast place right next to the campground so if you want more glamping you can swing over there in the morning. We also didnt care for the William Kent beach area cause there are no dogs allowed, so instead we drove down a few miles to a dog beach that was really nice. I dont know the name but it's to the right out of the campground, a few miles down and you will run into it. All in all, if you want dispersed camping, this isnt the place for you. But if you want a nice place to set up shop and be super close to tahoe and other amenities, this is a great spot. We had site 30.
Traveler
Great campsite with trails to hike and explore. Close to Lake Tahoe and also the Taylor Creek Watershed that has a beautiful trail to explore. Done both tent and yurt camping, both great!
Guide
This is a privately owned Resort with cabins, yurts, campsites, etc close to a super awesome river and with lots of great amenities, including a cafe/store, sauna, trails and a restaurant. The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because I didn't love the site itself that we were in especially with a $60 price tag. It was great to be close to the river, but the site was small and on a hill like a lot of them were. There were cheaper sites but I didn't see what those were like. Otherwise, we had fun playing in the water, using the sauna and having access to great amenities before going into more primitive camping. There was a fire ban while we were there, and there is NO SMOKING anywhere on their property. Everyone that worked there was super friendly and helpful and we enjoyed our stay.
LegendWe got a last minute cancelled site at the Fallen Leaf Campground, and thought we’d truly lucked out. We stayed at site 87 which is nestled among towering native pine trees on the South end of the campground and one of the few sites which doesn’t have neighbors on all sides. The sites have the standard standing BBQ's and fire rings at all sites (but we couldn’t utilize them because of the fire ban), old picnic tables and various amounts of space for RV’s/cars and the tried and true bear box. In this campground you NEED to utilize the bear boxes. They have signs everywhere about the mass amount of bear activity and how there is a mother and her 2 cubs which have been terrorizing the campground for some time this season (2018). Again, you need to keep everything (food, toiletries, etc.) in the bear box at all times. The sites are reservable, and on top of the $35 (nonelectric) per site there is a $7 fee for a second vehicle, Yurts go for $86 which do have power and a nonrefundable $10 service fee…. While the campground allows dogs, they aren’t allowed in the Yurts.
There’s lots of bear proof dumpsters around the campground, lots of potable water in strategic spots and a number of decent restrooms, and it was nice that at some of them they provided hot (pay) showers (at $1 per 3 minutes) and while the ADA has some control the standard one has no control over the heat or pressure its simply on or off. Also, the restrooms have no soap, paper towels, or hand dryers, etc. Which was a little disappointing for the cost.
My biggest disappointment in the setup of the campground has to do with the bears and cleaning your dishes. There is no dish-washing area in the entire ~200 site, ~14 bathroom campground. They specifically ask that you don’t wash your dishes in the sinks or at the water spigots as they don’t want any food particles going down the drains. So, when I asked about disposing of the dish water they said to just toss it at the base of a tree, as it’s dry and the trees would appreciate it. This doesn’t help keep the bears away… While we scrapped and collected every bit of food waste we could and tossed it into the dumpsters, ff you’re just tossing food scrap-soaked water at the base of the trees the bears are going to come for the smell… I’ve stayed at other sites in bear country which have setups for disposing of the waste water and food scraps to detract bears and Fallen Leaf definitely is lacking and this is possibly part of the reason they’re having such an issue with bears.
While, our site (87) would probably normally be a great location with the Fallen Leaf Lake being the only thing behind you and no neighbors on at least 2 of your sides, we happened to somehow book the same weekend that a corporate event was taking over the vast majority of the campground with almost 200 people….
While, not entirely the campgrounds fault it was a little disruptive to have this mass number of people come directly next to us in site 88 for their meals as they’d decided to make that site the meal prep site for breakfast (they started prep at 5:30 am) and dinner (we actually had to ask the drunk group to stop screaming at midnight) these were both well outside the “quiet hours” and definitely surpassed the “6 people per site” rule.
