How much does camping cost at William Kent Campground?

Camping fees at William Kent Campground range from $42-$116/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is William Kent Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

William Kent Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at William Kent Campground before I book?

Yes! William Kent Campground has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit William Kent Campground?

William Kent Campground is open May 23 - October 13. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at William Kent Campground?

William Kent Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does William Kent Campground have?

William Kent Campground has 80 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at William Kent Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at William Kent Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at William Kent Campground?

William Kent Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at William Kent Campground?

Popular activities at William Kent Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

William Kent Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at William Kent Campground?

Fire policies at William Kent Campground: Campfires are allowed in designated rings unless fire restrictions are in place. Charcoal fires may also be restricted during dry periods.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.44

1.1K reviews

1995 West Lake BLDV

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Lake Tahoe#2

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

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Quick Facts

6,289 ft

Price

$42 - $116/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

80 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

6,289 ft

Price

$42 - $116/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

80 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit Official Website

Get Directions

William Kent Campground

$42.00 - $116.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $42 for standard non-electric sites to $116 for yurts and cabins. For holiday periods, an additional $2 fee applies.

Standard Site Fee$42.00

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

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

530-583-3642clm@clm-services.com

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What Campers Say

4.44

Recommended

Based on 1.1K reviews

180 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanrestroomslocationlake

Some mention

noiseunlevel

"The campground is widely praised for its clean facilities, scenic location, and friendly hosts. However, some users have noted limitations such as proximity to residential areas and bear activity."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1995 West Lake BLDV

William Kent Campground

1995 West Lake BLDV

Nearby places

Tahoe City (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes drive time)

Nearby supplies

A cafe/convenience store is located across the street from the campground. Major grocery stores and fuel stations are located in Tahoe City, about 2 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at William Kent Campground

July and August bring the best conditions. Daytime highs hover around 80–85°F, evenings drop to the low 60s, and rain is rare. The lake warms enough for swimming, all trails are snow-free, and campground services run at full capacity. Views across Tahoe are clearest in summer, though holiday weekends pack the loops. Winter closes the campground entirely under heavy Sierra snow. Spring and fall bookend the season with cooler temps and fewer crowds, but services may be limited.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 2% in CA

Peak season with warm days (~83°F) and full access to lake, boating and trails; very desirable.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 23 - October 13. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open from May 23 to October 13 annually.
Current Alerts: Fire restrictions may be enforced during hot, dry weather conditions.

About William Kent Campground

William Kent Campground sits in a mixed conifer forest on Lake Tahoe's west shore, offering 80 sites for tents, RVs, and groups. Fees range from $42 to $116 per night. The campground includes yurts, bear lockers, flush toilets, and a dump station. It's close enough to Tahoe City for supply runs but backs up to residential areas in spots.

This campground caters to various camping styles, including tent, RV, and yurt camping. It is not designed for glamping or luxury accommodations.

Weather and SeasonsJuly and August bring the best conditions. Daytime highs hover around 80–85°F, evenings drop to the low 60s, and rain is rare. The lake warms enough for swimming, all trails are snow-free, and campground services run at full capacity. Views across Tahoe are clearest in summer, though holiday weekends pack the loops. Winter closes the campground entirely under heavy Sierra snow. Spring and fall bookend the season with cooler temps and fewer crowds, but services may be limited.

ElevationPerched at Lake Tahoe Basin's characteristic elevation, William Kent Campground offers the perfect alpine climate that has drawn visitors for generations. This strategic positioning creates an ideal microclimate where summer days remain comfortably warm without the oppressive heat found at lower elevations, while the thin mountain air adds a crisp clarity that makes every breath feel rejuvenating.

Natural Features and SceneryPines, cedars, and firs shade the campground at 6,289 feet. The terrain rolls through shallow gullies and gentle ridges. Products of ancient volcanic activity and glacial carving. That create natural privacy screens between sites. Evergreen shrubs add to the seclusion in many areas. Lake Tahoe's west shore sits just across the street: 22 miles of blue water framed by peaks. The forest floor shows centuries of natural soil enrichment, though some sites edge close enough to nearby homes to hear traffic from the main road.

