Campground by the Lake Unveiled: A Tahoe Haven Guide

Campground by the Lake, situated on the pristine shores of South Lake Tahoe, offers a unique camping experience blending nature’s tranquility with urban convenience. Operated by the City of South Lake Tahoe, this picturesque retreat boasts 175 sites surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and cityscapes alike. As you prepare for your camping adventure, arm yourself with essential tips, strategies, and gear recommendations to ensure a memorable stay at Campground by the Lake.

🗺️ Map & Reservations

First-time campers at Campground by the Lake will appreciate the diverse accommodations available. From spaces for tents to RVs, trailers, tent-cabins, and standard cabins, there’s something to suit every camping style. While nestled among trees, it’s important to note the proximity to city amenities, including restaurants and civic buildings. Embrace the convenience while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings, but be prepared for potential construction noise during daytime hours.

For optimal planning, strategic reservations are key. Reservations are available from May through September, guaranteeing a secured spot amidst the popular camping season. However, for visits in April and October, embrace the first-come, first-served approach. Plan your camping dates up to 12 months in advance to secure the best choices for your stay.

As you prepare your camping gear, consider the unique features of Campground by the Lake. Currently, all sites are considered dry sites, meaning there are no electric or water hook-ups available. However, water is accessible at the campground entrance and shared water spigots within each loop. When packing, ensure you have standard camping gear such as a reliable tent, sleeping bags, and camping chairs. Additionally, bring cooking gear like a portable camping stove or grill for meal preparation amidst the stunning Lake Tahoe backdrop.

Clothing for varied temperatures is essential, especially during the evenings when temperatures can fluctuate. Pack layers to accommodate these changes and include waterproof and windproof outer layers for unexpected weather shifts around the lake. For added comfort during your nights under the stars, consider inflatable sleeping pads or camping cots.

To further enhance your camping experience, explore our gearlist account for specific gear recommendations tailored to Campground by the Lake. From optimized camp cooking equipment to sleeping systems, overlanding setups, backpacks, and clothing, our curated selection will elevate your camping adventure to new heights.

Embark on a memorable journey at Campground by the Lake, where the enchanting beauty of Lake Tahoe meets the convenience of a city escape. With careful planning and the right gear, your camping experience at Campground by the Lake promises to be an unforgettable adventure amidst the stunning landscapes of South Lake Tahoe.

Top Tips for First-Time Campers:

  • Diverse Accommodations: Campground by the Lake caters to various preferences, offering spaces for tents, RVs, trailers, tent-cabins, and standard cabins. Familiarize yourself with the available options to choose the accommodation that suits your camping style.
  • City Proximity: While nestled among trees, the campground is flanked by civic buildings, restaurants, and residential streets. Embrace the proximity to city amenities while relishing the natural setting. Be prepared for potential construction noise during daytime hours.
  • Dry Camping Notice: Understand that campsites currently do not have electric or water hook-ups, and all sites are considered dry sites. Water is available at the campground entrance and shared water spigots within each loop.

Top Strategies for Maximizing Your Experience:

  • Strategic Reservations: Take advantage of reservations available from May through September, ensuring a secured spot. For April and October visits, embrace the first-come, first-served approach. Plan your camping dates up to 12 months in advance for optimal choices.
  • Ideal RV/Trailer Length: With a maximum RV/trailer length of 40 feet, plan your visit with suitable vehicles. Ensure a comfortable stay by selecting the appropriate site size that accommodates your camping setup.
  • Attractions Exploration: Beyond the campground, explore nearby attractions such as El Dorado Beach, the ice arena, Tahoe Museum, and the scenic bike path. Immerse yourself in the vibrant South Tahoe atmosphere.

Recommendations on Camping Gear:

  • Camping Essentials: Pack standard camping gear, including a reliable tent, sleeping bags, and camping chairs. Ensure you have a durable and weather-resistant tent for a comfortable night’s sleep.
  • Cooking Gear: Bring a portable camping stove or grill for cooking convenience. Opt for compact cookware, ensuring you have the essentials for preparing meals amidst the stunning Lake Tahoe backdrop.
  • Clothing for Varied Temperatures: Pack layers to accommodate fluctuating temperatures, especially during the evenings. Include waterproof and windproof outer layers for unexpected weather changes around the lake.
  • Comfort and Relaxation: Enhance your camping experience with comfortable sleeping systems. Consider inflatable sleeping pads or camping cots for added comfort during your nights under the stars.
  • Explore Our Gearlist: Discover specific gear recommendations on our gearlist account, providing insights into optimized camp cooking equipment, sleeping systems, overlanding setups, backpacks, and clothing. Elevate your camping adventure with tried-and-tested gear selections.

Check out our Gearlist for the gear we use for trips like this

Our Gearlist account lists all of the gear we use. Discover our top picks, where to snag them, and stay informed with our regular updates.


Campground by the Lake stands as a gateway to unforgettable adventures amidst the stunning landscapes of South Lake Tahoe. With its unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, this picturesque retreat offers a camping experience like no other. As campers prepare to depart from their serene lakeside haven, they carry with them memories of tranquil evenings under starlit skies and days filled with exploration and adventure.

For those who ventured into Campground by the Lake for the first time, the experience was undoubtedly enlightening. From the diverse accommodations catering to various camping styles to the proximity to city amenities, every aspect of the campground provided a harmonious blend of nature and modern convenience. Despite the potential for construction noise during daytime hours, campers found solace in the peaceful serenity of their surroundings, embracing the beauty of Lake Tahoe’s shores.

Strategic planning played a crucial role in ensuring a seamless camping experience at Campground by the Lake. From making reservations well in advance to understanding the campground’s unique features like the absence of electric or water hook-ups, campers were well-prepared to tackle any challenges that came their way. The campground’s dry sites posed no obstacle to their enjoyment, as they made use of shared water spigots and embraced the simplicity of their camping experience.

As campers packed up their gear and bid farewell to Campground by the Lake, they reflected on the memories they had created during their stay. From gathering around the campfire with newfound friends to exploring nearby attractions like El Dorado Beach and the ice arena, each moment was a testament to the beauty and wonder of Lake Tahoe’s shores. They departed with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that they had experienced the best that nature has to offer in the heart of South Lake Tahoe.

The recommendations on camping gear provided invaluable guidance to campers seeking to optimize their experience at Campground by the Lake. From packing essential items like tents and sleeping bags to ensuring they had suitable clothing for varying temperatures, campers were well-equipped to tackle the challenges of outdoor living. By exploring the gearlist account, they discovered a wealth of resources aimed at enhancing their camping adventure, from camp cooking equipment to sleeping systems and backpacks.

As campers bid farewell to Campground by the Lake, they carried with them more than just memories—they carried a newfound appreciation for the beauty of Lake Tahoe and the joy of outdoor exploration. They departed with a sense of gratitude for the unforgettable experiences they had shared and the friendships they had forged along the way. And as they looked back one last time at the serene shores of South Lake Tahoe, they knew that their journey was far from over—Campground by the Lake had ignited a passion for adventure that would carry them to new heights in the days to come.