SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — Weeks after officials announced new required reservations for a popular Lake Tahoe spot, more details have emerged. Here’s what you need to know about the changes and how you can reserve a spot.
The Nevada Division of State Parks says new day-use reservations for Sand Harbor start July 1 for "late summer" dates.
"The new reservation system is a significant step forward in enhancing the visitor experience at Sand Harbor State Park," said Bob Mergell, Administrator of the Nevada Division of State Parks in a statement. "By ensuring guaranteed parking and reducing early morning congestion, we hope to create a more enjoyable and accessible environment for all our guests."
The trial period for the day passes will begin July 1 for “late summer reservation opportunities.” The trial period for vehicle reservations on weekends and holidays will begin August 17.
This trial period will help people adjust with a full implementation set to start in April 2025.
The reservation system is in three tiers to “ensure opportunity for all visitors, and to maximize visitor experience.”
- Tier One: 200 day-use reservations are reservable 90 days in advance.
- Tier Two: 100 day-use reservations are reservable 30 days in advance.
- Tier Three: 50 day-use reservations are reservable 7 days in advance.
- Same-Day: Day-use reservations that have not been booked are available up until 10:29 a.m. Same-day reservations do not include the $5 reservation processing fee.
If someone doesn't use their reservation by 10:30 a.m., they give up the spot and it will be given to a first come, first served visitor. If the reservations are full on a specific day, the gates will close at 10:30 a.m. and people will not get in until enough space opens up and the park allows first come, first served access.
To use the reservation made, you must arrive at the park before 10:30 a.m. and have a valid ID matching the name on the reservation.
The park entrance fee is $10 for vehicles registered in Nevada and $15 for vehicles registered out-of-state. The boat launch will remain first come, first serve.
The reservations are meant to reduce traffic congestion on Highway 28 and prevent overcrowding at the state park.
Reservations can be made online HERE and go live July 1 for late summer.
