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Vacation rentals in Donner Lake

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Donner Lake

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Top guest favorite
An outdoor patio features several lounge chairs and plastic Adirondack chairs arranged around natural rocks and lush greenery. A tranquil river is visible beyond the trees, providing a peaceful backdrop for relaxation under the filtered sunlight.
Home in Truckee
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 340 reviews

AMAZING Downtown & On The RIVER! (13.25% tax incl)

Downtown Truckee, On The River, with a generator! Beautiful, comfortable, fully remodeled one bedroom apartment tastefully decorated. Small weekday office upstairs. 80' of river frontage, large patios, stone stairways to river, on site parking. Walk downtown yet totally private. Note: Due to a very serious allergy of a cleaner, we cannot accommodate animals including service animals. NO smoking, max of 2 guests. No children under 13. 3 bedroom house next door also available STR lic. #008814

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
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

Amazing Cabin w/ Soaking Tub, Woodstove!

Cleanest and Newest Home in Tahoe! Relax in this architecturally interesting, immaculate, and spacious home. The spa-like master bedroom includes a large soaking tub, a tile shower with two powerful shower heads, and a KING bed. The cozy, light-filled guestroom with QUEEN bed and custom bathroom is the perfect retreat. Fully stocked, the modern kitchen will inspire gourmet meals. With its vaulted ceiling, QUEEN bed, and smart entertainment, the living room is perfect for apres and movie night.

Top guest favorite
The cabin exterior showcases a modern design with dark gray siding and sloped roof. Snow is gently falling, creating a serene winter scene. Large windows reveal glimpses of the interior, while a wooden staircase leads to the entrance, enhancing accessibility.
Cabin in Truckee
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 159 reviews

Donner Lake Ski House | Remodeled 3BD/2BTH

Lovingly remodeled lake home, popular location—1 block from Donner Lake piers and a quick drive to 5 ski resorts (Sugar Bowl, Palisades, NorthStar) in winter (10–20 mins), and a 5 minute drive to charming downtown Truckee! A must do 5 min walk to the lakefront brunch at Donner lake Kitchen, or cozy up with the gas fireplace, board games, pool table and an updated well stocked kitchen. Easy Bay Area access with flat driveway. Max 7 guests, 3 cars/2 in winter. Truckee STR Permit: 003384.

Guest favorite
A cozy sleeping area features a spacious bed covered with a light blanket. A comfortable couch is positioned nearby, with dark curtains framing a large window that reveals views of the snow-covered ski hill.
Condo in Truckee
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviews

Studio condo at base of Tahoe Donner ski hill

Small condo at base of Tahoe Donner ski hill. Its really ideal for 2 people. However, there is a couch that folds down can becomes a bed (suitable for someone under 5.8). Deck overlooks the ski hill and has a killer view. There is a full size fridge, coffee maker, microwave, toaster oven and induction hot plate. Full bathroom. The unit has a table / work station. There are two chars and there are two black side tables that can act as extra seats so 4 people can sit at the table.

Top guest favorite
The A-frame exterior is framed by tall pine trees, with large windows allowing natural light to illuminate the interior. A red umbrella shades the outdoor seating area, providing a pop of color against the dark wood facade.
Cabin in Truckee
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

Donner Lake A-frame Cabin with a view

Cozy, classic and updated A-frame features a view of Donner Lake, a quiet neighborhood, and thoughtful modern updates making it the ideal place to unwind and enjoy all that Truckee has to offer! PLEASE NOTE: There are TIGHT STEEP STAIRS INSIDE OF THE HOME, as well as STEEP STAIRS OUTSIDE to get into the home from either entrance. WINTER - 4WD & CHAINS REQUIRED. We have the driveway plowed professionally and you will be responsible for shoveling the stairs and deck during your stay.

Guest favorite
An open-concept kitchen and dining area is featured, with high ceilings and wooden paneling. The dining table is made of wood, surrounded by black chairs. A kitchen island with bar stools and modern stainless steel appliances is visible. A window offers a view of a snowy outdoor landscape.
Cabin in Truckee
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

Designer Cabin: Hot Tub, Arcade Game, Trail, More

Newly remodeled with higher-end and modern designer touches, and a hot tub on the back deck! Single story and open-concept living area, chef's kitchen with higher-end gas range, larger dining table and extra seating at the breakfast bar, door opening up to fresh pines, large deck, and large open area for kids to play. Kids reading loft, bunk beds, arcade table, Smart TV's. Located in Tahoe Donner's resort neighborhood, guest access to pools, saunas, gym, and other amenities.

