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Vacation rentals in Donner Lake

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Donner Lake

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Guest favorite
Cabin in Truckee
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 152 reviews

Family Tahoe Cabin, Golf Course Views, Games

Come enjoy a wonderful mountain getaway at this beautiful Tahoe Donner cabin. Nestled among tall pines with lovely views of the golf course, our home is the perfect retreat for every season. You can relax by the grand fireplace, enjoy the spacious open living area, or have some fun playing foosball with friends. With access to resort pools, hot tubs, and a gym, plus easy access to skiing, hiking, and lake activities, this family friendly sanctuary is a great place for exploring the beauty of Tru

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Guest favorite
The open living area features high wooden ceilings and large panoramic windows, allowing natural light to fill the space. A sleek kitchen island with seating is present, along with a dining table and a comfortable seating area that invites relaxation.
Cabin in Truckee
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviews

Newly Renovated! 2BR, Big Window Views, Dogs OK

Located in a quiet setting in beautiful Tahoe Donner, this cozy family 2BR/1B cabin is ideal for all seasons. Large windows look out into the peaceful forest and sliding glass doors lead to a deck ideal for grilling during the day and star gazing at night. The property allows access (for a fee) to all Tahoe Donner amenities including pools, hot tubs, saunas, gym and beach. The cozy cabin is 10 minutes from downtown Truckee and in close proximity to Donner Lake, Northstar, Palisades & Sugar Bowl.

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Guest favorite
This A-frame cabin is nestled among tall trees, surrounded by a blanket of snow. A spacious front deck with a railing is visible, complementing the tall glass windows of the cabin, inviting natural light into the interior.
Chalet in Truckee
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 276 reviews

Tahoe Cabin in the Trees

Welcome to the Cabin in the Trees. Great work from home location! This A-frame style cabin is located on a beautiful large wooded lot with green space surrounding the home, creating a private wooded sanctuary. This classic cabin has updated bathrooms and appliances, and a kitchen stocked with all the essentials. The front deck provides an outdoor living space and is fully equipped with a BBQ, fire table, and a new luxurious 7-person salt-water hot tub that sits right off the front deck.

ValueFamilyView

Top guest favorite
A round dining table is set against a backdrop of large windows, offering sweeping views of the lake and surrounding trees. The tranquil blue waters are framed by lush greenery, creating a serene atmosphere for meals and gatherings.
Cabin in Carnelian Bay
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 140 reviews

Tahoe Harris House Quaint Cabin-Spectacular Views

Enjoy a romantic getaway in this adorable "Old Tahoe" cabin! Beautiful lake views abound from just about every room as well as from the patio, the hot tub and of course from the covered porch! This darling home is about 1000 square feet, but not a single inch has been wasted! After four generations of The Harris family, we have now become the loving stewards of this charming, “Old Tahoe” cabin. We hope you will enjoy it and care for it just as we do! Tag us on Insta @tahoeharrishouse!

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Guest favorite
A spacious open-concept living area features large windows that provide ample natural light. The kitchen with wooden cabinetry and a breakfast bar blends seamlessly with the comfortable seating arrangement in the living room, which is accented by natural wood beams and cozy lighting.
Home in Donner Lake
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 101 reviews

DonnerDayz

Luxury Home + Salt Water Hot Tub + 2,548 sq ft. It has everything you need in our home, and everything in the area to make your trip absolutely perfect. Close to amazing beaches and ski sites. Sleeps 12 very comfortably in new Purple mattresses. Plus Family Room, Great Room, Reading Room, Mud Room, Garage. Two large outdoor patios. Large kitchen with granite counter, breakfast bar & huge pantry. 2 refrigerators and freezers. Located end of cul-de-sac for added privacy. (No pets).

ValueFamilyQuiet

Guest favorite
A modern kitchen space features a rustic wooden bar with four high stools. A large stainless steel refrigerator and sleek countertops are visible, accompanied by pendant lighting that adds a warm glow. Natural light floods the area through large windows.
Home in Donner Lake
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 225 reviews

Rustic Contemporary Donner Lake Home

"Why is it among the most glacial mountain peaks I find the greatest warmth?`Ivan Granger Newly remodeled 4 bedroom, 3 bath home just 1 block from Donner Lake. Enjoy a gourmet kitchen, loft, airlock for coats & shoes and a deck for relaxing and BBQ'ing. The public beach at the West End of Donner Lake is walking distance from the house. 7 minutes from Sugar Bowl ski area, 12 minutes to X-C skiing at Royal Gorge, 10 minutes into downtown Truckee. Parking available for 2 cars.

