Lake Tahoe Is In Two States: California Vs Nevada (And What That Means On The Water)

Lake Tahoe is one lake shared by two states—California and Nevada—and that “in two places at once” detail affects way more than people expect. From which shoreline you’re looking at (and what’s nearby) to how rules and services can vary, the state line is a fun part of Tahoe’s story. The good news: you don’t have to overthink it—especially on a captained charter, where an experienced captain helps you navigate conditions, routes, and the local norms on both sides.

Top 10 Facts About Lake Tahoe Being In Two States

  • Lake Tahoe sits in 2 states: California and Nevada.
  • Lake Tahoe touches 2 counties in California and 1 county in Nevada.
  • The shoreline is about 72 miles around.
  • Lake Tahoe covers about 191 square miles.
  • Max depth is about 1,645 feet.
  • Surface elevation is about 6,225 feet above sea level.
  • Roughly 63 tributaries flow into the lake.
  • Only 1 outlet flows out: the Truckee River.
  • About two-thirds of the shoreline is in California and about one-third is in Nevada.
  • You can cross the CA–NV line on the water in minutes (it’s an invisible border through open lake).

Interactive Map: Click To Reveal California Or Nevada

Use the interactive map below to see exactly how the California–Nevada state line divides Lake Tahoe. Click anywhere on the map and the overlay will fade in to reveal which state that side of the lake belongs to.

Tap anywhere on the map to reveal California or Nevada.
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FAQ

Is Lake Tahoe in California or Nevada?
Both. Lake Tahoe sits on the California–Nevada border, and the state line runs through the lake.

Where is the state line on Lake Tahoe?
The border cuts across the lake, splitting it into a California side and a Nevada side. The interactive map above makes the split easy to see.

Can you boat between California and Nevada on Lake Tahoe?
Yes—boats cross between sides all the time. You’re still on the same lake, just moving between state jurisdictions.

Does anything change when you cross the state line on the water?
It can. Some rules and services can vary by state and location, so it’s smart to be aware of where you are—especially on busy boating days.

Why do captained charters help when the lake is in two states?
A local, credentialed captain understands conditions, traffic patterns, and common routing on both sides—so you can relax and focus on the experience.