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Eldorado/Woods Lake
Overview
Overview
Woods Lake Campground is a quintessential high-altitude escape situated within the Eldorado National Forest. Operated by the United States Forest Service, this destination offers a rustic, back-to-nature experience for those looking to disconnect from the noise of modern life. Because this is a primitive national forest campground, it provides a tranquil atmosphere defined by towering lodgepole pines and the serene, reflective waters of Woods Lake, perfect for travelers seeking peace.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is tucked away at an elevation of approximately 8,200 feet, nestled deep in the Sierra Nevada mountains near Kirkwood. Getting there involves navigating mountain roads, so it is best suited for smaller campers and travel trailers. The secluded alpine setting offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks, providing a crisp, refreshing climate that serves as a cool reprieve from the heat of the lower California valleys during the summer months.
Amenities & Park Features
Reflecting its status as a USFS facility, amenities are basic to preserve the natural character of the area. Each site includes a metal fire ring and a picnic table for outdoor cooking and dining. Vault toilets are provided, though guests should note there are no water hookups or electricity available on-site. Visitors must come prepared with their own water supplies and ensure their RVs are fully self-contained for a comfortable stay in this wilderness environment.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for recreation right outside their door. Woods Lake itself is a popular spot for non-motorized boating and trout fishing, offering calm waters that are ideal for kayaks or canoes. Hikers can access several trails that lead into the Mokelumne Wilderness, showcasing spectacular granite vistas and wildflower meadows. During the fall, the area transforms into a vibrant display of color, making it a favorite destination for landscape photographers and wildlife watchers alike.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for the adventurous RVer who prioritizes nature over resort-style convenience. If you enjoy boondocking or dry camping and prefer a quiet evening by a crackling campfire rather than modern park amenities, you will find this spot rewarding. It is the perfect home base for those planning to spend their days trekking through the Sierras or simply enjoying the silence of a high-altitude mountain retreat.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Nani P
Loved this campground! Great place for the kids to explore and beautiful hike to the potholes not to far away. The camp host Hobie was also amazing and very approachable and made everyone feel welcomed. Hope to see him again next season.
Roseann
This is a little gem! It’s peaceful and beautiful. Great place to visit with the entire family. The camp hosts were the best. Hobie was very friendly and personable and took a lot of pride in the campground. Darrell, the other camp host, was also great. So much fun to talk to and to listen to his stories. Both hosts wanted to make sure we had a great experience. We definitely will come back. Thank you, Roseann
Richard Giannini
Well we made it! 3 nights with our three young grandchildren and we survived! Great time paddle boarding, kayaking, “fishing”, and smoreing. Great campsite and complimented by the super friendly Camp Host Ranger, Hobie. He made us and our grandchildren feel very welcomed. They loved him and his inspiring morning camp cheers! We will course be going back!
Shannon Oxford
Love this campground! For many many years we camped yearly at Plasses, but no more it has gone downhill since the Plasses family sold out. Silver Lake east is very accessible and the rv spaces are easy access and paved and level. Clean volt toilets and water facets. The park is clean with fire rings, bbq grill and vault garbage containers. The hosts are great, Friendly and helpful. Nice quiet and close access to the lake. We've been coming every year for 5 years. The camping fees are very reasonable and can use your senior discount with your California Parks pass. Hard to reserve sometimes but We've also got a in by checking frequently or go up during first come first served dates. Highly recommend this campground. We'll be back in August 26!
Maggie Leisy
We had such a wonderful stay! Our camp host, Hobie, was amazing—friendly, hilarious, and made us feel right at home. We were lucky to snag a spot on the last weekend the campground was open, and it couldn’t have been a better experience. Grizzly and Luna (our two pups) had the best time exploring, and we loved how quiet, clean, and family-friendly the site was. The bathrooms were honestly the cleanest I’ve ever seen at a campground! We highly recommend this spot and can’t wait to come back next year.