Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use Area
This is a day-use area only with no overnight camping. Opens May 22, 2026 and typically remains open through mid-October. Overnight parking is permitted only for backpackers with valid Desolation Wilderness permits.
Flood Watch issued July 20 at 12:17PM PDT until July 21 at 11:00PM PDT by NWS Reno NV
* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible due to thunderstorms. * WHERE...Portions of east central California, including the following area, Greater Lake Tahoe Area and western Nevada, including the following areas, Greater Lake Tahoe Area and Greater Reno-Carson City-Minden Area. * WHEN...From Tuesday afternoon through Tuesday evening. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of creeks, streams, urban areas, burn scars, and areas near steep terrain. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Deeper monsoonal moisture combined with daytime heating will produce scattered thunderstorms Tuesday afternoon and evening. Slower moving storms could redevelop over similar areas, increasing the risk for heavy rainfall capable of producing flash flooding. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
About
Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use Area sits on the south shore of Lake Tahoe near Emerald Bay at 7,100 feet elevation. This heavily-used day-use facility provides access to Desolation Wilderness via popular trails including the routes to Cascade Falls and Granite Lake. The site features vault restrooms (seasonal) and picnic tables in a forested setting. This is strictly a day-use area with no overnight camping permitted at the trailhead. Backpackers entering Desolation Wilderness may park overnight only if they have obtained the required wilderness permit in advance. Day hikers can pick up day-use permits at the self-serve station on site. Bear canisters are mandatory for overnight wilderness trips. Wood and charcoal fires are prohibited. Propane appliances with an on/off valve are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. All visitors must pay a day-use fee via QR code through the Recreation.gov mobile app on a first-come, first-served basis.
Directions
Take Highway 89 north from South Lake Tahoe approximately eight miles to the Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use area located across from Inspiration Point.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (530) 543-2600 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| USFS Bayview Trailhead Page | |
| Recreation.gov Day Use Pass |
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