8 Fantastic Airbnbs Near Donner Lake, Truckee, CA

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In this article, we will provide you with a list of the best Airbnbs near Donner Lake in Truckee, California so that you can relax and enjoy the wonderful scenic nature that is found in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The accommodation choices that we have selected will give you the best options to be close to the lake, yet will also give you easy access to all other summer and winter activities. In fact, in the summer time, you’ll be able to spend your whole day outdoors and enjoy activities at this fresh water lake, such as swimming, boating and fishing, or watersports like water skiing or wind surfing. Or, you can stay on land and embark on a mountain hike or bike ride through the rugged terrain. In the winter time, you can enjoy your time off with some cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. There are also several ski resorts nearby, where you’ll find some amazing slopes for skiing or snowboarding.

In addition, you’ll find Donner Memorial State Park at the east end of the lake, which offers access to several beaches and its 8 miles of hiking trails. In this park, you can find Pioneer Monument that welcomes visitors and commemorates those who emigrated to California in the mid-1800’s. There is also the Visitor Center – it takes about 1 hour to visit the exhibitions that tell the stories of the emigrant experience, the Donner Party, and much more.

Meanwhile, there is the quaint mountain town of Truckee, California that sits just east of Donner Lake, which offers numerous restaurants, breweries, shopping, arts, and outdoor activities. Historic downtown Truckee retains an old-west feel, reminiscent to its days as a central hub in the logging and milling industry, and is certainly worth a visit if you will be renting an Airbnb near Donner Lake.

Finally, the location of Donner Lake, which is just 20 miles away from Lake Tahoe, also makes day trips to this famous and bigger lake very convenient. Of course, staying near Donner Lake will provide you with a more relaxed and quieter atmosphere along with better deals, all while still being able to enjoy the lakefront life and scenes of the mountain ranges from your window. So, check out these great Airbnbs in Donner Lake and secure your next vacation today!

1. Airbnb near Donner Lake - Truckee Art House

This Airbnb is located 5 minutes from Donner Lake and Downtown Truckee, but also in close proximity to Ski Resorts, Trails, supermarkets, and restaurants. If you are planning to visit Lake Tahoe, from this Airbnb it will take only 20 minutes.

The loft can accommodate up to 6 people in two bedrooms and a sleeping loft upstairs. The bathroom is on the main floor and it is fully equipped, from towels to bath products.

The main living area is also furnished with a fully stocked kitchen. Outside, a BBQ and a fire pit will be at your disposal for a relaxing time on the front deck.

What Others are Saying

Sarah said: “This home is magical. There is something truly special about it from the moment you walk in the door. Location is incredible, so close to Donner and Truckee. The home itself is beautiful. Huge windows bring in lots of natural light, twinkle lights everywhere make it feel extra warm and welcoming, along with being stocked with every amenity possible. We loved hanging out on the deck, enjoyed grilling up dinners while sitting next to the fire pit and chatting the night away. Don’t hesitate to book your stay!”

2. Donner Lake Airbnb Suite with Spa/Hot Tub

Here we have a private 1 bedroom suite with high ceilings and light-filled, making it the perfect choice for a couple or solo travelers. It is located on the top floor of a two-story house, with your own separate entrance as well as a private balcony with a view of Donner Lake.

In the apartment, there is a fully equipped kitchen, a wood burning stove, wall furnace, and a bathroom with heated floors. Additionally, guests will have access to the outdoor hot tub!

This Airbnb is located just a short 3 minute walk to Donner Lake, and about 20 minutes to multiple ski resorts nearby, such as Squaw/Alpine, Northstar, and Sugar Bowl. Downtown Truckee is also just a 10 minute drive away.

The owners are Superhosts and live on the lower floor of the house and guests have commented on their great communication via email, phone, or text messages.

What Others are Saying

Menesha said: “Christopher’s place was great! Perfect location, really cute/clean and the bed was so comfortable. He is super communicative and helpful. I’d definitely stay again if I’m back in the area”.

3. Donner Lake - View with Deck

This Airbnb near Donner Lake is conveniently located just a 5 minute walk away from the lakefront. Donner Lake Marina is also within walking distance, and here you’ll be able to rent boats, kayaks, and equipment for water sports. Central Truckee is also only about 13 minutes away from this Airbnb by car.

The cabin itself comes with a large deck equipped with a BBQ grill that will allow you to enjoy your dinners outside while watching the sunset over the lake and mountains. The accommodation has one master bedroom with queen size bed, a spacious and beautifully designed living room with an open kitchen, and a full bathroom. There is also a second bedroom in a loft area with a full size bed for two people.

In the winter time, you can easily access multiple ski resorts nearby. Sugar Bowl Resort can be reached in only a 10 minute drive, while Squaw/Alpine & Northstar are only about 20 minutes away.

What Others are Saying

Bryce said: “Too awesome views, very close to all the docks for a day on the lake. Donner Lake Kitchen has the best breakfast right down the road. Clean house, good size garage, and the kids loved the loft! We loved the balcony a lot. Driveway is very steep, but fully manageable. Had a great stay and will return”.

