Ice House

Star4.30
126 reviews
Ice House Campground, Eldorado National Forest, CA, USA
Ice House
$36.00 - $108.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary based on site type and season. Additional fees include reservation service fees ($8 online, $9 call center, $3 in person), modification fee...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$108.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
831-245-6891info@royalelkparkmanagement.com

About this campground

Perched on the pristine shores of Ice House Reservoir, this mountain sanctuary in the heart of Eldorado National Forest beckons adventurers with its crystalline waters and endless recreational possibilities. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring scenic hiking trails, pedaling through towering pines, or diving into refreshing alpine waters, Ice House Campground serves as your gateway to Sierra Nevada splendor.
Ice House Campground offers a variety of camping options including tent sites, RV sites, and walk-to sites. Some sites are reservable, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceStep into California's legendary past at this campground situated in the heart of Gold Rush country. These forests once echoed with the sounds of prospectors seeking fortune, and remnants of this fascinating era still dot the surrounding landscape. Today's visitors can explore the same rugged terrain that drew thousands of dreamers westward, adding a layer of historical intrigue to every outdoor adventure.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of California's Mediterranean climate in the mountains, where sun-drenched summer days invite endless outdoor adventures and crisp winter nights transform the landscape into a serene wonderland. Summer temperatures remain pleasantly cool thanks to the elevation, while winter brings rejuvenating rains and occasional dustings of snow that paint the forest in ethereal beauty.
ElevationAt 5,500 feet above sea level, Ice House Campground offers a refreshing escape from valley heat, where mountain breezes whisper through towering conifers and the air carries the crisp, clean scent of pine. This perfect elevation creates an alpine paradise that's high enough to escape summer's intensity yet accessible enough for comfortable camping throughout the season.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where majestic Ponderosa pines stretch skyward alongside aromatic cedars, while twisted manzanita bushes add splashes of burgundy bark to the forest palette. The crown jewel remains the spectacular 700-acre Ice House Reservoir, its sapphire waters reflecting the surrounding peaks and providing a stunning backdrop for unforgettable camping memories.
Geological RegionDiscover the diverse ecosystems of Eldorado National Forest, where Mediterranean climate zones meet Sierra Nevada grandeur to create a unique camping environment. This remarkable landscape, shaped by ancient geological forces and enriched by Gold Rush history, offers a rare combination of accessible wilderness, temperate mixed conifer forests, and the cultural heritage of California's most transformative era.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground appears to have accessible features such as nearby water spigots and centrally located vault toilets, but specific details for campers with disabilities are not mentioned.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some accommodating up to three 4-person tents. Site 6 and a few lakeside sites offer extra space and additional amenities like two fire pits and bear boxes.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site; some are secluded (e.g., sites 28 and 29), while others are closer to neighbors.
Total Campsites76 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakeside sites for water access or sites away from common areas for privacy.
Best CampsitesSites 28, 29, 6, 7,& 8 recommended for privacy and proximity to water.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Standard check-in is 2 PM.
Check-out
Standard check-out is 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most sites allow 1 vehicle and space for additional tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of loops, including Lower Loop, Boulder Loop, and Upper Loop, with varying proximity to the water.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from May 23 to August 31 (reservable). The first-come-first-serve season runs from September 1 to October 12.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov online, via app, or through a call center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve availability from September 1 to October 12; sites may be claimed on-site.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night’s use fee for late cancellations. Modifications are allowed with a $10 fee.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store

Activities you can enjoy

Ice House Campground features a wide range of recreational activities including hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and swimming. The nearby Ice House Mountain Bike Trail offers scenic views of the reservoir and Crystal Range.
Hiking
Campers have access to the Ice House Mountain Bike Trail, a 3.1-mile path offering ridge-top views and shaded northern slopes. Nearby hikes like the Bassi Falls trail (1.2 miles) are also popular.
Fishing
The reservoir is stocked with rainbow and brown trout, making it a popular fishing spot. Campers report good fishing conditions near the shore.
Swimming
Swimming is permitted in the reservoir, and the water is described as clean. However, crowded beaches have been noted in user reviews.
Biking
The mountain bike trail at Ice House offers 3.1 miles of scenic terrain, suitable for moderate skill levels.
Boating
There is a boat ramp on-site, and reviewers frequently mention kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing as popular activities.
Wildlife viewing
Campers have noted sightings of bears and other wildlife, particularly in the evening. Proper food storage is emphasized due to bear activity.
Beach activities
Beaches are small, rocky, and can become crowded. Some campers recommend exploring different areas of the reservoir for a quieter experience.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described in detail, but the campground closes during the colder months.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at the reservoir.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons; only approved containers for food storage.
  • Quiet hours are Standard quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsWildlife encounters including bears. Poison oak and uneven terrain on some sites.
Active alertsTraffic delays possible due to Icehouse Road repairs May–Sept 2024.

Weather forecast

55
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 28%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 1.4 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Closest emergency services include Placerville (approximately 35 miles away, police, hospital), and Riverton (12 miles for basic assistance).

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 23 through August 31 (peak season).
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available and emptied regularly. Recycling facilities are also noted to be present.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Ice House Reservoir, with boat ramp and swimming access.
Common complaintsSome users report rude or discriminatory behavior from hosts, noise issues, and maintenance concerns.
HostMixed reviews about hosts; some praised for helpfulness, others criticized for rudeness and poor management.

Campground Map

Ice House Campground, Eldorado National Forest, CA, USA
Driving directionsFrom Pollock Pines, CA, take Route 50 east 8.3 miles to the Crystal Basin Recreation Area sign. Turn left at sign onto Icehouse Road and go 10.8 miles to the Ice House Campground directional sign. Turn right at the sign onto Forest Route 32, then go 1.1 miles to an intersection with a campground/boat ramp sign. Continue straight to campground.
Accessible via paved roads; Icehouse Road undergoing repairs from May 2024 to September 2024 with possible traffic delays.
Nearby places
Nearby cities include Riverton (12 miles), Pollock Pines (approx. 21 miles), and Placerville (approx. 35 miles).
Nearby supplies
Supplies available at a nearby resort offering limited groceries, gas, and restaurant services. Larger supply options available in Pollock Pines (approx. 21 miles).

Camper Reviews

4.3
126 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Ice House is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Ice House Campground has received mixed reviews, with an average sentiment of 4.0158 for camping-specific experiences. Positive reviews highlight the peaceful setting, clean facilities, and variety of recreational activities. However, some users noted issues with management and occasional overcrowding.
Review Summaries
Based on 126 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers praise the clean facilities, scenic views, proximity to the reservoir, and variety of recreational activities. Many reviewers also appreciated the spacious and well-maintained campsites.
Based on 126 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints frequently mention rude or unhelpful camp hosts, noise disturbances, and overcrowding during peak seasons. Some users reported issues with the reservation system.
Based on 126 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring quarters for showers and cash for firewood. Arrive early for first-come, first-served sites. Consider sites 28, 29, 7, and 8 for privacy and proximity to the water.
Based on 126 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season for camping, but overcrowding and noise can be issues. Fall offers a quieter experience, although water levels may be lower.
Based on 126 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Site 28 is awesome! It's more secluded and has two fire pits and bear boxes." - Phillip Hobson; "The bike trail is right behind Site 75 for short hikes to Strawberry." - Tim Wilcox; "Bathrooms and...
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Based on 126 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsites 28, 29, 7, 8, and 75 are frequently recommended for their privacy and good views. Site 6 is ideal for large groups.
Based on 126 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were provided.
Based on 126 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but there were no detailed reviews addressing pet-specific experiences.
Based on 126 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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