Bayview Trailhead And Day-Use Area
3.9412 reviews35 College Drive South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Bayview Trailhead And Day-Use Area
$18.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
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
Camping costs $18 per day, with an additional $2 per day on national holidays.
About this campground
Nestled in the enchanting south shore of Lake Tahoe, Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use Area offers an intimate escape into nature with just 12 first-come, first-served campsites. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to the legendary Desolation Wilderness, where adventures await along the scenic Granite Lakes Trail and the cascading beauty of Cascade Falls Trail. Perfect for those seeking a quieter alternative to larger campgrounds, Bayview combines accessibility with the authentic wilderness experience that makes Lake Tahoe unforgettable.
Bayview Campground is a small, rustic campground primarily catering to tent campers. It features basic amenities and offers direct access to the Desolation Wilderness trailhead.
Historical SignificanceBayview stands as a cherished portal to the Desolation Wilderness, a federally protected sanctuary that has captivated adventurers for generations. This pristine landscape preserves not just untouched natural beauty, but also the legacy of early conservationists who fought to protect these wild spaces. Today, the campground continues this tradition, offering modern explorers the same sense of wonder and discovery that has drawn people to these mountains throughout history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Sierra Nevada weather at Bayview, where each season paints the landscape in dramatically different hues. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for hiking and exploration, while late spring and early fall wrap the forest in crisp, invigorating air. Winter transforms this alpine retreat into a snow-covered wonderland, with freezing temperatures and pristine snowfall creating a completely different camping experience for the hardy adventurer.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,800 feet above sea level, Bayview offers the refreshing coolness of true mountain air and serves as your launching point into the alpine forest realm. This elevation creates the perfect climate for comfortable summer camping while providing access to higher altitude trails that wind through spectacular mountain terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering White firs and majestic Sugar pines that create a natural canopy over the campground, offering blessed shade on warm summer days. From this forested haven at 6,800 feet, prepare to have your breath taken away by panoramic vistas of the jewel-like Emerald Bay and the vast expanse of Lake Tahoe stretching toward the horizon. The interplay of forest, water, and mountain creates a visual symphony that changes with every shift of light throughout the day.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Lake Tahoe Basin, Bayview showcases the dramatic geological story written in granite and carved by ancient glaciers. This alpine forest ecosystem sits at the doorstep of Desolation Wilderness, where weathered granite formations tell tales of volcanic activity and ice age sculpting. The unique geography creates a diverse landscape of rocky outcroppings, dense forests, and crystalline waters that defines the Tahoe experience.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair-friendly. However, no other specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, allowing for room between them and ample shade provided by surrounding conifers.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy is moderate; the sites are described as surrounded by trees but located in a single loop, which may limit seclusion. The area is busy during the day due to trailhead traffic.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are shaded and spacious, providing privacy and room for hammocks. "Many awesome hiking trails" originate near the campground.
Best CampsitesReviews indicate campsite choices depend on availability but provide no specific recommendations.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site can accommodate one car.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites at Bayview Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle loop with 12 sites in a shaded setting.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 13 through October 14, weather-dependent.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis only. "No reservations" policy noted.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules are not provided. This campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bayview Campground offers activities primarily centered on hiking, wildlife viewing, and fishing. The campground provides direct access to the Desolation Wilderness trailhead, and nearby hiking trails like the Cascade Falls Trail and Granite Lakes Trail are popular. Fishing opportunities are available at Lake Tahoe, approximately 8 miles away.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to Desolation Wilderness and nearby trails. The Cascade Falls Trail is a short 0.75-mile hike suitable for most skill levels, and the Granite Lakes Trail spans 1 mile and allows both foot and horse travel. These trails are heavily trafficked, especially on weekends.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 is available in nearby Lake Tahoe, 8 miles from the campground. However, specific details about fish species or fishing conditions are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The area is part of Lake Tahoe's natural habitat, which includes diverse wildlife. Specific species are not detailed in the materials.Winter Activities
None mentioned, as the campground is open seasonally from mid-May through mid-October.Water Sports
None. Kayaking, power boating, rafting, or similar activities are not available at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are prohibited. Portable propane stoves with on/off switches or valves are allowed with a valid permit.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is common. "Lake Tahoe is Bear Country." Campers must practice safe food storage techniques and use bear-proof containers provided at campsites.
Active alertsPortable propane stoves are allowed with a permit. Campfires are strictly prohibited.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Nearest emergency services are in South Lake Tahoe, including Barton Memorial Hospital (approximately 8 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season pricing applies to national holidays.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are mentioned. Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay. No direct access to lakes or streams for swimming or boating.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention issues with site management during first-come, first-served availability. Complaints of rude staff and disorganized processes persist.
Host"Scott the Camp host was very knowledgeable and helpful when needed."
Campground Map
35 College Drive South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Driving directionsIn South Lake Tahoe, CA, where US Rt. 50 and State Rt. 89 split into Rt. 50 east and Rt. 89 north, take Rt. 89 north (to Tahoe City) 7.7 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.
The campground is accessible directly from Highway 89, which is paved. Seasonal closures occur and access depends on weather conditions.Nearby places
South Lake Tahoe (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
South Lake Tahoe has grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations approximately 8 miles away.
Camper Reviews
3.9
12 reviews
Bayview Trailhead And Day-Use Area has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bayview Campground are mixed. Many appreciate its proximity to hiking trails and Emerald Bay, while others criticize the lack of organization and water availability. The campground's first-come, first-served system and the behavior of staff have been frequent subjects of complaint.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Proximity to popular trails like Cascade Falls and Granite Lakes. Beautiful location near Emerald Bay. Spacious, shaded campsites with bear lockers and picnic tables. Some users found the bathrooms...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The campground's organization is criticized, particularly regarding the first-come, first-served system. Poor communication and behavior from staff or hosts. Lack of running water and prohibition on...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a spot, as spaces fill quickly, especially on weekends. Bring your own water supply and portable propane stove if cooking. Expect noise and activity during the day due to...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest time, with heavy traffic from day hikers. Early morning and late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid crowds. Fall offers quieter camping experiences but comes with cooler...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campsites have a lot of room between them and are nestled below a grove of beautiful trees, giving you enough shade during the day and a great place to put up your hammock." - Sandra Ko. "Camp...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site reviews often highlight the proximity to trailheads and Emerald Bay as the campground's best features. Some users have reported disorganization in site allocation, leading to conflicts over...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews provided, though vault toilets are described as wheelchair-friendly.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. No specific reviews provided by pet owners.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025