Otherwise this campground is in a great location to see the area as it’s only approximately one-quarter mile north of Fallen Leaf Lake. The trail from the campground was only 3 sites over from us. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is directly across Highway 89 and is a great location to talk to the Rangers about other potential hikes in the area. They also have interpretive programs, guided walks on the Rainbow Trail and to the Stream Profile Chamber (which was closed because someone decided to break it. Although it should be repaired now… end of September 2018). Also, nearby Baldwin Beaches or Pope Beach, which cost $10, or you can go to the Tallac Historic Site with tours and events at its historic buildings and grounds and the free (dog friendly) Kiva beach which is exactly the same as the other pay access beaches….
There’s also a really nice paved bike trail that runs 3 miles along Highway 89 and can be used to access all of the above. You have access to excellent day hiking and backpacking in Desolation Wilderness via the Glen Alpine or Mt. Tallac trailheads which are also nearby.
Legend
This campground was one of the nicest I've come across. It's right on the California-nevada state line near Lake Tahoe. In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful places in the US. A lot of the campsites have a view of the lake. They have sites for tents and RVs. The bathrooms are nice and there's fresh drinking water. There are some public grills to use. Really nice amenities at this place.
I personally just love lake Tahoe. Amazing hiking around the lake. Mount Tallac is a killer but gorgeous hike. Go stand on the line between Nevada and California like I did! In the winter this place is awesome too, because the ski resort has some great runs.
TravelerCampground right on Nevada Beach shore of Lake Tahoe. Very quiet where we were with little to no traffic noise. We were right near Dog Beach where your pooch can play on the beach unleashed. We camped the first weekend the campground opened. Things were still a bit wet (standing water that we had to use a board to cross to get to the bathrooms) but the beautiful weather and quiet campground made up for it. I wish it opened earlier in the season before Tahoe becomes packed. It was easy to just stay at the camp and avoid the crowds. No showers.
GuideBooked a tent site. The campground was completely full. My fire ring was at the bumper of my vehicle, the picnic table was basically in someone else’s campsite, and I had to walk up a flight of stairs where the tent site was supposed to be. The site on one side of me looked down on top of me from 10 feet away, the RV site next to me was crammed on top of me as well. Their front porch was basically staring right at my site, like I would be there entertainment for the night.
I had planned to camp out of the back of my truck for a quick overnight stay. Lots of better options around.
It is nice that it is walking distance from Zephyr Cove. But Zephyr Cove was packed. Nevada beach was only a four minute drive away and much more spacious and relaxing.
$67, plus taxes and fees, for no services and being packed in like sardines, no thanks.
LegendFallen Leaf Campground • South Lake Tahoe
$34.50 - 36.50 • Sites 078, 156
Pulling into Tahoe via Stateline, Nevada is like pulling into a Las Vegas/Up North baby. Casinos and resorts turn into camps and fudge shops. From the East you’ll pass thru all of that, past the Camp Richardson and finally turn away from Lake Tahoe into Fallen Leaf Campground. If you’re going to camp in Tahoe you’ve made the right decision. Fallen Leaf Lake is at the rear of the camp. While smaller and not as well known it is also not overly trafficked, crystal clear and surrounded by hiking paths along the water.
Fallen Leaf Campground is a massive 206+ site compound complete with its own store, shower houses and if you travel past the camp all the way to the other side of the lake (and other campgrounds) an ice cream shop. That said, Fallen Leaf Campground does a great job of keeping an “out in the woods” vibe. It is absolutely that place that families go year after year after year, but if you can get a site on the outer loop you can still have some separation, plenty of trees and with the lake so close, feel like you’re in the heart of nature. One of the better jobs by a large scale campground I’ve experienced.
But be prepared. It’s going to be full of kids and dogs and campers who are not necessarily out there to experience nature but to see family and friends and likely drink a caseload of Bud Light a day. There may also be bears. Bears are everywhere here. Or so we heard. We never saw one, but the camp staff and campers around us all had bear stories that "just happened yesterday! or last week! or in 1950!" Basically, bears. There are bear boxes at each site, and kids everywhere you probably won't be a bears first target. Just be bear aware. Across the main road from the campground is the mighty Lake Tahoe. It was okay. Lots of people, lots of choppy waves. We preferred setting up the hammock by Fallen Leaf Lake.
The showers were nice but pricey. Four U.S. Quarters for 3 minutes. You can get done what you want but no more. There are about four per loop (give or take 25 sites) but we never had a problem finding one open. There are no outlets for charging or bathroom appliances though. The older bathrooms along the inner loop are dated and worn but have accessible outlets if you need some juice. The toilets everywhere are flush and each loop has at least one camp host staying on it. The staffers were friendly, helpful and accessible.