Geological RegionWilliam Kent Campground occupies a fascinating geological niche on Lake Tahoe's western shore, where ancient volcanic activity and glacial carving have created a landscape of subtle beauty. The terrain's characteristic shallow gullies and gentle ridges tell the story of millions of years of natural sculpting, while the surrounding forest of pines, cedars, and firs has taken root in soil enriched by centuries of natural cycles. This unique topography not only provides natural privacy barriers between campsites but also showcases the powerful forces that shaped the entire Lake Tahoe Basin into one of North America's most treasured natural wonders.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in starts at 14:00 PM.

Check-out

Check-out time is at 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 14 nights during any visit or for the entire year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of six people per site.

Groups

Group sites are available, and user reviews suggest they provide adequate space for multiple tents and vehicles.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground uses a loop layout. Site sizes vary. Some handle large RVs, others suit tents only. Spacing depends on the loop: interior sites tend to feel more private, while outer sites can sit closer to the road and neighboring homes. Several sites are unlevel, according to user reports.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, online or via their mobile app.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up/first-come, first-served availability during peak season. Sites must be occupied by noon on the day following the reservation start date or they are forfeited.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's use fee.

AccessibilityBear-proof lockers, paved parking aprons, and relatively even terrain at many sites. However, some sites are noted for being uneven.

Site SizeSites accommodate both tents and RVs, with some larger spaces available for group camping. Yurt sites are also spacious.

PrivacyMany sites are described as secluded due to evergreen shrubs and natural terrain features. However, some are close to nearby residential areas.

Total Campsites80 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites in interior loops for more privacy and distance from residential backyards. Avoid sites near dumpsters or restrooms if possible.

Need help booking William Kent Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including sunbathing, swimming, biking, fishing, and boating on Lake Tahoe. Hiking trails and wildlife viewing are also popular.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBears are active in the area and visit campsites regularly, particularly during nighttime hours. Campers are strongly advised to use bear-proof lockers and avoid leaving food outside.

Active AlertsFire restrictions may be enforced during hot, dry weather conditions.

Food Storage RequiredEach site includes a bear-proof food storage locker to secure all food and scented items. Campers are required to use these lockers to prevent bear intrusions.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed in designated rings unless fire restrictions are in place. Charcoal fires may also be restricted during dry periods.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services, including a hospital and police station, are available in Tahoe City, less than 5 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling bins are available throughout the campground, but some reviews mention insufficient bins and occasional overflow issues.

Water FeaturesWilliam Kent Beach is located across the highway and provides access to Lake Tahoe for swimming, sunbathing, boating, and water activities.

Camp HostHosts are available on-site and provide assistance with check-ins, maintenance, and bear safety. Judy and Ed are specifically mentioned as attentive and friendly hosts.

Weather at William Kent Campground

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.4

1.1K reviews

Recommended

William Kent Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is widely praised for its clean facilities, scenic location, and friendly hosts. However, some users have noted limitations such as proximity to residential areas and bear activity.

Review Summaries

Based on 1058 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean restrooms, scenic location, proximity to Lake Tahoe, friendly and accommodating camp hosts, and well-maintained sites.

Based on 1058 reviews

Common Concerns

No showers, occasional noise from the highway, uneven terrain at some sites, limited cell reception, and bear activity resulting from improper food storage by campers.

Based on 1058 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring soap and towels for restrooms, book interior sites for more privacy, and use bear lockers diligently. The nearby market and cafes are convenient for supplies.

Based on 1058 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and early summer are quieter seasons with fewer crowds, while summer can get busy, particularly on weekends. Late fall offers a peaceful experience but limited amenities.

Based on 1058 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Bathrooms were clean, flush toilets, running water faucets, and a short walk away in 3 directions from our campsite (campsite #7).' - Nelida Pulido; 'Camp hosts were friendly and helpful...we will...

Based on 1058 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #39 is highly recommended for its even ground and accessibility to restrooms. Site #60 is less favored due to its proximity to a dumpster. Site #7 is praised for its convenience, being near...

Based on 1058 reviews