Emerald Bay State Park
Type: Active, Adventure, Great Views, Historic Sites, Parks, Recreational Facilities, Scuba Diving and Snorkeling, Sightseeing, Water Sports
10Best Says
Emerald Bay State Park on the southwest area of Lake Tahoe is home to park is home to Eagle Falls and Vikingsholm, a 38-room mansion that is one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in... Read More
Emerald Bay State Park on the southwest area of Lake Tahoe is home to park is home to Eagle Falls and Vikingsholm, a 38-room mansion that is one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the western hemisphere. The views from any part of the Bay are fantastic. The park contains the only island in Lake Tahoe, Fannette Island where a small teahouse was built by the owner of the Vikingsholm Castle. The park is accessible by State Route 89 near the southwest shore of the lake. Emerald Bay is one of Lake Tahoe's most photographed and popular locations. In 1969, Emerald Bay was recognized as a National Natural Landmark by the federal Department of the Interior. In 1994, California State Parks included the surrounding water of the bay as a part of the park, making Emerald Bay one of the first underwater parks of its type in the state, protecting the various wrecks and other items on the bay's bottom.
Hours:
- May-mid Jun: Sat-Sun
- Mid Jun-Sep: Daily 10am-4pm
Admissions:
- Day Use
Entry Per Vehicle $6
Camping Fees $20 - $25
Boat Access $11 - $15
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Christina Nellemann
Reno and Tahoe Local Expert
- Free Things to Do, Parks, Sightseeing, Best Attractions & Activities, Things to Do with Kids, Beaches: "Plan to get to the park early in the morning to get parking. This is the most popular area of the lake."
- Best for Free Things to Do Because: You can hike along the Rubicon Trail to reach various parts of Emerald Bay.
- Best for Parks Because: The most popular state park at the lake, Emerald Bay has hiking, sightseeing, kayaking and camping in one place.
- Best for Sightseeing Because: The best view on the lake! Emerald Bay is the only place on the lake with an island.
- Recommended as Best Attractions & Activities Because: Emerald Bay is the most visited part of the lake for good reason.
- Best for Things to Do with Kids Because: Emerald Bay is perfect for families who love hiking and the outdoors.
- Best for Beaches Because: A mile hike down to the water will bring you to the Bay's pretty beach
