Is Upper Hole Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Upper Hole Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

Are there showers at Upper Hole Campground?

Upper Hole Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Are dogs allowed at Upper Hole Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Upper Hole Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What activities can I do at Upper Hole Campground?

Popular activities at Upper Hole Campground include Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Upper Hole Campground

2.78

9 reviews

Peace & Quiet

Quick Facts

4,600 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,600 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

Upper Hole Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Campground Map

Upper Hole Campground

39.0819, -120.3579

Weather at Upper Hole Campground

Best Time to Camp at Upper Hole Campground

Best season: spring. Spring offers the best balance of mild weather and active landscapes—daytime highs commonly range from the mid-50s to mid-70s°F (12–24°C) with cool nights, and lingering snow at higher exposures gives way to waterfalls and wildflower displays. Trails and geological features are at their most accessible for hiking, birding, and rock/formation study before peak summer heat or fire season; stream flows are higher, which makes for photogenic scenery. Expect moderate crowds on weekends but generally— Peak months: May, June, April, September Avoid: December, January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Overview: 'Spring brings the best conditions' with mild temps and active landscapes.

Planning Tips

About Upper Hole Campground

Upper Hole Campground sits in the mid-elevation forest of Eldorado National Forest in California, offering primitive camping and boating access. Managed by the Forest Service, this secluded spot attracts visitors seeking a quiet escape among the pines, with spring bringing the best conditions for exploring trails and enjoying cooler temperatures before summer heat arrives.

This is a remote, primitive-style campground accessible only by boat or trail.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring offers the best balance of mild weather and active landscapes—daytime highs commonly range from the mid-50s to mid-70s°F (12–24°C) with cool nights, and lingering snow at higher exposures gives way to waterfalls and wildflower displays. Trails and geological features are at their most accessible for hiking, birding, and rock/formation study before peak summer heat or fire season; stream flows are higher, which makes for photogenic scenery. Expect moderate crowds on weekends but generally— Peak months: May, June, April, September Avoid: December, January, February

Elevation4600 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies terrain shaped by ancient volcanic activity and glacial carving, with exposed rock layers documenting millions of years of geological processes. These formations create varied microclimates that support diverse plant and animal communities. The elevation and geological features make the area particularly appealing for amateur geology study and wildlife observation, though the landscape's specific vegetation and water features aren't well-documented in available sources.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodging accommodations mentioned for this facility.

Programs & ActivitiesThere is no mention of cultural or educational programs being offered.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Upper Hole Campground is a remote facility accessible only by boat or trail, providing a secluded experience amidst nature. Reviewers describe the challenge and beauty of reaching this isolated spot.

I manage this campground

Things to do at Upper Hole Campground

Activities at Upper Hole Campground are likely centered around the remote, natural surroundings, but specific activities are not explicitly detailed.

Boating3.0/5

Signature experiences

Photography3.5/5Exposed rock strata, varied microclimates and remote forests offer photo opportunities.

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

2.8

9 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Upper Hole Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight both the seclusion and challenges of accessing Upper Hole Campground. The location is praised for its remoteness.

Review Summaries

Based on 9 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers appreciate the secluded and serene environment.

Based on 9 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include limited information on facilities and the challenging access to the site.

Based on 9 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No reviews specifically mention individual campsites.

Based on 9 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend being prepared for a remote experience and bringing all necessary supplies, as amenities are not readily available.

Based on 9 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Seasonal trends or variations in reviews are not specified.

Based on 9 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Best drive-in camping around if you want to get away from other humans.' - Zachary Neider

Based on 9 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews detail accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 9 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies and experiences are not addressed in the reviews.

Based on 9 reviews

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Upper Hole Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

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Provider

Go if

You want a quiet, no-frills base camp for boating and spring forest exploration.

Skip if

You need developed amenities or prefer summer camping over spring conditions.

Nearby Campgrounds

Eldorado National Forest

Hell Hole Campground sits in mid-elevation forest within Eldorado National Forest, operated by the U.S. Forest Service. The campground provides secluded access to Hell Hole Reservoir, where visitors fish, swim, and boat in a remote Sierra Nevada setting. Reviewers consistently praise the isolation and distance from crowds.

Big Meadows Campground

Eldorado National Forest

Big Meadows Campground sits in mid-elevation forest within Eldorado National Forest, offering boating access and a true off-grid experience. Managed by the Forest Service, this mid-sized campground attracts visitors seeking solitude away from heavily trafficked reservation systems. Spring brings wildflower displays and comfortable daytime temperatures, while the surrounding forest provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography of exposed rock strata.

AMERICAN RIVER RANGER DISTRICT, 22830 FORESTHILL ROAD, FORESTHILL, CA 95631, USA

French Meadows sits at mid-elevation in Tahoe National Forest near Foresthill, California, with direct access to French Meadows Reservoir. Operated by the Forest Service, this campground offers tent and RV sites with flush and vault toilets, potable water, and standard amenities. Campers come for reservoir recreation including boating, swimming, and trout fishing, plus trail access for hiking and biking.