Permits
The Forest Service may require recreation permits when extra measures are needed to protect natural or cultural resources, to restrict the number of people participating in the activity at any one time, to provide extra safety or for other specialized services.
Campfires
National Forest System lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin are under year-round campfire restrictions. Campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) are only permitted within iron fire rings in open, developed campgrounds.
Desolation Wilderness
Desolation Wildernesses encompasses 63,960 acres of alpine forest, glacially-formed valleys and lakes. Travel is by foot or horseback as no vehicles are allowed. Wood or charcoal fires are not permitted.
Forest Products
Collecting and removing forest products requires a permit. Forest products include items such as, firewood, Christmas trees, edible or decorative material, minerals and plants.
Weddings
An outdoor wedding ceremony may be held in certain places on National Forest System lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin under the operations of specified wedding service providers.
Special Use Permits
Certain types of uses of public lands require "Special Use Authorizations". These include commercial activities, such as filming, guiding, and events.
Fee-Free Days
The Forest Service waives recreation fees at selected day-use sites on lands managed by the agency. Participation by concession-operated sites may vary. In the Lake Tahoe Basin, the fee-free day applies to Eagle Falls Picnic Area and Trailhead. For more information and 2025 dates, visit the National Passes and Permits webpage.