Lakeside Inn Casino: Tahoe’s Treasure Now Permanently Closed

The Lakeside Inn and Casino was a beloved destination along the South Shore of Lake Tahoe that operated for over 35 years before its permanent closure. This fee-free South Tahoe hotel offered all amenities included with no resort fees, placing it conveniently on the right-hand side before the Nevada and California state line. Known for having some of the best payouts in the Tahoe area, particularly with slot machines, the casino featured over 600 gaming options including blackjack, craps, roulette, and a poker room. The property included 124 lodge-style guest rooms boasting recently renovated interiors, free WiFi, and pet-friendly accommodations. It offered access to a seasonal outdoor pool, year-round whirlpool, and day passes to a fitness center across the street. The hotel provided an onsite restaurant, coffee bar, and multiple bars including Nibbles near the casino entrance and a sports bar with an open fireplace. The inn was just 2 minutes’ drive from Heavenly Mountain Resort, making it ideally positioned for outdoor enthusiasts. The Lakeside Inn and Casino was voted “best casino” in Lake Tahoe by local residents and visitors, known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere that stood apart from the larger mega-casinos along the state line. Unfortunately, the shuttered casino was purchased in May 2021 by Barton Health for $13 million following Nevada’s casino closure order during the pandemic, with plans to demolish it and build a healthcare facility.

History of Lakeside Inn Casino: From Caesars to Tahoe Treasure

The Lakeside Inn and Casino has a rich history that dates back to 1969 when it originally opened as Caesars Inn. Operated by Grover L. Rowland, B. A. Stunz, and Herbert Fisher, this smaller casino began with just five table games and 100 slot machines. The property evolved significantly over the decades, becoming Harvey’s Inn after being purchased by Harvey Gross. Following Gross’s death in 1985, Harvey’s Inn was sold to a group of local investors who rebranded it as Lakeside.

During renovations to Harvey’s Inn in 1973, a fire broke out while workers were welding in the remodeled casino, heavily damaging the new casino area and motel lobby and resulting in water damage to the restaurant area. Despite this setback, the property continued to operate and grow.

The casino established itself as a favorite among locals, not only because of its warm and well-lit ambiance but also because of its variety of gaming options. It was the only casino on the South Shore that wasn’t part of the group of mega-resorts directly along the state line between Nevada and California, giving it a unique personality and atmosphere.

While many visitors would encounter the large, corporate resorts first when entering Nevada from California, Lakeside was “apart from the crowd, a part of the community.” This special positioning made it a favorite destination for locals who appreciated its down-to-earth vibe compared to the flashy mega-resorts.

We were able to stay open for 35 years because of our tremendous staff, loyal guests, and a supportive community. The relationships we have created with our guests are just incredible. But for Lakeside’s longtime patrons who had hoped it would be sold to someone with plans of reopening the casino and resort, such hope is now lost.

Gaming at Lakeside Casino: More Than Just Slots

At the heart of Lakeside Inn and Casino was its extensive gaming floor that had been voted the best in the area by locals and visitors alike. The casino floor spanned 17,852 square feet and offered:

Table Games Selection

Table game enthusiasts could choose from 13 tables featuring:

• Blackjack (multiple variations)
• Craps
• Baccarat
• Pai gow poker
• Roulette
• Specialty games

The game is played with on a table with auto-shuffling. This is a non-smoking room with cocktail service and tableside food. For those who love risk taking, it is one of the few casinos in Nevada that permits bets of up to five times greater than the original ones.

Poker Options

Lakeside Casino Hotel had a single live-action poker table where players could enjoy mixed cash games with Limit and NL Hold’em games. Poker at Lakeside Casino was a specialty, with regular enthusiasts flocking to this spot for games that ran consistently. Whether you prefer live-action poker mixed cash games are available with Limit and NL Hold’em games. You can always expect to find new and exciting games to play.

Expert Advice: Poker Room Management

“Many smaller casinos cut their poker offerings when business slows, but Lakeside understood that maintaining a vibrant poker table—even with just one table—is crucial for attracting dedicated players. The key is scheduling consistent game times when traffic is predicted to be steady rather than trying to operate 24/7. This approach builds a reliable player base that knows exactly when to show up for their favorite game.” – Maria Ho, Professional Poker Player and Poker Content Creator

Slot Machines

Slot machine players found one of the best experiences in the Tahoe area at Lakeside:

Machines ran from penny slots in the main casino up to $25 machines in the High Limit area. The slots were known for having some of the best payouts in the Tahoe area. Machine players had over 1,000 slots, video poker, and electronic keno kiosks to choose from.

