Camping after summer

Campground by the Lake (City)

Closes Monday, Oct 26, 2026; the last overnight is Sunday, Oct 25. In October, sites cannot be reserved in advance and are first come, first served once you are on site. The campground may close early because of weather. Loops A, B and the tent cabin village are no longer available because of the Recreation & Aquatics Center construction.

City page: Campground by the Lakecityofslt.gov

Source: City of South Lake Tahoe, Campground by the Lake

Forest Service campgrounds

Fallen Leaf, Nevada Beach, Kaspian, William Kent, Blackwood Canyon and Inspiration Point close Oct 12. Eagle's Nest closes Nov 1. Luther Pass and Watson Lake close Nov 15. Badger's Den closes Oct 4.

Source: USDA Forest Service, closing dates (Sep 30, 2026)

Emerald Bay State Park

Eagle Point Campground and the Boat-In Campground are closed for the 2026 season.

Source: California State Parks, Emerald Bay SP

Camp Richardson Resort and Zephyr Cove Resort

The Forest Service lists Camp Richardson Resort's hotel, cabins and RV campground, and Zephyr Cove Resort and Campground, as open year-round.

Source: USDA Forest Service, closing dates (Sep 30, 2026)

Camp only in designated places

Camping on national forest land in the basin is allowed only in the areas listed in the Forest Service order. Most campgrounds have a 14-day limit per calendar year and a limit of six people per site.

Source: USDA Forest Service, Alerts (Camping/Overnight Stay Restriction)

Campfires

Year-round restrictions apply. Campfires using wood, charcoal or other solid fuel are allowed only in permanently installed iron rings at the campgrounds listed in the order, which runs through Dec 1, 2027. Fireworks are always prohibited on national forest land.

Source: USDA Forest Service, Campfire Restrictions; USDA Forest Service, Alerts

Food storage

Unattended food and garbage must be stored in a container designed to keep bears out.

Source: USDA Forest Service, Alerts (Food and Refuse Storage order)