Lakes, Rivers & Waterfalls

The Lake Tahoe region contains a large number of rivers, lakes and streams, giving it the reputation of being one of the best recreational areas in the United States.

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, the center of attention in this beautiful section of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, has the best of everything, providing scenic views, attractions and outdoor recreation galore.

Silver Lake

With a multitude of hiking trails into the wilderness, great waters for fishing and boating, Silver Lake gives visitors a real treat in recreational fun.

Echo Lake

Find some quiet and solitude at Echo Lake, within the Desolation Wilderness and surrounded with breathtaking scenery.

Donner Lake

Camp, fish, boat or visit the historic sites around Donner Lake, for a fulfilling vacation getaway.

Truckee River

Close to Lake Tahoe and the town of Truckee, you’ll find this river offers wonderful fishing opportunities, as well as whitewater rafting for those who want to brave the rapids.

Fallen Leaf Lake

Get away from the crowds at Fallen Leaf Lake, a miniature version of Lake Tahoe. Plenty of boating, camping and fishing here on these crystal clear waters.

Blue Lakes

Blue Lakes provides miles of hiking trails and excellent fishing for rainbow, lake and cutthroat trout in the Mokelumne Wilderness.

Caples Lake

All 600 acres of Caples Lake is an outdoor recreational paradise, just 15 miles from Lake Tahoe, with breathtaking scenery in the Eldorado National Forest.

Spooner Lake

The entire family will enjoy the hiking trails and fishing opportunities around Spooner Lake, with plenty of gorgeous views.

Stampede Reservoir

Just a short trip from Lake Tahoe, Stampede Reservoir offers 25 miles of shoreline, great fishing and other family activities in the outdoors.

Carson River

The Carson River, flowing through both Nevada and California, provides some exceptional fishing. You can even enjoy soaking in the hot springs on the river.

Boca Reservoir

Boca Reservoir, on the Little Truckee River, is a popular spot for all kinds of outdoor fun, including scenery that invokes imaginative photography.

Independence Lake

Find fishing, paddling and camping on Independence Lake, a popular Sierra Nevada reservoir close to Lake Tahoe. The beautiful azure waters virtually guarantee a unique outdoor experience.

Lake Spaulding

Surrounded by thick pine forest, Lake Spaulding is stunning in its beauty. Perfect for all water sports, at this lake you’ll find great Sierra adventures.

Bear River Reservoir

The Bear River Reservoir lies in Eldorado National Forest, with plenty of lovely scenery as well as fishing, camping and boating.

Lake Valley Reservoir

Have a picnic along the shore, take out a boat in the calm waters or fish from a canoe or kayak at this lovely reservoir.

Marlette Lake

Hike to Marlette Lake and enjoy the wildflowers in the meadows, the picnic spots and numerous outdoor activities.

Prosser Creek Reservoir

Fish the reservoir’s inlets, get out in the sun on a small boat, camp along the shores. There are many activities around Prosser Creek Reservoir that make this a real outdoor destination in the Sierras.

Rubicon River

The Rubicon River flows for 60 miles through the Sierras, starting in the Desolation Wilderness and moving through canyons and into sparkling reservoirs. Fish for large trout or hike the nearby trails.

Serene Lakes

Five lakes near Donner Summit, and just a short trip from Lake Tahoe, offer unique recreation in the outdoors. At an elevation of more than 6,000 feet, these lakes provide wonderful solitude and beauty.

Washoe Lake

Find Washoe Lake in Washoe Valley and in close proximity to a couple large cities, but offering plenty of fishing, boating and camping for all ages.