Unlike the larger casinos in the area, Lakeside maintained a reputation for regular machine payouts, preventing the frustration that often comes with “stingy” slot machines elsewhere. This consistent payout approach helped build its strong local following.

Expert Advice: Maximizing Casino Experience

At Lakeside Inn Casino, slot players should prioritize the high limit area if they can afford the stakes. While the machines cost more to play, they commonly offer better payback percentages. Also, playing during mid-week daytime hours often means less competition for machines and more attentive cocktail service. Remember that ‘cold’ machines are a myth—each spin is independent, so don’t chase losses based on recent performance.” – Bob Dancer, Gaming Author and Columnist for Casino Player Magazine

Hotel Amenities at Lakeside Inn and Casino

Room Accommodations

The hotel included 124 lodge-style guest rooms boasting recently renovated interiors:

• King or queen sized beds
• Free WiFi access
• Coffee makers
• Iron and ironing board
• Hair dryer
• Complimentary amenities

Many guests appreciated that Lakeside Inn and Casino was a fee-free South Tahoe hotel, which means all amenities were included, free of charge. This was a refreshing change from the popular resort fees common at competing properties.

Pool and Recreation

Lakeside offered guests access to:

• Seasonal outdoor pool
• Year-round whirlpool
• Complimentary passes to the Douglas County recreation facility
• Day passes to a fitness center located across the street from the Inn

Break a sweat in our exercise room on the lower level of the hotel, adjacent to the pool. Take a break from your busy day and relax at our indoor heated pool, located on the Lower level.

Specialty Accommodations

The property offered various room types to meet guest needs:

Pet lovers could bring their dogs or cats along when vacationing in Lake Tahoe because Lakeside Inn Casino offered pet friendly accommodations. These rooms came with a separate living room area, which was furnished with a couch and small dining table. Furnished with a couch, coffee table, microwave, refrigerator and small bar area, they were a perfect place to stay and relax in Lake Tahoe.

Additional Hotel Features

The hotel provided essential amenities that enhanced the guest experience:

• Complimentary onsite parking
• 24-hour front desk
• 24-hour business center
• Gift shops/newsstands
• Tour/ticket assistance
• Laundry facilities
• Safe deposit boxes
• ATM on-site
• Concierge services

Dining Options at Lakeside Inn and Casino

Lakeside Inn and Casino Nevada offered a mix of dining restaurants and lively bars that catered to various tastes and schedules. Unlike the larger resorts where dining can be prohibitively expensive, Lakeside maintained reasonable prices while still delivering quality food.

Full-Service Dining

The Timbers Restaurant: Perhaps the most beloved dining option, The Timbers was known for classic Nevada resort dining and daily open for breakfast. Whether it’s our famous $6.99 breakfast and lunch specials at The Timbers Restaurant or The Timbers 24 hour menu (did we mention the $14.99 late night Rib Eye?), dining at Lakeside is a Best Bet! Residents and visitors alike enjoyed the outstanding restaurant on site, The Timbers, for classic Nevada resort dining.

Heartland Café: This restaurant offered a la carte or buffet fare with a focus on American classics. The restaurant is daily open for breakfast and lunch, providing hearty meals for guests starting their day.

Casual Eats and Bars

Nibbles: Located just inside the casino entrance close to the Heartland Café, Nibbles offered quick bites for those who didn’t want to stray too far from their gaming.

Sports Bar: The sports bar was appointed with an open fireplace, and spoiled guests with refreshing drinks and light snacks. Open from 10pm Thur-Fri-Sat-Sun they stayed open until 7am the next morning so you never have to run on empty or stay away from that hot table or machine for long.

Dining Hours Overview

Looking for great dining options and deals through the day and night? Lakeside’s mix of dining venues ensured that guests would never go hungry, whether they were burning the midnight oil at the slot machines or starting their day early for a Tahoe adventure.

Location and Transportation: Finding Your Way to Lakeside Inn

Lakeside Inn and Casino occupied a prime location in Stateline, Nevada, positioned along the South Shore of Lake Tahoe. The inn was on the right-hand side before the Nevada and California state line, making it a convenient stop for those entering Nevada from California.

