Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Lake Tahoe With Kids

  • Published 2022/08/29

Traveling with kids can be challenging!

You have to think of everything, from making sure the kids are entertained to making sure they are okay to prepping them for being away from home.

The Lake Tahoe area offers several year-round outdoor activities for children and adults alike.

Lake Tahoe, a crystal-clear, cobalt-blue lake nestled in the snowy Sierra Nevada mountains, is the second deepest lake in the United States.

It was a major transportation hub for the transcontinental train and subsequent freeways.

The lake’s beauty and abundance of activities draw travelers; thus, the number of wayside stops rose, bringing noise and activity.

The region flourished over the twentieth century, becoming a beautiful destination loved by both tourists and locals.

There is something to do for everyone in the Lake Tahoe area, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and biking.

Here are the 20 best things to do with kids in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, to help you have a memorable time with them.

Go to the South Yuba River

Scenic view of South Yuba River in Nevada

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Lake Tahoe attracts millions of visitors each year, but it has one thing the other lakes in the region don’t: it’s the only lake with a river.

There are many ways to enjoy the South Yuba River; you can explore the river and be amazed by its unique scenery.

People swimming in the South Yuba River

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The South Yuba River is a river in the Sierra Nevada of California, USA.

It is fed by South Yuba Dam on the Yuba River, near American Canyon, CA, near the Nevada border.

The river flows into the Sacramento River, which is a tributary of the San Joaquin River.

The waters of South Yuba River

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Swimming in the Lake

Crystal-like Lake in Lake Tahoe

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Kids love to flee the city in search of adventure in the outdoors.

There is no better place to go than Lake Tahoe.

The Lake surrounds South Lake Tahoe in California, making it a favorite destination for all ages.

Let’s face it, going on a family cruise is a special kind of vacation, which is why it’s no surprise that so many people go overboard when it comes to having fun.

A kayak on Lake Tahoe

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Some people may even go as far as deciding to have a family vacation before kids have even been born!

But there’s much more to being a traveling family than just being together and spending time together.

What is more fun than exploring Lake Tahoe by swimming with your kids and teaching them classic lake games like skipping rocks?

Paddle-boarding on Lake Tahoe

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Be Adventurous With Rock Climbing

A man climbing on a rock in Lake Tahoe

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In the world of rock climbing, there is often a stigma attached to traveling to a climbing destination with kids.

But there is no reason to limit your kids to the local climbing gym.

Rock climbing, one of the oldest outdoor sports, is a fun way to get out and experience the beauty of nature.

A man climbing on a rock in Lake Tahoe

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It can be an enriching activity—even for kids, who can often learn a lot from the process.

The rock climbing area at Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for people of all ages.

With a variety of climbs suitable for all levels of experience, as well as a massive selection of equipment and a wide variety of climbing partners, Lake Tahoe is an ideal place to explore rock climbing for the first time or enjoy it as a repeat visitor.

Visit the Lake Tahoe Discovery Museum and Event Center

Located in a mountainside, the Lake Tahoe Discovery Museum is a great place to spend a day with kids.

The historical museum houses a variety of interactive exhibits that will help you learn about the area, the history of the lake, and the life of our ancestors.

The museum is the only one in the country dedicated to Lake Tahoe’s unique history.

It offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the area’s rich geology, Native American history, mining, conservation, and other unique aspects.

The museum is kid-friendly, and there are activities for children of all ages.

Explore the Lake by Scuba Diving

Scuba Diving in Lake Tahoe

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As you read this, you may be thinking that you know nothing about scuba diving and that you do not plan on ever taking to the ocean for a dive.

Well, you have to start to read and understand the underwater world and the opportunities it presents.

Scuba diving is considered one of the most popular water sports.

If you’ve always wondered what it would be like to explore the depths of the ocean, try scuba diving with your kids.

Scuba diver exploring lake tahoe underwater

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Fishing and Grilling

 Fishing boat on lake Tahoe

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As the summer approaches, it’s always the time of year when the kids are back in school, and it’s also the time of year when parents are looking for some fun things to do.

For many families, spending time at the Lake is the perfect option.

This is because the Lake is home to some of the best fishing in the country.

Lake Tahoe is a gorgeous place to visit, but there can be a lot to take in if you’re a first-time visitor.

