Upper Hole Campground
The campground operates seasonally, generally opening around mid-May through mid-September depending on snowfall conditions. No reservations or fees required.
National Forest System Roads
Follow California Vehicle Code on National Forest System Roads
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Twin Lakes Trailhead Parking Lot Closure
Starting on September 9th 2026 and continuing for two weeks the Twin Lakes TH parking lot will be closed due to the repaving of the access road. Do not park in the lot beyond September 8th. Be prepared to use detours or alternate routes such as starting at the Rockbound TH. Please use caution…
About
Upper Hell Hole Campground sits at the remote southeast end of Hell Hole Reservoir on the Rubicon River, offering a true backcountry camping experience in the Eldorado National Forest. Access requires either a 3-mile hike along the reservoir trail or a boat trip across the lake from the Hell Hole boat launch. The effort to reach this isolated campground rewards visitors with exceptional solitude, fishing opportunities, and scenic Sierra Nevada wilderness. The campground provides basic facilities including vault toilets, but there is no potable water available. Campers must bring their own water supply or filter/boil water from the nearby lake. This is strictly pack-it-in, pack-it-out territory with no trash services. Campfires are permitted with a free California Campfire permit, and campers should collect only dead and down wood. Bears are active in the area, requiring proper food storage. All foods, soaps, and garbage must be kept securely contained. Rattlesnakes may also be present, so visitors should remain vigilant on trails.
Directions
22 miles east of Georgetown on Wentworth Springs Road, then 29 miles northeast on Forest Highway 2 (Eleven Pines Road) to Hell Hole Reservoir. From the reservoir, travel 3 miles southeast by boat or hiking trail to reach the campground.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| 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 | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (530) 333-4312 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Community Posts
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