Thanks everyone for the info and please keep it coming. I asked a similar question towards the end of this thread:
tahoe-camping-recommendations-t56369.html?
100OPks regaled me with tales of kidnapping, drugs, and crime, which made me feel right at home.
I called the Sno-Park office a couple of days ago, had to call twice to clear up some misinformation. Apparently in-car camping is allowed allowed at all Sno-parks which allow for overnight parking. No tent-camping. But something tells me that's more up to the local wilderness regulations.
Here's the list:
Balsam Meadows
Blackwood Canyon NO OVERNIGHT
Carson Pass
Coyote
Donner Summit
Eastwood
Echo Lake
Highway 108
Hope Valley
Huntington Lake
Iron Mountain
Lake Alpine
Meiss Meadow
Rock Creek
Spicer
Tamarack
Taylor Creek
Yuba Gap NO OVERNIGHT
Yuba Pass
I think Hope Valley is also NO OVERNIGHT. I'd be happy if anyone could add any personal experience with any of these locations.
It's not Tahoe, but the only Sno-Park I've parked overnight at is Lake Alpine. It's where Hwy 4 is gated, just past the turnoff to Bear Valley. A little noisy with snowmobiles, but a quick easy stroll down to the Lake which is really nice. Rangers said I could camp anywhere I wanted. Some fun little peaks nearby. Pictures here:
http://www.qitnl.com/v/032610/If anyone has any secret spots you're welcome to PM me!
Edit - I got your note, rlshattuck, figured I might as well answer you here. It's one easy mile from the Sno-Park to Lake Alpine, most of it on a groomed road, and for that matter a real gradual downhill.