Tells Creek Equestrian Camp

About

Tells Creek Equestrian Camp is a primitive, no-fee campground designed specifically for equestrian users in the Crystal Basin area of Eldorado National Forest. Situated at 6,300 feet elevation near Van Vleck Trailhead, the camp provides direct access to Desolation Wilderness via the Tells Creek Primitive Equestrian Trail. The remote setting offers a quiet basecamp for multi-day backcountry horse trips. The campground has minimal amenities consistent with its primitive designation. Vault toilets are provided, but there is no potable water, so all water must be packed in. Access is via a narrow paved road to Robbs Saddle, then 6 miles on Tells Creek Road (Forest Road 13N22), with dirt internal roads within the camp. The narrow access and primitive nature make this site best suited for horse trailers rather than large RVs. Being located in the Sierra Nevada high country, road access is typically seasonal depending on snow conditions. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations required.

Directions

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