Pollock Pines sits at 3,900 feet elevation in the Sierra Nevada foothills, serving as a gateway to the El Dorado National Forest. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing with snowfall common from November through March, while summer days reach the 80s and 90s. Most dispersed and established campgrounds in the area feature pine and cedar tree cover with moderate to steep terrain.
What to do
Hiking trails with waterfalls: The area around Pollock Pines offers accessible trails featuring waterfalls. At Sly Park Recreation Area, "there is 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," as one camp host notes.
Winter fishing opportunities: Cold-weather camping opens up different recreational options. At Sly Park Recreation Area, a visitor explains: "We stayed the weekend at a great site. It was cold with a little rain but was very fun. I really enjoy this campground. Water level was low and this time of year the water spickets are off."
Mountain biking access: The network of forest roads and trails provides terrain for riders of various skill levels. At Pipi Campground, visitors can access "a boardwalk and cement walking trail good for wheelchairs and canes" while the surrounding area contains multiple off-road options.
Horse camping: Some locations accommodate equestrian visitors. One camper mentions Ghost Mountain RV Campground has facilities where "you can bring your horse. Trails to ride a mountain bike ride or hike."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Site selection can significantly impact your camping experience. At Sly Park Recreation Area, "Lot 38 on Pinecone Strip, really private. No other campsite really visible. Close to bathrooms and water," according to one visitor who enjoyed the seclusion.
Lake views and stars: Many visitors appreciate the night sky. A camper at Finnon Lake Recreation Area mentions it "never crowded and has a great view. Small town community has occasional events going on too. Great little lake for a weekend getaway."
Winter accessibility: While some campgrounds close seasonally, others remain open year-round. "Winter camping in the snow" is possible at several locations, though amenities may be limited with "water spigots turned off at certain locations" during freezing temperatures.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds cater to multi-generational groups. A visitor to Coloma Resort noted, "This place was amazing. It was our first trip in our new RV and it couldn't of been more beautiful. There were super cute cabins available as well as tent sites."
What you should know
Seasonal water access: Water systems shut down in cold weather. According to one camper at Sly Park: "This time of year the water spickets are off. This site is right next to one of the vault toilets and a trash dumpster. Not many people stay this time of year and the gates are closed just past the marina."
Fire restrictions change: Always check current fire regulations before your trip. Even in permitted areas, conditions can change. Campgrounds like American River Resort have fire rings at each site, but usage depends on seasonal restrictions.
Road conditions vary: Access to some campgrounds requires careful navigation. For Finnon Lake, a camper warns: "Keep in mind that the road (Mosquito) going here is narrow and too winding. The old bridge can only accommodate one vehicle at a time and RV's and trailers are advised to take the Rock Creek Road instead."
Wildlife encounters: Bears are present throughout the region. One visitor to Fallen Leaf Campground notes: "It's going to be full of kids and dogs and campers who are not necessarily out there to experience nature but to see family and friends... There may also be bears. Bears are everywhere here."
Tips for camping with families
Select quieter sites: For families seeking fewer disruptions, timing matters. A camp host at Sly Park recommends: "If you would rather not deal with the 'Weekend Warrior' type of campers, book your stay for mid-week (Mon-Thurs) and probably avoid camping in July altogether."
Bring water toys: Lake activities provide entertainment for children. A camper at Camp Nauvoo reported: "This place is a hidden gem! It's beautiful, clean, and kid friendly. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there."
Watch for speeding vehicles: Safety concerns exist on campground roads. A Sly Park visitor warns: "Unsupervised children on bicycles, hikers, and other campers walking dogs on the roads is very common, unfortunately so are speeding cars. Be cautious on the roads and keep a close eye out."
Check for local events: Seasonal activities may coincide with your visit. The Finnon Lake area sometimes hosts community gatherings, with one camper noting the "small town community has occasional events going on too."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate larger vehicles. At Pipi Campground, a reviewer advises: "Spots vary in size wildly so larger RV's might not be a good idea. On average I'd say 30' is a max."
Power concerns: Electrical service varies considerably between campgrounds. At American River Resort, "The power is not good. I had to bypass the surge suppressor because it kept cutting out due to low voltage. Voltage was generally 104-105."
Dumping options: Full-hookup sites are limited in the area. One visitor to Ghost Mountain mentions: "Water and Electricity only. There is Honeybucket truck that comes around Monday Wednesday and Friday. A dump station on site."
Road navigation challenges: Access routes to glamping close to Pollock Pines, California often involve narrow roads. For Sly Park's back camping areas, "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."
