Lake Tahoe -- worth the time ???

Comments about it being crowded are likely just a matter of perspective. Folks in the eastern and southern states are used to an entire lake being developed with no open space left. My own home was built on a lot where I could not see another house , now, I have 7 within sight, luckily none across from me because its state park land. But Tahoe I'm sure is beautiful, but it is like anywhere that people enjoy being, overrun for the very reason you are considering going there.
Go, enjoy the views and space thats available, and then enjoy leaving the crowd behind at the end of the visit.