Pine Cone Campground

Welcome, fellow Californians, to an unparalleled outdoor experience nestled in the picturesque landscape of El Dorado County: Pine Cone Campground. Part of the larger Sly Park Recreation Area and situated alongside the beautiful Jenkinson Lake, Pine Cone Campground offers a quintessential Sierra Nevada escape. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a vibrant hub for family fun, tranquil relaxation, and thrilling outdoor adventures, all within easy reach for many across the Golden State.

Pine Cone Campground is renowned for its inviting atmosphere and direct access to Jenkinson Lake, making it a prime destination for water enthusiasts. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the lake, with towering pine trees providing a natural canopy overhead. The area's commitment to providing a well-maintained yet natural environment ensures that visitors can truly unwind and reconnect with nature without sacrificing essential comforts. Whether you're planning a serene fishing trip, an energetic day of boating, or simply a peaceful retreat from the daily grind, Pine Cone Campground at Sly Park Recreation Area delivers an authentic Californian outdoor experience. Its diverse offerings cater to a wide range of interests, from avid anglers and water sports lovers to families seeking a safe and engaging environment for their children to explore. The sense of community among campers and the natural beauty of the surroundings combine to create memorable experiences that beckon visitors back year after year.

Pine Cone Campground is ideally situated within the Sly Park Recreation Area, managed by the El Dorado Irrigation District (EID), in El Dorado County, California. This makes it a highly accessible destination for many residents across the state, particularly those in Northern and Central California. The campground's address places it directly in this scenic region: El Dorado County, CA, USA.

For Californians traveling by car, the campground is typically accessed via Highway 50, a major thoroughfare that connects Sacramento with South Lake Tahoe. From Highway 50, travelers will take the Sly Park Road exit (County E16) and head south for approximately 4.3 miles. A left turn onto Mormon Emigrant Trail will lead you for another 11.2 miles, followed by a right turn onto North-South Road for about 7 miles, which brings you directly to the campground on the left.

The drive itself is part of the experience, winding through beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills and forests. The roads leading to Sly Park Recreation Area and subsequently to Pine Cone Campground are generally well-maintained and suitable for all vehicle types, including RVs and trailers. However, as with any mountain destination, it is always wise to check current road conditions, especially during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when weather can be unpredictable. The proximity to towns like Pollock Pines means that while you're immersed in nature, essential services and supplies are never too far away. This balance of natural seclusion and convenient access makes Pine Cone Campground an excellent choice for Californians seeking an easy-to-reach yet genuinely refreshing outdoor escape.

Pine Cone Campground, as part of the well-managed Sly Park Recreation Area, provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to enhance the camping experience for all visitors.

• Individual Campsites: The campground offers a variety of campsites suitable for tents and RVs. Each site typically includes a picnic table, a fire ring, and a barbecue grill, providing essential amenities for cooking and gathering.

• Restroom Facilities: Vault toilets are conveniently located throughout the campground loops, ensuring basic sanitation needs are met. While not all sites have direct hookups, the presence of restrooms is a key comfort.

• Potable Water Faucets: Drinking water faucets are strategically placed within the campgrounds, providing easy access to clean, potable water for campers.

• RV Accommodations: Many sites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, though it's important to check specific site details for maximum vehicle size. While full hook-ups are not available directly at Pine Cone, an RV dump station with potable water is accessible at the Forest Service Sunset campground, approximately 12 miles south on Forest Route 3.

• Lake Access and Boating Facilities: Being lakeside, the campground offers excellent access to Jenkinson Lake. The broader Sly Park Recreation Area includes boat launch facilities, allowing for power boating, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

• Day-Use Areas: Scattered throughout the park are various day-use areas with picnic tables, restrooms, and drinking water, perfect for day visitors or campers seeking additional recreational spaces.

• Reservation System: Campsite reservations for individual sites are accepted up to six months in advance, particularly for the peak season from March to November. This allows for convenient planning, especially for popular weekends. Reservations can be made online through the El Dorado Irrigation District's system.

• Park Host: A campground host is often on-site to assist visitors with questions, enforce rules, and provide a welcoming presence.

• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed in developed areas, including campsites and paved roads/paths, provided they are on a 6-foot leash. However, dogs are not permitted on beaches or dirt trails, with some exceptions for specific fire roads during certain seasons.

Visitors are always encouraged to review the current rules and regulations on the El Dorado Irrigation District's recreation website for the most up-to-date information on fees, policies, and any seasonal changes.

Pine Cone Campground stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it a highly attractive destination for Californians.

