Then and now: Evolution of Beacon at Camp Rich
Until about 1984, this single-story cinder-block building, left, built in the 1950s housed a metal-roofed boat storage and rentals barn at one end and a soda fountain at the other end, complete with a jukebox.
Today, below, it is the Beacon Bar and Grill at Camp Richardson.
— Bill Kingman
The Camp Rich area by the Beacon has long been a favorite of locals and tourists. Photos/Bill Kingman
Nicely planned improvement! Such a beautiful & fun place for both locals and visitors–anytime of the year.
Hard to believe I went to Friday night dances there (circa 1960) – but I did. . . a jukebox was a powerful thing to have . . .
Could this building be remodeled the same way today with the current TRPA rules? It is a great place today, well run by the management and an asset to the community. Could it be done today?
Love these old pictures! Keep em coming! I’ve only been here for 20 years so a lot of these were before my time. Very cool
Lisa.. come to the Lake Tahoe Museum (3058 Lake Tahoe Blvd)and look at over 500 terrific old pictures of old Tahoe!We’re on winter hours.. open Saturdays from 11am-3pm. Closed January to upgrade exhibits. Open Dec 7,8&9 for Holiday Fair.
The Beacon and all of Camp Rich is a wonderful asset to this community. The staff and owner are some of the friendliest folks in town. We love having the Beacon so close to home.
One of my favorite restaurants! Had a great Thanksgiving there last year.
Back in the wild 1980’s a friend and I rescued/stoll the old Brigg sign just before it was thrown out during the remodel. Still hangs on my bar today, way cool logo with the sailing ship and the pad lock.
Here’s a remarkable site of old photos:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.3289846170558.2124751.1399855608&type=1&l=a8727f68f1
Hey Bill Kingman and my old pal Anita,
Thanks for the cool old photos. Chris Thorne? When I worked at the old tram at Heavenly, Chris was on the ski patrol. Excellent skier and faster than anyone you’ve ever seen. Great pics, they sure bring back the memories.
Anita , I sure wish you were coming to Tahoe for our end of the the season campfire and weenie roast. One last ride on the boat before it goes on the trailer?
Take Care, Old Long Skiis
Did they serve rum runners back then? so cool