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Best camping hiking trails in El Dorado County
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Best camping hiking trails in El Dorado County

Why stop at hiking when you can make it an overnight adventure? These camping-friendly trails are perfect for those who want to pitch a tent and sleep under the stars after a day of exploring.

Here are some great trails to explore in El Dorado County.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Wentworth Springs Road - Rubicon Trail

El Dorado County, California · star 5.0 (5) · 29.3 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

2

Medium

Glen Alpine, Susie Lake, Heather Lake, Lake Aloha Loop Trail

El Dorado County, California · star 5.0 (4) · 19.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 57 min

3

Medium

Echo Lakes and Margery Lake via PCT

El Dorado County, California · star 0.0 (0) · 17.7 km · Est. 4 hrs 18 min

4

Medium

Pyramid Peak and Lake Sylvia via Lyons Creek Trail

El Dorado County, California · star 4.0 (3) · 19.2 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

5

Medium

Silver Fork Trail

El Dorado County, California · star 0.0 (0) · 15.2 km · Est. 4 hrs 4 min

6

Easy

Genevieve, Crag, Stony Ridge and Rubicon Lakes via Tahoe Yosemite Trail

El Dorado County, California · star 4.0 (5) · 24.2 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

7

Medium

Mar Det Trail

El Dorado County, California · star 5.0 (1) · 9.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 34 min

8

Easy

Spider Lake via Rubicon Trail

El Dorado County, California · star 5.0 (4) · 14.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 9 min

9

Medium

Dardanelles Lake via Tahoe Rim Trail

El Dorado County, California · star 4.0 (1) · 12.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 21 min

10

Medium

Lovers Leap Trail

El Dorado County, California · star 5.0 (2) · 4.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 14 min

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Reviews for camping hiking trails in El Dorado County

Lonnie King Ret. avatar

Wentworth Springs Road - Rubicon Trail

StreamSpruceseeker21 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Teisha McKenzie avatar

Glen Alpine, Susie Lake, Heather Lake, Lake Aloha Loop Trail

LedgeSprinter67 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Echo Lakes and Margery Lake via PCT.

Fairy Rowe avatar

Pyramid Peak and Lake Sylvia via Lyons Creek Trail

CragSummitscout27 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Silver Fork Trail.

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in El Dorado County

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

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