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Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
Follow the slideshow links for information on camping reservations, beaches and picnic areas, Desolation Wilderness permits, Taylor Creek Visitor Center, Tallac Historic Site, summer recreation and much more!
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Nevada Beach Campground Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Nevada Beach Campground and Day Use Pavilion sits in the Lake Tahoe Basin of Nevada. Minutes from the bright blue water of Tahoe's eastern shores, campsites are nestled in a sparse forest of pine trees and evergreen shrubs. The lake and its sandy beaches provides ample recreation opportunities and restaurants and casinos are just moments away.Recreation
Just minutes away from the campground, 22-mile-long Lake Tahoe provides sunbathing, swimming, boating and water skiing. Anglers can look forward to healthy fish populations of kokanee salmon and mackinaw, rainbow and brown trout.Nearby, the 2.6-mile Lam Wa Tah Trail traverses the perimeter of the lake, providing scenic views and opportunities for exploration.
Facilities
The campground offers dozens of campsites, available for tent and RV camping. Some sites are in wooded areas and others are not, many of the sites have a view of the lake.Areas on the loop furthest from the lake provide the most privacy between campsites and all parking aprons are paved.
Each site is equipped with tables, campfire rings and grills. Accessible flush toilets and drinking water are provided.
The Nevada Beach Pavilion is a timber framed covered roof with open air sides. It is available for reservations for groups up to 150 people. It has 10 picnic tables and 3 large BBQ stations. It is located on the beach with beautiful views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains.
Natural Features
The campground is located on the California-Nevada state line, adjacent to the popular and beautiful Lake Tahoe, at an elevation of 6,100 feet. Tall pines have left a bed of dry needles on the ground and the lake is visible from most sites within the campground.The nearby Nevada Beach is less than a mile long and is wider than any other beach on the lake. Its subdued atmosphere is a welcomed characteristic, as visitors come to enjoy the peace and quite of the mountain landscape.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (530) 541-1537.Nearby Attractions
Restaurants and casinos can be found in the nearby Nevada city of Stateline.Charges & Cancellations
Rules & Reservation Policies
As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations.
Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will have unique requirements and policies. Please check individual facility pages for pertinent information for those sites.
Booking Window
For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility.
Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees
Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation.
Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount.
You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Tours & Tickets: You may request changes to tour dates at no cost before the arrival date. If you cancel before your tour date, you may be eligible for a refund. Cancellation fees apply. Please check the tour facility description details page for cancellation policies.
Permits: Varies by location. Please check the permit details for the permit location.
Late Cancellations
Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival.
Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply.
Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee.
Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee.
Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge.
No-Shows
Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date.
If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees.
Tours: A tour or ticket no-show is one who does not cancel a ticket before arrival and does not arrive for the tour. Tour no-shows are not entitled to a refund.
Refunds
Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure.
Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location.
Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card.
Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy.
Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure.
Recreation.gov Billing Information
Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as "Recreation.gov 877-444-6777."
Changes to Policies and Procedures
Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July
FALLEN LEAF CAMPGROUND Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Fallen Leaf Campground is situated on the north shore of Fallen Leaf Lake and adjacent to Taylor Creek. The south shore of Lake Tahoe is less than a mile away. The campground features 206 sites that include six yurts and standard tent and RV sites. The campground is typically open from mid-May through mid-October. Fallen Leaf Lake is less crowded and not as well-known as Lake Tahoe, making this a great base camp for exploring the many sights and recreational activities in the area. It's a popular campground and tends to fill quickly.
Recreation
Both Fallen Leaf Lake and Lake Tahoe offer opportunities for non-motorized and motorized boating, tubing, waterskiing and windsurfing. Fishing is available at both lakes, but anglers generally have better luck at Lake Tahoe. Guests can swim in Fallen Leaf Lake, even though there are no designated swimming areas. The south shore of Lake Tahoe offers the Pope and Baldwin swim beaches.Hikers can access the 1-mile Moraine Trail from the campground. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is directly across Highway 89 and has interpretive programs, guided walks on the Rainbow Trail and to the Stream Profile Chamber.
The Glen Alpine and Mt. Tallac trailheads are nearby for excellent day hiking and backpacking in the Desolation Wilderness. The Pope-Baldwin bike path parallels Highway 89.
