Quick Answer
- Choose Martis Camp for top-tier amenities, a private chairlift to Northstar, and the strongest resale brand — if budget isn't the constraint.
- Choose Lahontan for privacy, larger lots, a traditional golf-club feel, and meaningfully better value per dollar.
- Price gap: Martis Camp median ~$8M vs Lahontan ~$3.1M.
- Also consider Schaffer's Mill if you want amenities at a lower entry point.
These two sit side by side in Martis Valley, both gated, both luxury, both with championship golf — and buyers constantly ask Real Estate Tahoe's agents which one to choose. Real Estate Tahoe's honest answer, after touring both with clients for years, is that they serve different people. Here's how they actually differ on the things that matter: price, privacy, golf, membership cost, and day-to-day life.
At a glance
| Martis Camp | Lahontan | |
|---|---|---|
| Developed | 2006 | 1996 (first in the valley) |
| Course | Tom Fazio 18 | Tom Weiskopf 18 + 9 par-3 |
| Typical price | $4M–$25M (median ~$8M) | $2.5M–$6M (avg ~$3.1M) |
| Golf membership | ~$300K init / ~$45K dues | ~$200K+ (open market) |
| Social membership | ~$125K transfer / ~$29K dues | $70K init / ~$13.9K dues |
| Signature perk | Private chairlift to Northstar | Larger lots, deep privacy |
| Feel | Amenity-rich, programmed | Traditional, estate-oriented |
Price & value
This is the clearest split. Martis Camp is the most expensive community in the region — a recent median near $8M and a 2024 record of $23.6M. Lahontan trades far lower, averaging about $3.1M, which makes it the stronger value per square foot. Real Estate Tahoe steers buyers whose budget tops out around $3–4M to Lahontan, which opens doors that Martis Camp doesn't.
Golf & club culture
Martis Camp's Fazio course and members-only ski lodge anchor a programmed, amenity-heavy lifestyle — events, clubs, a Family Barn, the Beach Shack. Lahontan's two Weiskopf courses sit at the center of a quieter, more traditional club. Membership at both is separate from the home; the full numbers are in the membership cost guide.
Privacy & lifestyle
Lahontan wins on privacy — larger homesites, more separation, a calmer rhythm. Martis Camp wins on amenities and the unbeatable ski-in convenience of its private chairlift. Neither is "better"; in Real Estate Tahoe's experience they simply attract different buyers.
Don't forget Schaffer's Mill
If this comparison has you weighing cost against amenities, add a third option: Schaffer's Mill offers a Johnny Miller course and Tahoe's most member-friendly club at a lower price point. See all options on the golf communities guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Martis Camp or Lahontan more expensive?
Martis Camp, clearly — a recent median near $8M versus about $3.1M at Lahontan, with a higher golf initiation (~$300K vs Lahontan's $70K social).
Which is more private, Martis Camp or Lahontan?
Both are gated, but Lahontan is the more estate-oriented and traditional of the two, with larger homesites. Martis Camp offers more amenities and programming, including a private chairlift to Northstar.
Should I buy in Martis Camp or Lahontan?
Real Estate Tahoe recommends Martis Camp for top amenities, ski-in access, and the strongest resale brand if budget isn't the constraint, and Lahontan for privacy, larger lots, a traditional golf-club feel, and better value per dollar. We tour both with most buyers before they decide.
Still torn? Real Estate Tahoe will tour both with you and run the all-in numbers — home, HOA, and club — so the decision is obvious. Email murat@realestatetahoe.com or reach out here.
