Lake Tahoe is one of America’s favorite destinations all year round. For swimming and hiking in the summertime or skiing and snowshoeing in winter, you’ll love this unique and beautiful lake. Lake Tahoe straddles the borders of California and Nevada and is a popular RV destination for outdoor lovers, gamblers, families, and many more.
North Lake Tahoe RV Parks and Campgrounds
The north shore of Lake Tahoe is studded with quaint lakeside communities, as well as the slightly larger town of Truckee adjacent to Donner Memorial State Park. here are the best RV camping options in the north Lake Tahoe area.
1. Coachland RV Park – Truckee, California
Although it’s not nestled directly on Lake Tahoe’s shore, Coachland RV Park offers visitors a convenient place to stay that’s accessible to both the lake itself and other area attractions, such as Donner Memorial State Park and several Truckee golf courses. This private campground offers full hookups with extras like digital cable and wireless internet included in your accommodation fee. All sites are pull-thru, so you don’t have to worry about backing in after a long day of driving, and several of the manicured sites are available for monthly rentals, pending availability.
Hookups: Yes; full with up to 50 amps of service
Other Amenities: Clubhouse with fully-equipped kitchen, bathhouse, dog park, playground, laundry facilities, propane filling station, dump station, RV washing station
Price: Vary seasonally, but start at $45 daily.
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Truckee, California.
2. Truckee River RV Park – Truckee, California
A fully-equipped, private RV park tucked into a beautiful landscape, Truckee River RV Park is surrounded by rolling hills and studded with stunning local California flora. The park has full hookups, but visitors will also benefit from the on-site general store, deli, shower, and laundry facilities, as well as its convenient location just minutes from the Lake Tahoe area.
The lake is only 18 miles away, and you can reach Squaw Valley Ski Resort, Northstar California Ski Resort, and a whole host of hiking, biking, and other outdoor recreation opportunities in a matter of just 20-25 minutes. Boating and whitewater rafting on the Truckee River are also popular options.
Hookups: Yes; full with up to 50 amps of service
Other Amenities: On-site general store with deli and propane sales; bath house, laundry facilities
Price: $52-$57 per night and $325-$360 weekly; see full details here.
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Truckee, California.
3. Silver Creek Campground – Truckee, California
With good proximity to both Lake Tahoe and Squaw Valley, Silver Creek Campground is a solid choice for campers traveling with smaller RVs (24 feet in length or less). Although hookups are not available, the campground offers sites equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings with grill fittings, making whipping up your favorite meal easy. (There are also bear-resistant food lockers to keep your treats safe from local wildlife!)
Hookups: No
Other Amenities: Picnic tables, campfire rings with grills, vault toilets, water spigots, bear-resistant food lockers
Price: $20 per night
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Truckee, California.
4. Goose Meadows Campground – Truckee, California
Located conveniently halfway between Tahoe City and Truckee, Goose Meadows Campground is a state-run campground that doesn’t offer hookups. It does have vault toilets, drinking water, and direct access to the Truckee River — a favorite destination for fly fishers. Limited turnaround space means this campground is best for RVers driving rigs of 30 feet or less in length.
Hookups: No
Other Amenities: Picnic tables, campfire rings with grills, vault toilets, water spigots, bear-resistant food lockers
Price: $22 per night
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Truckee, California.
5. Lake Forest Campground – Tahoe City, California
Looking for a public camping option just blocks away from Lake Tahoe beachfront? Lake Forest Campground is a Placer County property that offers no-frills camping on a first-come, first-served basis. While amenities are few and far between, you can’t beat the location or the price at this property — and bare-bones basics like pumpable water and on-site restrooms are available. Besides, you’ll be spending all your time by the lake anyway; who cares if your home base is a little basic?
Hookups: No
Other Amenities: Portable restrooms; pumpable water
Price: $20 per night
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Tahoe City, California.
6. Tahoe State Recreation Area – Tahoe City, California
Another public camping option near the lake, Tahoe State Recreation Area is a state-run campground that offers 23 campsites for those traveling in small travel trailers or motorhomes (trailers may be no more than 15 feet in length, and motorhomes may be up to 21 feet). While there are no electric hookups, generators are allowed to be run between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., and there’s also a scenic bike path that leads campers into town offering sweeping lakeside views along the way. Showers and restrooms are also available for registered campers only; bear-resistant food lockers are also provided. Reservations are recommended and can be made online.
Hookups: No
Other Amenities: Restrooms and showers for registered campers, picnic tables and fire pits, bike path, bear-resistant food lockers
Price: Varies seasonally
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Tahoe City, California.