Facilities
Each yurt provides a cabin-like space for a family of five or six people. The yurts sit on a wooden platform and have an electric light and space heater, but no additional electric plug-ins. Interior furnishings include a futon and bunk beds with mattresses. Cooking supplies and bedding are not provided.The tent and RV sites have paved parking aprons. Each yurt and standard site has a bear-proof food storage locker, campfire ring, pedestal grill and picnic table.
Coin-operated shower facilities, water spigots and accessible restrooms with flush toilets are scattered throughout the campground. A camp host is on-site, and firewood and supplies can be purchased from the camp store. A public phone is also available.
Natural Features
The campsites do not offer views of either the lake or Taylor Creek, but they are nestled among towering native pine, cedar, fir and aspen. Some are adjacent to wildflower meadows. Guests only need to walk a short distance to Fallen Leaf Lake, where the forested shoreline and surrounding mountains are reflected in its crystal-clear waters. Prominent peaks include Cathedral Peak (8,200 feet) and Mount Tallac (9,735 feet). The surrounding woods provide habitat for squirrels, racoons, chipmunks and a variety of birds. The campground has some resident black bears that are often seen by guests; please be safe around bears.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (530) 541-1537.Nearby Attractions
A century ago, what is now the Tallac Historic Site held the ''Grandest Resort in the World'' and the summer retreats for three of San Francisco Bay Area's socially elite families. Today, the remains of the resort and the restored estates attract thousands of visitors annually to recapture this bygone and significant era in Tahoe's history.
Charges & Cancellations
Rules & Reservation Policies
As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations.
Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will have unique requirements and policies. Please check individual facility pages for pertinent information for those sites.
Booking Window
For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility.
Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees
Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation.
Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount.
You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Tours & Tickets: You may request changes to tour dates at no cost before the arrival date. If you cancel before your tour date, you may be eligible for a refund. Cancellation fees apply. Please check the tour facility description details page for cancellation policies.
Permits: Varies by location. Please check the permit details for the permit location.
Late Cancellations
Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival.
Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply.
Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee.
Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee.
Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge.
No-Shows
Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date.
If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees.
Tours: A tour or ticket no-show is one who does not cancel a ticket before arrival and does not arrive for the tour. Tour no-shows are not entitled to a refund.
Refunds
Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure.
Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location.
Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card.
Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy.
Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure.
Recreation.gov Billing Information
Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as "Recreation.gov 877-444-6777."
Changes to Policies and Procedures
Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July
WILLIAM KENT CAMPGROUND Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
William Kent Campground is conveniently located on Lake Tahoe's west shore, a few miles south of Tahoe City. It straddles the highway and features not only a large area in which to camp, but also a day-use area that is popular among visitors.Recreation
Just minutes away from the campground, 22-mile-long Lake Tahoe provides sunbathing, swimming, boating and water skiing. Anglers can look forward to healthy fish populations of kokanee salmon and mackinaw, rainbow and brown trout.The campground is also ideal for people planning a full day of bike riding around Lake Tahoe. Bike trails that traverse the western shores of Lake Tahoe begin near the campground.
Facilities
The campground offers dozens of campsites, available for tent and RV camping. Each is equipped with tables, campfire rings and grills. Flush toilets and drinking water are provided. Each yurt provides a cabin-like space for a family of five or six people. The yurts sit on a wooden platform interior furnishings include a futon and bunk beds with mattresses. Cooking supplies and bedding are not provided. The tent and RV sites have paved parking aprons. Each yurt and standard site has a bear-proof food storage locker, campfire ring, pedestal grill and picnic table.Natural Features
William Kent Campground is situated in a residential area, alongside a busy highway. The campground has more than 80 sites, each surrounded by tall pine, cedar and fir trees.Many of the sites are secluded with evergreen shrubs and the terrain, with its shallow gullies and low ridges, helps to keep each site separate from neighboring sites.
Nearby Attractions
A day-use area is located across the street from the campground for lake access and other water activities. Tahoe City is less than 5 miles away.contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (530) 541-1537.Charges & Cancellations
Rules & Reservation Policies
As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations.
Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will have unique requirements and policies. Please check individual facility pages for pertinent information for those sites.
Booking Window
For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility.
Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees
Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation.
Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount.
You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Tours & Tickets: You may request changes to tour dates at no cost before the arrival date. If you cancel before your tour date, you may be eligible for a refund. Cancellation fees apply. Please check the tour facility description details page for cancellation policies.
