Silver Lake East- Eldorado
The campground is currently closed for the season. Potential opening date is June 26, 2026. The campground typically operates from late June through October. Reservations available via Recreation.gov; some sites are first-come, first-served only.
Flood Watch issued July 20 at 12:17PM PDT until July 21 at 11:00PM PDT by NWS Reno NV
* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible due to thunderstorms. * WHERE...Portions of east central California, including the following area, Greater Lake Tahoe Area and western Nevada, including the following areas, Greater Lake Tahoe Area and Greater Reno-Carson City-Minden Area. * WHEN...From Tuesday afternoon through Tuesday evening. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of creeks, streams, urban areas, burn scars, and areas near steep terrain. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Deeper monsoonal moisture combined with daytime heating will produce scattered thunderstorms Tuesday afternoon and evening. Slower moving storms could redevelop over similar areas, increasing the risk for heavy rainfall capable of producing flash flooding. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
From Recreation.gov
Renovations were recently completed at Silver Lake East. Site information has been updated, however please be aware that the interactive mapping system is incorrect. See Facility Information > Additional Information > 2025 Facility Map for the new map and site locations.
About
Silver Lake East is located 50 miles east of Jackson, California, in the Eldorado National Forest. Situated at 7,200 feet elevation at the base of Thunder Mountain, the campground sits on the north end of the 200-acre Silver Lake. The lake's granite basin and mirror-like waters attract photographers and hikers, while summer wildflowers brighten the surrounding meadows. The campground offers 62 sites including walk-in tent sites, tent-only sites, and sites that accommodate trailers and RVs up to 50 feet on select sites. All sites include fire rings and picnic tables, with vault toilets and potable water available. Bear boxes are provided at some sites. A nearby lodge offers a restaurant, boat rentals, and a boat ramp. Popular trails depart directly from the area, including the Granite Lake Trail from the Minkalo Trailhead on Silver Lake's east shore. This trail crosses Squaw Creek on a wooden bridge and leads to both Granite Lake and Hidden Lake. Silver Lake West, across Highway 88, provides additional trails and access to the Silver Fork of the American River.
Directions
From Pioneer, CA, take State Route 88 east 36.6 miles to the campground on the right.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $36 - $72 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 35ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 35ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (209) 259-3774 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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