About South Fork Group - Eldorado NF (CA)
Overview South Fork is the largest group campground in the Crystal Basin Recreation Area, nestled in the vast expanse of the Eldorado National Forest. The remote location affords visitors a true outdoor camping experience.Recreation With the South Fork of the Rubicon River located within walking distance, the group camp provides excellent fishing, swimming and other water sports and activities. Facilities While the campground can be used as a single group site that can accommodate up to 125 guests, it can also be reserved as multiple single-family sites. A group cooking area with food preparation tables and double grills is available, as well as campfire rings with grills at each site. Vault toilets are provided, however, drinking water is not available at the campground. Visitors can boil stream water or fill up at nearby boat ramps. A parking area is also available.Natural Features Situated at an elevation of 5,200 feet, the campground sits between the Union Valley Reservoir and Loon Lake. It is also just minutes away from Gerle Creek Reservoir, a serene mountain lake where motorized boating is prohibited in order to preserve a peaceful and quiet atmosphere for visitors. Nearby Attractions Swimming and non-motorized boating are available at Gerle Creek Reservoir, 5 miles north of the campground.
How to Get There
Travel 21 miles east from Placerville on Highway 50 and turn left on the Ice House Road. Go 25 miles north and turn left on South Fork Road. The campground is a mile from the turn-off, on the right side of the road.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to South Fork Group - Eldorado NF (CA)
Heading to South Fork Group - Eldorado NF (CA)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for South Fork Group - Eldorado NF (CA)?
No central reservation system listed for South Fork Group - Eldorado NF (CA). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233879) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to South Fork Group - Eldorado NF (CA)?
Travel 21 miles east from Placerville on Highway 50 and turn left on the Ice House Road. Go 25 miles north and turn left on South Fork Road. The campground is a mile from the turn-off, on the right side of the road.
How do I contact South Fork Group - Eldorado NF (CA)?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-644-2324.
References & Official Resources