Grilling place near the waters of Lake Tahoe

Angela Dukich / Shutterstock.com

And if you’re a parent, you’re probably wondering how to keep the kids busy.

If you’re a fisherman, you may want to check out these top-notch fishing spots, guaranteed to provide a bounty of fish for your dinner table.

If you’re a griller, you’ll be glad to know that Lake Tahoe has a variety of stellar barbecue spots to check out.

Visit the Tahoe Keys Marina

The Tahoe Keys Marina in South Lake Tahoe is a terrific place for families.

Day trips to Tahoe Keys Marina can help you find the things you want to do with kids, from fun family activities to cool things to do with teens.

For all of you out there who may be vacationing in Lake Tahoe this summer, check out one of the most beautiful spots in the area: The Lake Tahoe Keys Marina.

The marina is located at the foot of the Lake and is surrounded by a wonderland of nature.

The marina is about one mile long and filled with some of the most beautiful and exciting hotels and restaurants.

Kayaking by the Lake

Kayaking by the Lake Tahoe

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Lake Tahoe’s a magical place, so much so that it inspired a nursery rhyme.

But the whole proximity has much more to offer than short verses about a diamond in a sea of silver.

It is such a great place to visit with kids of all ages, from Northern California to Nevada’s Lake Tahoe to the surrounding areas.

A Kayaker on Lake Tahoe

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Lake Tahoe is home to one of the most extensive and best-maintained kayaking and canoeing areas in the country.

There are several spots around the Lake where the water is calm and perfect for learning to kayak and other places where the water is rough and challenging.

Aerial view of a kayaker on Lake Tahoe

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Jet Skiing Along the Lake

Jet Skis in Lake Tahoe

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Lake Tahoe might be best known for its bountiful winter ski resorts.

Still, the Lake Tahoe Basin—the largest alpine Lake in North America—is a year-round destination for sightseers, fishers, and the odd winter-sport enthusiast.

People enjoying their Jet Ski on Lake Tahoe

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The Lake Tahoe Basin encompasses a massive land region, stretching from the Lake Tahoe area in the north to Lake Almanor in the south and Lake Tahoe to Lake Manurewa in the east.

In addition to the Lake Tahoe area, this area also enjoys many other recreational facilities, including water parks, ski resorts, and hiking trails.

Empty Jet Skis on Lake Tahoe

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Go to Lake Tahoe Golf Course

Landscape of Lake Tahoe Golf Course

Neil Lockhart / Shutterstock.com

As you know, summer brings with it a lot of great family time: it’s time for road trips, vacations, and the like.

However, sometimes everything gets a little boring, and you want to give your kids something to look forward to.

Maybe you want to take your kids to the Lake Tahoe Golf Course.

This golf course is located in the heart of Lake Tahoe, which is a popular vacation spot for families.

Exploring the Place via Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking in Lake Tahoe

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Lake Tahoe is an American mountain lake located in the Sierra Nevada, within Nevada.

The Lake is at 5,225 ft above mean sea level, and the Lake is 23 miles long.

Lake Tahoe is one of the most stunning lakes around America, and you can find many activities to do on the Lake.

Two people cycling around Lake Tahoe

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When you’re traveling to Tahoe, you should visit the fantastic casinos, the miles of hiking trails, the world-class restaurants, and the other unique attractions.

But if you are a bike enthusiast, you will prefer exploring the surrounding places by biking around the town.

Lake Tahoe, a playground for mountain bikers, skiers, and whitewater rafters, is a perfect destination for families with kids.

Fun-tastic Parasailing

Parasailing in Lake Tahoe

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If you want to explore Lake Tahoe with your kids, you are probably looking for unique, fun activities that keep the whole family entertained.

Well, let’s first take a look at some things to do in Lake Tahoe with kids to make exploring this beautiful Lake easier.

You’ll certainly have an enjoyable experience and have the most memorable vacation of your life if to explore Lake Tahoe by parasailing.

Having a Blast With Water-Slides

The most common thing that parents do when they are on vacation with their kids is to take them to the lake.

Before you know it, they are being asked to go to the water slide.

One word of caution is that two or more kids can get in trouble if they are not careful.

There is no other feeling quite like the feeling of having an adrenaline rush, the rush of elements, and the beauty of the water as big waves crash against the shore.

