South Lake Tahoe is arguably one of the most beautiful places in North America, if not the world. It’s tucked into the Sierra Nevada Mountains with crystal clear blue waters bordered by boulders, ancient trees, and sandy beaches. It’s a ski resort mecca, world-renowned hiking destination and nature lover’s paradise.
At Embarc Dispensary, we can’t get enough of Tahoe’s gorgeous natural landscape and bustling downtown scene but to truly bask in the natural environment, we prefer camping. After all, there’s nothing quite like waking up to the crisp smell of pine trees in the woods. Light up a preroll and get your campsite coffee brewing, we’re going to take you on a tour of South Lake Tahoe’s best campgrounds.
Located at the base of its namesake lake, Fallen Leaf Campground is a crowd pleaser. It’s located nearby Fallen Leaf Lake, the city of South Lake Tahoe and Lake Tahoe itself. It’s home to over 200 RV and tent sites tucked onto national forest land, with basic amenities like flush toilets, fire pits and grills. Bring your pets, or bike down to the Lake to enjoy a dip during the summer months.
The small Bayview Campground is located directly across the highway from Inspiration Point Lookout and you can hike right from the site to some of the most popular trails in the area including Cascade Falls, Granite Lake, and even Desolation Wilderness.
It’s along Highway 89, so it’s not exactly isolated but it’s easy access to some top sights in the area, with a lookout point right across the road. There’s only 12 spots, which can accommodate tents and small RVs. The campground is at an elevation of 7,100 feet, so nights can be cold, even in the middle of summer.
At Camp Shelley, campsites are comfortable and well-equipped with parking, a fire pit, picnic table, grill and nearby restroom facilities with flush toilets and hot showers.
Located on the side of Hwy 89, Camp Shelley offers classic forest camping vibes all at just about 1.5 miles from Lake Tahoe. If you choose to stay at one of the 25 spots available here, you’ll be one of the lucky few that can walk or bike to the water without waiting in traffic or paying for parking, making it well worth it.
Camp Richardson boasts over 300 tent and RV sites, plus cabins and vacation rentals. Visitors can choose a site at one of two awesome campground locations; on the lakeside of Hwy 89, or tucked into the forest across the road.
Camp Richardson is a Tahoe institution—it even has a lakefront restaurant, marina, general store, ice cream parlor, mountain sports center and coffee shop all located on the property. If you want to camp but also want the ease of amenities, this is the place for you.
Eagle Point Campground reservations sell out six to seven months in advance – and it’s easy to see why. The campground sits at the edge of Emerald Bay with spectacular views, it has a private beach and it’s right by the famed Rubicon Trail, which winds its way through the nearby forest.
The site is best suited for tent camping, but there are some amenities, including a hot pay-shower and new restrooms. Stay here and enjoy all the natural wonders.
At Embarc, we love Lake Tahoe. In fact, 1% of our sales go directly back to the areas we serve, so every time you shop with us, your money is going towards the community. Stop by our dispensary and we’ll hook you up with the perfect products to pair with your camping adventures.
