Water Activities

The cool, sparkling waters of beautiful Lake Tahoe and the surrounding area of the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit can be a welcome relief from the heat and sun of California and Nevada summers. Always use caution when enjoying the water. Never swim, float or paddle alone and always wear approved floatation devices. Keep children close at all times and Know Before You Go!

The water in Lake Tahoe is cold, especially in the spring when snow is melting and filling area streams, rivers and lakes. Visitors should always exercise caution when swimming and participating in water activities in Lake Tahoe and surrounding water bodies. Cold Water Shock is real and can be life-threatening. Wearing a life jacket, even if you're a strong swimmer, significantly increases your chance of survival when exposed to cold water. Learn how Cold Water Shock affects the body and view helpful tips on how to prevent it at National Weather Service: Cold Water Hazards and Safety.

Boating - Motorized

All unsealed, motorized watercraft must be decontaminated before entering Lake Tahoe. Visit Lake Tahoe Boat Inspections to learn more. Watercraft are a leading cause for spreading aquatic invasive species into new waterways. Mandatory inspections and decontaminations stop aquatic invaders before they enter the water. Thank you for helping protect Lake Tahoe from the devastating environmental and economic impacts of aquatic invasive species!

Boating: Non-Motorized (Beachgoers, Anglers, Canoes, Kayaks, Paddleboards, Wind Surfers)

All non-motorized watercraft and gear must be Clean, Drained, and Dry before and after launching to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Paddlers, canoer, kayakers, anglers, and other beachgoers are encouraged to watch the 5-minute training video to become certified as a Tahoe Keeper.

Swimming
Designated National Forest swim beaches on Lake Tahoe include Baldwin, Camp Richardson, Pope, Meeks Bay, Nevada, Round Hill, William Kent and Zephyr Cove beaches.

Be sure to plan ahead for family safety while swimming regarding personal floatation devices, water currents, temperature of the water that could cause hypothermia, and while swimming near motorized boats.

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