The outer loop is where you want to be if you are looking for any privacy or traveling alone. The inner loop, with its lack of privacy, was the spot for large groups. On our second night we stayed in the inner loop and our neighbors had booked 19 sites for incoming family and friends. It’s tough being in the middle of that when you weren’t planning on joining a new family. The outer loop sites are mostly well shaded and have a lot more privacy, as well as lake accessibility if you are in the back row which I’d recommend. At $34.50 you want the best spots. It also forced me to ask myself, “How much is too much for a campsite?”
Fallen Leaf Lake Campground gets 3 Tent Stakes of Awesomeness. In Tahoe, you’ll never escape the crowds or tourists, but Fallen Leaf Lake Campground does a good job of insulating you somewhat from that while maintaining a nice campground on the edge of a lovely lake. No blasphemy intended but I’d spend the day at Fallen Leaf Lake over Lake Tahoe any day.
Pro-Tip #1: Site 078-079 are massive pull-thru sites but great if you’re tent camping. More private, well shaded and closest to the lake and free downed firewood.
Pro-Tip #2: Site 156 sucks. Unless you want to look at stars. No shade or privacy. A long way from any shower/bath house and electric wires running above you.
_Pro-Tip #3: Firewood is readily available downed by the lake or on trails if you’re willing to put in five minutes of effort. _
Pro-Tip #4: The Baldwin ruins aren’t worth it, but the walk around the lake or along the Morraine Trail is.
Pro-Tip #5: There is a decent wind that starts early to mid-afternoon coming in against the shore over the lake. It is blocked to the camp, but mornings are the best time for lake time. Mornings are glassy on the lake for paddle boarding and kayaking as well, but choppier in the afternoon.
Ranger
Campground Review
Located off Scenic Highway 4 in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this small forested campground is a convenient 5 minute drive from Lake Alpine. I camped at site 13 of 30. I headed up to Lake Alpine after work on a Friday afternoon in July. None of the campgrounds in the area take reservations so I planned on trying my luck with first-come first-serve campgrounds. All of the campsite next to the lake were full by the time I got there. Because the campgrounds further east past the lake are quite a bit of a drive, I decided to stay the night in this overflow campground.
The sites were cramped and there wasn’t much privacy. I had brought my filled 5 gallon water jug and was glad I had as I never could find potable water (though I think the campground had some). The bathrooms were pretty awful. They weren’t pit toilets but rather porta-potties (Chemical toilets) and they were rather old and unpleasant. The campsite didn’t offer any bear lockers though we saw bears on our drive up the mountain. Plus the fee (25$) seemed rather steep for the amenities offered.
Overall it was an OK place to stay for a night but definitely nothing special. Its major perk is its proximity to Lake Alpine which was beautiful! Despite the numerous full campgrounds I had the lake nearly to myself (save a few fisherman) until about 10 AM. It’s a nice clear lake with good fishing. It’s not a huge lake as it took me about 45 minutes to paddle the whole length and back.
For more info about the campground, click here!
Product Review
As a Dyrt Ranger, I also get products to test and review in the field. At this campground I tested an assortment of Mountain House dehydrated meal kits including:
As a disclaimer, this was not my first go round with Mountain House meals, so I purposely chose meals that I have not previously had to try new things. Just for reference I find their Chili Mac with Beef and Beef Stroganoff meals to be rather delicious and awesome for backcountry dinners.
As a general review, all of the Mountain House meals were very easy to make and filling and most of them had a lot of flavor. The salt intake is a bit on the high end, so be aware if you generally avoid high sodium foods. They are excellent backpacking choices because they are light weight, filled with nutrition and calories, and much more exciting to eat than ramen or peanut butter. A huge benefit is that they cook quickly with minimal equipment. All you need is boiling water, a measuring cup (key to perfectly cooked meals) and a utensil to stir and then eat the contents right out of the pouch!
