Camping at D.L. Bliss State Park is a prime recreational opportunity in the Lake Tahoe area, known for its scenic beauty and rich outdoor activities. This park offers visitors a unique setting characterized by towering pine trees, panoramic lake views, and serene beaches, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a nature-filled experience. With its proximity to the stunning waters of Lake Tahoe, camping here provides an unforgettable connection to the area's natural landscapes.
Adventure Guide To Camping at D.L. Bliss State Park
Campgrounds: D.L. Bliss State Park features two campgrounds: D.L. Bliss Campground and Emerald Bay Campground. D.L. Bliss Campground has 75 campsites equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms. Its proximity to Lake Tahoe allows for easy beach access and swimming.
Hiking Trails: The park is home to the Rubicon Trail, a highly regarded 6-mile trail that winds along the lakeshore. This trail offers stunning lake views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The hike is moderate and suitable for all skill levels.
Water Activities: The park's beaches, particularly Bliss State Park Beach, provide an excellent opportunity for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The clear waters and pebble beaches make for a refreshing getaway on warm summer days.
Local Insights
D.L. Bliss State Park has historical significance as part of the Lake Tahoe Basin's natural heritage. The park's namesake, D.L. Bliss, was a lumber baron who played a significant role in the region’s early development. His contributions are part of the area's rich cultural narrative, adding depth to your visit.
Visitor Tips
Best Times to Visit: Late spring through early fall is ideal for camping, with July and August being peak months.
What to Bring: Essentials include tents, sleeping bags, cooking gear, insect repellent, and sunscreen. Consider bringing binoculars for birdwatching.
Driving Directions: From South Lake Tahoe, take Highway 89 north for about 20 minutes. Expect traffic during peak seasons.
Camping at D.L. Bliss is an enriching way to experience the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe while enjoying various outdoor activities.
Reviews
Scott Griest3 years ago
Must go early in busy Summer season, before 9am for good parking. Otherwise you'll be forced to park on the busy road and walk about a mile to the trail head.
Excellent hike with lots of amazing views. We only did about 30 minutes in and 30 minutes out, not the whole trail. Bring lots of water if its hot, really heats up after 1PM. $8 for parking, but if you park on the road its free.
Susan LaDuke5 years ago
A beautiful state park with an adorable visitor center/gift shop. The educational displays of the local wildlife (lots of taxidermy) is fantastic & makes for some great teachable moments. We were the only people there except for the ranger/clerk who was knowledgeable, friendly & very helpful. This was my first trip to the Lake Tahoe area & it's a photographer's dream. This park has a winding road which leads to a stunning beach. Although it was an incredible day in the 2nd week of September, with temperatures in the upper 60's, there were few people around. The colors are reminiscent of the Caribbean with blended blues, greens, turquoise and gold. What a sight! Looking forward to going back again next year.
Adam Kaplan2 years ago
Wonderful place for quick day hikes. Lots of views along the trail. There's an old lighthouse which is cool. There's campgrounds and a beach as well but I didn't visit them. I went in mid May and the park was closed to cars and was seemingly unattended. There's a small parking lot at the gate and more parking along 89. It's about 2 miles from the gate to the end of the road. Bring water, there's none. Pack it in, pack it out.
Scott2 years ago
This tops my list of state parks followed by Custer in South Dakota. The water is truly amazing and the opportunity for photos never ends. We hiked to emerald bay and back....took a good chunk of day. But the beautiful trail through the park was awesome the whole time. If you see the pictures of this park they are legit and worth a view in person. $10 to get in on a day pass which is good for all CA State Parks according to the guy we paid. One of the beaches had very few boulders in the water so that's the best for swimming but all of it is beautiful!!
JDUB2 years ago
Great state park on the west coast of Lake Tahoe. If you can actually get reservations it is an amazing place to stay. We we fortunate enough to get prime real estate campsite right by Leater Beach. People start coming in at 645am to grab spots at the beach. So we felt privileged to be easy walking distance. We had sites 157 and 159. Tahoe 's water clear and cold as usual. But during a heat wave you are not complaining. Bathrooms were somewhat clean. Fresh water access at each site. Bear lockers, picnic bench ,and fire pit at each site. Sites are kinda small so if you like privacy you won't get that here. On one last note the yellow jackets are outa control. We weren't stung all weekend but definitely makes cooking a pain.
