We will be visiting Tahoe in Aug. with a 12 yo and a 13 yo. I'm looking at Lakeland Resort, Northstar, and Marriott Timber Lodge. I do not need to be close to the casinos. We prefer outdoor activities. It looks like Lakeland is nice because it is on the lake but that Northstar has more activities onsite. Any preferences or recommendations? Thanks. I can't wait to get back to the Golden State.

Lakeland is in South Lake Tahoe, a busier area than Northstar which is in Truckee. Another place you might want to check out in Truckee is donnerlakevillage.com

We like to stay at Chinquapin just outside of Tahoe City. It is a large development of condos that are individually owned and are probably 2-4 bdrms. It is right on the Lake. I have only stayed there in the winter, though, but the lake views are great.

I stay at Northstar as we have relatives with a house there, but frankly not much happens there in August -- it is primarily a winter ski resort. The same is true at Donner Lake.
Frankly there will be more to do staying at the Marriott or at the Hyatt on the north shore.

We stayed at Lakeland Village several years ago and it was nice - had a beach right there. We also like Zephyr Cove resort - old Tahoe style cabins, sandy beach, restaurant, dock where you can rent boats and water toys, the Dixie Queen also docks there.

I've stayed at Lakeland many times and while you can find many upscale resorts in Tahoe, this property is very "kid-friendly." In addition to having a nice beach area, it has two very nice pools; the grounds are well maintained and the staff helpful.