The U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit will soon begin the annual process of opening recreational facilities around the Lake Tahoe Basin. Campgrounds, beaches, and forest roads generally open in mid-May, weather permitting. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center and the Tallac Historic Site open Memorial Day weekend.

Before recreation sites can open to the public, the Forest Service must hire staff and clean up from winter, remove safety hazards and wait for the danger of a freeze to pass before turning on water systems.

The Forest Service is also working to repair damage from recent copper thefts at 15 recreation sites around the basin. Although crews are working hard to avoid public impact, the costly crime may cause a delay in opening some sites. The agency is replacing the stolen pipes with a non-copper material to eliminate the potential for vandalism in the future.

As a reminder, there is no parking, trash removal, or restroom facilities available until the recreation sites officially open. Until the parking lots open, please park vehicles off the roadway, avoid parking on vegetation, and do not block access gates. Pack out all trash and where pets are allowed, clean up after your animal.

For a complete list of projected opening dates go online or call (530) 543.2694.