Silver Creek Group Campground
02 reviewsPACIFIC RANGER STATION, POLLOCK PINES, CA 95726, USA
Silver Creek Group Campground
$125.00 - $125.00 / 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$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric fee is $125 per night during peak season. Additional reservation fees are charged: $8 online, $9 via call center, and $3 in-person.
About this campground
Nestled in the pristine Crystal Basin of Eldorado National Forest, Silver Creek Group Campground beckons families and friends seeking the perfect mountain retreat. This spacious haven accommodates up to 40 guests across 13 thoughtfully designed sites, including 9 peaceful walk-to units and 4 convenient parking spur sites. Just moments from the sparkling waters of Ice House Reservoir, this group campground transforms reunions, celebrations, and outdoor adventures into unforgettable memories beneath towering pines.
Silver Creek Group Campground is tailored for tent-only group camping, with no accommodations for RV or primitive camping.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Silver Creek, where the echoes of the California Gold Rush still whisper through the forest. This corner of Eldorado National Forest served as the backdrop for countless fortune-seekers during the 1800s, and today's visitors can discover hidden remnants of that golden era scattered throughout the surrounding wilderness. From abandoned mine shafts to weathered prospector cabins, the area offers a fascinating glimpse into California's most transformative period, making every hike an opportunity for historical discovery.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings sun-drenched days and cool mountain evenings perfect for campfire stories, while spring and fall paint the forest in stunning seasonal colors under reliably clear skies. The dry, moderate climate during peak camping months creates ideal conditions for hiking, swimming, and outdoor dining. As winter approaches, the landscape transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland, offering a completely different but equally magical camping experience for the hardy adventurer.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering ponderosa pines creates a natural sanctuary at Silver Creek, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy to dance on the forest floor. The melodic South Fork Silver Creek winds through the campground's southern boundary, providing a soothing soundtrack and refreshing spots for wading on warm afternoons. This thriving ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife characters – from the majestic black bears that roam the forest to graceful mule deer, elusive bobcats, and clever gray foxes that may surprise observant campers with fleeting appearances at dawn or dusk.
Geological RegionSilver Creek rests in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, where ancient granite peaks pierce the sky and pristine alpine lakes mirror the heavens. This dramatic landscape within Eldorado National Forest showcases nature's artistry through weathered granite formations, dense coniferous forests, and crystalline waterways carved by millennia of geological forces. The region's rich gold-bearing quartz veins not only shaped California's history but continue to fascinate modern-day rockhounds and geology enthusiasts exploring this magnificent mountain playground.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the source material.
Sites SizeThe group site can accommodate up to 40 campers, and includes 9 walk-to units and 4 sites with parking spurs.
Sites Privacy"Very private" - User Review by Ken Dashner.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the creek offer enhanced privacy and scenic views.
Best CampsitesNo specific site noted as 'best' but proximity to the creek is favorable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in starts at 8:00 AM
- call ahead to arrange entry.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 40 guests per site.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 40 guests and allows for up to 12 vehicles. Additional vehicles are subject to a fee. The campsite includes 9 walk-to units and 4 sites with parking spurs.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout13 sites, including 9 walk-in units and 4 sites with parking spurs.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season: May 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025 and May 22, 2026 - September 6, 2026. No booking available outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or via their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are required; walk-ups are not guaranteed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be cancelled at any time before the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations within 14 days of arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee. Late cancellations, no-shows, or modifications are subject to additional penalties.
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
Showers
Fire rings
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Silver Creek Group Campground provides access to a variety of recreational activities. Swimming and fishing in South Fork Silver Creek are popular options, with rainbow and brown trout being present in the waters. "Swimming and fishing are both excellent recreation options on the creek." The nearby Ice House Reservoir offers additional activities, including swimming, sunbathing, canoeing, water skiing, hiking, and mountain biking trails.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available in the nearby Ice House Reservoir area.Fishing
Silver Creek offers excellent fishing opportunities, with rainbow and brown trout available in the creek waters.Swimming
Swimming is an excellent recreational option in South Fork Silver Creek.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available in the nearby Ice House Reservoir area.Boating
Boating is accessible at Ice House Reservoir, located less than 2 miles away from the campground. Activities include motor boating and jet skiing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes black bears, mule deer, bobcat, gray fox, bighorn sheep, pikas, martens, and various birds. "An abundance of wildlife can be found within the Sierra Nevada Range."Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the source.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are available at the nearby Ice House Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- One central fire ring available; fire restrictions may apply due to weather conditions.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears frequent the area; proper food storage is mandatory. Fire restrictions may be imposed during dry conditions.
Active alertsIce House Road repairs scheduled May-Sept 2024; potential traffic delays.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
Nearest emergency services include the Pacific Ranger Station and local facilities in Pollock Pines.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025; May 22, 2026 - September 6, 2026.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity (<2 miles) to Ice House Reservoir for recreational water activities.
Common complaintsLimited parking for large groups; drinking water is unavailable.
HostNo host-specific information available.
Campground Map
PACIFIC RANGER STATION, POLLOCK PINES, CA 95726, USA
Driving directionsTravel 23 miles east of Placerville on Highway 50. Turn north and travel 9 miles on Forest Road 3 (Ice House Road). Look for signs to Silver Creek Campground.
Starting May 2024 through September 2024, Ice House Road will be undergoing repairs, causing traffic delays. Accessibility is generally good, but visitors should plan accordingly.Nearby places
Placerville: 23 miles (approximately 30 minutes)
Pollock Pines: 10 miles (approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in nearby Pollock Pines, approximately 10 miles away, with additional camping amenities such as a dump station at Ice House Campground and showers at Fashoda Campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Silver Creek Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Silver Creek Group Campground are generally positive, highlighting privacy, creek access, and well-maintained facilities. Common sentiments include the peaceful atmosphere and the absence of drinking water on-site.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Privacy, close proximity to Silver Creek, cleanliness, friendly staff, and availability of two adjustable grills despite prior claims of their absence.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Parking limitations for large groups and the need to bring drinking water due to its absence on-site.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water or equipment for boiling stream water. Plan parking carefully if in a large group as parking is limited to the parking lot.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No seasonal trends explicitly noted in the data.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"A nice site. Shady with close access to creek. Very private. Parking could be an issue with a very large group." - Ken Dashner. "Camp site was clean and friendly staff." - Augustin C.
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 1 received a positive review: "Clean and friendly staff." - Augustin C.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility reviews are available.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews on pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025