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Eldorado/Gerle Creek
Overview
Overview
Eldorado and Gerle Creek campgrounds offer a serene, rustic escape located within the Eldorado National Forest. Operated by the U.S. Forest Service, these sites are perfect for RVers looking to trade modern resort amenities for the raw beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The area is defined by its forested landscape and access to pristine water, providing a quiet retreat where the focus remains entirely on outdoor recreation and enjoying the tranquil environment away from urban noise.
Location & Surroundings
Situated near the community of Pollock Pines, California, this region is a gateway to high-altitude exploration. The campgrounds are nestled among towering pines and cedar trees, offering a mountain wilderness setting that stays refreshingly cool during the summer months. The drive through the forest provides scenic views of the rugged landscape, making the journey to the campgrounds a rewarding experience for those who appreciate natural beauty and winding mountain roads deep in the heart of Northern California.
Amenities & Park Features
These sites are designed for self-contained camping rather than luxury glamping. You will find basic facilities including vault toilets and picnic tables at each site. While the amenities are modest, the charm lies in the simplicity of the experience. Each site typically includes a fire ring for evening campfires, allowing travelers to fully embrace the atmosphere of a national forest stay while maintaining a connection to the surrounding alpine habitat throughout their visit.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw of this location is its proximity to water-based activities. Visitors frequently head to Gerle Creek Reservoir for peaceful kayaking, canoeing, and fishing opportunities. Additionally, the surrounding Eldorado National Forest serves as a sprawling playground for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. Those interested in local history or quick supply stops often take the scenic drive back into Pollock Pines, which serves as a convenient threshold to the greater El Dorado County recreational region.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for self-sufficient RV travelers who prefer a rustic camping experience over paved pull-throughs and cable hookups. It is best suited for nature lovers, hikers, and families who enjoy traditional campfire cooking and stargazing. If you seek to disconnect from technology and spend your vacation days immersed in quiet forest trails and calm waters, this location offers an authentic Sierra Nevada getaway that prioritizes nature above all else.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Monika Kloudova
Great campground! Very well maintained, with awesome and very helpful campground hosts. The bathrooms were exceptionally clean and well cared for. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely come back!
Darcy Mathews
I actually really love this campground, but there were a few problems during our most recent stay. First, the bathrooms. Oh. my. heck. They were so disgusting! Do I expect pit toilets to be lovely? No, but the flies were like nothing I have ever seen. Please, someone do something about these. The camp hosts were nowhere to be seen our entire stay. There were pot smokers on one side of us and a group enjoying a drunken revelry on the other side - not exactly a family friendly experience.
kevin Farrell
Awesome campground perfect for anyone who loves the great outdoors access to small lake good trails. On our stay for memorial weekend this year 2026 probably the best camp hosts we've ever came across and 30 years of camping.
Greg Kiefer
Best campground ever. Awesome hosts, beautiful lake and clean sites. I also love playing the flute there. Been going there for over 20 years.
Elektra Mathews-Novelli
I have been coming here for 20+ years. Nice to see the trail upgrades that are now accessible to all with many ADA sections. There are many campsites and even some specific for RVs. There is beach hangouts and a boardwalk that goes out into the water. The island in the middle of the lake is great for jumping. Awesome creek to hike and explore. Great fishing and potable water!!! I bring my skateboard the pavement is so nice. Safe place for kids and pets though there can be bears at night. There are bear box’s. That all said, in the 20+ years I have been going here with my family, I have never had a bear issue.