Permits: Varies by location. Please check the permit details for the permit location.
Late Cancellations
Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival.
Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply.
Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee.
Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee.
Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge.
No-Shows
Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date.
If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees.
Tours: A tour or ticket no-show is one who does not cancel a ticket before arrival and does not arrive for the tour. Tour no-shows are not entitled to a refund.
Refunds
Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure.
Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location.
Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card.
Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy.
Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure.
Recreation.gov Billing Information
Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as "Recreation.gov 877-444-6777."
Changes to Policies and Procedures
Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July
KASPIAN CAMPGROUND Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Kaspian Campground is located in a mature forest of pine trees overlooking the beautiful Lake Tahoe. Campers will be nestled in a sparse forest of pine trees and evergreen shrubs, just minutes from the bright blue water of Tahoe. The lake and its sandy beaches provides ample recreation opportunities.Recreation
Kaspian Campground is ideal for visitors planning a full day of biking around Lake Tahoe. Bike trails that traverse the western shores of the lake begin near the campground.Visitors enjoy water sports on the lake and relaxing on its sandy beaches.
Facilities
The campground offers multiple single-family sites for tent-only camping. Sites are equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Accessible flush toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided.Natural Features
The campground is situated in a former picnic area, across the street from the lake. Campsites are spaced for privacy and surrounded by tall ponderosa pine and white fir trees. Some sites offer spectacular views of Lake Tahoe through the trees.Nearby Attractions
Kaspian Campground is less than 10 miles from the popular Meeks Bay.MEEKS BAY Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Meeks Bay Campground is situated between two popular California State Parks, adjacent to the beautiful Lake Tahoe. The crystal clear waters and sandy beaches, just steps away from the campground, provide a recreational escape for outdoor enthusiasts.Recreation
The 22-mile-long Lake Tahoe provides sunbathing, swimming, boating and water skiing. Anglers can look forward to healthy fish populations of kokanee salmon and mackinaw, rainbow and brown trout.Facilities
The campground offers multiple single-family campsites for tent and RV camping. Some sites offer sweeping views of the lake. All sites are close together, some even sharing parking spurs, offering limited privacy between sites.Each site is equipped with tables, campfire rings and grills. Accessible flush toilets and drinking water are provided. Food storage lockers are available at each site in order to keep food packed away from a variety of wildlife.
Natural Features
Meeks Bay is in the Lake Tahoe Basin, located on the west shore of Lake Tahoe at a 6,225-foot elevation.contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (530) 541-1537.Nearby Attractions
A couple of state parks are also on the perimeter of Lake Tahoe, southeast of the campground. South Lake Tahoe is the nearest town, about 10 miles away.Charges & Cancellations
Rules & Reservation Policies
As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations.
Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will have unique requirements and policies. Please check individual facility pages for pertinent information for those sites.
Booking Window
For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility.
Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees
Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation.
Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount.
You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Tours & Tickets: You may request changes to tour dates at no cost before the arrival date. If you cancel before your tour date, you may be eligible for a refund. Cancellation fees apply. Please check the tour facility description details page for cancellation policies.
Permits: Varies by location. Please check the permit details for the permit location.
Late Cancellations
Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival.
Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply.
Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee.
Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee.
Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge.
No-Shows
Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date.
If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees.
Tours: A tour or ticket no-show is one who does not cancel a ticket before arrival and does not arrive for the tour. Tour no-shows are not entitled to a refund.
Refunds
Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure.
Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location.
Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card.
Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy.
Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure.
Recreation.gov Billing Information
Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as "Recreation.gov 877-444-6777."
Changes to Policies and Procedures
Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July
Desolation Wilderness Permit Permit
Overview:
With numerous alpine lakes, scenic waterfalls and towering granite peaks, Desolation Wilderness is a perfect location for a summer trip. Whether you want an arduous climb or a relaxing walk, you'll find what you're looking for here. While summertime draws the most visitors, during the winter, the area becomes a popular playground for experienced backcountry skiers and snowshoers.
Thanks to its breathtaking granite landscape and surrounding scenery, as well as relative accessibility, Desolation Wilderness is one of the most popular wilderness areas in the National Wilderness Preservation System.
Long recognized for its mountain splendor, Desolation Valley Primitive Area was established in 1931 and granted wilderness status in 1969. It is located west of Lake Tahoe and north of Highway 50 in El Dorado County, California. It straddles the crest of the Sierra Nevada range, encompassing 63,690 acres, and has elevations ranging from 6,500 feet to nearly 10,000 feet.
