Located in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area and within view of the majestic Sierra Buttes, Sand Pond is a popular Tahoe National Forest day use area.  Whether you're looking for swimming, wading, picnicking, or hiking, Sand Pond is a unique place to relax and spend an enjoyable afternoon.

Sand Pond is an easy walk from both Sardine Lake National Forest Campground and Sardine Lake Resort.  There is also an interpretive nature hike from Sand Pond. 

Sand Pond was created from a depression caused by mining tailings dumped at the site from the nearby Young America Mine.  When those tailings were later relocated, the resulting low spot filled with water from nearby Sardine Lake resulting in the beautiful pond known as Sand Pond.  With a sandy bottom and water much warmer than the nearby lakes, this pond, with depths of up to 18 feet, is a favorite of generations of forest visitors and locals alike.

Sand Pond has a number of picnic tables, barbeque grates, and seating benches available for day use.

From late spring to mid-fall.  With an elevation of nearly 6,000 feet, the area is closed by winter snows.

Uneven ground and mostly unpaved walking surfaces.

Sorry, pets are unwelcome at this recreation site and are specifically prohibited.