Cave Rock State Park
Cave Rock State Park Overview
In 1967, the Nevada Legislature transferred the title of the Cave Rock boat launch and parking area to the Nevada State Park System. Since then, the Cave Rock boat landing has become a very popular recreational site on Lake Tahoe’s east shore.
Weather
Average monthly temperatures range from 38.5 ºF in January to 77.7 ºF in July. Winters in the higher elevations are cold, though seldom severe, with the daytime temperatures averaging about 44 ºF. Summers in the basin are cool and dry, with daytime temperatures averaging 75º F with nighttime temperatures at 44º F.
Average annual precipitation ranges from up to 80 inches in the far western portions of Lake Tahoe, while the eastern side ranges from 20 to 35 inches of precipitation.
At Sand Harbor, the mean annual precipitation is 20 – 25 inches, with the amount increasing steadily with elevation.
The average annual snowfall is 200 – 280 inches.
Elevation
7,000-foot elevation.
How to Get to Cave Rock State Park
Access Cave Rock State Park via Highway 50.
- 19 miles from Carson City via Highway 50
- 52 miles from Reno via 580 to Highway 50
Parking at Cave Rock State Park
Self-pay is necessary if the guard house is closed. Please use the credit card-friendly automatic self-pay machine.
Hours Open
Park is open from sunrise to sunset. Boat launch hours vary by season and are open in the summer from May through September from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- May 27 through September 5: 6 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- October through April – 6 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Fees
Day use entrance fee: $10.00 per vehicle (Non-NV Vehicles: $15.00 per vehicle)
Boat Info
- Boat launch: $20.00 (Non-NV Vehicles $25.00)
- The boat launch offers a double ramp and the park has more than 40 spaces for trailer parking.
- The boat launch includes one double ramp with a dock separating the ramps and over 40 spaces for trailer parking.
Offsite watercraft inspections are required for all motorized watercraft as a part of the new program that is helping to protect Lake Tahoe from the threat of invasive species such as the Quagga and Zebra mussels. For more information on how mandatory watercraft inspections help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species in Lake Tahoe, visit tahoeboatinspections.com.
Boat Launch Hours: May 27th – September 5th: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm Visit Tahoe Boat Inspections Website. Hours are subject to change.
Fishing
A steep shoreline and rocky shoals make this area a good location for fishing. However, there is no fishing allowed on the beach or in the boat ramp area.
Any person over 16 years old must have a valid California or Nevada sport fishing license. Visit one of the many Lake Tahoe fishing sites to learn more about fishing and the special regulations that are enforced at Tahoe.
Road Bikes
Bike in: $2.00 per bike
Swimming at Cave Rock State Park
There is a small beach located at the south end of the park where park visitors can swim, sunbathe, play in the sand, scuba dive, snorkel, and launch non-motorized watercraft.
Picnics
There are three picnic areas located in the park. One is located by the beach at the south end of the park, one is across from the restroom and the other is at the north end by the boat ramp. Picnic areas have tables and barbecue pits.
Dog-Friendly
Pets are permitted only on dog-friendly beaches. Use a bag to pick up after your pet, and use a 6′ leash.
Fires
Fires are permitted in the barbeque pits only.
Accessibility
Those with developmental and/or physical limitations are invited to enjoy all of the recreational activities of Nevada State Parks. If you would like to request additional support or accommodations, please call the Nevada State Parks division office.