A New Era for Lake Tahoe’s Historic Camp

June 17, 2024

With its historic cabins, old-timey ice cream parlor, and generations of fiercely loyal guests, South Lake Tahoe’s beachfront Camp Richardson Resort is marking its 100th anniversary with a significant refresh. New operator ExplorUS began renovations earlier this year with the 160-acre property’s 1926 hotel, whose grand lobby and 34 guest rooms shine with restored woodwork and new furnishings. 

The camp’s lakefront restaurant, newly renamed The Grove, also received a facelift with refreshed interiors, new menus, and a refinished outdoor deck set steps from the lapping shoreline. Rum Runners, long the camp’s signature cocktail, are still flowing, along with contemporary bites such as fried chicken with ricotta beignets. An adjacent marina rents kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, while up the road at Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park, you can join a free guided kayak tour every Thursday and Saturday morning through Labor Day weekend (reservations required).