Ice House sits on the shores of a 700-acre reservoir, 12 miles from Riverton in mixed conifer forest at 5,500 feet. Some sites perch right on the waterline while others nestle back under towering ponderosa pines and cedars. This is a solid pick for groups wanting reservoir access with full amenities.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Developed
- 🏕️Total Sites
- 81
- 💵Fee per Night
- $36
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 🏔️Elevation
- 5,500 ft
- 📍GPS
- 38.82333, -120.35889
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- spring, fall
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- Yes
- 📞Phone
- 831-245-6891
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The 81 sites split between waterfront and forest-tucked options. Shoreline spots give you direct reservoir access, while the set-back sites offer shade from ponderosa pines, cedars, and manzanita. The ponderosas here fill the air with their signature vanilla scent — these are the country's tallest known pine species, with the record holder measuring 268.35 feet.
The campground got a full renovation in 2022, so facilities are current. You'll find vault toilets, showers, drinking water, and a dump station. Firewood sells on-site, and a nearby resort stocks gas, groceries, and restaurant meals.
On the Water
Ice House Reservoir holds rainbow, brown, and brook trout across its 700 acres. The on-site boat ramp handles launches for fishing boats and jet skis alike. Swimming is an option, though at 5,500 feet the water stays brisk even in summer.
For land-based recreation, the Ice House Mountain Bike Trail runs 3.1 miles along ridgetops and shaded north-facing slopes. The route offers reservoir views and sightlines to the Crystal Range.
Nearby
Bassi Falls sits 1.2 miles out via hiking trail. The waterfall drops 109 feet over a granite cliff — worth the walk when snowmelt keeps it flowing. The campground sits within Eldorado National Forest, the old gold mining territory with Mediterranean-style climate: dry summers, wet winters.