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Camping & Cabins
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Lake Tahoe offers many types of camping opportunities. Whether you enjoy the convenience of a full-service cabin or campground, or the secluded primitiveness of backcountry and wilderness camping, National Forest lands at Lake Tahoe have something for everyone. For cabin rental information, follow the "Find An Area" link on the right side of this page, then select the area you are interested in. Dispersed also known as car camping is not permitted on National Forest lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin.
Campfires and Fire Restrictions
- National Forest System lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin are under year-round fire restrictions. This means campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) are only permitted within permanent iron fire rings in developed campgrounds, such as Fallen Leaf or Nevada Beach. Read More
- Campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) are never permitted in Desolation Wilderness or Meiss Country; along the Pacific Crest or Tahoe Rim trails; on National Forest roads, trails or trailheads; in rock fire rings; on National Forest beaches; or in the general forest.
- Portable propane stoves that have an on/off switch or valve are allowed with a valid permit as long as enhanced fire restrictions are not in effect.
- Enhanced fire restrictions can go into effect during periods of increased fire danger. This means campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) and propane appliances may be restricted.
Developed Campgrounds
Developed campgrounds offer a range of facilities for the tent or RV camper. All developed campgrounds at Lake Tahoe charge a fee and there are many to choose from around the lake. The open season for campgrounds is dependent on snowfall, but they are generally open from Memorial Day through mid-October. For more information on developed campgrounds, visit Campgrounds in the Lake Tahoe Basin.
Backcountry and Wilderness Camping
Wilderness camping is available in the Desolation, Granite Chief and Mt. Rose wildernesses. Permits may be required. When camping in the backcountry or wilderness always minimize your impacts on the land and practice Leave No Trace principles.