Ice House Resort

For Californians yearning for an escape into the heart of nature, where the scent of pine fills the air and the sounds of the wilderness replace city noise, the Ice House Resort area in Pollock Pines offers a truly authentic camping experience. Nestled within the expansive Eldorado National Forest, the Ice House Campground provides a rustic, off-the-grid opportunity to connect with the majestic beauty of the Sierra Nevada. This isn't a bustling commercial park; instead, it's a haven for those who appreciate primitive camping, stunning reservoir views, and a chance to truly unplug.

The Ice House area is synonymous with outdoor adventure. At its heart lies the pristine Ice House Reservoir, a substantial body of water that serves as a focal point for various recreational activities. Surrounded by a mixed conifer forest, primarily towering ponderosa pines, cedars, and manzanita bushes, the air is often described as having a pleasant vanilla aroma from the pines – a unique sensory experience that immediately immerses you in the natural environment. The elevation, around 5,500 feet, provides a refreshing climate, especially during California's warm summers, making it an ideal retreat from the heat of the lower elevations. Whether you're a seasoned camper, an avid angler, or simply looking for a quiet place to relax, the Ice House Resort area offers a genuine taste of California's stunning mountain wilderness.

It's a place where self-reliance is key, and the rewards are abundant: starry nights, clear waters, and the undeniable peace that comes from being truly surrounded by the wild.

Ice House Resort and its associated campground are strategically located in Pollock Pines, California, deep within the Eldorado National Forest. This position places it ideally for Californians seeking a mountain getaway that, while feeling remote, remains reasonably accessible. The address, 9199 Ice House Rd, Pollock Pines, CA 95726, USA, points directly to the area, providing a clear navigational target for visitors.

To reach Ice House, travelers typically follow Highway 50 east from Placerville. Approximately 23 miles east of Placerville, you’ll turn north onto Ice House Road (Forest Road 3). This scenic road will lead you deeper into the forest for about 11 miles. From there, you’ll take a slight turn onto Forest Road 32 for about 1.5 miles, which brings you directly to the campground area. The roads leading to Ice House are generally well-maintained, but as with any mountain route, it's always advisable to check road conditions, especially during late spring or early fall when snow might still be present or early in the season before full maintenance has occurred. A standard vehicle is usually sufficient to access the area.

For those traveling from Sacramento or the greater Bay Area, the drive typically takes a couple of hours, offering a manageable distance for a weekend trip. From more southern parts of California, it involves a longer but scenic journey through the state's diverse landscapes. The remote yet accessible nature of Ice House makes it a perfect destination for local Californians looking to escape the urban sprawl and immerse themselves in a genuine high-country camping experience without an excessively long commute. Its location within a national forest means visitors are immediately surrounded by extensive opportunities for exploration, from hiking and biking trails to the vast expanse of the Ice House Reservoir itself.

The Ice House Resort area, particularly the associated Ice House Campground, provides a range of services designed to facilitate a natural and authentic camping experience. It’s important to note that while there is a "resort" name, the camping experience is largely primitive, focusing on nature rather than extensive amenities.

• Developed Campsites: The campground offers numerous campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Many sites include picnic tables and fire rings with grates. While there are no hookups for RVs, the sites are generally spacious.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is usually available at various points within the campground, which is a crucial amenity for any camping trip.

• Restroom Facilities: Vault toilets are provided throughout the campground, ensuring basic sanitation needs are met in a primitive setting.

• Boat Ramp: An on-site boat ramp offers convenient access to Ice House Reservoir for boating and other water activities.

• Dump Station: For RV and trailer campers, a dump station is available for waste disposal, although a fee may apply.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is typically available for purchase from the campground host, ensuring campers have a reliable source for campfires (always check for fire restrictions).

• Limited General Store: While the review mentions the store wasn't always open, there is a small store associated with the resort that may offer limited groceries and supplies. This can be a lifesaver for forgotten items or quick refills.

• Bear Safety: While not a direct service, the presence of bears (as noted in reviews) highlights the importance of practicing proper food storage and waste disposal, which is implicitly supported by the campground’s natural, wilderness setting.

It's always recommended to call ahead or check the Eldorado National Forest website for the most current information on operating seasons, services available, and any fire restrictions, as conditions can change.

Ice House Resort, particularly its surrounding campground and reservoir, offers several compelling features that make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in California:

• Ice House Reservoir: This large, beautiful reservoir is the centerpiece of the area, providing ample opportunities for swimming, fishing (rainbow, brown, and brook trout are common), and a variety of boating activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Its 700 acres offer plenty of space for water recreation.

