Big Silver Group
01 review7887 HWY 50
Big Silver Group
$145.00 - $145.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$145.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates for group sites are $145.00 per night during peak seasons (May 23 - August 31 and May 29 - September 6). Additional reservation service fees apply: $8 online, $9 via call center, and $3 in-person.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Eldorado National Forest, Big Silver Group Campground offers an intimate escape for larger gatherings seeking solitude among towering Ponderosa pines. This hidden gem welcomes groups of up to 50 people, providing both tent and RV camping options along the tranquil waters of Big Silver Creek. Far from the crowds that flock to more popular destinations, this exclusive group-only facility promises a private wilderness experience just minutes from the sparkling expanse of Union Valley Reservoir.
Big Silver Group accommodates tent camping, RV parking, and walk-in sites. It is specifically designed for group camping with a capacity of up to 50 guests.
Weather and SeasonsBig Silver's mountain climate delivers a tapestry of seasonal experiences throughout the year. Summer visitors bask in warm days under crystal-clear skies, perfect for creek-side adventures and starlit gatherings. Spring and fall bring crisp mornings that give way to comfortable afternoons, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland. Be prepared for mountain weather's mercurial nature – temperatures can plunge during shoulder seasons, and afternoon thunderstorms may punctuate summer days. The most coveted camping weeks feature endless blue skies and gentle breezes, while winter adventurers should pack for potential snowfall and freezing temperatures.
ElevationElevation details are not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a natural cathedral where ancient Ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark and emerald canopy creating a living sanctuary. The campground's level terrain makes it perfect for group activities, while gentle slopes lead adventurers down to Big Silver Creek's babbling waters. Morning mist often dances above the creek, creating ethereal scenes as sunlight filters through the pine boughs. Just beyond your campsite, Union Valley Reservoir beckons with its pristine waters framed by forested shores – a photographer's dream and an angler's paradise rolled into one breathtaking vista.
Geological RegionBig Silver Group Campground rests within the majestic Eldorado National Forest, a landscape sculpted by ancient volcanic activity and millennia of weathering. This Sierra Nevada foothill region showcases nature's artistry through rolling terrain adorned with stately Ponderosa pine groves. The gentle to moderate slopes surrounding camp tell the story of glacial movements and erosion that carved Big Silver Creek's path through the forest. Here, where water meets woodland, the geological foundation supports a thriving ecosystem that has drawn outdoor enthusiasts for generations, offering a perfect basecamp for exploring the greater Union Valley Reservoir area.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets and the group kitchen area are accessible.
Sites SizeSites accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs in designated units. Walk-in sites available.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers shaded sites under Ponderosa pines but does not guarantee privacy due to the group setting.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests are advised to choose sites offering proximity to Big Silver Creek or shaded areas under Ponderosa pines for better views and convenience.
Best Campsites"Beautiful." (Review by KAE KEN C, campsite: 001, Loop: AREA BIG SILVER GROUP, rating: 5, Date: 8/12/2022)
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 50 guests per group site.
Groups
The campground accommodates up to 50 guests with multiple tables and grills at the group kitchen area.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features three tent camp units, four tent/trailer/RV units, and three walk-in camp units with a group kitchen area, multiple tables, grills, campfire circle, vault toilets, and trash collection.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 - August 31 (2025) and May 29 - September 6 (2026). Closed August 31 - May 29 (off-season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, contact center (call), or in-person.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up/first-come-first-serve is not mentioned; reservations are required for group sites.
Cancellation PolicyCustomers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. Late cancellations apply starting from midnight 14 days before check-in. Reservation fees are non-refundable.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Big Silver Group Campground provides visitors a variety of activities including hiking, biking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and bird spotting. Immediate access is available to the Union Valley Bike Trail, a 5.8-mile bikeway.
Hiking
The campground has immediate access to Union Valley Bike Trail, an easy 5.8-mile trail with scenic views and short steep grades.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available, but specific details on fish types or conditions are not provided.Biking
Union Valley Bike Trail offers a 5.8-mile two-lane bikeway with scenic views, ideal for biking enthusiasts.Boating
The campground is situated near Union Valley Reservoir, suitable for boating activities. Specific details on docking facilities or types of boats allowed are not mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Forest-lined views provide opportunities for wildlife viewing and migratory bird spotting.Winter Activities
This campground does not provide distinct winter recreational activities.Water Sports
Opportunities for boating and fishing near Union Valley Reservoir but no details on non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire circle is available, but specifics on fire bans or seasonal restrictions are not mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Specific quiet hours are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area. Campers should use appropriate food containers to mitigate risks.
Active alertsNo current warnings or advisories are specified.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The Pacific Ranger Station is a recommended contact for emergencies nearby (phone: 530-647-5415).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - August 31 (2025) and May 29 - September 6 (2026).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available; recycling is not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSituated alongside Big Silver Creek and five minutes biking distance from Union Valley Reservoir.
Common complaintsNo common complaints are recorded in user reviews or official sources.
HostNo specific host information is provided.
Campground Map
7887 HWY 50
Driving directionsFrom Highway 50, turn north onto the Ice House Riverton Road and continue 18 miles. After crossing Big Silver bridge turn left into campground entrance.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but there are no indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Pollock Pines (25 miles), Placerville (23 miles)
Nearby supplies
A convenience store with a restaurant, gas, and phone is within 10 miles south on Ice House Road.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Big Silver Group has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally describe the campground positively. It is appreciated for its scenic location and recreational activities.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the forest setting, proximity to Union Valley Reservoir, and recreational opportunities like biking and wildlife viewing.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
No specific complaints have been documented.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own water and sterilization equipment, as no potable water is available.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews do not specify seasonal variations.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful." - KAE KEN C (Rated 5, campsite: 001, Loop: AREA BIG SILVER GROUP, Date: 8/12/2022)
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 001 in AREA BIG SILVER GROUP received positive feedback described as beautiful by a reviewer.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets and group kitchen facilities are noted as accessible.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no specific mentions of pet-related reviews.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025