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Top guest favorite
A spacious living area features a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace as its focal point. High wooden ceilings create an open atmosphere, complemented by large windows that frame forest views. A comfortable sectional couch and a wooden coffee table invite relaxation in this welcoming setting.
Cabin in Truckee
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 195 reviews

Cozy Family Mtn Getaway HotTub+2 Master Bdrms

Enjoy a spacious and gorgeous 2 story home that boasts 5 spacious bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. The owners have taken immaculate care of this home and have created a gorgeous modern mountain feel, along with a very warm and inviting atmosphere. Bring the family and friends to this dream vacation home where there is plenty of room to gather and to retreat. Or explore the outdoors of Tahoe Donner area and enjoy the Tahoe lifestyle! The home is only 3 miles from Donner Lake .

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Superhost
The exterior of a two-story wooden home is surrounded by snow-covered trees. A wooden fence encloses the property, providing privacy. Large windows and a balcony are visible on the second floor, allowing for natural light. Snow blankets the ground, creating a serene winter landscape.
Home in Donner Lake
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 211 reviews

Cozy house at Donner Lake

Two story home with open area concept, three rooms and garage/game room that can accommodate up to 8 people. - Split AC units in bedrooms. - Kids playground & Game room for the grown ups (pool table, ping pong table, darts and an arcade machine). - 400 Mbps Internet with WIFI 6 mesh router for full coverage. - Roku TVs on every bedroom and living room. - Parking for three cars. - Restaurant and grocery store across street. - Close to all major ski resorts.

LocationFamilyHiking

Top guest favorite
Guesthouse in Donner Lake
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 162 reviews

Aspen View Carriage House

Beautiful new studio space over the detached garage of the main house. Spacious and bright. This waterfront property is located on the shores of Summit Creek. Easy backyard launching for your canoe, kayak or stand up board with just a short paddle to Donner Lake. Close to everything - rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing, fishing and hiking. Sleeps four, no pets. No more than four people. Tesla charger.

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Guest favorite
A charming cabin is situated among tall trees, with a wooden deck leading up to it. A group of six people and a dog are gathered on the deck, enjoying each other's company. Large windows provide natural light to the interior.
Cabin in Truckee
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 292 reviews

[Skislope Cabin] Hot Tub - Dog Friendly

Explore local hiking trails, ski mountains, and lakes just minutes away. Relax in a salt hot tub on the back deck overlooking the Carson Mountain Range. Bring your dog. Sit by the gas fireplace and unwind. Enjoy a free park pass to access D.L. Bliss SP, Ed Z'Berg Sugar Pine Point SP, Emerald Bay SP, Kings Beach SRA, and even Donner Memorial SP for free!

LocationFamilyCleanliness

Top guest favorite
The exterior of a modern chalet is featured, constructed with natural wood in warm tones. Large windows provide a view of the surrounding pine trees. A two-car garage with wooden doors is visible, along with a stone pathway leading to the main entrance.
Home in Truckee
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 130 reviews

Luxury 5 Bd/4Bth in Tahoe Donner w/ EV Charger

Escape to this beautifully furnished, modern 5-bedroom / 4-bath designer mountain cabin, where contemporary luxury meets the serene beauty of the Tahoe National Forest. A perfect retreat for 4 couples or families, this home sleeps 12 comfortably. Includes a Tesla Wall Connector (EV charger) in the garage for your convenience.

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Guest favorite
An expansive view of Donner Lake is presented, surrounded by lush forest and rolling mountains. The sky is painted with shades of pink and purple, reflecting gently on the water surface, creating a serene and picturesque landscape.
Apartment in Donner Lake
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 360 reviews

Donner Lake Birdhouse *EV charger

Unwind at the lake and enjoy the AMAZING view. This is a duplex with the Owner living space upstairs part-time and the Guest living space downstairs with a separate entry. Great access to Sugarbowl, Alpine and Squaw. * during snowy conditions you will need all wheel drive and snow tires or chains to get up the road

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Popular amenities for Donner Lake vacation rentals

GymBBQ grillLaptop-friendly workspaceWifiAir conditioning

Houses for rent in Donner Lake

Guest favorite
The living area features large windows offering sweeping views of Lake Tahoe, framed by warm wood paneling and a stone fireplace. A cozy sectional sofa and armchairs provide comfortable seating, while a large flat-screen TV is mounted on the wall, contributing to the welcoming ambiance.
Home in Glenbrook
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviews

The Marla Bay Lookout | Panoramic Views | Sleep 10

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Guest favorite
A bright living area features a high, wooden ceiling and large windows allowing natural light to illuminate the space. Comfortable seating options include a sectional sofa and accent chairs. A cozy wood stove stands beside a low coffee table, enhancing the cabin's inviting atmosphere.
Home in Truckee
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 177 reviews

Truckee Oasis 10min to Lake+Hot Tub+Private Beach

LocationFamilyAccess

Guest favorite
A warm and inviting loft area features a comfortable swinging chair and a wooden desk, suitable for work. Shelves filled with books and colorful decor create a cozy atmosphere. Soft lighting illuminates the space, highlighting the wood ceilings and charming details throughout.
Home in Truckee
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 140 reviews

