Lake Tahoe Boat Ramps: When Will They Open This Season?

Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for water recreation, offering activities like boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. To access the lake, boat ramps and marinas are available at various locations, including Cave Rock, Glenbrook, Lake Forest, Tahoe City, Sand Harbor, and El Dorado Beach. These facilities provide boat launch access, trailer parking, and in some cases, additional amenities such as picnic areas and beaches. The operating hours and availability of these boat ramps can vary depending on the season, weather conditions, and holidays. It is important for boaters to follow the posted guidelines, payment processes, and inspection requirements before launching their vessels into the lake.

Tahoe boat ramp winter hours

As of late 2024, the following boat ramps at Lake Tahoe are open during the winter:

• Cave Rock, Glenbrook (NV State Parks): Open 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, with inspections available.
• Lake Forest, Tahoe City (TCPUD): Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, with inspections available.

The following boat ramps are closed for the winter:

• Sand Harbor, Incline Village (NV State Parks): Closed.
• El Dorado, South Lake Tahoe (CSLT): Closed for the 2024 season.
• Tahoe Vista Recreation Area, Kings Beach (NTPUD): Closed for the winter.
• Kings Beach Boat Launch (North Tahoe Watersports): No information available, but likely closed as most boat ramps in the area are closed during winter.

Please note that these hours and closures are subject to change, especially with changes in weather conditions and the boating season. It is always a good idea to check the official websites or contact the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that your boat meets the necessary requirements before launching. All motorized watercraft must receive a TRPA Boat Inspection, and boats without a valid inspection seal will not be allowed to launch. Non-motorized watercraft must be clean, drained, and dry prior to launch and can receive free inspections at motorized inspection stations.

Tahoe boat ramp fees

The fees to use boat ramps on Lake Tahoe vary depending on the location and whether you are a resident or non-resident.

Lake Forest Boat Ramp, Tahoe City

At the Lake Forest Boat Ramp, there are different fees for residents and non-residents. Residents and property owners in the Tahoe City Public Utility District service area can purchase a daily launch pass for an unknown price, a summer season pass (May 1 - September 30) for $75, or an annual season pass (January 1 - December 31) for $150. Non-residents can purchase the same passes for $75, $150, and $300, respectively.

Tahoe Vista Recreation Area Boat Ramp

The Tahoe Vista Recreation Area Boat Ramp has a daily use fee of $17 per vessel per launch/retrieval. There is also an additional environmental impact and facility fee of $43. Season passes are also available, but the price is not listed.

El Dorado Beach Boat Ramp

The El Dorado Beach Boat Ramp has a day use launch fee of $17. A season pass costs $138, and an annual Tahoe-only sticker costs $45 (including a $12 Aquatic Invasive Species Shoreline fee and the TRPA Mandatory fee).

It is important to note that the boat ramp at El Dorado Beach was closed for the 2024 season, so be sure to check for updates before planning a visit.

Tahoe boat ramp parking

There are several boat ramps around Lake Tahoe with parking available. It's important to note that parking is often limited, and overnight parking is typically prohibited. Here are some of the key locations:

• El Dorado Beach Boat Ramp: Located in South Lake Tahoe, this boat ramp offers affordable access to the lake and free trailer parking for boat ramp users. There are 38 boat trailer parking spaces, including 2 handicapped spaces. The maximum boat length is 23 feet due to the ramp's size, and the maximum height of a boat on a trailer is 11 feet due to a bridge with a 12-foot clearance.
• Lake Forest Boat Ramp: This facility, located 1.5 miles east of Tahoe City, offers limited day-use parking. There are 32 regular boat parking spaces, 1 ADA boat parking space, and 4 spaces for prepping. It's important to note that no overnight parking is allowed.
• Cave Rock – Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park: This site is mainly a boat ramp parking lot with approximately 20 spaces available for single vehicles. It includes three picnic areas and a small beach.
• Tahoe Vista Recreation Area: This area offers a sandy beach, restrooms, a plaza, a roped swim area, and a boat launch. The parking lot provides 42 vehicle spaces and 24 vehicle spaces with trailer pull-through. Parking fees apply, and it's $10 per vehicle for day parking.
• Kings Beach Boat Launch Facility: This facility offers a large parking lot with paid parking available. It is adjacent to the Kings Beach Picnic Area, which is perfect for small picnics.

