Fashoda
4.3174 reviews1000 ICE HOUSE ROAD
Quick Facts
5,100 ftPrice
$36/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
30 campsites
Season
Open seasonally from...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
Showers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
5,100 ftPrice
$36/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
30 campsites
Season
Open seasonally from...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
Showers
Get DirectionsFashoda
$36.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation fees are $36 per night during peak season (May 23 - Aug 31). Additional fees include an $8 reservation fee for online bookings, $9 for...
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Standard Site Fee$36.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$36.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider831-245-6891info@royalelkparkmanagement.com
What Campers Say
4.31
Recommended
Based on 74 reviews
131 Google reviews
Most mentioned
shadespaciouslakebeach
Some mention
noisecrowded
"Reviews for Fashoda Campground are mixed. While the setting and access to Union Valley Reservoir receive high praise, issues with cleanliness, noise, and management are frequently mentioned."
Fees & Passes at Fashoda
$36/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights during a visit.
Cancellation: Cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if the cancellation occurs withi...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Royal Elk Park Management website.
Best Time to Camp at Fashoda
Experience the perfect balance of mountain climate at Fashoda, where moderately crisp winters give way to sun-drenched summers ideal for outdoor adventures. Late spring through early summer unveils the campground at its finest, with wildflowers dotting the landscape and comfortable temperatures beckoning explorers. Summer days warm to a pleasant 85°F, perfect for water activities on the reservoir, while evenings cool to a refreshing 45°F, creating ideal conditions for campfire stories and stargazing.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23 to August 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open seasonally from May 23 to Aug 31, with reservations starting on June 24. First-come, first-served camping available in September. Closed from September 14 to May 22.
- Current Alerts: Traffic delays due to Ice House Road repairs (May 2024 - September 2024).
About Fashoda
Perched on a scenic peninsula jutting into the sparkling waters of Union Valley Reservoir, Fashoda Campground offers an intimate walk-to tent camping experience that brings you closer to nature. This tranquil retreat combines the essentials of modern camping comfort with the raw beauty of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Well-appointed amenities include vault toilets, fresh drinking water, refreshing showers, and inviting picnic areas scattered throughout the grounds. A convenient parking area ensures easy access to your gear, while neighboring campgrounds offer dump station facilities for those traveling with RVs.
Fashoda Campground is a tent-only facility with walk-in sites. It does not offer RV or cabin accommodations.
Historical SignificanceStep into California's golden past at this campground nestled within the legendary Eldorado National Forest, where fortune seekers once panned for dreams along rushing streams. The surrounding landscape still whispers tales of the Gold Rush era, with hidden remnants of mining camps and prospector trails waiting to be discovered by curious hikers. This rich heritage adds a layer of adventure to every stay, connecting modern campers to the pioneering spirit that shaped the American West.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the perfect balance of mountain climate at Fashoda, where moderately crisp winters give way to sun-drenched summers ideal for outdoor adventures. Late spring through early summer unveils the campground at its finest, with wildflowers dotting the landscape and comfortable temperatures beckoning explorers. Summer days warm to a pleasant 85°F, perfect for water activities on the reservoir, while evenings cool to a refreshing 45°F, creating ideal conditions for campfire stories and stargazing.
ElevationAt 5,100 feet above sea level in the breathtaking Crystal Basin, Fashoda Campground offers a refreshing mountain escape from valley heat. This ideal elevation creates a natural air conditioning effect during summer months, ensuring comfortable days and crisp, star-filled nights. The altitude provides just enough mountain atmosphere without the challenges of extreme elevations, making it perfect for families and casual campers seeking cooler temperatures and cleaner air.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the stunning Crystal Basin landscape, where towering conifers frame panoramic views of Union Valley Reservoir's pristine waters. Dense forests of pine and fir create a verdant canopy overhead, while the expansive reservoir stretches before you, its surface reflecting sky and forest in perfect harmony. This thriving ecosystem serves as home to an impressive array of wildlife, from the elusive spotted owl hooting in twilight hours to bobcats padding silently through underbrush. Lucky visitors might glimpse mule deer grazing at dawn or spot a porcupine ambling through camp at dusk.
Geological RegionFashoda Campground rests in the heart of the Crystal Basin, a geological wonderland within Eldorado National Forest that tells the story of California's formation through granite peaks and volcanic remnants. This 5,100-foot perch in the Sierra Nevada foothills showcases the dramatic results of ancient geological forces, where Gold Rush prospectors once sought fortune in mineral-rich soils. Today, this diverse ecosystem supports a remarkable tapestry of plant and animal life, from towering conifers to delicate wildflowers, all thriving in the unique conditions created by this fascinating geological setting.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited accessibility features are noted. All campsites are walk-to, which could present challenges for campers with mobility issues. However, vault toilets and faucets are described as well-located.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious: "Spaces for tents were relatively flat and spaced out generously," and "All sites were SPACIOUS but not very flat."
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer moderate privacy, with some reviews noting they are "decently far apart."
