Pine Campground
09 reviews9881 Highway 89, Tahoma, CA 96142
Pine Campground
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard fee per campsite is $35.00 per night, with an additional $8.25 reservation fee.
About this campground
Nestled within the magnificent D.L. Bliss State Park, Pine Campground invites you to experience the perfect blend of woodland serenity and Lake Tahoe's sparkling shoreline. Each thoughtfully appointed site comes equipped with secure food lockers and sturdy picnic tables, all tucked beneath a protective canopy of towering conifers that filter the mountain sunshine into a gentle, dappled light.
Pine Campground accommodates tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Primitive camping is available but limited.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living legacy at this historic parkland, graciously gifted to the public by the family of lumber baron and visionary philanthropist D.L. Bliss in 1929. These 744 acres of preserved wilderness connect you to the greater Tahoe story, with the nearby Emerald Bay National Natural Landmark and the magnificent Vikingsholm castle offering glimpses into the region's fascinating past where nature and human history intertwine.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Tahoe's mountain climate, where summer days warm to a comfortable 75-80°F, perfect for hiking and swimming, before cooling to crisp 40°F evenings ideal for campfire stories. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, with daytime temperatures hovering around 40°F and nighttime lows dipping into the teens, creating a pristine alpine environment for those seeking a true mountain adventure.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,200 feet above sea level, Pine Campground offers the exhilarating experience of high-altitude camping where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath connects you to the raw beauty of the Sierra Nevada highlands.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle rustling of Jeffrey and sugar pines overhead, their vanilla-scented bark perfuming the morning air. From various vantage points, catch breathtaking glimpses of Lake Tahoe's legendary blue waters, while the surrounding glacially sculpted terrain tells ancient stories written in stone. Keep your camera ready for visits from curious chipmunks and vibrant Steller's jays, and if fortune smiles, you might witness the majestic flight of a bald eagle soaring above the treetops.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the dramatic Sierra Nevada landscape, where ancient glaciers carved deep valleys and polished granite faces that frame spectacular views of Lake Tahoe's crystalline depths. This geological wonderland showcases millions of years of Earth's artistry, from weathered rock formations to the pristine alpine lake that serves as the region's crown jewel.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include designated parking spaces and accessible campsites such as Site #155 in Beach Campground and Site #97 in East Ridge Campground.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size, catering to tents and RVs up to 18 feet.
Sites PrivacyMany sites are described as secluded or semi-private. For example, campsites #63 and #60 provide good privacy and shade.
Total Campsites250 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites #149 and #151 are favored for views and privacy. Sites closer to Lester Beach offer proximity to water but less privacy.
Best CampsitesSuggested best campsites include #149, #151, #156, #158.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
02:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Stay limit of 15 consecutive nights with a mandatory 2-night absence before rebooking.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 8 guests per site.
Groups
The group camping area accommodates up to 50 people and 10 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are forested with partial shade. Specific campsites such as #149 and #151 offer better views and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonGenerally open from late May through September, but affected by park closures due to water system refurbishment until summer 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up availability at Pine Campground.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not explicitly outlined in the source materials.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Pine Campground and D.L. Bliss State Park include 'swimming or scuba diving in the crystal clear water of Lake Tahoe,' hiking trails such as the Rubicon Trail, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. Water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at Lester Beach.
Hiking
The Rubicon Trail is a highlight, offering scenic lakeshore views from Calawee Cove to Upper Eagle Point Campground.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Anglers can fish for rainbow trout, brown trout, Mackinaw trout, and Kokanee salmon. A valid California fishing license is required for ages 16 and over.Swimming
Swimming is available at Lester Beach and Calawee Cove, but dogs are not allowed on beaches.Boating
Popular boating activities include kayaking and paddleboarding at Lester Beach. However, trailers are not allowed in the day-use parking lots.Wildlife viewing
Visitors may spot bald eagles, ospreys, and other wildlife around the park.Beach activities
Lester Beach offers warm sands and opportunities for sunbathing and launching watercraft.Cultural and Educational Programs
Summer interpretive programs and activities are scheduled.Winter Activities
Backcountry skiing is allowed west of Highway 89.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at Lester Beach.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in rings provided; charcoal and wood fires may be restricted under severe fire conditions.
- Quiet hours are From half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise.
Hazards
General hazardsNatural hazards include interactions with black bears, steep trails, and cold water conditions. Bears require strict food storage compliance.
Active alertsPark closures due to water system refurbishment until summer 2025. Limited services during this period.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 73%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Lake Tahoe Sector Ranger Station (530-525-7277), located within close proximity. For emergencies: nearest hyperbaric chamber accessible through Divers Alert Network at (919-684-9111).
Good to know
Peak season datesLate May through September.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are bear-proof but recycling specifics are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Lester Beach and Calawee Cove; access to Lake Tahoe's clear waters for swimming and kayaking.
Common complaintsProlonged closure affecting access and services. Strict bear-proof food storage regulations may be inconvenient for some campers.
HostHosts sell firewood and enforce park regulations including quiet hours and bear safety measures.
Campground Map
9881 Highway 89, Tahoma, CA 96142
Driving directionsLocated 17 miles south of Tahoe City on Highway 89, approximately 2 miles north of Emerald Bay.
Accessed via Highway 89, roads may be closed seasonally due to heavy snowfall.Nearby places
Tahoe City (17 miles), South Lake Tahoe (8 miles), Tahoma (close proximity, within a few miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Tahoe City (17 miles north) and South Lake Tahoe (8 miles south).
Camper Reviews
0.0
9 reviews
Pine Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the natural beauty and the lake's clarity but note service disruptions due to infrastructure projects.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
"D.L. Bliss State Park offers stunning views, excellent hiking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere for camping."
Based on 9 reviewsCommon Concerns
"The ongoing waterline refurbishment has resulted in closures and lack of facilities."
Based on 9 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Bring bear-proof coolers and locks to secure food. Avoid leaving scented items in your vehicle."
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews praise beach activities and clear weather. Winter visitors caution about cold temperatures and snow.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The Rubicon Trail offers one of the most scenic hikes I've ever experienced." "Swimming at Lester Beach is a must-do in summer."
Based on 9 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #63: "This might be the nicest site in the campground, tucked away with excellent privacy." Site #60: "Large and spacious with shade and river access."
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features include designated parking and campsites like Site #155 with accessible restrooms and routes.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but restricted from beaches and trails. Dogs must be leashed at all times.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025