Bohemian Chic Chalet

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Top guest favorite
A charming two-story cabin is nestled among evergreen trees, surrounded by snow-covered grounds. The structure features two levels of decks, and large windows illuminate the interior. Majestic mountains are visible in the distance, with a soft twilight sky painting the horizon.
Home in Truckee
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 148 reviews

Hot tub, AC, beautiful Tahoe Donner 4/3 house

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Top guest favorite
The living room features a spacious layout with wood-paneled ceilings and large windows allowing natural light. Comfortable seating is provided by a gray sofa and a dark couch. A cozy wood stove sits on a stone base, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.
Home in Truckee
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 130 reviews

Amazing Cabin w/ Soaking Tub, Woodstove!

LocationFamilyOutdoor spaces

Top guest favorite
A spacious outdoor seating area is shown on a deck overlooking the lake. A low coffee table features snacks and drinks. The setting sun casts warm light over the water and mountains, with boats visible on the pier in the background.
Home in Kings Beach
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 271 reviews

Lakefront, Paddleboards, Pier, Remodeled, Walkable

LocationFamilyAccuracy

Top guest favorite
The exterior of the house features a large deck surrounded by trees, with multiple windows allowing natural light to fill the interior. A wooden staircase leads up to the entrance, while a garage is visible on the side.
Home in Truckee
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 163 reviews

Casa del Sol Tahoe Truckee

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Top guest favorite
The serene Truckee River flows gently through a landscape adorned with autumn colors. Lush trees line the banks, while quaint homes can be seen in the background. Soft hues of sunset light reflect on the water, enhancing the peaceful ambiance of the area.
Home in Truckee
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews

It Doesn't Get Any Better - Downtown + Riverfront!

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Lake side house rentals in Donner Lake

Superhost
The three-story wooden home features large windows that allow natural light to fill the interior, surrounded by snow-covered trees. A flat driveway leads to a two-car garage, and a welcoming front porch is visible, providing access to the main entrance.
Home in Truckee
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 138 reviews

Star Pine_Large Luxury w/ GameRoom,PoolTable,N64

LocationFamilyBathroom

Top guest favorite
A Bavarian style home is framed by tall trees, featuring a two-story facade with wooden accents. The front porch has seating areas, and decorative skis are mounted above the entrance. Large windows allow for ample natural light, creating a welcoming exterior.
Home in Homewood
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 219 reviews

Walk to Homewood Chairlift + Hot Tub

LocationFamilySkiing

Top guest favorite
The kitchen features an open layout with modern wood cabinetry and high-end stainless steel appliances. Smooth counter surfaces offer ample workspace, while bar seating is arranged nearby. Natural light enters through the window, illuminating the warm wooden tones and inviting atmosphere.
Home in Carnelian Bay
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 349 reviews

Updated Stylish Carnelian Cabin-Hot tub and Garage

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Guest favorite
A modern kitchen area displays sleek cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances. A spacious island provides seating at bar stools. Large windows invite natural light, framing views of the surrounding trees. A staircase leads to an upper loft area, enhancing the open feel of the space.
Home in Incline Village
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 149 reviews

Incline Village Chalet

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Top guest favorite
A snow-covered landscape showcases a two-story home nestled among tall pine trees. The home is partially obscured by a thick blanket of white snow, with rocky terrain and evergreen foliage surrounding it. The sky reveals patches of blue peeking through wispy clouds.
Home in Zephyr Cove
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 208 reviews

Beach & Ski Steps to Lake, 5 min to lifts & Golf !

LocationValueBiking

Guest favorite
A panoramic view of Lake Tahoe is revealed, framed by tall evergreen trees. Soft pastel hues of pink and purple in the sky reflect on the water, with distant mountains creating a scenic backdrop. The tranquility of the lake is enhanced by gentle waves.
Home in Tahoma
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 258 reviews

Spectacular full Lake Tahoe view Holidays now open

LocationFamilyBathroom

Guest favorite
A charming A-frame cabin nestled among tall pine trees is featured. The exterior boasts a sloped metal roof and a welcoming front door. Two Adirondack chairs in red and blue are placed on the porch, surrounded by a gravel pathway and natural landscaping.
Home in Tahoe City
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 231 reviews

Serene Lakeside Home - Path to Beach - Fenced Yard

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Top guest favorite
A spacious mountain home with a wooden exterior and large picture windows is showcased. The wrap-around deck features outdoor seating, while a stone walkway leads to the entrance. Tall trees surround the property, enhancing the natural setting.
Home in Donner Lake
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 42 reviews

Gorgeous Donner Lake 3BR + Loft Modern Home

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Other great vacation rentals in Donner Lake

