This breathtakingly beautiful park is on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe, just 17 miles south of Tahoe City on Highway 89 and a few miles north of Emerald Bay. The park has a wonderful interpretive visitor center with wildlife displays, beaches and hiking trails. At the north end of Bliss is Rubicon Point, where, overlooking one of the lake’s deepest spots, you can see over one hundred feet into the depths of Lake Tahoe.
Enjoy swimming in the crystal clear water of Lake Tahoe, picnicking, relaxing on the warm sand of Lester Beach or Calawee Cove, and hiking the Rubicon Trail, Lighthouse Trail, and Balancing Rock Trail. You will want to be sure to take the 1/2 mile self guided trail to see the famous Balancing Rock! Lester Beach is a popular location to launch your kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, but keep in mind that trailers are not allowed in the day use parking lots. Day use parking areas are often full by mid morning, so plan to arrive early.
The park is named for a pioneering lumberman, railroad owner, and banker of the region. The D.L. Bliss family donated 744 acres to the State Park system in 1929.
Dogs are not allowed on the beaches, trails or off-trails at this park.