Lake Tahoe's Edge Boasts Year-Round Camping And Crystal Clear Water Access At This California Mountain State Park

Though it's neither the largest nor the deepest, Lake Tahoe holds a special distinction as one of the most famous lakes in the United States — and for good reason. Nestled in the breathtaking Sierra Nevadas along the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe boasts extraordinary mountain views and close access to major resort destinations. Visitors can find everything from the region's largest casino, Harveys Lake Tahoe (complete with shows, steakhouses, and perfect lake views), to pristine outdoor treasures like the breathtaking granite peaks and glistening lakes of Desolation Wilderness. However, as popular a vacation destination as it is, Lake Tahoe and its surrounding mountain landscape still conceals numerous attractions waiting to be discovered. On the lake's California side, the charming Burton Creek State Park preserves the region's antique wilderness vibe, offering a perfect contrast to the bright lights and heavy development of Lake Tahoe's more touristed areas. 

Though it's a mere 2.5 miles from the popular lakeside resort of Tahoe City, and about 53 miles from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport, Burton Creek State Park is one of California's less developed state parks. Many of its trails and paths remain unpaved, and most of the park's terrain is as rugged as you'd expect in an unspoiled mountain environment. While this lack of infrastructure limits accessibility for some travelers, it also means that Burton Creek State Park preserves one of the most authentic Sierra Nevada experiences you can find in the vicinity of Lake Tahoe. As such, visitors who do make the journey can find superb wilderness adventures and unforgettable views — all with the region's most modern resorts just miles away.

Burton Creek State Park protects around 2,000 acres along the northern slopes of the Lake Tahoe Basin. One of Lake Tahoe's most magical qualities is how it retains natural beauty despite extensive development along much of its shoreline. Burton Creek State Park is one of the few places near the lake where visitors can still experience truly unspoiled nature. Unlike most areas around the ever-popular Lake Tahoe, the park has no accessible roads – motor vehicles are entirely prohibited — and no amenities such as restrooms, visitor centers, or potable water. While this lack of infrastructure can pose a challenge, Burton Creek's pristine condition makes it one of the most spectacular preserves of native Sierra Nevada scenery. Throughout the park, visitors can find picture-perfect shots of rugged conifer trees, hardy cottonwoods that add a twinge of color in the fall, and fields of vibrant wildflowers – all draped across the mountain peaks that frame Lake Tahoe to the west.

Burton Creek State Park takes its name from the lovely Burton Creek, which bisects the park as it flows through the formidable terrain of the Sierra Nevadas. Although Burton Creek has been dammed as part of a larger hydroelectric project, the creek and the surrounding nature preserves still offer an authentic mountain-stream experience. In addition to its forest and mountain views, Burton Creek State Park is also a top spot for wildlife viewing. Its thriving forests protect a sizable population of birds, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers around Lake Tahoe. You may also encounter some rarer terrestrial animals in the park, including black bears, coyotes, and even mountain lions.

Burton Creek State Park's six miles of trails are surprisingly well-maintained for such a primitive park. These trails are perfect for ditching your car and reconnecting with nature on a memorable hiking, mountain biking, or — in winter — cross-country skiing adventure. And though they wind through one of Lake Tahoe's wildest parks, Burton Creek's trails are surprisingly easy. Despite the surrounding mountainous terrain, many routes follow relatively flat ground with minimal elevation gain or steep climbs. For example, the park's Purple Trail and Burton Creek Loop form a manageable 3.8-mile forest hike that ends with an awe-inspiring view of Lake Tahoe. Most hikers can complete the loop in less than two hours with minimal effort, though the scenery often inspires plenty of pauses along the way.

One of the park's few "modern" amenities is a lovely picnic area set up in the heart of the forest. The picnic area sits just off the small parking lot outside the park's main gate. Because motor vehicles are not allowed within the park, drivers must park here before entering the main trails. Burton Creek State Park is open for day use only, from sunrise to sunset. However, you can find excellent year-round camping options nearby at Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park, D.L. Bliss State Park, and the Tahoe State Recreation Area. Of course, you can also explore the many modern attractions along Lake Tahoe's shoreline. Near Tahoe City, for example, you can visit Nevada's chic Incline Village, a town with mountain charm, renowned views, and amenities.