Gerle Creek
4.72128 reviewsELDORADO
Gerle Creek
$36.00 - $72.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$36.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$72.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates vary by season; peak season rates include $36 for Tent Only Nonelectric sites and $72 for Standard Nonelectric double-family sites. Reservation fees add $8 online, $9 via call center, or $3 in-person.
About this campground
Escape to Gerle Creek Campground, where pristine wilderness meets modern comfort at 5,300 feet above sea level. This mountain sanctuary envelops visitors in a canopy of towering hardwoods, where the gentle murmur of the creek provides nature's soundtrack. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, paddling across the glassy reservoir at dawn, or exploring winding forest trails, adventure awaits at every turn. The campground's dedicated hosts ensure your stay is nothing short of exceptional, maintaining facilities with meticulous care that lets you focus on what matters most: creating memories in the great outdoors.
Gerle Creek Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including RV, tent, and group camping. Sites provide essential amenities but lack hookups.
Historical SignificanceThe legacy of the pioneering Gerle brothers lives on in these waters and woods, where their farming endeavors helped shape the early settlement of this rugged region. As part of the historically rich Georgetown Divide, the area whispers tales of California's frontier past, from gold rush prospectors to timber barons who recognized the value in these ancient forests. Today's visitors walk in the footsteps of generations who found sustenance and solace in this mountain landscape.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Gerle Creek into a sun-drenched paradise, with July temperatures climbing to a pleasant 85-90°F under brilliantly blue skies. These warm, dry months invite endless outdoor adventures, while winter brings a dramatic change as Pacific storms blanket the landscape with rain and occasional snow. The Mediterranean-influenced climate creates perfect conditions for summer camping, with cool mountain evenings offering respite from daytime warmth.
ElevationPerched at 5,300 feet in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Gerle Creek Campground offers the perfect alpine escape without the extreme altitudes of higher peaks. This sweet spot elevation delivers refreshingly cool summer temperatures that provide natural air conditioning, while remaining accessible year-round. The mountain air carries the scent of pine and cedar, invigorating visitors with every breath of crisp, clean atmosphere.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself awakening to sunlight filtering through a cathedral of trees along the banks of Gerle Creek Fork, where the water dances over granite boulders on its journey to the reservoir below. The campground's strategic position offers front-row seats to nature's theater: morning mist rising from the water, afternoon light painting the forest in golden hues, and evening skies reflecting off the reservoir's mirror-like surface. This harmonious blend of flowing creek, serene reservoir, and verdant forest creates a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream.
Geological RegionGerle Creek Campground claims its place within the magnificent Eldorado National Forest, perched atop the Georgetown Divide—a geological wonder that separates major river watersheds. This unique positioning creates a Mediterranean-style microclimate rarely found at this elevation, where warm, sun-soaked summers give way to rejuvenating winter rains. The divide's ancient geology tells a story millions of years in the making, from volcanic upheavals to glacial carving, resulting in today's spectacular landscape of rolling forests, dramatic canyons, and life-giving waterways.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has accessible vault toilets, fishing docks, and the Gerle Creek Interpretive Trail, which is fully accessible for users with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are generally spacious, with some reviewers noting specific examples, such as Site 009 being 'very quiet' and large enough to accommodate a 25' motorhome.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers good privacy, with many reviewers, including Mario G, noting that most sites are well-spaced and shaded, providing a degree of seclusion.
Total Campsites52 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 009 offers quiet and elevated views. Sites 038 and 050 are spacious and provide good access to the reservoir for kayaking.
Best CampsitesSites 31, 32, and 33 are highly recommended for their proximity to water and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites must be occupied by 1 PM the day following the reservation start.
Check-out
Check-out is at 1 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site is null.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features single and double-family sites, many of which are accessible. Loops and sections are well-defined.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 23 and closes August 31 for reservations. September 1-21 is first-come, first-served.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov, via the mobile app, or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is limited and subject to change. Scan & Pay is available on-site for select campsites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are subject to a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night’s fee for late cancellations. No refunds for Scan & Pay campsites.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Gerle Creek Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, swimming, kayaking, and hiking. An accessible fishing dock and interpretive trail enhance the recreational experience.
