Experience high-country relaxation at Lake Valley State Recreation Area. It is nestled just 3½ miles southeast of South Lake Tahoe along U.S. 50 in California. At an elevation above 6,200 ft, this alpine lakeside park blends forest, water, and seasonal adventure—perfect for families, anglers, paddlers, equestrians and winter explorers.
What Makes Lake Valley State Recreation Area Unique
Lake Valley is set amid the towering Sierra Nevada. It offers classic reservoir recreation. The 18-hole golf course, designed for mountain play, is also a championship course. Shots soar farther in the thin air. Come summer, its crisp alpine ambience draws water lovers; in winter, cross-country skiing and rented snowmobiles turn the golf fairways into snowy playgrounds.
Top Activities & Amenities
🏕️ Camping & RV Sites
The park offers well-maintained campsites under mixed conifers. RV-friendly spots include fire rings, BBQ grills, drinking water spigots, restrooms and coin-operated showers. A dump station is on-site for easy hookups.
🥾 Hiking & Horseback Trails
Forest-and-meadow trails circle the lake and climb into the backcountry—linking to Tahoe’s extensive trail network. Equestrian camping and staging areas allow riders to explore longer routes through pine-scented ridges.
🚣 Boating & Paddlecraft
A public boat launch ramp serves motorboats, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. Calm summer waters near sunrise offer serene paddling with mountain vistas.
🎣 Fishing & Swimming
The lake is stocked with trout and contains bass and panfish—ideal for shoreline and dock anglers. A designated swim area along the shore allows refreshing dips in summer’s warmth.
🦌 Wildlife Viewing & Picnicking
Forest edge zones are frequented by deer, squirrels and diverse songbirds; keep binoculars ready. Picnic areas with tables and grills are tucked beneath pine shade—great for family lunches or romantic sunset meals.
⛳ Golf Course & Winter Sports
The adjacent Lake Tahoe Golf Course features an 18-hole layout with cart rentals, clubhouse dining and snack service. In snowy months, its fairways double as groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowmobile rentals.
🌲 Group Areas & Recreation Courts
Group campsites and picnic shelters host reunions and outdoor gatherings. A play area includes a volleyball court and small basketball pad to keep kids (and adults) active.
Visitor Tips
- Hours & Seasons: Park open May–October (8 am–8 pm) and winter season (11:30 am–8 pm). Golf course follows seasonal hours.
- Reservations & Fees: Campsites require reservation; check rates on ReserveCalifornia. Day-use passes and golf fees apply.
- Pets: Dogs allowed on leash in day-use & campground areas, but restricted on trails to protect wildlife.
- Boating: All boats must carry proper safety equipment; paddlecraft are welcome—no invasive species inspection required for local trailered boats.
- Trail Access: High-elevation trails may hold snowpack into June—bring good footwear and check current conditions.
- Wildlife & Fire Safety: Use food lockers to avoid bears; fires only in provided rings and during open season.
- Winter Recreation: Snowmobile and ski gear rental near the clubhouse; check trail grooming updates.
- Cell & Wi‑Fi: Cell reception is limited; the golf clubhouse offers Wi‑Fi access.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
For alpine serenity, plan a late spring visit—wildflowers blanket meadows and the lake mirrors snow-covered peaks. Launch a kayak at dawn for mist-draped alpine reflections. In winter, trade paddle for ski: cross-country tracks laid along fairways offer a peaceful glide with panoramic views. Don’t miss the local secret: follow the forest trail beyond the boat launch toward Upper Truckee River to find a shaded swimming hole that only regulars know—a perfect spot to cool off on a summer afternoon.