Lake Aloha is a feature of the wilderness area, with shallow, clear waters sitting in a wide, granite basin carved by glaciers in the most recent ice age. The Crystal Range is also within the area, with Pyramid Peak as the highest point both in the range and the wilderness, topping out at 9,987 feet. Horsetail Falls, which tumbles in stages for nearly 500 feet, is just one of the area's many waterfalls.
The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail traverses 17 miles through Desolation Wilderness, from Echo Lakes to the south to Richardson Lake just past the northern boundary. An abundance of additional trails are found in the area. During the winter months, most of the trailheads are covered by snow and are not accessible. Contact a local U.S. Forest Service office for current conditions.
Visitors must obtain a permit for overnight camping and should be aware that throughout the summer months, a quota system is in place for the 45 destination zones within the wilderness. The system helps to disperse visitors throughout the area, providing an opportunity for solitude and reflection. Seventy percent of the available permits are available for advanced reservation. The remaining quota is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Camping within the wilderness area is permitted, but campsites must be on hard surfaces at least 100 feet from water and trails. Maximum group size is limited to 12 people who will be together at any given time during the trip. A signed permit must be carried at all times by a group leader. Campfires are not allowed within the area and haven't been since 1990. Camp stoves for cooking are permissible. Overnight parking may require a pass in some areas, or may be subject to an additional fee.
Lake Tahoe - East Shore Facility
The east shore of Lake Tahoe is located on the Nevada side along the west slope of the Carson Range. Access to this mostly undeveloped side of the lake is via Highways 50 and 28. Recreational opportunities found on the east shore include water activities, camping, hiking, horseback riding, downhill skiing/snowboarding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Attractions include Cave Rock, Sand Harbor State Recreation Area, Spooner and Marlette Lakes, Nevada Beach, Zephyr Cove, and Round Hill Pines Beach, just to name a few!
Prey Meadows/Skunk Harbor Facility
Prey Meadows/Skunk Harbor
Genoa Peak Road 14N32 Facility
Genoa Peak Road 14N32
Kingsbury Stinger 18E39.3 Facility
Kingsbury Singer 18E39.3
Lake Tahoe - North Shore Facility
The north shore of Lake Tahoe is half and half. Half lies in California and the other half in Nevada. Access is via Highway 28, which stretches from Tahoe City, California to Incline Village, Nevada. The landscape also is half and half, half general undeveloped National Forest land and half developed urban areas. Recreational opportunities include water activities, camping, hiking, nearby downhill skiing/snowboarding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Attractions include Carnelian and Crystal Bays, Kings Beach State Park, North Tahoe Regional Park, and just a stone's throw away, Mt. Rose Wilderness.
Brockway Summit/Martis Peak Facility
Brockway Summit/Martis Peak
Stateline Lookout Facility
Stateline Lookout
Mt. Rose Facility
Mt. Rose
Mt. Watson 73E Facility
Mt. Watson 73E
Kings Beach 18E18 Facility
Kings Beach 18E18
Lake Tahoe - South Shore Facility
The south shore of Lake Tahoe is located on the California side of the lake with the main access via Highways 50 and 89. The south shore boasts a spectrum of commercial development intermixed with recreational opportunities that include water activities, camping, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, downhill skiing/snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, hotels, restaurants, shopping, and gaming. Attractions include one the most photographed areas in the world, Emerald Bay and Vikingsholm Castle. On the south shore you will also find the Taylor Creek Visitor Center, Tallac Historic Site, Pope and Baldwin Beaches, Fallen Leaf Lake, Desolation Wilderness, Heavenly Mountain Resort and nearby Meiss Country.
Baldwin Beach Facility
Baldwin Beach is located on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, on Highway 89 approximately three miles northwest of the City of South Lake Tahoe. Baldwin Beach is a National Forest day use area operated by private concessionaire, California Land Management. Please note: Campfires and portable charcoal grills are not allowed on the beach.