• Lakeside Location on Jenkinson Lake: One of its most significant highlights is its direct proximity to Jenkinson Lake. Many sites, particularly those in the "Pinecone Strip," are just steps from the water and offer stunning lake views. This makes it ideal for water-based activities.

• Water Recreation Abundance: Jenkinson Lake is a hub for various water sports. Visitors can enjoy swimming at designated beaches, fishing for trout and other species, and a wide range of boating activities including water skiing, wakeboarding, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and general cruising. A 5 mph speed limit within 200 feet of swimming areas and shorelines, and a 35 mph maximum speed limit on the lake, ensure a balanced experience for all water users.

• Diverse Camping Options: Pine Cone offers both "regular" sites for tents and RVs, and specific "tent-only" sites near the water, catering to different camping preferences. The presence of spacious sites and the capacity to accommodate various vehicle sizes make it versatile for different groups.

• Beautiful Forested Setting: The campground is nestled within a mixed conifer forest, providing ample shade and a serene natural ambiance. The elevation and forested surroundings contribute to a refreshing climate, especially during the warmer months.

• Hiking and Biking Trails: The Sly Park Recreation Area boasts a network of trails suitable for hiking and biking, allowing campers to explore the picturesque landscape surrounding Jenkinson Lake and beyond. These trails offer scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With individual campsites accommodating up to six people (and larger family sites up to twelve), plus amenities like picnic tables and barbecue grills, Pine Cone is well-suited for family camping trips. The safe lake environment and outdoor activities provide ample entertainment for all ages.

• Accessibility and Convenience: Despite its natural setting, Pine Cone Campground is relatively easy to access from major highways. The nearby town of Pollock Pines offers convenient access to supplies and services, adding to the overall convenience of the location.

For reservations, general inquiries, or specific questions about Pine Cone Campground and the Sly Park Recreation Area, the primary contact information is provided by the El Dorado Irrigation District (EID), which manages the recreation area.

Address: El Dorado County, CA, USA (The campground is specifically located within the Sly Park Recreation Area in El Dorado County.)

For camping reservations and general information, the El Dorado Irrigation District's Recreation Department is the best point of contact:

Phone for Reservations and General Information: (530) 295-6810

Email for Reservations: Recreation@EID.org

It is highly recommended to use their online reservation system for booking campsites, which typically allows reservations up to six months in advance. The EID website also provides a wealth of information, including park maps, rules and regulations, and current fees. For any specific queries not covered online, contacting the EID Recreation Department directly via phone or email is the most effective method.

For Californians, Pine Cone Campground at Sly Park Recreation Area is more than just a place to camp; it's an accessible, versatile, and deeply satisfying outdoor destination that perfectly caters to the desires of local residents. Its suitability stems from a blend of convenience, diverse recreational opportunities, and a genuine immersion in the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada.

Firstly, its strategic location in El Dorado County, with relatively easy access from major population centers like Sacramento and the Bay Area via Highway 50, makes it an ideal spot for quick weekend getaways or longer family vacations. Californians appreciate destinations that offer a true escape without an arduous journey, and Pine Cone delivers precisely that. This accessibility allows for spontaneous trips and reduces travel stress, maximizing time spent enjoying the outdoors.

Secondly, the campground's direct access to Jenkinson Lake is a significant draw. For a state known for its love of water sports, having a beautiful lake at your doorstep is invaluable. Whether it's the thrill of water skiing and wakeboarding, the tranquility of kayaking or fishing, or simply enjoying a swim on a warm day, the lake provides endless entertainment for all ages. This diverse aquatic playground means every member of the family can find an activity they love, fostering memorable shared experiences.

The comprehensive amenities offered at Pine Cone Campground, including picnic tables, fire rings, barbecue grills, and accessible restrooms, ensure a comfortable camping experience. Even with the option for RVs, the setting remains wonderfully natural, striking a balance between convenience and wilderness. The ability to reserve campsites up to six months in advance is also a huge benefit for locals who plan their popular summer trips well in advance, reducing the stress of finding a spot in highly sought-after areas.

Furthermore, the larger Sly Park Recreation Area provides extensive opportunities beyond just the lake. The numerous hiking and biking trails invite exploration of the surrounding forested landscape, offering breathtaking views and a chance to truly connect with the natural environment. The presence of a park host and well-defined rules, including bear safety guidelines, ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

In essence, Pine Cone Campground offers a quintessential Californian outdoor adventure. It’s a place where families can bond around a campfire, friends can enjoy exhilarating water sports, and individuals can find peace amidst towering pines. Its blend of convenient location, robust amenities, and abundant recreational activities makes it a perfect, repeat destination for Californians seeking to embrace the natural splendor of their home state.