Turning the van into a ski van, and parking at SNO-Parks makes it possible for us to ski Tahoe all season on a resident salary.

Great Ski Van Parking in Tahoe

How many times have I heard, “I’d love to go to Tahoe to ski but can’t afford it.” It was the same here. So, we got a van, and now lodging is free, thanks to the California SNO-Parks. It’s easy to find and park, the handy SNO-Park Site brochure will give you coordinates of the dozen in the Tahoe region. The kids have so much fun at the SNO-Parks, having snow ball fights, making snowmen, even sledding. It is just like having a winter dry camp site.

Also, the city of Truckee is fantastic to provide ski campers free overnight parking right near the railroad tracks downtown. We opted to stay there sometimes rather than stay at the SNO-Parks as is is the closest parking to Northstar Ski Resort.

A Ski Van For the Whole Family

Driving to Tahoe in the new ski van for a first ski weekend was mostly flawless and a lot of fun. Is it possible to fit 4 pairs of skis, all the gear, 2 children, 2 cats, and 1 dog, in a 22’ foot van? With clean, warm and dry surroundings, and good food? Resounding yes! But not all vans are created equal, we got just the right build we needed for our family, by Pata Vans. When building a van for a ski family, comfortable sleeping, plenty of storage, and a functioning kitchen are the biggest considerations.