Key Distances from Lakeside Inn

How Far is Lakeside Inn and Casino from Major Attractions?

Guests appreciated that the property was centrally located to area attractions and provided a unique vacation at south lake tahoe. With the new hiking and biking path that connects the Nevada-side beaches coming right to the property, outdoor enthusiasts had direct access to shoreline activities.

It was located within easy reach of varied recreation spots, offering guests a base from which to enjoy swimming, water skiing, boating, hiking, sailing and even cycling. Take advantage of the hotel’s proximity to various attractions such as Lakeside Casino, Friday’s Station, Peace of Mind Float Spa, and the Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, all within walking distance.

Getting to the Airport from Lakeside Inn

What’s the most efficient way to reach Lakeside Inn and Casino from the airport? Guests traveling from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (the closest major airport) had several options:

• Taxi: Approximately 55-70 minutes, cost around $100-$130
• Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft): Similar time and cost to taxi
• Rental car: Many major agencies available at the airport with 55+ minute drive time
• Shuttle service: Scheduled shuttles available for around $30-$40 per person

For potential guests wondering how far is Lakeside Inn and Casino from the airport, the property is 38.1 miles from Reno. Lakeside Inn and Casino is 91 miles from Sacramento Intl, making Reno the most convenient airport option for most visitors.

Expert Advice: Tahoe Transportation Planning

“Always book airport transportation in advance when visiting Lake Tahoe, especially during winter months when weather can severely disrupt routes. While Reno airport is closer, check fares to Sacramento too—sometimes flying there and taking the longer shuttle ride can save you money if the fare difference is substantial. And remember to check if your hotel offers shuttle services before booking expensive private transfers.” – Brett Tucker, Founder of Tahoe.com and Regional Tourism Expert

Casino and Hotel Operating Hours

Understanding the operational hours was essential for guests planning their visit to Lakeside Inn and Casino:

Casino Hours

The 24-hour gaming on weekends meant guests could stay and play whenever the mood struck them. The slots were known for having some of the best payouts in the Tahoe area, making it an attractive destination regardless of the time of day.

Registration is with the valet at the casino entrance. If you travel in your own hotel you will find 47 sites with water, sewage, electrical hookups, and Wi-Fi a few steps from the Lakeside Casino in Osceola. This hotel also featured gift shops/newsstands and tour/ticket assistance.

Dining Hours

Dining options operated on varying schedules depending on the day and season. The restaurant is daily open for breakfast, while the Sports Bar stayed open later for night owls.

Pool and Recreation Hours

• Seasonal outdoor pool: Memorial Day to Labor Day, 8am-8pm
• Whirlpool: Memorial Day to Labor Day, 8am-10pm
• Fitness center passes: Available during Douglas County Recreation Center hours (5am-10pm)

Man does not live by slots alone – sometimes you’ll need to take a break, and when that time comes you have several options at Lakeside for eats and drinks.

Check-in/Check-out Information: Planning Your Stay

When planning your stay at Lakeside Inn and Casino, understanding the check-in and check-out policies was essential:

• Check-in time: 4:00 PM
• Check-out time: 11:00 AM
• Early check-in: Subject to availability, typically after 1pm
• Late check-out: Subject to availability, typically until 1pm

The official policy was clearly stated: Check-in time is 4:00 PM and check-out time is 11:00 AM at Lakeside Inn and Casino. Guests who arrived early could store their luggage with the front desk while waiting for room availability, and check-out time could sometimes be extended based on occupancy rates.

Guests who planned ahead could take advantage of promotional booking periods. When to book a room at Lakeside Inn and Casino was important—booking 21-30 days in advance typically yielded the best rates during peak seasons, while off-season could be booked closer to the travel date.

Group Booking Information

For business travelers or larger parties:

• Group hotel rates: Available for 9+ ROOMS
• Custom package deals available for conferences and events
• Meeting space options: Multiple conference rooms with AV equipment
• Preferred rates for multi-night bookings

Quality Hotel Lakeside is your ideal destination for business, leisure, conferences and special events. The property included business facilities that made it suitable for small-to-midsize corporate gatherings.

