Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, Lake Tahoe is world-renowned for its stunning natural beauty. From crystal clear lake waters that shimmer all year round to the breathtaking mountain vistas surrounding, there is so much to explore and discover. Lake Tahoe also boasts a wide array of state parks perfect for every visitor, whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon on the beach, you prefer to spend your time wandering the trees or both! Read on for all the information you need to navigate Lake Tahoe’s state parks.

1115 Tunnel Creek Rd
Incline Village, NV

Nestled in the Lake Tahoe Basin, the Spooner Backcountry is a widespread recreational and natural oasis, with a lake surrounded by aspens and more than 12,000 acres of forested, open space. The park features 50 miles of snowshoeing, cross country skiing, hiking, equestrian, mountain biking trails and primitive roads. A few of the more popular trails are the Marlette, Red House, Flume and Tahoe Rim Trails. Camping and cabins are also available. The Spooner Lake Cabin sleeps four people comfortably and Wildcat Cabin sleeps two. Both cabins have basic amenities such as composting toilets, beds, cook stoves and wood burning stoves.

Washoe County, NV

Located just south of Incline Village, NV, Sand Harbor is one of the most beautiful parks around the Lake Tahoe area. The park features sandy beaches, rocky coves and panoramic views of the lake as well as shaded picnic areas and a few different paved hiking trails, including the popular Tahoe East Shore Trail. The park is open year-round and offers especially ethereal views of the lake during the winter. During the summer months, the park hosts the annual Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, where visitors can enjoy professional performances of the Bard’s best works against the stunning backdrop of the lake while indulging in gourmet food and drinks. Once the snow starts to fall, the lake remains an ethereal place to explore, even if you aren’t going in the water. In the winter, you can enjoy snowshoeing along the beach or embrace the magic of the holiday season on a horse-drawn sleigh ride with Sand Harbor Sleigh Rides. The parking lot is kept clear of snow during the winter months.

7360 W Lake Blvd
Tahoma, CA

Another site of historical significance, Sugar Pine Point State Park features nearly two miles of pristine lakefront space to explore and is home to the Hellman-Ehrman mansion, a beautiful summer home originally constructed in 1903. In addition to historic tours, visitors can also explore eight different hiking trails of varying levels of difficulty. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach, catch a fish or two or simply unwind among some of the greatest natural wonders in the world, this park has it all.

Kings Beach

Kings Beach, California, United States

A popular beach along the north shore, Kings Beach State Recreation Area is perfect for a sunny afternoon spent sunbathing and swimming. You’ll also find a wide range of fun activities available, including a playground for kids, a basketball court, volleyball poles, watersports such as jet skiing and more. In the winter, it’s a great spot to take in some lake views as you snowshoe across the beach. Its location right in the heart of the town of Kings Beach provides easy access to dining and shopping once you’re done soaking in the scenery.

El Dorado County, CA

One of Lake Tahoe’s most popular destinations, known for its stunning vistas and historic landmarks, Emerald Bay has long been a must-visit spot — even earning a National Natural Landmark title in 1969. Here, you’ll find Vikingsholm Mansion, an impressive Scandinavian-style castle dating back to the late 1920s, as well as Fannette Island, the only island in the Lake Tahoe area. Aside from these historic sites, the park offers many hiking trails with breathtaking views of the lake — and adventurous visitors can even strap on their diving gear and explore the park’s underwater “trail” of historical artifacts.

12593 Donner Pass Rd
Truckee, CA

This historic site is ideal for anyone interested in some local history alongside their outdoor adventures. The park features several commemorative attractions detailing aspects of the region’s long and storied past, including the incredible Pioneer Monument, a towering and beautiful statue that honors the pioneers who first crossed the Sierras on their journey west. The pedestal the statue sits upon is 22 feet tall, which illustrates the height of the snowfall the famous Donner Party encountered on their trek. In addition to its incredible historic significance, this state park offers outdoor activities all year round, from swimming, fishing and boating to skiing, snowshoeing and snow play.

There’s no question that Lake Tahoe’s beauty is the stuff of legends. We want to keep it that way. When you travel to the region, it is imperative that you practice responsible travel in order to preserve the area for generations to come.

Meeks Bay, CA

No matter when you plan your visit, Lake Tahoe offers truly unparalleled outdoor adventure. Discover breathtaking scenery, unmatched relaxation and so much more when you plan your stay in Lake Tahoe.