Emerald Bay Sp Eagle Point Campground

Closed — Closed for the 2025 season as of September 1st. The campground typically operates from early June through early September. Reservations for the 2026 season will open in late May or early June. Hikers are welcome to walk into the campground year-round to access the Rubicon trailhead.

About

Eagle Point Campground sits at the mouth of Emerald Bay within Emerald Bay State Park, offering one of California's most sought-after camping experiences along Lake Tahoe's west shore. The campground features 97 campsites divided into Premium, Standard, and Tent Only categories, with sites designed primarily for tents and small RVs. The setting provides unparalleled access to Emerald Bay's iconic blue-green waters, considered one of the most photographed locations in the world. The campground serves as a gateway to numerous recreational opportunities. The Rubicon Trail, one of Lake Tahoe's premier hiking routes, has a trailhead at the campground entrance and wraps around Emerald Bay's rugged shoreline. Campers can walk approximately 2.5 miles from Eagle Point to Vikingsholm, a stunning replica of an 800 A.D. Scandinavian castle and one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the western hemisphere. The bay itself offers swimming, kayaking, scuba diving along the Maritime Heritage Underwater Trail, and views of Fannette Island, Lake Tahoe's only island. Due to active black bear populations, each campsite is equipped with metal bear-resistant food lockers measuring 36 inches deep, 43 inches wide, and 22 inches high. All food, toiletries, and scented items must be stored in these lockers when not in use. The campground provides restrooms with outdoor showers, drinking water, and firewood for purchase. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings. Maximum vehicle lengths are strictly enforced: 18 feet for motorhomes and 15 feet for trailers. The campground operates seasonally and traditionally books up seven months in advance through ReserveCalifornia.

Directions

Located 22 miles south of Tahoe City and 12 miles north of South Lake Tahoe on Highway 89. The campground entrance is on the north side of Emerald Bay. Vehicles over 18 feet motorhome or 15 feet trailer are not permitted.

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