Now for meal specific reviews:
Breakfast Skillet: This meal includes potatoes, scrambled eggs, pork sausage, peppers and onions. I ate this as a midday brunch as I’m generally not a huge breakfast eater. Everything heated well though the eggs were a bit runny for my taste. The flavors were good and the meal was very hearty. If weight isn’t a concern I think this would go amazing in a tortilla with some hot sauce as to me it tasted like the inside of a breakfast burrito. Overall I give this meal a solid 4/5 stars.
Pasta Primavera: This meal includes zucchini, cauliflower, broccoli, red and yellow peppers, green peas and spiral macaroni in a parmesan cheese sauce. I was a bit nervous about this one as I can be finicky abuot how my pasta is cooked and I was worried how filling the meal would be without meat. This meal was my favorite of them all. It was cheesy, but not in a mac’n’cheese way and the vegetables and pasta were perfectly cooked. The excess water wasn’t a problem here because it was a saucy pasta dish. It was very filling, though may not be enough for someone who was actually backpacking. Overall I give this meal an overwhelming 5/5 stars.
Chicken Fajita Bowl: This meal includes grilled chicken, rice, roasted vegetables and black beans. This meal was actually the first one I tried. The flavor wasn’t as strong as I would want in a Mexican inspired dish. The beans, veggies and rice were all cooked perfectly. I particularly liked the roasted veggies as they kept a lot of the flavor you would expect from roasted vegetables. The chicken however was only OK. One larger piece was still dry and uncooked in the middle. The rest generally lacked flavor. I added quite a bit of hot sauce to help this meal. I imagine adding it to a tortilla and making it a burrito could have also helped. Overall I give this meal an average 3/5 stars.
Raspberry Crumble: DESESRT!! Yummm. This meal consists of raspberry sauce with chocolate cookie crumbles. This meal was quite sweet and delicious. It cooked very well and became a warm jam of sorts. There was a separate bag of very crushed cookies. I think I would have preferred larger cookie bits or possibly bringing my own cookies next time to eat with the sauce as after a while eating what is basically jam can be overwhelming. Despite this I found it to be very delicious and give it a solid 5/5 stars.
This will definitely not be my last trip with Mountain House meals. They are lightweight, convenient, nutritious and generally delicious, plus they’re very easy to clean. I highly recommend them to campers looking for an easy no fuss meal and especially for backpackers looking for delicious low weight meal alternatives.
Legend
So this is a long term stay place that is right next to busy 395. Costco forms the other boundary. Not my kind of place to stay or go camping.
RangerWe normally prefer wilderness parks, and generally avoid RV parks. We’ve stayed in a few though and this one is by far the absolute nicest one we’ve ever stayed in!! It recently changed ownership and the new owners have invested in a first-class place! We had to find a last minute place on a Sunday due to the Davis Creek Regional park fire. We pulled in here and were helped by a wonderful young woman in the office. What I liked most about this place was that it is more spacious than typical RV parks. Also, more importantly, the bathrooms were amazing and deserving of the “resort” name. While there may have been a few rigs here longer term, their sites were neat and orderly. The location is by a highway (and behind Costco), but the noise wasn’t bad at all. The pool area is beautiful and includes outdoor grills and a gas fire pit. There is minimal shade as the trees are all new. The laundry rooms (2!) were lovely. We would stay here again in a heartbeat. Beautiful and well run facility. Does it compare to a state or National park, no. But for what it is it is outstanding!
ScoutStayed one night and was fairly impressed by upkeep and amenities (nice bathrooms and showers) but campsites are really close and there is little to no privacy. Short walk across the highway to the beach, which is nice, but couldn’t get over proximity to other campers. We enjoyed our night but likely won’t visit again.
GuideWe were happy to be able to book this spot last minute when plans changed, but our two options was a tiny spot that was just ten feet from the bathroom entrance with no barrier or one near the entrance. We opted for the entrance and it is incredibly loud! The highway noise and loud motorcycle revving goes on all night. The spots are very small, you are pretty much on top of your neighbors and no spots on the water. All are across the highway from the main resort. The check in process was also difficult and long. We won’t be back,
ScoutDecent camp grounds with nice showers! Sites are pretty much on top of each other with zero privacy. Site 176 is very close to bathroom and showers.
