Lake Tahoe · Bears

Bear Food Storage at Lake Tahoe Campgrounds

Published 2026-10-18 · Updated 2026-10-18 · Facts from California State Parks, Nevada State Parks and the USDA Forest Service, each linked.

Every land manager around the lake requires bear-resistant food storage. The rules differ in detail between California State Parks and Forest Service land, so check the stay page for which applies. [California State Parks][USDA Forest Service]

California State Parks

Food, beverages, toiletries and scented trash must go in the campsite's metal food locker except while eating or cooking. Ice chests may not be stored in vehicles. Bear-proof coolers must be locked, with fines up to $1,000. [California State Parks]

National Forest land (Lake Tahoe Basin)

Forest Order 19-24-03 requires all food and refuse that isn't personally attended to be stored in a bear-resistant container. Use the campground's bear boxes and wildlife-resistant dumpsters. Overnight visitors to the Desolation Wilderness must use hard-sided bear canisters. [USDA Forest Service]

Nevada State Parks backcountry

The Spooner backcountry walk-in camps (Marlette Peak, Hobart and North Canyon) have bear boxes. [Nevada State Parks]

Frequently asked questions

Can I leave a cooler in my car at a California state park campground?
No. California State Parks says ice chests may not be stored in vehicles; use the campsite's metal food locker. [California State Parks]
What is Forest Order 19-24-03?
The Lake Tahoe Basin food storage order: all food and refuse not personally attended must be in a bear-resistant container. [USDA Forest Service]

Related

Sources