A decision approving the design review of a 53-space “glampground” on nine acres at Elks Point Road and Highway 50 was upheld by Douglas County planning commissioners last week.
The project approved by planning staff also includes a clubhouse, an accessory dwelling for up to nine employees and an events lawn.
According to the staff report, the project would feature temporary and permanent camping shelters. The term glamping is a combination of the words glamor and camping.
Nearly half the shelters would be built on elevated decks, with nine year-around tree houses and 18 domes for seasonal use. The operators would provide 30 e-bikes, two electric shuttles and recreational equipment rentals.
A clubhouse would have a communal kitchen and eating area, edible garden, and a conference room. Restrooms and showers would be communal, with two including a sauna and outdoor hot tub.
The site is zoned for recreation and is undeveloped. It abuts commercial zoning with residential zoning across Highway 50 at Sewer Plant Road.
The project proposed by Globetrotter Properties was first brought to the county on Feb. 15, 2023, where they were told they would have to receive approval from the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency. The agency reviewed and approved the project on Sept. 17, 2025, subject to a county design review.
The site is near Zephyr Cove Campground, Nevada Beach Campground and 4-H Camp Tahoe. Those campsites all have cabins, that must be reserved a season ahead. Nevada Beach is within walking distance.
The project was appealed by Incline Village residents Gary and Tracy Saunders, who own the office building at 303 Dorla Court, which was within the noticing area.
One of the issues for planning commissioners was the events lawn, which they were concerned could be used for things like weddings or parties.
Community Development Director Tom Dallaire said that the project description doesn’t say anything about events.
Deputy District Attorney AJ Hames said the project didn’t apply for approval of an events hall and that would not be an approved use.
Planning Commission Chairman Paul Bruno said he picks up trash at Nevada Beach and was concerned that people staying at the project might contribute to that.
One of Lake Tahoe residents’ concerns is the removal of trees on the property.
A total of 226 trees 14-inches and greater will be removed, according to a report prepared Feb. 15 on behalf of Globetrotter. The trees are 10-20 inches in size and are estimated to be 120-130 years old.
“It is the property owner’s intent to retain as many trees as possible throughout the project site,” wrote California Registered Professional Forester William Snyder in his report. “However, site development will result in the removal of 58 percent of the trees on site through construction of roads, buildings, camping sites, trails, drainage for control of runoff, comfort stations and parking areas.”
Planning commissioners’ action may be appealed to Douglas County commissioners.
