Camping options near Stateline, Nevada range from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks, with elevations averaging 6,200 feet along the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-80°F, while winter camping requires preparation for below-freezing conditions and significant snowfall. Several campgrounds remain accessible year-round, though amenities and site availability vary seasonally.
What to do
Winter exploration: Lake Tahoe's snowy shoreline offers unique camping opportunities. At Tahoe Valley Campground, "We ended up camping in a truck camper after being caught in a snow storm. For a last minute find, it turned out to be an awesome choice. It was the weekend after Thanksgiving and snowing so there were a handful of people at the campground and the entire place was very quiet." Winter campers should expect freezing temperatures but can enjoy the serene beauty of snow-covered pines.
Paddling at Fallen Leaf Lake: For a quieter water experience than Lake Tahoe, visit Fallen Leaf Campground. "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. It is cold as an icicle–colder." Bring paddleboards or kayaks for morning use when the lake is calmest. Morning hours provide glassy conditions while afternoons bring stronger winds.
Hiking trail access: Many campgrounds connect directly to hiking paths. At D.L. Bliss State Park Campground, "Rubicon trail is absolutely stunning, and can be rather long since it goes into emerald bay. Nonetheless worth the hike." The trail follows Lake Tahoe's shoreline with spectacular views of the water and surrounding mountains. Early morning starts are recommended during summer to avoid crowds.
What campers like
Proximity to Lake Tahoe: Many campers value short walking distances to water access. At Meeks Bay, "The beach is about a 5 minute walk from any spot. The camp hosts are sweet offer wood, clean bathrooms, and fresh water." Families especially appreciate the convenience of nearby beach access without needing to drive to lake entry points.
Spacious campsites with amenities: Campers frequently mention appreciating well-designed sites. "Sites have lots of space, table, fire ring and generally level drive pads. Water spigots are not too far. Showers scattered throughout camp though not every bathroom has them." Fallen Leaf Campground receives consistent positive feedback for sites that balance privacy with access to facilities.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds with well-maintained bathrooms earn better reviews. At Eagle Point Campground, "Super clean site, friendly park rangers, and loved the easy hike down to the private beach." Many campsites now offer token-operated showers (typically $1 per 3 minutes) and regularly cleaned restroom facilities.
What you should know
Bear activity is significant year-round: Bears frequently visit campgrounds throughout the Tahoe Basin. "We had a bear visit our campsite, so it's crucial to store your food in the provided bear boxes, and the campground staff enforces this rule diligently." Bear boxes are mandatory at all sites, and rangers actively patrol for compliance. Never leave food or scented items in vehicles.
Reservation requirements vary seasonally: Most campgrounds fill completely during summer weekends. At Nevada Beach Campground, "Always enjoy our time here. Campsites are wide and the place is clean and well cared for by staff. Close to shopping and beach." Reservations should be made months in advance for summer visits, while shoulder season (May and September) offers greater site availability.
Site privacy differences: Campground layouts vary significantly around Lake Tahoe. "We'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." Research specific site numbers before booking, as privacy and shade can differ dramatically within the same campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly activities: Some locations offer organized recreation. "They put on a ton of events like karaoke nights, live music, and smores nights. Hot showers and well lit clean bathrooms." Tahoe Valley Campground provides structured activities throughout summer for children of various ages.
Consider noise levels when selecting sites: Traffic noise impacts some campgrounds more than others. "This campground is in the heart of South Lake Tahoe. It is right on Highway 50. There is loud traffic noise day and night." Campground by the Lake is convenient but noisier than more secluded options farther from main roads.
Beach access with children: Not all beach areas are equally family-friendly. "Great campground. Nicely spaced and maintained campground surrounded by wilderness and beaches." Choose campgrounds with gradual water entry points rather than steep drop-offs for safer swimming with young children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability varies widely: Full-service sites are limited in the Tahoe area. "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers." Tahoe Valley Campground offers some of the most comprehensive RV services in the region.
Winter RV camping considerations: Year-round campgrounds may have frozen water connections. "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." Always confirm site specifications match your camping setup, especially for winter stays.
Traffic and access limitations: Large rigs face challenges on some Tahoe roads. "Traffic getting in and out can be a bit of a pain in the busy season." Plan arrivals and departures outside peak traffic hours (typically mid-morning to mid-afternoon), especially during summer and holiday periods when roads around Lake Tahoe become congested.
