Eldorado National Forest Camping

Eldorado National Forest, located in the central Sierra Nevada of California, offers some of the most diverse and scenic camping opportunities in the state. Just a short drive from Sacramento (1–1.5 hours) and 3–4 hours from the San Francisco Bay Area, the forest is ideal for both quick weekend escapes and extended backcountry adventures.

The forest spans 786,994 acres, with elevations ranging from 1,000 feet in the foothills to over 10,000 feet along the Sierra Crest. It features dramatic mountain landscapes, deep river canyons, alpine lakes, and two designated wilderness areas—Desolation and Mokelumne—making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.

Developed Campgrounds

Eldorado National Forest offers more than 70 developed recreation facilities, including a wide range of campgrounds that accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers. Here are some of the most popular sites:

Sunset Campground, near Placerville, has 129 sites including 30 tent-only spots and can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet. Amenities include hot showers, flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water. It is located within walking distance of Union Valley Reservoir, known for excellent trout and Kokanee salmon fishing.

Silver Lake Campground, near Pioneer, features 60 campsites, most of which accommodate RVs up to 42 feet. The 200-acre Silver Lake is nearby, offering fishing for trout, bass, catfish, and crappie. Only electric motors are allowed on the lake. The campground includes vault toilets and drinking water but no showers or flush toilets.

Big Meadows Campground, located 22 miles east of Georgetown, has 54 campsites, five of which are tent-only. This site is close to Hell Hole Reservoir, a top location for fishing salmon and multiple trout species. Sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and potable water access.

Loon Lake Campground, sitting at about 6,500 feet elevation, includes 53 campsites and offers access to boating, hiking, and the Desolation Wilderness. It's typically open from mid-July through mid-October.

Wrights Lake Campground offers 79 campsites and provides a popular launch point for trails into the Desolation Wilderness, including the scenic route to Lower Twin Lake.

Reservations for most developed campgrounds can be made through Recreation.gov. Popular campgrounds fill quickly during weekends and holidays, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

Dispersed Camping

For those seeking solitude or a more rugged experience, dispersed camping is allowed throughout much of the forest. Campers must stay at least 100 feet from lakes and streams to protect water quality and vegetation. Vehicles should remain on designated roads and trails. Popular dispersed camping areas include the Crystal Basin Recreation Area and areas off Highway 88 near Peddler Hill.

Seasonal Activities and Recreation

The forest is a year-round recreation destination with a wide range of activities.

Fishing is excellent, with 611 miles of fishable rivers and streams, and 297 lakes and reservoirs. Union Valley Reservoir, Silver Lake, and Hell Hole Reservoir are especially popular for anglers targeting trout, bass, salmon, and catfish.

The forest has more than 349 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Notable trails include the Fleming Meadow Loop (6.5 miles), Jenkinson Lake Trail (8.2 miles), and the ADA-accessible Union Valley Bike Trail. Equestrians can also enjoy more than 50 miles of horse-friendly trails and dedicated campgrounds like Dru Barner, Wrights Lake, and Loon Lake.

OHV enthusiasts will find over 100 miles of off-highway vehicle trails in systems like Gold Note and Elkins Flat. Routes range from beginner-friendly to technically challenging.

In winter, the forest becomes a snow-covered playground for sledding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and downhill skiing. Sierra-at-Tahoe and Echo Summit are popular areas for winter sports.

Rock climbers will find world-class granite climbing at Lover’s Leap near Strawberry Lodge. This area offers multi-pitch traditional routes and climbing suitable for all skill levels.

Climate and Environment

Eldorado National Forest features a montane Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Precipitation averages 40–70 inches per year, mostly falling between October and April. Snow can accumulate up to 15 feet in higher elevations and typically sticks around from December through May above 6,000 feet.

The forest's diverse habitats include interior chaparral, oak woodlands, lower and upper montane forests, and subalpine zones. Old-growth stands of Douglas fir, ponderosa pine, and red fir cover more than 120,000 acres.

Wildlife and Safety

Black bears are common in the forest, especially around campgrounds. Campers should use bear-proof containers where available, store food securely, and never feed wildlife. Keeping campsites clean and free of food waste is essential for safety.

Access and Visitor Information

The forest is highly accessible with more than 2,300 miles of roads and 349 miles of trails. Some county roads can be challenging for large RVs, so drive carefully and check local conditions before arrival. Ranger district offices are located in Camino, Georgetown, Pioneer, and Pollock Pines, with the main supervisor’s office in Placerville.

For maps, safety tips, and updates on campground availability, visit the official Eldorado National Forest website or call 530-622-5061.

Whether you’re fishing high-country lakes, hiking into remote wilderness, or relaxing at a full-service campground, Eldorado National Forest offers an unforgettable camping experience for every type of outdoor enthusiast.