Please note that boat inspection and launch fees may apply at some of these locations, and it is important to follow the posted guidelines and regulations. Additionally, some ramps may have seasonal closures or adjusted hours during certain times of the year. Always check the most up-to-date information before your visit.

Tahoe boat ramp rules

The rules and requirements for boat ramps at Lake Tahoe vary depending on the location and type of boat. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Tahoe boat ramp rules:

Hours of Operation:

The hours of operation for boat ramps can vary by season and day of the week. For example, the Lake Forest Boat Ramp in Tahoe City has different hours during the summer, and it is closed on specific holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. It's important to check the specific ramp's operational hours before planning your trip.

Boat Inspections:

Mandatory boat inspections are required for all motorized watercraft before launching. Boats must be inspected by the Lake Tahoe Watercraft Inspection Program inspectors or have an intact Lake Tahoe inspection seal. These inspections are crucial to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. You can find a list of inspection locations and hours on the Tahoe Boat Inspections website.

Launch Fees:

Most boat ramps at Lake Tahoe charge launch fees. For example, the Tahoe Vista Recreation Area (TVRA) boat ramp has a daily use fee of $17 per vessel per launch and retrieval. Season passes are also available and must be purchased online and then picked up in person. Launch fees may vary depending on residency, with residents and property owners paying a lower fee.

Boat Type and Size Restrictions:

Some boat ramps have restrictions on boat types and sizes. For instance, the El Dorado Beach Boat Ramp allows motorized boats with intact wire inspection seals or those that have been inspected and sealed by a valid inspection station. Non-motorized boats must be clean, drained, and dry. Additionally, the El Dorado Beach Boat Ramp has a maximum boat length of 23 feet due to the ramp's dimensions.

Parking:

Boat ramps typically have limited parking, and overnight parking is usually prohibited. For example, the Lake Forest Boat Ramp offers limited day-use parking, and the El Dorado Beach Boat Ramp has 38 boat trailer parking spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis. It's important to arrive early to secure a parking space for your trailer.

Etiquette and Safety:

Boaters are expected to practice good etiquette and responsible recreation when using the boat ramps. This includes preparing before launching and following posted entry, inspection, payment, launching, and exiting guidelines. It is important to always prioritise safety to protect yourself, others, and the outdoors.

Tahoe boat ramp locations

There are several boat ramps around Lake Tahoe, some of which are open during the winter, while others are closed for the season.

The Lake Forest Boat Ramp in Tahoe City is open year-round and offers launching access to Lake Tahoe. It is located 1.5 miles east of Tahoe City off Highway 28 on Lake Forest Road at 2500 Lake Forest Road, Tahoe City, CA 96145. This facility offers limited day-use parking, restrooms, a picnic area, a playground, and a small beach area at the adjacent Tahoe State Recreation Area (Pomin Park). The hours of operation vary seasonally, with the ramp typically open from 8 am to 6 pm during the summer.

The Cave Rock boat ramp in Glenbrook, operated by Nevada State Parks, is open during the winter from 6 am to 4 pm with inspections available. This site is mainly a boat ramp parking lot, with approximately 20 spaces available for single vehicles. It also includes three picnic areas and a small beach.

The El Dorado Beach Boat Ramp at Lakeview Commons Beach in South Lake Tahoe is another option. This ramp offers affordable access to the lake, as well as free trailer parking for boat ramp users. El Dorado Beach, located just east of the ramp, is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and canoeing or kayaking. However, please note that this ramp is closed for the 2024 season.

The Tahoe Vista Recreation Area boat ramp in Kings Beach is also open for the season. This area features a sandy beach, restrooms, a plaza, a roped swim area, and a shady picnic grove.

Additionally, there are private launch facilities such as Ski Beach Boat Ramp, Fallen Leaf Lake Marina, and Echo Lake Chalet, which require specific inspection seals and should be contacted directly for information on launching and hours of operation.

Frequently asked questions