Starting off from the bustling city streets, as you head towards the tranquility of South Lake Tahoe, get ready to surrender to the grandeur of Mother Nature. Your first stop should be the iconic Emerald Bay State Park. With its deep blue waters, vibrant green landscapes, and the historic Vikingsholm - one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States, Emerald Bay is a paradise for nature lovers.

Next, head to the iconic Heavenly Mountain Resort. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie looking for some skiing, snowboarding, or hiking adventures, or a peace seeker wishing to soak in breathtaking views from the Heavenly Gondola, this resort is an absolute must-visit.

Don't forget to visit the Taylor Creek Visitor Center, especially during the fall when the Kokanee salmon spawn is in full swing. A stroll along the Rainbow Trail offers a unique underwater view of the creek and an extraordinary learning experience for kids and adults alike.

For those interested in history, the Tallac Historic Site provides a glimpse into the Lake Tahoe of yesteryears. Another must-see is the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum, which is teeming with precious artifacts and stories of the Washoe Indians, the original inhabitants of Lake Tahoe.

Your South Lake Tahoe camper van journey wouldn't be complete without exploring its local cuisine. From the famous Riva Grill, known for its Wet Woody cocktail and stunning lake views, to the Fresh Ketch, where you can savor fresh seafood while enjoying marina views, you're in for some culinary delights.

Finally, before ending your journey, spend a day at the Pope Beach. Its broad sandy shore is perfect for picnics and sunbathing, while its clear, shallow waters are ideal for swimming.



A camper van trip to South Lake Tahoe, California, is a journey through picturesque landscapes, thrilling adventures, rich history, and tantalizing cuisine. It's a trip that promises experiences of a lifetime and memories that you'll treasure forever.

The tallest of the six common Tahoe pines, the Sugar Pine, can grow up to 200 feet tall.

The word "Tahoe" is the result of a mispronunciation of the first two syllables of the Washoe’s word – Da ow a ga – which translates to edge of the lake. You can consider them the original Tahoe locals, and like us, they enjoyed the lake and its surrounding land for all it had to offer.

With the arrival of the transcontinental railroad in 1869, the lake became a popular retreat for the wealthy from San Francisco, Sacramento and Virginia City. Hotels were needed to host this new clientele, and what we now know as the Tallac Historic Site was a key starting point.