As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is urging visitors to check site access, stay informed, and make a plan before heading into the forest.
Memorial Day marks the start of the summer season for many outdoor visitors.
While much of the Lake Tahoe Basin is ready to welcome the public, some areas remain closed due to snow, road damage or wet conditions.
Crews are working to reopen these sites as quickly and safely as possible.
Several popular destinations in the area will be open in time for the weekend.
Inspiration Point is already open, while Logan Shoals Vista Point, the Tallac Historic Site and the Taylor Creek Visitor Center are set to open on May 24.
Campgrounds and resorts have a staggered opening schedule.
Sites such as Zephyr Cove Stables, Round Hill Pines Resort, Camp Richardson Corral, and the Eagle’s Nest and Badger’s Den campgrounds at Camp Richardson Resort are currently open.
Others like Fallen Leaf, Luther Pass, Nevada Beach and William Kent campgrounds will open on May 23.
Echo Chalet follows on May 25, with Watson Lake Campground opening May 30, Blackwood Canyon and Kaspian campgrounds on June 1, and Angora Lakes Resort on June 7.
Camp Richardson Resort and RV Park and Zephyr Cove Campground and Resort are open year-round.
Beaches and trailheads are also preparing for increased use.
The Sandpit Off-Highway Vehicle Area, several beaches including Baldwin and Pope, and picnic areas like Kiva and Sawmill Pond are now open.
Trailheads such as Mt. Tallac are accessible, and Bayview, Big Meadow, and Eagle Falls trailheads are scheduled to open May 23.
An opening date for Chimney Beach has not yet been announced.
Forest officials recommend checking for the most current information by contacting the Forest Supervisor’s Office in South Lake Tahoe or by visiting the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit website and social media channels.
Visitors are reminded to be cautious around lakes and rivers, as conditions can change quickly.
Water safety is a key concern this year.
Officials advise not to enter cold, fast-moving water. “It may be colder than you realize and dangerous, for you and first responders.”
If someone needs help in the water, the guidance is to throw something that floats and call 9-1-1.
Drivers are also warned not to attempt to cross high water, which may be more powerful than it looks.
When traveling or camping, visitors are encouraged to take note of their surroundings. This includes watching for dead standing trees, avoiding parking illegally or in a way that blocks emergency access, and always looking up before choosing a trail, parking a car or setting up camp.
The Forest Service says preparation is essential. That means packing food, water, clothes for changing weather, a first aid kit, lights, a navigation aid and a smartphone, with the understanding that reception may be unreliable.
Hikers, riders and campers should share a detailed travel plan and GPS location with someone not on the trip.
Forest staff also remind the public to observe all posted signs and warnings.
Some closed areas may not have visible barriers or signs, and GPS may not reflect current closures.
Opening a gate that is closed, even if it appears to lead to the best route, is not allowed. Citations can still be issued if a forest order is in effect, even when signs are not posted.
For road and weather updates, visitors can use Caltrans QuickMap, check the National Weather Service, or consult the California Office of Emergency Services.
The Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit says that it shares updates on its Facebook and X forums.
