Gerle Creek sits in hardwood forest along the Gerle Creek Fork at 5,300 feet, where the sound of running water replaces the usual campground quiet. The 50 sites cater to families and anyone who wants creek access without driving to a lake — fishing, wading, and an accessible dock are right outside your tent door.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Developed
- 🏕️Total Sites
- 50
- 💵Fee per Night
- $36
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 🏔️Elevation
- 5,300 ft
- 📍GPS
- 38.97500, -120.39167
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- summer, fall
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- Yes
- 📞Phone
- 831-245-6891
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The campground spreads through lush hardwood forest along Gerle Creek Fork, upstream of Gerle Creek Divide Reservoir on the Georgetown Divide. Single and double-family sites come standard with picnic tables and fire rings, and many sites are accessible. Vault toilets handle the basics, and you can buy firewood on-site rather than scrounging.
The creek itself drives the experience here. An accessible fishing dock puts you right over brown and rainbow trout water, while the creek offers swimming, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities that most forest campgrounds can't match. The fully accessible Gerle Creek Interpretive Trail starts from camp, providing scenic views and educational displays without requiring a drive.
What to Know
Reservations are required at $36 per night, with the usual Recreation.gov fees and cancellation policies. Book early — creek-access camping fills up in summer, and this is one of the few developed options for water play in Eldorado National Forest.
The campground operates during summer and fall seasons, when the Mediterranean-like climate brings warm, dry days perfect for creek activities. Pets are welcome, making this a solid choice for families with dogs who want water access.
Nearby
Union Valley Reservoir and Loon Lake sit within a short drive, expanding your fishing and boating options beyond the creek. The location puts you in Eldorado National Forest's network of over 400 miles of hiking trails, though the creek and interpretive trail might be enough to keep you busy without venturing far from camp.