TAHOMA, Calif.— In a recent announcement, California State Parks revealed that the closure of the beloved D.L. Bliss State Park, nestled in the stunning Lake Tahoe Basin, will be extended through the summer of 2024. The reason behind this extended closure is a critical infrastructure project to replace aging waterlines, ensuring a safer and more sustainable future for the park.
The temporary closure was first initiated in the fall of 2022, causing disappointment for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers who frequent this iconic destination. This hiatus was a necessary measure to make way for essential contract work aimed at replacing outdated waterlines within the park.
The diligent efforts to upgrade these aging waterlines, a vital component of park infrastructure, have been progressing as planned. However, the magnitude of the project, combined with the harsh winter conditions typical of the Lake Tahoe area, requires the closure extension.
The closure is set to continue until the summer of 2024, ensuring that the work can be completed thoroughly and without compromising the safety of visitors. As the snow gradually melts in the coming spring, work will resume, marking a significant step toward the park’s rejuvenation.
D.L. Bliss State Park, famous for its awe-inspiring natural beauty, has long been a preferred spot for those seeking outdoor adventures, tranquil lakeside moments, and unforgettable hiking experiences. The park’s iconic status and ecological significance are why California State Parks is committed to making these essential infrastructure upgrades, which will further protect and preserve this remarkable piece of wilderness.
Though the closure’s extension may come as disappointing news for those eager to revisit the park, it is essential to remember that the work being undertaken is in the best interest of the park and its visitors. The improved waterlines will enhance the park’s safety and sustainability for generations to come.
As the journey toward the reopening of D.L. Bliss State Park continues, outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventurers can take solace in the thought that the destination will emerge revitalized, ensuring a vibrant and secure experience for all.
Closed areas in the park include:
- Vehicle access to Lester Beach
- Calawee Cove
- Balancing Rock trailhead
- Rubicon trailhead north
- All campsites and day-use area
- Visitor Center
Construction will disrupt the roads throughout the park and therefore, there is no vehicle access in the park during the project.
The public is invited to visit nearby campgrounds and day-use access areas at Emerald Bay State Park and Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park, which are expected to be fully open next summer.
Access to the Rubicon Trail will also be affected during the project. Trail users may access the trail from Eagle Point and Vikingsholm trailhead in Emerald Bay State Park, but only for out-and-back hiking. Hikers may access Lester Beach and Calawee Cove from the trail or by boat from the lake. No restrooms or other services will be available. The public is advised to pack out their trash.
Progress was made on water system improvements in other areas of D.L. Bliss State Park and nearby Tahoe state parks this year. New water storage tanks that provide drinking water for visitors and park staff at D.L. Bliss and Emerald Bay State Parks were replaced this summer. At Tahoe State Recreation Area, old waterlines serving the campground were completely replaced recently.
State Parks thanks the public for their patience and understanding as it works to improve the park’s infrastructure. The D.L. Bliss State Park website will be updated with the latest information as it becomes available.
Stay tuned for updates on the progress of the project and the park’s anticipated reopening, as D.L. Bliss State Park embarks on an exciting transformation, ushering in a new era of outdoor splendor.
For more information and future updates on D.L. Bliss State Park’s closure and reopening, please visit the official California State Parks website.