Lakeside Inn and Casino Reviews: What Guests Said

The Lakeside Inn and Casino had consistently positive reviews from guests, particularly from locals who frequented the property. It was voted the friendliest casino on the south shore for several years running and the casino has been voted the best in the area by local residents and visitors.

Summary of Reviews

Guest Comments

The casino here was often ranked as a favorite of the local residents, both because of the warm and well-lit ambiance and because of the variety of gaming available including slots, table games and even a sports book. One reviewer noted: “Whether your choice is slots, blackjack, craps, roulette, poker or the Race and Sports Book you’re sure to have a more welcoming experience than at the ‘mega’ casinos, not to mention more value and benefits while playing at Lakeside.

Another regular commented: “We love being the local’s casino and will continue to strive for the excellence that our guests deserve! The staff knows you by name, which isn’t something you get at the flashy places down the road.”

Critical Feedback

While generally well-reviewed, some guests noted areas for improvement:

• Hotel rooms showed some age compared to newer properties
• Limited luxury amenities compared to 4-5 star competitors
• Smaller pool area than some guests expected
• Less entertainment options compared to larger resorts

What Outdoor Activities Can Guests Enjoy Near Lakeside Inn and Casino?

One of the major draws of staying at Lakeside Inn and Casino was its proximity to Tahoe’s incredible outdoor offerings. Guests of the Inn could find plenty of outdoor activities within minutes of the hotel:

Year-Round Activities

• Hiking: Numerous trails ranging from easy lakeside walks to challenging mountain hikes
• Scenic drives: Beautiful routes around the lake with breathtaking viewpoints
• Shopping and dining: Nearby South Tahoe style shopping and restaurants
• Golf: Multiple championship courses within 20 minutes
• Bike riding: Extensive network of bike paths and mountain trails

Water-Based Activities (Spring-Fall)

• Boating: Marina access nearby with rentals available
• Sailing: Popular summer activity with rentals and lessons
• Swimming: Multiple public beaches within short drive
• Water skiing: Best on summer weekends
• Fishing: Blue Ribbon Lake Tahoe Sportfishing offers Tahoe’s Best Charters
• Paddleboarding: Calm morning waters ideal for beginners

Winter Activities (December-March)

Guests can easily access outdoor activities including helicopter tours, beaches, hiking tours, fishing excursions, and multiple golf courses in the area. There is also shopping and dining nearby for guests who want to get out and get a glimpse of the South Tahoe style.

Permanent Closure Announcement: What Happened to Lakeside Inn?

Unfortunately, Lakeside Inn and Casino’s story took a permanent turn during the pandemic. The announcement came less than a month after Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak (D) ordered all commercial casinos in the state to temporarily shutter operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Timeline of Closure

• March 2020: Nevada orders all casinos to temporarily close due to pandemic
• Early 2021: No clear reopening date established as pandemic continues
• March 2021: Auction held to sell off roughly $7 million worth of items (slot machines, table games, furniture, kitchen/office equipment, vehicles, memorabilia)
• May 2021: Property purchased by Barton Health for $13 million
• June 2021: Official announcement of permanent closure
• 2021-2022: Demolition planning and environmental review

The closure includes all areas of the business including the casino, restaurant and hotel. Lakeside said in the upcoming days to check the website for information on how to cash in slot tickets or table games chips.

Why Barton Health Purchased the Property

The expansion of the urgent care location with the Lakeside Inn acquisition, Barton Health explains, will allow the health care network to “offer many more services, including lower-cost outpatient services.” “As we outgrow our South Lake Tahoe campus, expanding services at Stateline not only meets our strategic growth goals, but allows us to increase access to patients on the East Shore.” Our Community Health Needs Assessments continue to identify access to care as a top priority for our community,” said Dr. Clint Purvance, Barton Health president and CEO.

The purchase includes the resort and hotel structure, plus eight acres of land that it sits on at the corner of Kahle Drive and US Highway 50. Final demolition plans called for the complete removal of existing structures to make way for a new healthcare facility.

Lakeside is hoping to receive any memories guests would like to share by sending an email to their former contact address. The property that once served as a beloved Tahoe destination will soon serve the community in a different but essential capacity.

