If you're more into outdoor recreation than roulette, on the opposite side of town from the big casinos is the Fireside Lodge, a small log cabin-style inn that sits on the edge of the national forest, affording easy access to a public beach and miles of hiking and biking trails. It's owned and run by the local family who also owns the Inn at Heavenly, and the location is unbeatable -- close to some great restaurants and the kid-friendly facilities at Camp Richardson, but far enough from the main drag to keep your mind on the mountains. The nine country-pine rooms are well equipped with river-rock fireplaces and kitchenettes. After a hike in the woods, relax in the hot-tub room, play some pool in the rec room, and then have a barbecue outside. Dogs and kids are welcome, and the staff will even lend you bicycles, float tubes, and free videos.