Silver Lake East- Eldorado
4.2691 reviewsEldorado National Forest
Silver Lake East- Eldorado
$36.00 - $72.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$36.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$36.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Recreation fees range from $36–$72 depending on the site type (standard non-electric, tent-only, walk-to). Additional reservation fees apply: $8 online, $9 via call center, $3 in person.
About this campground
Perched at 7,200 feet where the alpine air meets crystal waters, Silver Lake East Campground beckons adventurers to its pristine mountain sanctuary. Here, beneath the watchful gaze of Thunder Mountain, outdoor enthusiasts discover a playground of possibilities—cast a line into the shimmering lake, explore winding hiking trails, dive into refreshing mountain waters, or glide across the lake's glassy surface by boat. This high-country haven transforms camping into an unforgettable alpine experience.
Silver Lake East Campground accommodates a range of campers, from tent camping to walk-in sites and standard non-electric options.
Historical SignificanceGenerations of outdoor enthusiasts have carved their memories into the heart of Silver Lake, creating a beloved recreational legacy that endures today. Historic trails wind through the landscape, including the path to the storied Plasse's Resort, where echoes of the past mingle with the footsteps of modern adventurers. These landmarks serve as waypoints in the area's rich tapestry of mountain recreation history.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives like a gentle whisper at Silver Lake East, bringing mild days perfect for exploration and crisp nights that invite cozy campfire gatherings. As wildflowers paint the meadows in vibrant hues, the campground reaches its peak splendor, offering ideal conditions for all lake activities. When winter's snow blanket descends, the landscape transforms into a frozen wonderland, making summer the crown jewel of camping seasons here.
ElevationAt 7,200 feet, Silver Lake East Campground offers a true high-altitude adventure where the air is crisp and the stars seem close enough to touch. Visitors should come prepared for the mountain's embrace—nights can be refreshingly cool even in summer, and the thin air reminds you that you're camping among the clouds. This elevation creates the perfect natural air conditioning for warm summer days.
Natural Features and SceneryCradled within an ancient granite basin, the campground unfolds like nature's amphitheater, where towering conifers frame breathtaking vistas. Summer transforms the surrounding meadows into a botanical wonderland, with wildflowers dancing in the alpine breeze. At the heart of it all lies the 200-acre Silver Lake, its surface so perfectly reflective it seems to hold a piece of the sky, creating a mirror world where mountains meet their doubles.
Geological RegionThis remarkable landscape tells a story written in stone—a high alpine granite basin sculpted by ancient forces and softened by time. Mixed conifer forests create a living cathedral around the campground, while Thunder Mountain stands as a granite sentinel overlooking the scene. Silver Lake itself, renowned for its mirror-like surface, captures the surrounding peaks in perfect reflection, while seasonal wildflowers add splashes of color to this geological masterpiece.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites are marked as wheelchair accessible, but user reviews noted that the terrain might not be ideal for all wheelchairs. Specific accessibility details are not provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious by multiple reviewers, with some accommodating larger setups, such as multiple tents or trailers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the sites. Several reviews mention well-spaced sites offering a sense of seclusion, while others noted that some sites are closer together.
Total Campsites72 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor quieter experiences, avoid sites in the 40s and 50s due to proximity to generators. Upper loop sites offer shade and better access to the lake.
Best CampsitesSites near Thunder Mountain and Silver Lake, particularly in loops near water access, are highly rated.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
11 AM
Stay Limit
Amaximum of 14 nights is allowed during a calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single units permit 6 people and 2 vehicles per site.
Groups
No specific information on group sites is mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops, with sites varying in size and slope.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 27th through August 31st (reservable). From September 1st to September 28th, sites are first-come, first-served.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or mobile app. First-come sites use Scan & Pay feature.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability from September 1–September 28. Fill patterns vary and availability cannot be guaranteed.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night's recreation fee. Reservations canceled after midnight the day before check-in are non-refundable.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. It's an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Hiking
Numerous trails connect the campground to Silver Lake and other swimming areas. The Granite Lake Trail, which leads to the Hidden Lake Trail, offers scenic hikes with varying levels of difficulty. Hikers can explore alpine lakes and mountain meadows, with highlights including wooden bridges and creek crossings.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Silver Lake, which is stocked with Rainbow, German Brown, and Mackinaw trout. Early mornings are a favored time for anglers.Swimming
Silver Lake offers clean and refreshing swimming areas with beautiful views. Some campers also enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding.Boating
Boating is facilitated by a nearby lodge that offers boat rentals and a boat ramp. The calm waters of Silver Lake are suitable for various boating activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of eagles and other bird species. The surrounding natural environment supports diverse fauna.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not discussed in the provided information.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular at Silver Lake, offering additional recreational options for visitors.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during drought periods. Always check local fire danger levels.
- Quiet hours are enforced during nighttime.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are frequent visitors; proper food storage is mandatory. Occasional thunderstorms may occur, and tree sap and insects can be nuisances.
Active alertsPotential seasonal water outages and fire restrictions may apply.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Slight rain
Precipitation: 2%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 16.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (2.00% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Slight rain
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 nearest emergency services are located in Jackson, CA, approximately 50 miles away. Emergency contact is available via on-site payphone.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 27–August 31.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information on trash and recycling facilities is available. One review mentioned dumpsters being full during a visit, and another highlighted the camp host ferrying trash to other dumpsters when capacity was exceeded.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Silver Lake, the campground offers trails and easy access to swimming beaches and boating areas.
Common complaintsComplaints include water outages, noisy groups, and campsite management issues. Bathrooms are often criticized for cleanliness.
HostHosts are generally helpful and attentive, but occasional complaints about their management practices exist.
Campground Map
Eldorado National Forest
Driving directionsFrom Pioneer, CA, take State Route 88 east 36.6 miles to the campground on the right.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from State Route 88. While the roads are well-maintained, seasonal closures due to weather may apply.Nearby places
Jackson, CA (50 miles east, approximately 1 hour driving time).
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including boating rentals, food, and essentials, are available at the nearby Kit Carson Lodge. Groceries and additional supplies can be found in Jackson, CA.
Camper Reviews
4.3
91 reviews
Silver Lake East- Eldorado is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Silver Lake East Campground is well-regarded for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. However, reviews highlight recurring issues such as management inefficiencies, water shortages, and restroom maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 91 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praise the stunning natural environment, proximity to Silver Lake, and the variety of outdoor activities available. Camp hosts are often described as friendly and helpful. Sites are noted...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poorly maintained vault toilets, water system outages, and management's failure to enforce site reservations. Some guests reported noise disturbances and issues with...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water supply in case of outages. Early mornings are ideal for fishing. Choose sites in the upper loop for better proximity to the lake and less highway noise.
Based on 91 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during the summer months, with visitors enjoying the wildflower blooms and cool lake waters. However, water shortages and restroom maintenance issues seem more common during...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Silver Lake is one of the most beautiful places on the planet." - Derek Wilson. "The bathrooms are terrible! The awful ammonia smell made it almost impossible to breathe." - Wen JT. "Beautiful lake,...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 53 is described as less desirable due to grading issues. Site 19 is reported as non-existent despite being listed on maps. Sites near the upper loop offer better proximity to the lake.
Based on 91 reviewsAccessibility Features
Limited mentions of accessibility. Some campsites are marked as accessible, but terrain challenges are noted.
Based on 91 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and seem to be a common presence, but there are no specific reviews highlighting pet-related amenities.
Based on 91 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025