Guest favorite
Two Adirondack chairs are positioned on the riverbank, facing the flowing water. A small wooden table is placed between them, surrounded by natural vegetation and various river stones. Sunlight dapples the scene, highlighting the tranquil setting by the river.
Guest suite in Truckee
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 802 reviews

Truckee River Bike House

ON THE TRUCKEE RIVER right in the historic downtown area, our little place is a 2 block walk to restaurants and shopping. You’ll love our place because you can sit inside or in bed and watch the river flow by. It's a peaceful place, new and modern, private and the middle of it all. It's not just a place to stay, it's a destination. QUIET people only please. We have a firm sofa sleeper. we have a couple of other mattresses we can bring in if you prefer a softer bed.

Top guest favorite
Large double doors open to reveal a snowy landscape framed by trees. A comfortable chair is placed beside a black stove, and warm light fixtures provide a cozy ambiance throughout the wooden interior.
Guesthouse in Truckee
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 151 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.

Guest favorite
The cozy cabin is surrounded by a snowy landscape, with tall pine trees framing the scene. Soft lights adorn the exterior, providing a warm glow. A wooden staircase leads to the entrance, emphasizing a welcoming atmosphere amidst winter's beauty.
Cabin in Truckee
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 475 reviews

Donner Lake Family Cabin

Hi, I’m Rob and this is my family cabin! Only minutes off the I-80 Truckee exit, it’s a 1-bedroom/1 bath with a loft. Approximately 800sf and a mere block from the public docks on Donner Lake, downtown Truckee is also only minutes away! Ideally situated near all the big ski resorts; Sugar Bowl, Squaw/Alpine, and Northstar, I invite you to a taste of mountain living in the beautiful Sierra’s! -Rob

Top guest favorite
A spacious studio interior is featured, showcasing a comfortable queen-sized bed with soft linens and adjacent nightstands. A cozy couch with an arrangement of decorative pillows sits across from a wooden coffee table, complemented by a dining table in the foreground. Natural light filters through the window.
Guest suite in Truckee
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 153 reviews

↟Your Happy Place↟ Tahoe/Truckee Studio Retreat

Welcome to your little home away from home. The mountains are our happy place, and we hope our studio will help make them yours too. This hillside escape is located in the Truckee-Tahoe area with quick access (very!) to the i80, adorable downtown Truckee, Donner Lake, North Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains. A perfect summer or winter getaway for the solo-traveler or for two.

Guest favorite
A bright living area presents a modern design with a cozy sofa and a rustic wooden coffee table atop a patterned area rug. The open kitchen features light wood cabinets and bar seating. A spiral staircase leads to the upper loft level, emphasizing open space.
Condo in Truckee
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 232 reviews

Ski-In Ski-Out Tahoe Donner Condo

The perfect quiet mountain getaway minutes from downtown Truckee. All the extras including coffee bar with local coffee and complimentary wine. Enjoy floor to ceiling windows to take in the ski hill. Hiking trails, creeks, world class golf and skiing are right outside your door. Private cards to sauna and pool at the clubhouse are included (extra fee applies for all guests).

Top guest favorite
A spacious living area features large windows with lake views and ample natural light. A comfortable couch and a dining table are positioned near the glass doors, which open to a deck. The wooden ceiling adds warmth to the open layout.
Cabin in Truckee
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 387 reviews

Donner Lake Cabin | Lake View, Deck, 10 min to Ski

Donner lake cabin with LAKE VIEW and AC, perfect for a couple or a small family, walk to the lake and the ice cream shop. Short drive to Sugar Bowl skiing. Enjoy the large deck w/ gas BBQ grill & outdoor seating. Very steep driveway with curve/turn, no trucks. TOT RCN: 003728

Popular amenities for Donner Lake vacation rentals

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.

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