Ridge Campground
4.2445 reviewsnull
Ridge 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
$35 per night for standard tent sites. Additional $8.25 reservation fee applies.
About this campground
Perched high above the sapphire waters of Lake Tahoe, Ridge Campground at D.L. Bliss State Park offers an unforgettable Sierra Nevada camping experience. Each well-appointed campsite comes equipped with bear-proof food lockers, sturdy picnic tables, and fire pits perfect for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. Wake up to breathtaking panoramic views of America's most beautiful alpine lake, where the morning light dances across crystal-clear waters. Please note that seasonal closures may affect availability during winter months.
Ridge Campground provides accommodations for tent and group camping, with some sites accessible to RVs. Primitive hike-and-bike camping is also available.
Historical SignificanceStep into California's rich logging heritage at this park named for Duane Leroy Bliss, a visionary lumberman whose family's generous donation of 744 acres in 1929 helped preserve this pristine wilderness for future generations. Just a short drive away, the magnificent Vikingsholm castle at Emerald Bay stands as a testament to 1920s craftsmanship, offering visitors a chance to explore an authentic Scandinavian-style estate nestled along Tahoe's most photographed shoreline.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of mountain weather at Ridge Campground, where summer days warm to a pleasant 80°F, perfect for hiking and swimming, before cooling to crisp 40°F nights ideal for campfire stories and stargazing. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, with daytime temperatures hovering around 40°F and nighttime lows that can dip below 0°F, creating a true alpine adventure for hardy cold-weather campers.
ElevationAt 6,827 feet above sea level, Ridge Campground places you among the clouds in true high-country splendor. This elevated paradise offers cooler temperatures and cleaner air, though visitors should take time to acclimate to the altitude, staying hydrated and taking it easy on their first day to fully enjoy all the adventures that await.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a pristine wilderness where towering Jeffrey pines and aromatic sugar pines create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering golden sunlight onto the forest floor. Dramatic granite outcroppings punctuate the landscape, offering natural climbing opportunities and scenic viewpoints. A short walk brings you to the hidden gems of Lester Beach and Calawee Cove, where pristine waters invite swimming, kayaking, and quiet contemplation along sandy shores.
Geological RegionDiscover the raw beauty of the High Sierra Nevada, where ancient glaciers carved a dramatic landscape of soaring granite peaks and deep mountain valleys. This geological wonderland showcases massive granitic formations polished smooth by ice age glaciers, surrounded by glacial moraines that tell the story of Earth's climatic past. Dense coniferous forests blanket the mountainsides, creating a living tapestry that changes with the seasons and provides habitat for diverse wildlife.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible parking and restrooms are generally available in Ridge Campground. However, routes throughout the campsite may pose challenges for visitors with mobility issues.
Sites SizeMost campsites can accommodate standard tents, with pad lengths ranging from 12 to 18 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited at Ridge Campground, as sites are described as 'small' and not secluded. "Sites are kinda small, so if you like privacy you won't get that here," one user said.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended to choose sites with proximity to Lester Beach for ease of access.
Best CampsitesSite numbers 149, 151, 153, 156, 158 are highly rated.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
15 nights consecutively with a mandatory 2-night absence before rebooking.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 50 people and 10 vehicles, according to official sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites primarily organized in loops within Ridge Campground.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen during summer and closed in winter due to heavy snowfall (May through September).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via www.parks.ca.gov or by calling 800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may offer walk-up availability; early arrival recommended to secure spots during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyStandard cancellation policies apply; specific details not provided.
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ridge Campground offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and access to Lester Beach. "The Rubicon Trail is a wonderful day hike with spectacular views of Lake Tahoe," says one user. Swimming is popular at Lester Beach, though dogs are not allowed in the water.
Hiking
The Rubicon Trail, accessible from Ridge Campground, provides scenic views of Lake Tahoe. "Wonderful place for quick day hikes," notes one user, while others highlight the old lighthouse as a unique feature.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
Fishing opportunities include rainbow, brown, and Mackinaw trout, as well as Kokanee salmon. A valid California fishing license is required for anglers aged 16 and over.Swimming
Swimming is available at Lester Beach, which connects to Ridge Campground. "The beach is gorgeous, and the water is crystal clear," says one reviewer. However, dogs are not permitted in swimming areas.Boating
Boating is available, and Lester Beach is a popular site for launching kayaks and paddleboards. Trailers are not allowed in day-use parking lots.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is common, including sightings of chipmunks, Steller’s jays, and occasionally bald eagles or osprey.Beach activities
Beach activities include sunbathing and swimming in the turquoise waters of Lake Tahoe. Lester Beach is described as 'beautiful' and a highlight of the area.Winter Activities
Winter camping and activities are limited, with heavy snowfall potentially restricting road access. No specific winter activities are detailed.Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming are popular water sports accessible from Lester Beach.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings. Seasonal fire bans possible during extreme conditions.
- Quiet hours enforced; noise complaints may result in removal from the campground.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are active; strict food storage guidelines enforced. Yellow jackets reported in user reviews as being a nuisance during cooking.
Active alertsPark currently closed for water system refurbishment; expected reopening in summer 2025.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 19.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Sierra District Ranger Station; contact during winter conditions: 530-525-7277.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate May through September.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, and bear-proof dumpsters are provided to reduce negative encounters with local wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresNear Lester Beach and Calawee Cove; access to Lake Tahoe for swimming and kayaking.
Common complaintsUser reviews cite frequent closures, limited parking availability, and excessive yellow jacket presence.
Hostnull
Campground Map
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Driving directionsLocated 17 miles south of Tahoe City on Highway 89 and approximately 2 miles north of Emerald Bay.
Accessible from Highway 89. Seasonal closures may limit access during winter due to heavy snowfall.Nearby places
Tahoe City (17 miles, approximately 30 minutes), South Lake Tahoe (8 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Emerald Bay (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Tahoe City (17 miles) or South Lake Tahoe (8 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.2
45 reviews
Ridge Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Ridge Campground receives mixed reviews from users. Positive highlights include the spectacular scenery, well-maintained sites, and access to Lester Beach. Complaints focus on overcrowding, yellow jackets, and strict policies enforced by rangers. "Absolutely beautiful with majestic beaches," says one user, while another mentions, "Bathrooms were somewhat clean."
Review Summaries
Based on 45 reviews
What Campers Love
Users consistently praise the gorgeous scenery, proximity to Lester Beach, and excellent hiking opportunities. "The Rubicon Trail offers breathtaking views," and "Clean campground amidst pine...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include overcrowding, strict enforcement by park rangers, yellow jacket infestations, and limited privacy at campsites. "Cooking is nearly impossible with yellow jackets," and "Sites are...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early for parking, as spots fill up quickly by mid-morning. Bring sufficient food and water, and prepare for encounters with wildlife. Be mindful of strict food storage rules to avoid bear...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to warmer temperatures and access to Lester Beach. Winter camping is limited due to heavy snowfall and low temperatures.
Based on 45 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Dreamy campground with steps to a wonderful beach with incredible views" - Matt Rogers; "Absolutely beautiful with majestic beaches" - Tanvir Ahmad; "Cooking is nearly impossible with yellow...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 157 and 159 are considered prime real estate, located close to Lester Beach. However, privacy is limited, and sites are small. Best campsites include 149, 151, 153, 156, and 158.
Based on 45 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible parking and restrooms are generally available, though routes may pose challenges for mobility-impaired users.
Based on 45 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed and supervised at all times. Dogs are not permitted on trails or in swimming areas, which some users find restrictive.
Based on 45 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025