All destinations
Destination Guide
Lake Tahoe
California~3.5 hr drive from the BayBest: June–September for camping; high roads hold snow into May
Crystal-clear alpine water ringed by granite peaks and pine forest. Swim, paddle, and hike in summer, then camp under some of the starriest skies in California.
Don't Miss
- Emerald Bay State Park lookouts
- Sand Harbor's boulder-lined beaches
- Desolation Wilderness trailheads
- Forest roads to quiet lakeside camps
Trail Notes
- Emerald Bay parking fills by 9am in summer — go early or late
- Sand Harbor's boulder coves are the best swim spots on the Nevada side
- Day-hike permits for Desolation Wilderness are self-serve at trailheads
- Nights get cold at 6,200 ft even in August — the Buddy Heater add-on earns its keep
- Forest roads off Highway 89 hide quiet dispersed campsites away from the crowds
Take the Jeep to Lake Tahoe
Rooftop tent, camp kitchen, fridge, and recovery gear included — just add food and a sense of adventure.