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 me which one to choose. The honest answer is 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. If your budget tops out around $3–4M, Lahontan 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"; they 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?
Choose Martis Camp for top amenities, ski-in access, and the strongest resale brand if budget isn't the constraint. Choose Lahontan for privacy, larger lots, a traditional golf-club feel, and better value per dollar.
Still torn? I'll tour both with you and run the all-in numbers — home, HOA, and club — so the decision is obvious. Call (530) 317-0373 or reach out here.