7. William Kent Campground – Tahoe City, California
Located directly on Lake Tahoe’s scenic western shore, William Kent Campground is another state-run camping option that combines killer views at a great price. The campground offers more than 80 sites, each of which enjoys shade cover from pine, cedar, and fir trees — and there’s also fresh drinking water available, as well as accessible flush toilets, picnic tables, barbecue grills, campfire pits, and more. You can also choose to stay in a cabin or yurt if you don’t bring an RV!
Hookups: No
Other Amenities: Accessible flush toilets, potable water, fire pits with grill fittings, barbecue grills, picnic tables, bear-resistant food lockers
Price: RV sites are $31 per night with an additional $2 surcharge on holidays; nonelectric cabins and yurts are $79 nightly.
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Tahoe City, California.
South Lake Tahoe RV Parks and Campgrounds
As lovely as the north shore of Lake Tahoe is, there’s also a whole lot to see on its southern rim. Here are some of our favorite camping options in the South Lake Tahoe area.
8. Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park – Tahoma, California
Open to trailers of up to 26 feet in length and motorhomes of up to 32 feet, the campground at Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park is a favorite for campers hoping to take advantage of the area’s winter activities. The park offers 11 miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails — and was also the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics!
Sites are available during the winter months, though they’re more limited than in the summertime. While there are no hookups available, sites are only a 15-minute walk from the water, and the campground offers a dump station, fire pits, picnic tables, flush toilets, and excellent access to recreational opportunities.
Hookups: No
Other Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, dump station, ADA accessibility, fire rings, picnic tables
Price: $25 per night in winter; $35 per night during the on season
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Tahoma, California.
9. D. L. Bliss State Park – Emerald Bay, California
While closed during the off-season, when summer’s in full swing, D. L. Bliss State Park is another stellar, affordable public camping option for those traveling in smaller rigs. Although it’s only open to trailers of up to 15 feet and campers of up to 18 feet in length, its central location is a major attraction. Follow a steep two-mile hike to the beaches or an easy one-mile to the Visitor Center. You may run your generator from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., and leashed, well-behaved dogs are permitted except where otherwise noted.
Hookups: No
Other Amenities: Access to nature trails, paved roads, bear-resistant food lockers
Price: $45 per night for beach camp; $35 per night for all others
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Emerald Bay, California.
10. Meeks Bay Campground – Meeks Bay, California
Situated between the Sugar Point and D. L. Bliss State Parks, Meeks Bay Campground is directly on the western shore of Lake Tahoe — and is an excellent no-frills camping option for those who can access it. Maximum vehicle length is only 20 feet, but if you’re going small, you’ll be able to kick back and enjoy campfires and immediate beach access, as well as flush toilets.
Hookups: No
Other Amenities: Flush toilets, campfire pits, drinking water
Price: Varies seasonally
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Meeks Bay, California.
11. Meeks Bay Resort and Marina – Meeks Bay, California
Want a private, resort-style option in the Meeks Bay area? The Meeks Bay Resort and Marina boasts full-hookup campsites which also feature picnic tables, fire rings, and food lockers.
Since the campground is part of a larger resort, you’ll also have access to the on-site bathhouses, the Wa-She-Shu Grille, and the rotating schedule of exciting on-site events. It’s right next to the lake, meaning you’ll never run out of adventure options!
Hookups: Yes; full with up to 50 amps of service
Other Amenities: Bathhouse with restrooms and showers, on-site resort amenities like a restaurant and store, organized events and gatherings
Price: Varies seasonally from $30 per night to $50 per night
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Meeks Bay, California.
12. Camp Richardson – South Lake Tahoe, California
The historic Camp Richardson resort and marina allows campers the opportunity to walk to a private Lake Tahoe beach and also has its own equipment rentals, general store and deli, ice cream parlor, coffee shop, and more. There’s even an on-site water taxi to take you to other points of interest around the lake… and, of course, full-service hookups that’ll make you feel right at home during your vacation.
Hookups: Yes; full and partial hookups available with up to 30 amps of service
Other Amenities: On-site restaurants, coffee shops, general store, and deli; equipment rentals; water taxi; dump station
Price: $60-$70 per night depending on site type and weekday; add $7 per night on holiday weekends
Click here to see RVshare rentals near South Lake Tahoe, California.
13. Tahoe Valley Campground – South Lake Tahoe, California
A Thousand Trails resort, Tahoe Valley Campground offers resort-style accommodations for RV campers whether you’re in Tahoe to explore the sunny summer shores or sparkling winter slopes. Along with its breathtaking views, the resort also boasts top-of-the-line amenities like a swimming pool, playground, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, volleyball, on-site fishing, and laundry facilities.
