FAQs

Can we fill the water tank on our motorhome/trailer/camper at the campgrounds?

No, our potable water is drawn from a well source, the filling of potentially hundreds of large water tanks could seriously limit the amount of water for all campers. 

Can we pick up wood on the forest for our nightly campfire without a permit?

Campers on national forest lands may collect firewood without a permit while camping.  You can’t cut any trees, but you can gather wood on the ground for your campfire. Gathered wood must not be taken off the forest when you go home.

Can we bring wood from home for our campfire?

No, bringing wood from outside the forest can result in the transportation of non-native pests that can cause damage to the forest. Instead, you're encouraged to purchase firewood from the camp host for a nominal fee, or purchase from grocery stores as it is vetted pest free. 

Where can I get a campfire permit? 

Campfire permits are available online, at any USDA Forest Service office, or Bureau of Land Management facility in California. There are no fees for permits, however they must be available for rangers and other officials to check when camping. Be sure to check local restrictions as campfires may be restricted entirely in areas with a high potential for wildfire.

Can we camp on the forest outside of designated campgrounds?

Yes, you can disperse camp on the forest.  You will need a campfire permit for your cooking appliance, lanterns, and campfire.  Be sure to check with one of the Ranger District offices before you head out to check for fire restrictions.  Your group is responsible for all trash, please dispose of it at home.  More helpful hints.

Where can I get permits to day hike in Desolation/Mokelumne Wilderness areas?

Day use permits for the Desolation Wilderness are available at the trailheads starting with the beginning of quota season (Memorial Day Friday thru September 30th), outside of these times no day use permits are needed. Day use permits are not needed for day hiking in the Mokelumne. Parking fees are required at most trailheads. 

Where can I get a parking pass to overnight in Desolation Wilderness?

You will receive a parking permit with your purchase of a Desolation overnight permit. 

Where do I get a permit to overnight in the Mokelumne Wilderness?

Self-issue permits for areas outside the Carson Pass Management Unit (CPMU) are available online or stop by the Amador Ranger District. There is no parking fee if you are accessing the Mokelumne Wilderness from Salt Springs, Bear River area (Tanglefoot trailhead), or Silver Lake area (Allen Camp Trailhead), which are the three most common entry points excluding CPMU.  Overnight permits for the CPMU are limited and only available in person at the Carson Pass Information Center. 

• Mokelumne Wilderness Information (PDF)

Where can I get maps? 

The Ranger District offices have a large variety of maps for sale, including trail maps for Desolation and Mokelumne Wilderness. We also can provide free Motor Vehicle Uses Maps (MVUM’s) of all the districts.  The MVUM’s are also downloadable to the Avenza mapping program. 

Can we bring our dog hiking or to the campgrounds?

Yes, your pets are welcome to join in your adventures. DOGS MUST BE ON A LEASH.  Dogs off-leash can threaten wildlife or present a hazard to the safety or convenience of other visitors. Handlers must physically restrain their dogs on a leash less than six feet throughout the duration of their visit.  Dog waste should be bagged and deposited in the trash or disposed of at home.  In the wilderness dog waste should be buried in a cat hole off trail and away from water sources. 

Is gold-panning/dredging/metal detecting allowed in the forest?

Gold-panning is allowed in the streams and rivers, metal detecting is allowed to look for coins or lost property and prospecting.  However, if the prospecting work will disturb the land, you may be required to file a Plan of Operations with the appropriate Ranger District. Dredging is not allowed, unless you have a permit issued by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. More information (PDF).

Can I fly my drone on the Eldorado National Forest?

Yes, you can, as long as you’re not flying over a congressionally designated wilderness areas such as the Desolation or Mokelumne wilderness. UAS are not permitted to fly in areas that have Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) in place, such as wildfires. Additional information about drones.

How can I volunteer?

There are many varied ways to volunteer on the Eldorado or with the many partner organizations that support all aspects of the recreation experience. 

Can we spread our loved one’s ashes on the forest?

Neither burial nor scattering of ashes are an appropriate use of the forests and are not authorized on the lands of the National Forest System. The placing of remains creates a permanent occupancy of the land and the placing of headstones or monuments documenting the location are similarly permanent. Placing of statues, flowers and other items of remembrance would be considered a monument.  An alternative would be to donate to the Penny Pines program in your loved one’s honor. 

What deer hunting zone is the Eldorado?

D5

Can I carry a firearm on the National Forest?

Yes, you can, if it is visible and unloaded, unless you are actively engaged in hunting.  You must adhere to California State Firearm regulations.  More Information about firearms use (PDF).

Where can I target shoot on the forest?

The above link provides good information regarding shooting on the forest.  It’s important to scout out a safe location, with a good backdrop and practice Leave No Trace ethics, POLICE YOUR BRASS! 

Can I use my Senior America the Beautiful Park Pass or Access Pass in leu of paying for day use? 

Yes and no…if the area is operated by Royal Elk Park Management, you must pay the day use/boat launch fee, usually $10.  If the area is operated by the USFS, you can use your Sr or Access card for payment.  Fill out the envelope, put your card number on it and leave the card, signature side showing, on the dash of your vehicle. Fee information (PDF).

Where can I purchase a National Park Pass?

Any of our Ranger District offices will be happy to issue you a National Park Pass. 

Where can I get a permit to harvest fuelwood, mushroom, mineral, botanicals, and saplings (bonsai)?

All our Ranger District offices, apart from the Supervisors Office, issue permits for harvesting.  Only the Placerville Ranger District issues mineral permits. More information about Permits.