Sliver Creek Group Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Crystal Basin campgrounds typically operate from late May through September or October depending on snow conditions. Reservations open in advance through Recreation.gov.

About

Silver Creek Group Campground sits under a canopy of conifers in the Crystal Basin area of Eldorado National Forest, offering a peaceful group camping atmosphere for up to 40 guests. The tent-only facility includes 9 walk-to camping units and 4 sites with parking spurs, all centered around a communal kitchen area with one large group fire ring. South Fork Silver Creek flows gently through the southern end of the campground, providing a natural soundtrack and opportunities for swimming and fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Located less than 2 miles from Ice House Reservoir, campers have convenient access to motor boating, jet skiing, swimming, and sunbathing. The surrounding Eldorado National Forest features granite peaks, alpine lakes, and pine forests characteristic of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Hikers and mountain bikers can explore nearby trails, and the Desolation Wilderness is within reach for those seeking backcountry solitude. Wildlife is abundant, including black bears, mule deer, bobcat, gray fox, and bighorn sheep. The campground operates seasonally and requires reservations through Recreation.gov. No drinking water is available on-site, so campers must bring their own or treat water from the creek. Vault toilets are provided, and a dump station and showers are available at nearby campgrounds. Bears frequent the area, so all food must be stored in approved containers. The entrance gate is locked when closed, and only dead and down wood may be used for campfires in the single group fire ring.

Directions

Travel 23 miles east of Placerville on Highway 50. Turn north and travel 9 miles on Forest Road 3 (Ice House Road). Look for signs to Silver Creek Campground.

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