Tells Creek Equestrian Camp

Closed — The campground is likely inaccessible during winter months due to snow at 6,300 feet elevation. Ice House Road receives infrequent plowing during heavy snow, and trash service ended October 20, 2025 for the winter season. Accessible seasonally, typically late spring through fall depending on snowmelt.

About

Tells Creek Equestrian Camp sits at 6,300 feet elevation in the Crystal Basin area of Eldorado National Forest, providing a primitive camping experience for horse enthusiasts. The campground features 5 designated sites with a total capacity of 25 people, offering access to the nearby Van Vleck Trailhead and routes into the Desolation Wilderness. Recent improvements include five sets of highline posts installed in June 2025. This is a truly primitive facility with vault toilets but no potable water, requiring visitors to bring all necessary supplies. Internal dirt roads connect the sites, and the narrow paved access via Ice House Road and Tells Creek Road (Forest Road 13N22) requires careful navigation. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no fees or reservations required. The location serves as an ideal base for horseback riding adventures into the surrounding wilderness and national forest lands. Campers must be self-sufficient and prepared for primitive conditions, packing out all trash during the season when forest services are not operating.

Directions

From Placerville, travel about 20 miles east on Highway 50, then turn left onto Ice House Road. Travel north about 20 miles to Robbs Saddle, then turn right onto Tells Creek Road (Forest Road 13N22, signed for Tells Creek Horse Camp/Desolation Wilderness Trailhead). Continue 6 miles to the parking area on the right.

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