Recreation


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Welcome to the Great Outdoors!

“A bad day camping is still better than a good day working.”

The Eldorado National Forest is an ideal place for people seeking to escape from busy urban lifestyles. Its climate and topography offer a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, camping and cross-country and downhill skiing.

It is located one hour from the metropolitan area of Sacramento which has a population of over one million people, and two to three hours driving time from the San Francisco Bay area, with a population of over six million. The Forest therefore plays a vital role in the environment, health and well being of over seven million people.

The Eldorado National Forest is also situated near the original California gold discovery site on the American River at Coloma, and still boasts numerous gold-bearing rivers and streams.

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Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Current Recreation Conditions

Area Name Status Area Conditions
Airport Flat Campground Open Open Closes with snowfall.
Gerle Creek Campground Closed Closed