GuideOnce you arrive you have to cross the highway to check in. The spaces are a little tight but the layout helps to feel a little privacy
ScoutGood: right at the lake. One just has to cross the highway. (Traffic lights) The Highway allows you to experience the lack of muffler service that the trucks in the Tahoe area seem to suffer. The bathrooms are a stainless steel style truckstop style. The showers are big and okay. Sites are very close to each other very little privacy. The beach is close by and fantastic in the summer. So are the Pine Tree that are all around the campsite. The Service is terrible. Central booking is some hotline. They get back to you after 3-5days… aka too late. By phone is impossible to get through. At the campsite itself people are nice and very apologetic. Can’t do much about that though. Seems to be a big company running things.
ScoutBeware my fellow RV Campers We book a reservation in Jan 2023 along with some other friends and family from different parts of the USA for a family reunion in the beginning of July 2023. Zephyr Cove took our reservation and a deposit. Gave a confirmation number. Three days before we were to arrive, they called to cancel my reservation via voicemail. Reason, Zephyr Cove overbooked???? Unbelievable, and unacceptable. I called them. Sat on hold for over 30 mins. Finally someone answered. I tried to explain about the family reunion, and I was the only one out of our group to be canceled. All they could say was"sorry for the inconvenience", over and over. To add insult to this later. They sent me an email saying they were sorry that I had to cancel my reservation. I have never in all my years of RVing had a reservation canceled due to overbooking let alone 3 days before your arrival date. As I said"BEWARE MY FELLOW RV CAMPERS. JUST BECAUSE YOU MAKE A RESERVATION, PUT A DEPOSIT DOWN, GET A CONFIRMATION NUMBER. ZEPHYR COVE RESORT CAN CANCEL YOU AT THE LAST MINUTE". I will never stay here or any other place affiliated with Zephyr Cove knowing they can cancel you out for overbooking months later and at the last minute. How can one plan knowing this???????????
TravelerWe managed to get a spot at the last minute just before the 4th of July weekend. The campground is lovely, but sites are pretty packed together. The bathroom toilets as have been mentioned are stainless steel with no lift seat and they are unisex, but are individual with locking doors. Showers are also individual with locking doors. I appreciate that. They all seemed to be functional, and clean enough for camping. No dish sink that I could find. The lake is across a four lane highway where people fly through, though there is a crosswalk. I enjoyed it, especially as you have use of their beaches.
TravelerGood site for lake - just across highway. Nice restaurant and facilities
TravelerI paid 66$ for a walk in camp ground thinking parking was only a few yards from the camping site, but it’s actually a couple hundred yards. This would work if you have a ground tent etc to take to the camping site. In my situation I have a truck with a rooftop tent and I thought it be parking only a few yards from my site. Which make this reservation completely a waste.
GuideTight spaces but close to the lake if you want to enjoy the water and beach. Toilets and showers where filty but okay. Lots of chipmunks to enjoy..
ScoutVery simple and clean park but it is right next to the highway with very limited amenities. Their “amenities” they list online are not accurate but again it’s nice and clean. Also make sure you have a secondary form of transportation since this place is secluded due to private neighborhoods so there is no access to town via bike or on foot.
GuideRight across the road from the water, this campground was full of trees with amazingly large pinecones on the ground (crafter alert). Bathrooms and laundry facilities had plenty of hot water but could have been cleaner. No one was there in January so we were able to take the dogs for a decent hike into the back sites. If you are planning to walk in to a site with a tent the actual site location matters. Some along the edge were great with lots of space but others were very close together.
Guidea fantastic campground whether you're in a rv camper or tent. they have around 15 walk in campsites accessible from a small parking lot at the top of the hill(probly preferable for those seeking a bit more quiet). around 11 drive up tent sites, one of which we used, and a wide variety of rv parking like in rows nearest the lake. 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. if you paddle up the coast on the lake you'll find even more beach bars
GuideWe've always like zephyr cove as it's a bit away from the south shore hectic crowds. Zephyr cove rv park has a ton of rvs, but rent camping as well. Sites are very close together with some shade depending on the site. Lots of bees this year, so bring an epipen if you're allergic. Bathrooms aren't kept very clean, but the campground is very large so there are a lot of people going in and out. Staff was very friendly. Close access to the lake, and a bar is within walking distance. This is bear country, so be prepared and don't leave food out! A neighboring site left a ton of food out and a very large and hungry bear made himself comfortable.
Dog friendly :)
Frequently Asked Questions
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