Dispersed camping near Eldorado National Forest offers sites ranging from 6,000 to 8,500 feet elevation across diverse landscapes. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F daytime to 40-55°F at night, with potential afternoon thunderstorms common from July through September. Water access varies significantly between sites, with some offering creek proximity while others require campers to pack in all water needs.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Several dispersed camping areas provide direct access to hiking paths without requiring a drive. At Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe, "There are a few yurts if you go for that sort of thing" and "Hiking trails right out of camp" with "a lovely, short hike to a waterfall! It's just a 1 mile walk along the lakeshore from the Hazel Creek day use parking area," according to Ryan W.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and streams offer productive fishing throughout the region. At Silver Lake West, "Fishing was excellent!" as Nicole B. notes about nearby Ice House Campground. Larry W. confirms Silver Lake West is "Fabulous in every way" with "No hassles, NO July 3/4 fireworks!!!" making it ideal for peaceful angling.
Water recreation: Lakes and reservoirs support multiple non-motorized water activities. A camper at Ice House Campground mentions, "Ice House Reservoir is great for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, or stand up paddle boarding. The reservoir gives you plenty of places to explore on the water and plenty of great spots for fishing." The water remains "freezing cold all year long but everyone still gets in it to either ski or fish."
What campers like
Elevation views: Many dispersed sites offer panoramic vistas across mountain ranges. One camper at USFS Silver Fork Dispersed notes, "I stayed at N38.768811• W 120.238630° — on top of a peak that offered 360° views with sunrise and sunset right from my tent." The site is "about a 6 mile drive in from US50" providing excellent seclusion.
Low light pollution: Stargazing conditions remain exceptional at many Eldorado Forest sites. Carly D. states that at Sly Park Recreation Area, "The stars are breathtaking at night. Gotta be my favorite part. It's also fun to look across the lake and see all of the campfires sparkling in the distance." Night skies remain clear most summer nights, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts.
Natural swimming areas: Several locations feature creek-fed swimming holes not mentioned in guidebooks. At Silver Lake West, one reviewer notes they could "walk to the pot holes for a swim or cross the street to one of the most beautiful lakes," while at Wright's Lake, the water is "Shallow lake that warms up a little for kayaking and swimming. Great family lake."
What you should know
Fire restrictions enforcement: Campfire regulations vary by season and elevation, with permits required at most sites. Alex from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed notes, "You are required to have a permit for any day/overnight use in Eldorado, including this area. They can be easily acquired at recreation.gov." At Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park, "Park rangers are present and will ticket you if not compliant with placing items/trash in bear boxes, warnings given first though."
Wildlife presence: Bears frequently visit camping areas, especially during summer months. At Eagle Point Campground, one camper reported, "We had a bear visit our campsite, so it's crucial to store your food in the provided bear boxes, and the campground staff enforces this rule diligently."
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. Tim S. observed at Bear River Lake Resort, "getting in/out of spots is difficult and if you don't have high clearance on RV and tow vehicle, you will hit rocks and ruts and may break something." Several reviewers noted similar issues at other forest access points.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: Not all lakeside sites provide easy shore access for children. At Eagle Point Campground, Vanessa G. explains: "Rubicon trail is nearby and we did twice mainly to get down to the water, lots of private small areas to sunbathe and take a dip. Beware lugging your items is no easy feat because walking uphill in the Tahoe sun can be difficult but can be done if needed."
Kid-friendly activities: Several pet-friendly camping areas near Eldorado National Forest offer family programming. At Tahoe Valley Campground, a reviewer mentions they "put on a ton of events like karaoke nights, live music, and smores nights" making it appealing for families with children who need structured activities.
Campsite selection for privacy: Families benefit from choosing outer loop sites at larger campgrounds. Ryan W. notes at Fallen Leaf Campground, "The outer loop is where you want to be if you are looking for any privacy or traveling alone. The inner loop, with its lack of privacy, was the spot for large groups."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many forest sites require additional leveling equipment. Tim S. notes that at Bear River Lake Resort, "Most spots aren't close to level, make sure to bring more leveling blocks than you're used to." Similar conditions exist at many dispersed sites throughout the forest.
Hookup limitations: Electricity access varies widely between campgrounds. At Tahoe Valley Campground, "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers," according to Steve R., while many dispersed sites offer no services.
Road width challenges: Forest access roads can be problematic for larger rigs. A camp host at Sly Park Recreation Area observed, "Rainbow, Kam Loop, Dogwood and Hazel Creek camping loops are nicely shaded and stay much cooler than the camping loops toward the front of the park but it can be tough to get a larger motorhome or travel trailer into the back of the park. The roads are very narrow with plenty of blind corners."