Hiking
The Gerle Creek Interpretive Trail is fully accessible and provides scenic views with educational displays. Additional trails around the lake offer short, easy hikes, as noted by Deborah H.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Gerle Creek. Common fish species include brown and rainbow trout. Deborah H described the fishing pier as a great spot for anglers.Swimming
The reservoir is ideal for swimming, with no motorized boats allowed. Many reviewers, such as Martha B, highlighted the peaceful and safe swimming conditions.Biking
Biking is a popular activity in the area, with trails accessible from the campground. Rene Jansen noted using e-bikes to explore the trails and access the water.Boating
Kayaking and canoeing are popular due to the calm, motor-free waters of the reservoir. Several reviews, including those by Deborah H and Mario G, recommend bringing kayaks.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with one reviewer, Kendra J, mentioning the sighting of a flying squirrel during their stay.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Gerle Creek Interpretive Trail features educational plaques that provide historical and ecological information, as mentioned by Deborah H.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities at the reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions vary by season. Local information is available at (530) 644-6048.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of bears and non-potable water are notable. Vault toilets are available but may lack cleanliness during peak times.
Active alertsIce House Road repairs in 2024 may cause delays. Fire restrictions are commonly imposed in dry seasons.
Weather forecast
82
°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
Closest emergency services are null.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - August 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, and camp hosts are noted for keeping these areas clean. For example, Barbara K mentioned the 'garbage bins and areas surrounding them always clean.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated upstream of Gerle Creek Divide Reservoir, ideal for kayaking and swimming.
Common complaintsBathrooms can be unsanitary during peak seasons, and some hosts may be perceived as overly intrusive. Water may not always be potable.
HostCamp hosts are generally praised for their friendliness and maintenance. Hosts keep bathrooms clean and assist with reservations.
Campground Map
ELDORADO
Driving directionsFrom Placerville, drive 21 miles east on Highway 50 to the Icehouse Road turnoff. Turn left and go 28 miles north. Take the left fork 3 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible from paved roads. However, starting May 2024 through September 2024, Ice House Road will undergo repairs, causing traffic delays.Nearby places
Placerville: 49 miles, approximately 1 hour driving time.
Nearby supplies
Closest locations for supplies are null.
Camper Reviews
4.7
128 reviews
Gerle Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Gerle Creek Campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and well-maintained facilities. Many users have praised the campground hosts' efforts in cleanliness and management.
Review Summaries
Based on 128 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers frequently highlight the cleanliness of the campground, spacious sites, and the peaceful, motor-free reservoir. Deborah H mentioned the cleanliness of vault toilets, and Mario G noted that...
Based on 128 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include maintenance issues with vault toilets, the lack of potable water, and occasional overcrowding. Pat M noted that open restrooms were 'close to full' during their stay,...
Based on 128 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring potable water as it is often unavailable on-site. Pack mosquito spray for visits in early summer, as Satish A noted mosquitoes can be incessant. For kayaking and fishing enthusiasts, bring your...
Based on 128 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest season, with some complaints about overcrowding and noisy campers. However, weekdays are quieter, and the weather is more comfortable than in the valleys. Winter camping is not...
Based on 128 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful setting and somehow feels less crowded than it is even with a full camp.' – Josh
2. 'Nice to see the trail upgrades that are now accessible to all.' – Elektra Mathews-Novelli
3. 'The...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 31, 32, and 33 are highly recommended for their water views and spacious layouts. Site 009 is noted for its quiet location, and Site 038 is described as a good size for a double site.
Based on 128 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground is praised for its accessible facilities, including vault toilets and the Gerle Creek Interpretive Trail. Elektra Mathews-Novelli noted the trail upgrades that now make the area...
Based on 128 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and the campground is considered pet-friendly. Shelli Hughlett remarked that the campground allows kids and dogs to swim safely in the reservoir.
Based on 128 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025