D.L. Bliss State Park | Tahoe

D.L. Bliss State Park, located on the west shore of Lake Tahoe in California, is a beautiful and popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is known for its rugged terrain, crystal-clear water, and exceptional recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, swimming, and boating. It offers visitors a chance to experience both natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities in a serene setting.

General Information

Location: D.L. Bliss State Park is situated on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, approximately 10 miles south of Tahoe City, California, off Highway 89. It lies in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Size: The park spans around 1,800 acres and includes a significant portion of the shore of Lake Tahoe.

Elevation: The park’s elevation ranges from about 6,200 feet (1,890 meters) at the lake to higher elevations in the surrounding mountains, which exceed 7,000 feet (2,130 meters).

Notable Features

Lester Beach: One of the most notable features of the park, Lester Beach is a secluded, sandy cove with a peaceful, scenic atmosphere. The beach is a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing. The surrounding area is surrounded by tall trees, offering plenty of shade, and the clear waters of Lake Tahoe are perfect for swimming and kayaking. The beach is accessible from the park, but it's also popular for those accessing the park via the Rubicon Trail from nearby Emerald Bay State Park.

Calawee Cove: Another scenic spot within D.L. Bliss State Park, Calawee Cove is often less crowded than Lester Beach, making it a great alternative for visitors seeking a quieter, more private spot. The cove is small but offers great views of the lake, and its calm waters make it ideal for boating and kayaking.

Rubicon Trail: A popular 4.5-mile (7.2 km) trail that runs along the shoreline between D.L. Bliss State Park and Emerald Bay State Park, the Rubicon Trail is known for its stunning views of Lake Tahoe and its rugged, rocky terrain. The trail passes by both Lester Beach and Calawee Cove and offers panoramic views of the lake. The trail is considered moderate to strenuous, as it features some steep sections and rocky terrain.

Mount Ralston: A prominent peak that can be seen from many parts of D.L. Bliss State Park, Mount Ralston offers a challenging hike to the summit for those seeking a higher vantage point over the lake and surrounding forests. The summit provides views of Lake Tahoe, the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and the distant desert landscape to the east.

Historic D.L. Bliss Estate: The park is named after Duane Leroy Bliss, an early Lake Tahoe pioneer and businessman. He built a large estate in the area in the late 19th century, and although the estate no longer exists, the park still reflects his legacy. The estate was instrumental in the development of the area and the eventual establishment of the state park.

Recreational Activities

Hiking: The park offers a variety of hiking trails, including the Rubicon Trail, which connects to neighboring Emerald Bay State Park. Hiking here gives visitors the opportunity to explore forested areas, rocky shorelines, and lakeside views, with trails that vary in difficulty from easy to moderate.

Swimming: The beaches, including Lester Beach and Calawee Cove, offer great spots for swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe. The park’s beaches are less crowded than some of the other spots around the lake, providing a more peaceful atmosphere.

Boating and Kayaking: The park offers easy access to Lake Tahoe for visitors who enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, or other water sports. Visitors can launch their boats from the park's boat ramp or enjoy paddling along the shoreline.

Picnicking: There are picnic areas scattered throughout the park, many of which offer beautiful views of the lake. These areas are ideal for a relaxing meal in nature and are equipped with tables and grills.

Camping: D.L. Bliss State Park offers a popular campground with sites available for both tent camping and RVs. The campground is set in a forested area, providing a peaceful atmosphere for campers. However, it is important to note that camping at the park is currently unavailable through the summer of 2025 due to ongoing infrastructure projects.

Fishing: Lake Tahoe is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Fishermen can enjoy catching native species such as trout, as well as non-native species like bass and bluegill. The lake is stocked with fish, and the clear waters offer great visibility for those who enjoy fly fishing.

Rock Climbing and Bouldering: The park is a popular spot for rock climbers and boulderers, with many routes found near the eastern side of Highway 89. These areas were closed for the past two seasons, but they are expected to reopen in 2025 for walk-in access. Visitors can climb boulders and enjoy the beautiful surroundings while engaging in a challenging outdoor activity.

Wildlife

The park is home to a variety of wildlife species, and visitors may encounter black bears, mule deer, bobcats, and coyotes. Smaller mammals such as squirrels, raccoons, and rabbits are also common. The area is rich in birdlife, with species such as ospreys, eagles, and various songbirds inhabiting the forested areas and the shorelines of the lake.

Closure Information (2025)

Ongoing Construction: Due to a major waterline infrastructure replacement project, D.L. Bliss State Park will remain mostly closed through the summer of 2025. This means the park’s campground will not be available for reservations during this time.

Limited Access: Some sections of the park, including popular beaches and certain backcountry areas, will remain open, but visitors should be aware of limited amenities and services during their visit. Restrooms and trash services will be unavailable in many areas, so visitors must follow Leave No Trace principles.

Visitor Information

Address: 9881 CA Highway 89, Tahoma, CA 96142

Contact: (530) 525-7277

Website: D.L. Bliss State Park - California State Parks

For the most up-to-date information, it’s recommended to check the official state park website before planning a visit, as park conditions and closures may change.

Nearby Parks and Attractions

For those visiting the area during the closure period, nearby alternatives include:

Emerald Bay State Park: Known for its spectacular views of Emerald Bay, this park offers hiking, camping, and lake access.

Sugar Pine Point State Park: Located on the western shore of Lake Tahoe, this park offers a historic mansion, hiking, and water activities.

Eagle Falls: A picturesque waterfall located near the southern edge of Lake Tahoe, perfect for a scenic hike.

Conclusion

D.L. Bliss State Park offers visitors a chance to enjoy some of the best that Lake Tahoe has to offer, from hiking and camping to water activities and scenic views. Despite the closures through 2025, the park remains a popular destination for those seeking outdoor recreation in a beautiful, natural setting. Whether visiting for a quick hike or planning a camping trip, D.L. Bliss is a gem within the Lake Tahoe region, and its surrounding areas provide ample alternative activities during the closure period.