California / Alpine County / Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest / Mokelumne Wilderness

Silver Lake East- Eldorado

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates from late June through October. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Silver Lake East Campground is located 50 miles east of Jackson, California, at an elevation of 7,200 feet in the Eldorado National Forest. Situated at the base of Thunder Mountain near the north end of Silver Lake, the campground recently completed renovations and now offers 62 campsites including walk-in tent sites, standard tent sites, and sites that can accommodate RVs and trailers. The campground's high elevation makes it an ideal base for exploring alpine lakes and mountain meadows. Numerous trails connect the campground to Silver Lake's swimming beaches, while the Granite Lake Trail from the nearby Minkalo Trailhead leads to spectacular high country destinations including Hidden Lake. Silver Lake itself spans 200 acres in a granite basin, known for its mirror-like waters that reflect the surrounding peaks. Anglers can fish for stocked populations of rainbow, German brown, and Mackinaw trout in Silver Lake. A boat launch operated by El Dorado Irrigation District provides lake access. The area blooms with wildflowers in summer, and the scenic Carson Pass Highway offers stunning mountain views. Silver Lake West Campground is located adjacent across Highway 88, offering additional trails and access to the Silver Fork of the American River.

Directions

From Pioneer, California, take State Route 88 east 36.6 miles to the campground on the right, or 52 miles east of Jackson on Highway 88.

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