Hookups: Yes; full with up to 50 amps of service
Other Amenities: Cable TV and wifi, flush toilets, showers on-site store, recreational and sports areas, swimming pool, playground, laundry facilities
Price: Varies; contact campground for full details
Click here to see RVshare rentals near South Lake Tahoe, California.
14. Chris Haven Mobile Home & RV Community – South Lake Tahoe, California
Offering 96 full-hookup sites, the Chris Haven Mobile Home & RV Community is the perfect spot to settle on Lake Tahoe, whether you’re visiting for a few days or a few months. Amenities include shower facilities, wireless internet, and cable TV, and the campground is conveniently located to public transit and the local airport.
Hookups: Yes; full
Other Amenities: Restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, wifi, cable
Price: Varies; contact campground for full details
Click here to see RVshare rentals near South Lake Tahoe, California.
15. Zephyr Cove Resort – Zephyr Cove, Nevada
Zephyr Cove Resort is located in the Nevada community of the same name and treats its guests to killer views as well as luxurious amenities that’ll have you kicking back and feeling like you’re on vacation in no time. Campground amenities include laundry facilities, outdoor patio furniture at the campground office, vending machines, cable, and WiFi access in shared spaces. You’ll also be able to meander around the rest of the resort, which includes a marina, snowmobile tours, and more.
Hookups: Yes; full with up to 50 amps of service
Other Amenities: Restrooms and showers, some of which have universal access; vending machines; cable hookups; free wifi in restaurant and lobby; laundry facilities
Price: Varies; contact campground for full details
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Zephyr Cove, Nevada.
Lake Tahoe RV Camping FAQs
Now that we’ve covered the very best places to camp on Lake Tahoe, let’s answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about this area!
Can you camp anywhere in Lake Tahoe?
As you can see from the list above, there are plenty of places to go camping in Lake Tahoe — but you can’t just pull over to the side of the road and camp anywhere! Although boondocking is an amazing way to see the world and save money, it’s all too easy to find yourself on private, unmarked land… with an angry somebody knocking on your door and asking you to move. Since there are so many camping options available in the area, you may as well stick to one of the specified campsites, whether public or private. There’s an option for every budget and travel desire in Lake Tahoe!
How do you camp at Lake Tahoe?
It’s easy! You simply choose a campground, make a reservation for a campsite, and hit the road. And by the way, if you still need to reserve your rental vehicle, no problem! RVshare has a wide variety of travel trailers and motorhomes available directly from our network of trusted owners.
Can you go swimming in Lake Tahoe?
Absolutely! Swimming and other watersports are one of the biggest draws to this area, so if it’s warm enough, hop in!
The Best Campgrounds and RV Parks in Silver Lake
If you’re looking for a lesser-known (and less crowded!) lake near Tahoe, Silver Lake is a great hidden gem. You’re more likely to get a spot right on the shore here than at the more popular Lake Tahoe. Silver Lake is about an hour’s drive from the southern point of Lake Tahoe.
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Silver Lake.
Silver Lake Campground
The most popular Silver Lake camping option, Silver Lake Campground offers primitive camping for tent campers as well as RVers. This campground has bathrooms with showers, as well as a boat ramp, fire pits, and picnic tables.
- Hookups: None
- Other amenities: Drinking water, flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, food lockers
- Price: Varies by season
Silver Lake West Campground
Another great option that is very near Silver Lake, Silver Lake West Campground is less crowded. Water spigots are available, and some sites will accommodate larger RVs up to 24 feet. That said, this is a first-come, first-served location, so arrive early to snag the larger spots.
- Hookups: None
- Other amenities: Drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, food lockers, vault toilets
- Price: $30
Plasse’s Resort
A south Silver Lake camping option, Plasse’s Resort is a well-maintained option with an awesome staff. As it is a resort, you can expect amenities such as a store, propane refills, shower houses, and a laundromat. That said, electric hookups are not available.
- Hookups: Water only
- Other amenities: Propane refills, camp store, full-service bathhouses, laundry room
- Price: $40–$52
Silver Lake Resort
Another option for those who prefer something a step above the primitive campground, Silver Lake Resort is absolutely lovely. This resort does offer full hookups—as well as several other fantastic amenities—meaning you can have a super comfortable camping experience.
- Hookups: Yes, full hookups
- Other amenities: Cafe, camp store, horseshoe pits, laundry room, full-service bathhouses
- Price: $44
June Lake Campgrounds
None of the options above suit you? Can’t get into any of the Silver Lake campgrounds or RV parks? Not to worry, June Lake is a short drive from Silver Lake, about two hours from Tahoe, and has even more awesome camping options.