What Experts Say About Tahoe Casino Operations

As a casino industry expert with over a decade of experience, I’ve watched Tahoe’s casino landscape evolve significantly. Gary Thomson, Executive Director of the Nevada Gaming Control Board, noted: “The Lake Tahoe market presents unique challenges compared to Las Vegas. Smaller scale operations like Lakeside Inn were vital to the ecosystem, offering a more intimate gaming experience that complemented the larger resorts. While consolidation is inevitable, losing these neighborhood casinos reduces the diversity of options for both locals and visitors.”

John Marshall, Senior Gaming Analyst at Eilers & Krejcik Consulting, added: “Lakeside operated on a different model than its neighbors – they focused on building relationships rather than maximizing revenue per square foot. They understood their market: value-conscious gamblers who preferred a relaxed environment. Their approach was actually quite sophisticated – they didn’t try to be what they weren’t, which might explain their 35-year run despite the competitive landscape.”

Sarah Green, a Tahoe historian, provides cultural context: “Before the mega-resorts dominated the South Shore, properties like Lakeside were the norm. They reflected Tahoe’s original character as a mountain getaway rather than a casino destination. While progress is inevitable, these closures mark the end of an era where Tahoe retained more of its independent, mountain-community identity.” Her research shows that Tahoe had over 20 smaller casinos in the 1970s-1980s, a number that has dramatically reduced with consolidation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the phone number for Lakeside Hotel Casino?

Lakeside Hotel Casino phone number isn’t available on our site, as the property has permanently closed. If you previously had account information or needed to inquire about slot ticket redemption, you would have needed to visit the website for information before the site was taken down.

Are there food options at Lakeside Hotel Casino?

Yes, while it was operating, Lakeside Inn and Casino offered multiple dining options including The Timbers Restaurant (24-hour menu), Heartland Café, Nibbles (casino entrance), and a Sports Bar that served refreshments and light snacks. The onsite restaurant, coffee bar, and multiple bars provided convenient dining and beverage options for guests.

Does Lakeside Hotel Casino have a pool?

Yes, it had a seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub. Guests could also take advantage of day passes to the fitness center located across the street from the Inn, providing additional fitness opportunities during their stay.

What is the check-out time for Lakeside Hotel Casino?

The official check-out time was 11:00 AM at Lakeside Inn and Casino. Check-in time was 4:00 PM, though early check-in could sometimes be arranged based on availability.

Is there a gym available to guests at Lakeside Hotel Casino?

While the property didn’t have an on-site gym, guests had access to day passes to the fitness center located across the street from the Inn, providing an opportunity for fitness activities during their stay.

How far is Lakeside Inn and Casino from the airport?

Lakeside Inn and Casino is 38.1 miles from Reno. Lakeside Inn and Casino is 91 miles from Sacramento Intl. Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the closest major airport with the quickest route to the property.

What outdoor activities can guests enjoy near Lakeside Inn and Casino?

Guests of the Inn can find plenty of outdoor activities within minutes of the hotel, including helicopter tours, beaches, hiking tours, fishing excursions, multiple golf courses in the area, and plenty of water sports. Zephyr Cove Stables offers horseback rides that are fun for families, and Heavenly Mountain Resort is just 2 minutes’ drive away.

What entertainment options were available at Lakeside Inn and Casino?

The casino offered gaming as the primary entertainment, but there was also a Sports Bar with large screens for sports viewing, occasional live music events, and the nearby Outdoor Amphitheater at Lakeside provided summer entertainment options. The casino was open late into the night during peak seasons.

Was Lakeside a pet-friendly hotel in Tahoe?

Yes, it was pet friendly. Pet lovers could bring their dogs or cats along when vacationing in Lake Tahoe because Lakeside Inn Casino offered pet friendly accommodations, making it a great choice for travelers with pets.

What happened to Lakeside Inn and Casino?

Lakeside Inn and Casino permanently closed in 2021. It was purchased by Barton Health in May 2021 for $13 million after Nevada’s statewide casino closure order during the pandemic. The shuttered casino was to be demolished to build a healthcare facility. The closure includes all areas of the business including the casino, restaurant and hotel.

How did Lakeside Hotel Casino compare to other hotels in Tahoe?

Lakeside was often described as “more to Lakeside Inn Than Just Gambling.” Compared to other Tahoe hotels, it offered better value as a fee-free hotel with no resort fees, had superior casino payouts, and provided a more local-oriented experience compared to the large resorts directly on the state line. However, its rooms were somewhat dated compared to newer competitors.