4. Truckee Family Home - Walk to Lake & Close to Skiing

This spacious and unique Airbnb near Donner Lake is the perfect pick for larger groups or families. This 3 bedrooms and 2,5 bath rental is beautifully designed in a modern style, with high open ceilings, hardwood flooring, and a big, fully equipped kitchen where you can whip up a feast for the family. There is even a washer and dryer for your convenience.

The location is excellent as well, just minutes from several hiking and mountain biking trails, water activities, and also Boreal Mountain, Northstar California, and Squaw Valley ski resorts.

What Others are Saying

Jessica said: “This is a great spot if you like being close to the action. My kids (7,11) were able to walk to the bridge over the creek with their buddies and paddle out to the lake. We BBQed on the back porch and played at the beach every day. The master bedroom is very comfortable and the espresso maker was a nice touch!”

5. Incredible Views! Directly on the Lakefront

This Airbnb gets you directly on Donner Lake around the quieter south side of the area. The lake is literally right outside your door! The rental comes with a private, large deck onto the lake with a swimming ladder into the water.

You’ll have a view of the lake and mountains from every window of this Airbnb. You will also enjoy a very peaceful stay as the house is located on a private access road, with a forested area between the house and the main road. Therefore, there is no traffic nearby the house, except for the boats that pass slowly by on the lake.

This property has 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, a living room, a fully furnished kitchen, and also a laundry room, making it an excellent choice for families or a group of friends. Also, restaurants and shops in Truckee are only 15 minutes from the house, and hiking and biking trails are just within walking distance as well.

What Others are Saying

Nicholas said: “A wonderful little home nestled on the south shore of Donner Lake. This place is perfect for a mountain getaway. The private dock was wonderful to spend time at during the day as well as for watching the sunsets. Everything was very clean and Evan and his father Mark were easy to communicate with and very hospitable. Thank you both!”

6. Waterfront Cabin with Lake Views & Access

This cabin for up to 8 people is located right on the shores of Donner Lake and will give you free access to activities such as fishing, swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding. There are hiking trails nearby, while Truckee is just a five mile trek away. In the winter time, you’ll also have easy access to the Sugar Bowl, Northstar, Squaw Valley, and Alpine Meadows.

The Airbnb is equipped with 2 bedrooms and a total of 6 beds, with 1.5 baths. It is designed in a cozy and warm style, with wood panel walls and high ceilings in an open concept space. From the living room, there is an outdoor deck where you’ll be able to take in the view of the majestic lake and mountain scenery.

What Others are Saying

Denise said: “House is as expected, and perfectly cute and cozy for a weekend get away. In a great location right across from the lake and also close to downtown Truckee!”

7. Life on Donner Lake: Boat, Ski & Hike in Truckee

This 2,000 square foot Airbnb has huge windows with a beautiful lakefront view and is designed as a cabin with a spacious common living area that is ideal for larger groups (up to 14 guests!) There are 4 bedrooms, 8 beds, and 3 baths. The enormous living area has a wood burning stove, large flat screen TV, and a loft for playing games or reading. Additionally, the kitchen is fully equipped, and also has a dishwasher to save you some time so that you can enjoy as many memories as possible with your friends and families. There are also two decks where you can grill and enjoy a meal as you take in the beautiful lake view.

This accommodation is a great choice in summer time or winter time, too! You’ll be conveniently located in a quiet area and can reach several hiking trails within minutes. You’ll also be able to mountain bike or enjoy your free time at the nearby beaches. For ski lovers, the renowned Sugar Bowl, Tahoe Donner, Northstar and Squaw resorts are all just minutes away by car.

What Others are Saying

Kristi said: “My family and I (and our dog) just stayed at Max’s cabin, and it was great for us. The deck was our evening hang out; it has a lovely view of the lake. You can walk down to the lake and enjoy a small beach. The place is also very close to the state park, where you can rent kayaks and other things, too. Overall, we had a wonderful time. I’d recommend it for families or small groups.”

8. Airbnb w/ Views of Donner Lake & Minutes to Ski Resorts

This Airbnb is immersed in the nature of the Donner Lake landscape and has 4 bedrooms, 7 beds, and and 3 bathrooms. It is a great deal for families and groups of up to 9 people. In the living area, there is a fully equipped kitchen and access to a spacious deck, where there is also a BBQ to grill. The deck will provide you with an amazing view of the lake and mountains during the day and the stars in the clear skies during the night!

Donner Lake is just a few minute walk away. In the summer time, you have access to all the best water activities,such as swimming, sailing, diving, and many more. Meanwhile, in the winter time, this Airbnb is situated in a strategic area that is just a few minutes drive from the most famous ski resorts, as Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows, and Northstar resorts.

If you and your family and friends love hiking, you’ll have the ability to explore a different path every day in the spectacular surroundings of this rental. Finally, the owners are Superhosts and are very responsive and eager to help with any requests that you might have.

What Others are Saying

Jaimey said: “We had a very nice stay at this well located property, very close to the lake and Sugar Bowl (we were there skiing). We had a question upon check-in about our first night, but Danielle was very responsive and had everything taken care of quickly.”