Sand Harbor Introduces Reservation system

Lake Tahoe’s beloved Sand Harbor State Park is implementing a new reservation system to tackle summer traffic congestion, according to the Nevada Division of State Parks. Starting August 17th, beachgoers aiming to snag a parking spot before 10:30 am on weekends and holidays will need to secure a reservation in advance.

This initiative aims to prevent the all-too-familiar scenario of Highway 28 grinding to a halt as eager visitors vie for a spot at the park, which frequently reaches capacity within minutes of opening during peak season.

The good news? Entry after 10:30 am will still be available on a first-come, first-served basis, so spontaneity isn’t entirely out the window. The reservation system will be piloted through October 13th of this year, before becoming a daily requirement starting April 2025.

Planning ahead comes with a small price tag. Reservations will cost $5 on top of the daily parking fee, which varies depending on your license plate. Nevadans pay $10, while out-of-state visitors fork over $15 (cash only). Luckily, there’s no additional fee for snagging a same-day reservation, should a last-minute Tahoe trip beckon.

But wait, there’s more! For those seeking a car-free alternative, the East Shore Express offers free shuttles between Incline Village and Sand Harbor from June 28th to September 2nd. Paid hourly parking is available at the Tunnel Creek lot, which serves as the shuttle pick-up point. North Shore and Truckee residents can utilize TART buses for a free ride to Tunnel Creek, while South Shore visitors have a dedicated daily bus departing from the Kingsbury Transit Center.

So, whether you’re a reservation-savvy planner or a spontaneous adventurer, Sand Harbor still welcomes you with open arms (and hopefully, a little less traffic) this summer. Just remember to check those parking options and consider the eco-friendly East Shore Express if you’re looking to leave your car behind.