Looking for the best Lake Tahoe campsite? How about one that’s crazy photogenic AND low on crowds?
During a Tahoe summer, nothing is better than a campsite by a lake, with sunset campfires and plenty of rocks for epic swan-diving.
However, Tahoe gets pretty crowded in the summer. Many campsites fill up well in advance and even backpacking passes disappear weeks in advance. So if you’re planning a last-minute trip and need a spot in Tahoe that’s accessible, beautiful, and doesn’t require any planning, I’ve got one for you: Loch Leven. It is hands down the best Lake Tahoe campsite on the north or south shore.
This hike starts off Highway 80, at the Rainbow Road exit. Park at the pullover parking spot, or on the side of the road. If you’re backpacking, like we were, try to be in the parking lot if at all possible.
This trail is a total of 3.5 miles up to the top lake, but you can get to the middle lake in just under 3 miles, which actually has better campsites.
The trail is a mix of exposed rock face, lush green forest, and gravel and dirt paths. It’s also about 1,800 feet elevation gain, so don’t think it’s just a stroll. With 35 lb packs, it took us about three hours to get up.
There are three lakes. Creatively, they’re named lower, middle, and upper Loch Leven. In my opinion, and in terms of the prettiest sites, the middle Loch Leven is the place to be. When you hit the lake, head to the left for sites literally right on the shore, or head all the way to the other side of the lake for a spot on the rocks with plenty of cliff-jumping opportunities. Keep in mind that if you set up on the rock, you’ll want a tent that doesn’t stake in.
There are plenty of little day hikes up here, too, like the pretty (and easy) Salmon Lake hike, which is about a three mile round trip from the middle lake.
Campfires are allowed here (you just need to register for a permit online) and there’s no “reserving” spots, so just show up and find one you like. We camped at the top lake on the first night, and got up early the next morning to stake out a sweet spot for the second night before the other backpackers arrived.
The middle lake has plenty of small islands and area to swim out to and is, in my opinion, one of the most photogenic spots to camp in the Tahoe area, desolation wilderness included. Plus, since you can build campfires, you can skip on bringing a jacket and stay warm from the fire.
It’s also super dog friendly – we saw so many dogs and if your four-legged pal likes swimming, you’ll never be able to get them out! Our four-legged friend loves hiking, but he also loves snoozers on the sleeping bags. 🙂
There’s a reason I think Loch Leven is THE best Lake Tahoe campsite!
If you’re into it, my gear on this trip included:
- This lightweight all-mesh tent from Sierra Designs (don’t worry, it comes with a cover.) Comes in one person and two person models and is easy to set up.
- Sierra Designs ultralight convertible backpack (goes from 40 to 60 litres)
- PVO backpacking hammock
Anyone else have any good backpacking gear they recommend??
If you think you may want to check out Loch Leven, save this article with the pin below!
