Wrights Lake
Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates from late June through mid-October depending on snow conditions. Renovations are planned for 2026 which may cause disruptions. Reservations available through Recreation.gov, with some first-come, first-served sites.
From Recreation.gov
***Notice***- Wrights Lake Recreation Area will be undergoing some exciting renovations in 2026. While we do not have a full scope of work and timing to share yet, we want to inform the public that there may be some disruptions to their stay come the 2026 season. More details to follow.
Barrett Lake 4 X 4 Trail Motor Vehicle Prohibition
Barrett Lake Jeep trail closed to motor vehicle use in the winter.
Trash service ending for the winter in Crystal Basin on Oct. 20, 2025
Trash service within the Crystal Basin area is ending on Oct. 20, 2025, for the winter season. Please pack-out all trash with you when visiting.
Camping Occupancy Restrictions
Camping and Occupancy Restrictions for Desolation Wilderness, Mokelumne Wilderness and the Pacific Crest Trail that runs through the Eldorado National Forest boundary.
Desolation Wilderness Food and Refuse Storage Restriction
Possessing or storing any food in Desolation Wilderness unless it is in a bear proof container.
Loon Lake Campground and Trailhead are Closed for Reconstruction
The Loon Lake Campground and Trailhead is closed this season for reconstruction. The boatramp is open for day use only though Labor Day weekend and then it will close for construction. The water system will not be operational during this time.
Deer Valley Trail (19E01) & Meadow Lake Road (09N01)
Motor vehicle use restricted in these areas during snowmelt. See Forest Order Exhibit A for area map.
Horse Canyon Trail (17E21) Closure
This order prohibits use of a motorcycle or motor-driven bicycle on this trail.
Occupancy and Use Restrictions - Desolation Wilderness Area
Prohibited acts within Desolation Wilderness.
Travel Management Designation
Routes designated in Travel Management Subpart B are included as part of the current road system.
About
Wrights Lake Campground is situated at nearly 7,000 feet elevation in Eldorado National Forest, close to the shores of the serene 40-acre Wrights Lake. The campground is surrounded by pine and fir trees with a grassy understory, and wildflowers bloom throughout spring and summer. Many sites are nestled among giant boulders, providing natural privacy for campers. The setting offers sweeping views up at the majestic rocky peaks of the Sierra Nevadas and Desolation Wilderness. The campground provides excellent access to outdoor recreation. Wrights Lake allows non-motorized boating, swimming, and trout fishing. Multiple hiking and equestrian trails are accessible within 5 miles, with trailheads for Bloodsucker, Rockbound, and Twin Lakes trails providing entry into Desolation Wilderness. The campground features an amphitheater with educational programs, and the nearby Barrett Lake Jeep trail is popular for mountain biking and off-road vehicle use. Day-use wilderness permits are available at trailheads, and overnight permits can be obtained at Pacific Ranger Station.
Directions
Take Highway 50 east of Placerville for 11 miles. Turn left onto Ice House Road and continue for 9 miles, then turn right onto Wrights Lake tie road. After 2 miles, turn left onto Wrights Lake Road.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $36 - $72 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 99ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 99ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| info@royalelkparkmanagement.com | |
| Phone | +1 (831) 245-6891 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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