By Sierra Rec Magazine Staff

As Memorial Day Weekend 2025 approaches, many of us are preparing for a well-earned escape into the Sierra. It’s a time to honor those who gave their lives in military service — and a moment to reconnect with the mountains, lakes, and trails we cherish.

Lake Tahoe National Forest sites are beginning to open for summer, but due to lingering snow and road conditions, not everything is accessible just yet. If you’re headed to the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU), here’s what’s open, what’s still closed, and how to stay safe out there.

Logan Shoal

Open Now in the Lake Tahoe Basin

Interpretive Sites:

  • Inspiration Point – Open
  • Logan Shoals Vista Point – Opens May 24
  • Tallac Historic Site – Opens May 24
  • Taylor Creek Visitor Center – Opens May 24

Campgrounds, Corrals & Resorts:

  • Zephyr Cove Stables – Open
  • Round Hill Pines Resort – Open
  • Camp Richardson Corral – Open
  • Camp Richardson Eagle’s Nest & Badger’s Den Campgrounds – Open
  • Meeks Bay Resort & Campgrounds – Open
  • Fallen Leaf, Luther Pass, Nevada Beach & William Kent Campgrounds – Open May 23
  • Echo Chalet – Opens May 25
  • Camp Richardson Resort & RV Park – Open Year-Round
  • Zephyr Cove Campground & Resort – Open Year-Round
Fall Mt tallac Lake Tahoe
Views From Lake Tahoe of Mt. Tallac

Beaches, Picnic Areas, Trailheads:

  • Sandpit OHV Area – Open
  • Baldwin, Nevada, Pope & Secret Harbor Beaches – Open
  • Kiva Picnic Area & Sawmill Pond – Open
  • Mt. Tallac Trailhead – Open
  • Bayview, Big Meadow, and Eagle Falls Trailheads & Picnic Area – Open May 23
  • Chimney Beach – Status TBD

Not Yet Open – Upcoming Dates

  • Watson Lake Campground – May 30
  • Blackwood Canyon & Kaspian Campgrounds – June 1
  • Angora Lakes Resort – June 7

Stay Safe This Weekend

Lake levels are high. Snow is melting fast. Roads and trails are still recovering. Before you head out:

  • Don’t drive through flooded areas — water can rise and move quickly.
  • Don’t swim in cold, rapid waters. It’s colder and more dangerous than it looks.
  • Avoid standing dead trees — especially during wind events.
  • Never block emergency access with your vehicle, even in crowded trailhead areas.
  • Leave no trace and pack out everything you bring in.
  • Let someone know your travel plan and expected return.

Plan Ahead With These Resources:

Whether you’re hitting the beach, exploring a new trail, or camping with family, Memorial Day is a powerful reminder of the freedom to explore. Let’s honor that by recreating responsibly and safely in the Sierra.

Tag us in your weekend adventures: #SierraRecMagazine | #DiscoverMoreSierra