There are so many ways to enjoy soaking up the sun and soaking up the fun, but there’s one activity that’s sure to get the blood flowing—water sliding.

Exploring Through Ziplining

Ziplining in Lake Tahoe

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Ziplining through the trees of Zipline Adventures in South Lake Tahoe is a thrilling experience for all ages.

The unique canopy tour starts in the forest’s treetops with a quick climb in a 28-foot long, four-post zipline.

Each zipline is equipped with two brake lines, one on each side of the zipline platform.

The operator can perform the zips at their chosen speed, provided the operator controls the platform.

Ziplining is a fun activity that you can enjoy with your family during your vacation.

It is a highly recommended activity for anyone looking for something to do while visiting Lake Tahoe with their kids.

Test Your Kids’ Agility at Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park

Tahoe Treetop Adventure Parks believes that getting outside and being physically active can be therapeutic and that challenging oneself leads to personal growth and new insights.

It offers various ways in which we may learn and develop, forge deeper connections with those closest to us, and achieve a sense of equilibrium in our lives.

Visitors of all ages will feel excitement at Tahoe Treetop, featuring 97 treetop platforms spread across ten courses.

It has two shorter ones for beginners, six longer ones for intermediates, and two longer ones for your little daredevils.

Moreover, suppose a selection of high ropes courses isn’t enough to excite you. In that case, Tahoe Treetop also features 27 various zip lines!

Ride the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster

If you’re looking for a thrill when visiting Lake Tahoe, the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster should be at the top of your list.

You and your loved ones will have a blast riding this gravity-powered mountain coaster as it winds through the woods and around craggy outcrops of rock.

The scenery is breathtaking, as it usually is, and the memories you make will be too.

You may share the fun of roller coasters with a friend or two since each sled can accommodate two riders.

You’re in charge of the pace you hurtle down the mountain on this gravity-powered roller coaster.

It takes roughly 6 minutes to get from the peak to the bottom; however, you may reduce your time depending on your need for speed.

Take Photos at Vikingsholm

Daytime view of Vikingsholm

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The National Register of Historic Places recognizes Vikingsholm, a mansion of 38 rooms located on the edge of Emerald Bay in Lake Tahoe.

This hidden castle is one of Emerald Bay’s most impressive sites.

It combines the area’s natural splendor with man’s architectural brilliance.

Exterior of Vikingsholm

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You may teach your kids more about Scandinavian architecture since it is the best example of such in the United States.

Those who desire to visit this stunning location can do so at any time of the year; the home is accessible for visits throughout the summer.

Side view of Vikingsholm's exterior

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Explore the Area’s History at Tallac Historic Site

A cabin at Tallac Historic Site

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Around three miles to the northwest of South Lake Tahoe proper, on the lake side of Highway 89, lies the Tallac Historic Site.

Three separate mansions constructed between 1894 and 1930 form this historical site.

Tourists may experience something new and thrilling at each individual Estate.

Snow-covered grounds of Tallac Historic Site

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It is a national landmark and a popular destination for sightseers from near and far.

The location, which was previously home to a bustling casino and resort, has now been turned into a tourist attraction.

You may explore the historic mansions and gardens, view vintage clothing and accessories at the Tallac Museum, and even catch a live blacksmith at work.

Explore Cave Rock

Daytime view of Cave Rock

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Cave Rock is perched high in the mountains of Sierra Nevada, just off the coast of Lake Tahoe’s southeast corner.

It is an excellent launching point for boat trips across North America’s biggest alpine lake.

There are about 40 trailer parking spots and a double ramp at the boat launch.

View of Cave Rock from the highway

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At the park’s southern end is a tiny beach, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and launching a canoe or kayak.

This area is perfect for fishing and taking in Lake Tahoe’s stunning scenery due to its steep shoreline and rocky shoals.

Final Thoughts

Lake Tahoe is without any question one of the most beautiful places globally, and the list of activities above offers an exciting starting point for any family that would like to see more of it.

It is a mesmerizing and relaxing place where you can relax and have fun in the sun. And when the sun sets, the views are just gorgeous.

So, what are you waiting for?

Pack your bags and tell the kids you are going on an exciting vacation to Lake Tahoe.

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