Top guest favorite
Cabin in Truckee
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 222 reviews

#DonnerBliss⛰HotTub👙FirePit🔥PetFrdly🐶WoodStove🪵

ValueLocationPool

Top guest favorite
The exterior of a modern, remodeled home is showcased amid a grove of tall pine trees. Natural stone boulders line the front yard, and expansive wooden decks extend from the house, inviting outdoor relaxation. The garage is visible, along with a paved driveway.
Cabin in Truckee
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 134 reviews

Tahoe Family Cabin- Kids love Arcade, Toys, Sleds+

ValueFamilyWalkability

Top guest favorite
Chalet in Kings Beach
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 124 reviews

October Weekends Off! Enjoy Fall at Retro A-Frame

ValueLocationAmenities

Guest favorite
A well-maintained cabin is surrounded by towering pine trees, featuring a wooden deck with a railing. A pathway with steps leads to the entrance, offering a rustic charm that blends with the natural surroundings.
Cabin in Donner Lake
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 520 reviews

Donner Lake Family Cabin

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Guest favorite
A modern kitchen features custom wooden cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. A large island with seating for three is complemented by a distinctive chandelier. Natural light is provided by a large window overlooking trees, enhancing the space's inviting and functional design.
Condo in Donner Lake
4.84 out of 5 average rating, 170 reviews

Donner Lake Getaway

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Top guest favorite
The exterior of the condo is showcased among tall trees, featuring a welcoming porch with a wooden railing. Natural landscaping enhances the serene setting, while large windows allow ample light into the living space. The blue-gray structure maintains a modern yet rustic aesthetic.
Condo in Truckee
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 268 reviews

Tinopai Tahoe Donner Condo

ValueFamilyView

Guest favorite
Cabin in Donner Lake
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 56 reviews

Full Donner Lake views with hot tub, BBQ, deck

LocationFamilySleep quality

Guest favorite
Home in Donner Lake
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 17 reviews

Donner Lakefront Luxury | Private Pier & Mountain

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where is Donner Lake located?

    Donner Lake is nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, near the town of Truckee. Surrounded by forested slopes and alpine scenery, the area has easy access to outdoor recreation year-round.

  • When is the best time to visit Donner Lake?

    Summer months are often recommended for swimming, boating, and hiking, with moderate temperatures and minimal rain. Spring and fall bring lighter crowds and mild weather, while winter has opportunities for nearby snow sports.

  • What are some things to do near Donner Lake?

    You can explore swimming, kayaking, or fishing on the lake, and hike the nearby trails surrounded by pines. Around Donner Lake, there are picnic spots, scenic lookouts, and opportunities to learn about regional history.

  • How is the weather near Donner Lake?

    Donner Lake experiences cold, snowy winters around 26–48°F (-3–9°C), while summers are warm and dry, reaching 60–94°F (16–34°C). Most rain and snow fall between November and April, with clear days common in summer and early fall.

All about Donner Lake

Located on the eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in northeastern California, Donner Lake sits less than half an hour northwest of Lake Tahoe, which straddles the Nevada border. With its cerulean water and stretches of sandy beach fringed by towering pine trees, Donner Lake is a haven of calm. The lake’s small size makes exploring by kayak or stand-up paddleboard popular activities, and these waters are home to some of the biggest lake trout in California, attracting anglers from far and wide.

The neighboring town of Truckee has a small, historic downtown dating from the 1840s, when travelers made their way along the Truckee Basin to settle on the California coast. Today, Main Street’s 19th-century brick buildings house a string of family-owned boutiques and local breweries. The lake also boasts easy access to the world-famous waters of Lake Tahoe, which are popular with sailors, hikers, and wildlife-spotters — the region is renowned for black bears and mountain lions.

What are the top things to do in Donner Lake?

Donner Memorial State Park

This tranquil alpine park extends along the eastern and southern end of the lake and offers eight miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, while the waters are home to kokanee trout. The 23-foot tall Pioneer Monument commemorates 19th-century emigrants who made the move west, and the Visitor Center provides an insight into the region’s Native American communities and construction of the transcontinental railroad.

Boreal Mountain

Less than 15 minutes’ drive from Donner Lake, year-round outdoor activities are on offer at Boreal Mountain. Skiers and snowboarders head here to explore over 350 acres of fresh powder and make the most of the only night skiing in the area, while mountain biking trails and renowned skate parks offer plenty of warm weather fun.

Lake Tahoe

Around 20 minutes southeast, Lake Tahoe is one of the most scenic spots in northern California and the largest alpine lake in the United States. Visitors line its sandy shores and head out on sailboats on summer days and marvel at the surrounding snow-capped peaks in winter. On the southwestern shore, Emerald Bay State Park features a granite cliff and jaw-dropping panoramic views, and there are miles of hiking trails to explore throughout the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Destinations to explore