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites near the lake for scenic views and proximity to water activities. Avoid sloped sites if tent placement is a concern.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe layout consists of walk-to tent sites with a parking area above the campground. Sites are well-spaced, but some are sloped.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 23 to Aug 31, with reservations starting on June 24. First-come, first-served camping available in September. Closed from September 14 to May 22.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, by phone, or in person.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability in September after the peak season reservation period ends. Sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis during this time.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if the cancellation occurs within 24 hours of the reservation date. Reservation fees are non-refundable.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Fashoda Campground offers an array of recreational activities, especially centered around Union Valley Reservoir. "Head out on a sailboat or take the family water skiing." Swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing are popular, along with nearby hiking and biking opportunities. The Union Valley Bike Trail is a highlighted attraction.
Hiking
The Union Valley Bike Trail stretches 4.8 miles with an easy climb of 300 feet. This trail connects campgrounds on the east side of the lake, starting from Wench Creek to Jones Fork Campground.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include rainbow, brown, and mackinaw trout, as well as Kokanee salmon. However, one user noted, "I'm pretty sure that lake has never had any fish in it though."Swimming
The reservoir provides excellent opportunities for swimming. "The water was warm enough to make swimming comfortable," and "We loved swimming, floating, and paddleboarding in the reservoir."Biking
Biking is popular, with the Union Valley Bike Trail offering a scenic and manageable ride with only a 300-foot elevation gain.Boating
Union Valley Reservoir is ideal for boating. "Head out on a sailboat or take the family water skiing." Jet skiing and paddleboarding are also popular activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the Eldorado National Forest includes bobcats, mule deer, porcupines, and spotted owls. "A wild elk ran past us while we were trying to do night photography lakeshore."Beach activities
Beach access is a highlight of the campground. "From the well-shaded campground to the short 1-minute walk from campsite to Union Lake with beach access, this place ticks many if not all the boxes."Winter Activities
Limited information. Campground activities are noted primarily for the warmer months.Water Sports
Popular water sports include kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may be applied during dry seasons. Visitors can obtain information on current conditions by calling (530) 644-6048.
- Quiet hours are enforced after 10 PM; however, reviews suggest these are not consistently upheld.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are known to frequent the campground, and campers must store food appropriately. Seasonal fire restrictions may be implemented. Traffic delays are expected during Ice House Road repairs in 2024.
Active alertsTraffic delays due to Ice House Road repairs (May 2024 - September 2024).
Weather at Fashoda
41
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible in Placerville, approximately 23 miles from the campground. The nearest hospital, police station, and ranger station are also located in Placerville.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to August 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available but often overflowing: "The trash bins were overflowing," and "Ten bags of trash outside each dumpster." Campers are encouraged to manage their waste responsibly.
Proximity to water featuresUnion Valley Reservoir is within walking distance from most campsites, providing easy access to swimming, fishing, and boating.
Common complaintsComplaints include noise disturbances, crowded sites, and poorly maintained facilities, including overflowing trash and dirty vault toilets. Others mentioned management issues such as double bookings and lack of enforcement of quiet hours.
HostThe campground is managed by hosts who are generally described as helpful and attentive, though some reviews report inconsistent enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
1000 ICE HOUSE ROAD
Driving directionsFrom Placerville, take Highway 50 east for 23 miles. Turn north on Forest Road 3 (Ice House Road) for 15 miles. Look for signs to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Note that Ice House Road will undergo repairs from May 2024 to September 2024, leading to potential traffic delays. Seasonal closures or adverse road conditions may impact access.Nearby places
Placerville (23 miles, approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies can be found in Placerville, approximately 23 miles from the campground. Additional supplies may be available at Ice House Resort, a short drive from Union Valley Reservoir.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
74 reviews
Fashoda is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Fashoda Campground are mixed. While the setting and access to Union Valley Reservoir receive high praise, issues with cleanliness, noise, and management are frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 74 reviews
What Campers Love
"The reservoir is huge and has a beautiful beach." "There is a lot of shade, and the campsites are spacious." "The camp host was helpful and friendly." "Close walking distance to Union Lake."
Based on 74 reviewsCommon Concerns
"Bathrooms were very dirty with huge spiders," "The camp host did nothing about noise issues," "Trash bins were overflowing, and litter was present at campsites." Noise disturbances from other...
Based on 74 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Bring quarters for the showers," "Use the bear boxes diligently," "Arrive early to avoid confusion with the parking and check-in process," "Bring extra water and sunscreen."
Based on 74 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are the most popular but also the noisiest. Campers frequently report overcrowding and cleanliness issues during peak seasons.
Based on 74 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The setting is beautiful, and we loved swimming, floating, and paddleboarding in the reservoir." "The camp host does a really good job of keeping the stank down in the outhouses." "Union Valley...
Based on 74 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites #23 and #24 are noted for spaciousness and proximity to water. Site #13 received positive remarks for its size but was described as sloped.
Based on 74 reviewsAccessibility Features
Campsites are walk-in only, which could be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. Vault toilets are accessible.
Based on 74 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the reservoir is a popular spot for dogs to swim. "Great lake for boating and taking your pups swimming too."
Based on 74 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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