• Abundant Dispersed and Developed Camping: While there are designated campsites with some amenities, the area is also known for its extensive dispersed camping opportunities on surrounding BLM land. This allows for a more "off-the-grid" and private experience, appealing to those seeking true wilderness solitude (note: a user review suggests "off the grid camping" and "first come first serve" which points to dispersed camping being a significant feature, along with the developed campground managed by the Forest Service).

• Scenic Forest Environment: Campers are immersed in a mixed conifer forest, featuring towering ponderosa pines that often fill the air with a distinct vanilla scent. The high elevation (around 5,500 feet) provides cool temperatures, making it a pleasant escape during hot California summers, and offers stunning views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada landscape.

• Extensive Trail System: The Eldorado National Forest provides access to a network of hiking and mountain biking trails. The Ice House Mountain Bike Trail, stretching over 3 miles, offers rewarding views of the reservoir and the Crystal Range.

• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting means opportunities for wildlife viewing, including deer, various bird species, and, notably, bears. This highlights the truly wild nature of the area and the need for proper food storage.

• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night skies above Ice House offer spectacular stargazing opportunities, a highlight for many campers.

• Proximity to Bassi Falls: A short 1.2-mile hiking trail nearby leads to Bassi Falls, a glorious 109-foot waterfall cascading over a granite cliff, providing a rewarding excursion for hikers.

For direct inquiries regarding the Ice House Resort area and its operations, particularly the store and any potential services, the provided phone number is the primary contact point:

Phone: (530) 293-3321

Mobile Phone: +1 530-293-3321

Address: 9199 Ice House Rd, Pollock Pines, CA 95726, USA

For information regarding the Ice House Campground specifically, as it is part of the Eldorado National Forest and managed by the USDA Forest Service, it is often beneficial to consult their official website or contact the Pacific Ranger District office. They can provide the most current details on campsite availability, reservation policies (as some sites may be reservable), fees, fire restrictions, and road conditions. While the Resort phone number is useful for specific inquiries about their on-site offerings, general camping information is best verified through the Forest Service directly.

For Californians, Ice House Resort and its surrounding campground represent an exceptional and highly suitable destination for a myriad of reasons, perfectly aligning with the state's love for outdoor adventure and natural beauty. This location provides a quintessential Sierra Nevada experience that is both accessible and deeply immersive, making it an ideal choice for a local getaway.

Firstly, its relative proximity to major Californian population centers, particularly those in Northern and Central California, makes it an attractive option for weekend trips or longer vacations without requiring extensive travel time. Pollock Pines serves as a gateway to this natural haven, allowing residents to quickly transition from urban environments to the tranquil embrace of the forest. This ease of access is a significant advantage for families, friends, and solo adventurers looking to maximize their time in nature.

Secondly, the blend of both developed and dispersed camping options at Ice House is a huge draw for diverse camping preferences. Whether you prefer a designated campsite with a picnic table and fire ring or the adventurous spirit of finding a secluded spot for "off the grid" camping, Ice House accommodates. The mention of "first come first serve" in a review, alongside the area being free (for dispersed camping), highlights its appeal to budget-conscious campers and those who enjoy a more spontaneous approach to their outdoor excursions. This flexibility is highly valued by local Californians who might want to escape quickly for a night or two.

The core activities centered around the Ice House Reservoir — fishing, boating, jet skiing, and swimming — offer endless opportunities for recreation right at your doorstep. For water sports enthusiasts, having such a large and beautiful reservoir readily available is a major asset. Anglers can enjoy the challenge of catching trout, while families can spend hours enjoying the cool waters on a hot summer day.

Beyond the water, the surrounding Eldorado National Forest presents a vast playground for hikers and mountain bikers. The network of trails, including the Ice House Mountain Bike Trail, allows locals to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Sierra, providing both challenging workouts and peaceful strolls with incredible scenic vistas. The opportunity to breathe in the fresh, pine-scented air and witness abundant wildlife, including the need for bear-aware practices, truly brings home the raw, untamed essence of California's wilderness.

Finally, the very nature of Ice House—being a place where you might encounter a bear (necessitating proper food storage) and where a local store might open just for you—speaks to a community that values self-reliance, respect for nature, and a welcoming spirit. It’s not just a campground; it’s an opportunity to create authentic outdoor memories, disconnect from digital life, and truly appreciate the natural treasures that make California unique. For locals, Ice House Resort and its associated camping areas are more than just a destination; they are an accessible and authentic piece of their natural heritage, waiting to be explored.