Fountain Place Facility
Fountain Place
Angora Ridge Facility
Angora Ridge
Kingsbury to Big Meadows (TRT) Facility
Kingsbury to Big Meadows (TRT)
Big Meadows (TRT) Facility
Big Meadows (TRT)
Saxon Creek Facility
Saxon Creek
Echo Lakes Trailhead Facility
Echo Lakes Trailhead
Glen Alpine Trailhead Facility
Glen Alpine Trailhead
Sand Pit 12N28 Facility
Sand Pit 12N28
Sawmill Pond 12N30 Facility
Sawmill Pond is a stocked fishing area for children 14 years of age and under. Adults are allowed to help children fish but not allowed to fish themselves. The pond is located one mile south of South Lake Tahoe along Lake Tahoe Boulevard. Restrooms and picnic tables are available in the summer. Please note: Campfires and portable charcoal grills are not allowed.
Power Line Road 12N08 Facility
Power Line Road 12N08
Hellhouse Road 12N01D Facility
Hellhouse Road 12N01D
Lake Tahoe - West Shore Facility
The west shore of Lake Tahoe is located on the California side of the lake. Highway 89 stretches along this side of the lake with access via Highway 50 to the south and Interstate 80 to the north. Recreational opportunities abound on the west shore where you will find water activities, camping, hiking, downhill skiing/snowboarding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Attractions include nearby Squaw Valley USA, Alpine Meadows, Granite Chief Wilderness, Meeks Bay and Meeks Bay Resort, the Ehrman Mansion and access to the Rubicon Trail, one of the most popular OHV routes in the country.
McKinney/Rubicon Trailhead Facility
Directions to the trailhead: From Highway 89, south of Homewood, turn west onto McKinney Rubicon Springs Road. Take the first left on Bellevue and then the second right on McKinney Road (follow signs to Miller Lake). Make a left on McKinney Rubicon Springs. Go straight at the stop sign and you're at the Mckinney/Rubicon Trail and Miller Lake Road. Approximately 1 mile up the windy single lane paved road you will find the staging area and the end of the pavement. Access: Campfires and the use of stoves require a California Campfire Permit, available from any Forest Service office. Backcountry hiking into Desolation Wilderness requires a visitor use permit. The trail usually is free of snow by late June and remains open until the weather closes it again during October or November. Attractions and Considerations: This nationally known, difficult, 4x4 route leads from Loon Lake to Lake Tahoe, a distance of approximately 22 miles. The narrow passages, rocky climbs and an occasional mud hole keep the trail rated as Most Difficult. The trail is recommended for short wheelbase vehicles with all skid plates in place, and even then, you can expect scratches and/or dents. There are restrooms located at the trailhead. Good fishing and camping are found at Miller, Buck, and Richardson Lakes. A world class OHV road with a variety of Mountain Biking opportunities from loop rides to difficult peak climbs. There is a county ordinance that closes the trail the last weekend of July and the first weekend of August for the annual Jeepers Jamboree.
Cascade Falls Facility
The trail starts at the Bayview Trailhead on the back side of Bayview Campground. The round-trip to the falls is not in Desolation Wilderness, so no permit is needed. The trail is public, but Cascade Lake itself is a private lake. The trail is approximately one-mile each way, for a total of a two-mile round-trip. The trail is easy and mostly level, but rocky. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended.
Page Meadow Facility
Page Meadow
Meeks Bay Trailhead Facility
Meeks Bay Trailhead
Eagle Falls Trailhead Facility
Eagle Falls Trailhead
McKinney/Rubicon Trailhead Facility
Trail Riding 3.5 miles
Noonchester 14N34A Facility
The Noonchester Trail is a Motorcycle, ATV and 4x4 road. The difficulty is considered moderate. The length of the road is 2.65 miles.
Buck Lake Road 14N40 Facility
Buck Lake Road 14N40
Adventure Mountain Facility
Nestled on over 40 pristine acres at the top of Echo Summit, Adventure Mountain Lake Tahoe is South Lake Tahoe's premier machine groomed sledding and snow play resort. Adventure Mountain Lake Tahoe is a winter wonderland with a base elevation of 7,300 feet, making it the highest sledding resort with the most amount of snowfall in the entire Tahoe Basin. We offer up affordable fun for the entire family, with up to 16 machine groomed sledding runs and plenty of space for building a snowman or just playing in snowy paradise. Our plowed parking is located within our resort, safely away from Highway 50. We have a concession with snacks, beverages, light lunch fare, and everything you'll need to sled down the mountain. New this year is our beginner snowboarding hill, and along with our sled rentals we now offer tubes for rent as well. Come and enjoy the beauty and excitement of Adventure Mountain Lake Tahoe!
