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Eldorado/Loon Lake
Overview
Overview
Eldorado/Loon Lake, situated within the El Dorado National Forest, offers a quintessential high-altitude escape for travelers seeking a rustic connection to the Sierra Nevada mountains. This destination is managed as a recreation area, focusing on the natural beauty of the surrounding wilderness rather than resort-style frills. It is an ideal spot for those who value serenity and a rugged outdoor environment over modern park amenities, providing a peaceful base camp for mountain adventures at a significantly higher elevation.
Location & Surroundings
The park is located near the pristine waters of Loon Lake, deep within the scenic landscape of Pollock Pines, CA. The area is defined by its granite rock formations and dense evergreen forests, creating a secluded atmosphere that feels far removed from urban noise. Because of its high-mountain position, travelers should prepare for cooler temperatures, even during the peak summer months, and enjoy the crisp air and quiet surroundings of this mountainous woodland setting.
Amenities & Park Features
As a forest-managed facility, Eldorado/Loon Lake emphasizes basic, functional site layouts that accommodate a variety of camping styles. Visitors will find primitive camping sites that provide easy access to the lake for fishing and boating activities. While it lacks full utility hookups, the park features essential infrastructure such as vault toilets and fire rings, maintaining a commitment to a traditional, back-to-basics camping experience that allows nature to take center stage for all guests.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw of this location is its proximity to recreational water activities. Loon Lake is a popular hub for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, offering calm waters for early morning exploration. Hikers and backpackers often use this area as a jumping-off point to explore the vast trail systems winding through the El Dorado National Forest. The region is also highly regarded by off-road enthusiasts who utilize the challenging Rubicon Trail, which is accessible from this unique mountain base.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is best suited for self-contained RVers who prefer dry camping and want to minimize their footprint in a protected forest environment. It is an excellent choice for anglers, hikers, and those looking to disconnect from technology to enjoy the outdoors. If you enjoy starlit nights, alpine serenity, and proximity to rugged wilderness trails, this park offers an authentic mountain experience that perfectly matches your desire for adventure and tranquility.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Deeveshri Chogle
Loon Lake Campground is an absolute gem, and we will definitely be coming back! The lake is beautiful, crystal clear, and so clean that you can see the bottom even when swimming away from the shore. The mornings were warm, while the evenings became quite windy and very cold, so be sure to pack warm clothing and extra blankets. The campground host was incredibly friendly, and it was convenient to be able to pay for firewood with a credit card at the host site. We stayed at Site 32, which had a partial lake view. Although it’s listed as accommodating up to 10 people, it felt a bit small. It had two picnic tables, a fire ring, was dog-friendly, and while advertised as shaded, there was very little actual shade. The campsites were nicely leveled, the restrooms were clean and well maintained, and parking easily fit four compact cars. The boat ramp offered beautiful sunset views, and we loved seeing the ducklings around the lake. Beach access is limited, but what is available is well worth it. The only minor drawbacks were that the water spout was a bit far from our site and there was no cell service within the campground—you’ll need to drive about 5–10 minutes toward the highway to get a signal. Overall, it’s a peaceful, scenic campground that’s perfect for a relaxing getaway
Paul Douglas
Great time here. Was with a church Men's group and we were in several sites. They have a boat ramp and swimming area. Many directions to go hiking. Pit toilets that the Camp Hosts tended to several times a day. Dogs are supposed to be leashed. Camp Hosts have fire wood for sale ($10.00 for a bundle that would probably be good for one night.) . Note about cell service. One reason for going out in the middle of nowhere is to get away from things like that. If you need to use your phone, go back to Ice House Road and go back to hwy 50 about half a mile. Where the road curves to the right and goes downhill, there is a pullout on the outside. Look for a rock with a phone handset painted on it.
Maria E Lopez
I've been here a few times over the years. It's a beautiful lake, nice campground. No showers, no cell service. I stayed for 6 days this week and had great weather and was able to move to a site next to the lake. Campground host named Les was very nice and helpful. Thank you!
Chad Chapman
Beautiful campground and surrounds wilderness. Friendly camp hosts who are very helpful if needed. Great camp ground to enjoy if camping with a trailer or group.
Jack Rondini
I was lucky enough to spend a couple of days here before the fires shut down the whole first. What a beautiful lake. It’s like a miniature Lake Tahoe with clear cool water. The Rubicon Trail is nearby so there’s a bit of traffic along with noise from the rock crawler crown. I was lucky and it was relatively quiet while I was there. Definitely coming back this winter for some camping and snow showing.