Reversed Creek Campground
One of the only rustic campgrounds near June Lake that will accommodate medium-sized rigs up to 30 feet long, Reversed Creek Campground is a favorite of many. The views are lovely, the bathrooms are heated with running water, and it is close to town.
- Hookups: None
- Other amenities: Flush toilets, drinking water, fire pits
- Price: $20–$23
Gull Lake Campground
Offering incredible views, Gull Lake Campground is on the small side but does have sites for some smaller rigs. Water spigots are available for refilling tanks, and flush toilets are provided in the restroom. This is a first-come, first-serve spot, so show up early.
- Hookups: None
- Other amenities: Drinking water, flush toilets, food lockers
- Price: $23
June Lake Campground
Best for campervans, truck campers, and tiny trailers, June Lake Campground is rustic but lovely. Restrooms are available, but hookups are not. This campground is less than 100 yards from June Lake.
- Hookups: None
- Other amenities: Drinking water, flush toilets, fire pits, food lockers, picnic tables, marina
- Price: $20–$23
Golden Pine RV Park
Want full hookups and an awesome glamping experience? Golden Pine RV Park is a great option. Here, you can camp in comfort while still enjoying everything nature has to offer.
- Hookups: Yes, full hookups
- Other amenities: Picnic tables, fire pits, recycling, fish cleaning station, full-service bathhouse
- Price: $45
June Lake RV Park
Another great option for those who prefer a plush experience, June Lake RV Park offers full hookups and free Wi-Fi. People love the staff here, and once you meet them, you’ll understand why.
- Hookups: Yes, full hookups
- Other amenities: Free Wi-Fi, fish cleaning station, laundry room, cable TV
- Price: $45
Camping Near Tahoe and Silver Lake
Looking for Lake Tahoe camping that also allows you to check out Silver Lake? There are a few wonderful camping options between the two places. Check out these options for come of the best camping in the Tahoe and Silver Lake areas.
Click here to see RVshare rentals near Silver Lake.
Bootleg Campground
A fabulous Silver Lake and Tahoe camping option, Bootleg Campground is a small hidden gem. Flush toilets and potable water are available in the campground, and it is located right across from a river that offers fantastic fishing.
- Hookups: None
- Other amenities: Drinking water, flush toilets, river access, picnic tables
- Price: $22
Coleville/Walker KOA Holiday
A more luxurious option between Silver Lake and Tahoe is the Coleville/Walker KOA Holiday. This resort has full hookups on every site, as well as free Wi-Fi and cable TV. There are even pull-through sites available for those who have a hard time parking their RV!
- Hookups: Yes, full hookups
- Other amenities: Wi-Fi, cable TV, full-service bathhouses, pool, dog park
- Price: Varies by site type and season
Silver Lake RV Camping FAQs
Need to know even more about camping in Silver Lake? Below are some FAQs about Silver Lake camping, as well as their answers.
Can you camp anywhere in Silver Lake?
Because Silver Lake is located in El Dorado National Forest, boondocking is allowed and there is no requirement to stay in designated Silver Lake campgrounds.
That said, while dispersed camping is allowed in this forest, some places are off-limits to guests. For instance, all campers must be parked at least 100 feet away from bodies of water. Additionally, some roads are off-limits to motor vehicles.
Be sure to find a ranger station and check with a staff member to understand where you can and can’t park your RV.
How do you camp at Silver Lake?
How you camp at Silver Lake depends on where you wish to stay and when you’ll be there. During the summer, you’ll likely want a reservation for any campgrounds that take them. Make sure the site you reserve will accommodate your RV, as not all sites will fit long trailers and motorhomes.
Can’t make a reservation in advance? Silver Lake West Campground and Gull Lake Campground are both first-come, first-served, so by showing up early, you may be able to secure a spot.
Keep in mind that most campgrounds in this area are open from mid-May through September or October, so winter camping is not always an option.
Can you go swimming in Silver Lake?
There is no designated swimming area in Silver Lake. That said, the nearby June Lake does have a lovely swimming beach on its north end.
Silver Lake Prices
As mentioned above, there is the option of dispersed camping in Silver Lake. This amenity-free camping is 100% free of charge.
If you wish to stay in one of the many lovely Silver Lake RV parks and campgrounds, you will pay a fee. These fees start at around $20 a night and can be as much as $50 or more, depending on where you stay and the time of year you choose to go RV camping in Silver Lake.
Whether you pick a primitive camping spot or one of the many Silver Lake RV parks, you’re sure to have a blast as you explore the wonders of NorCal nature!
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