Plasse's Resort

Are you a Californian seeking a versatile outdoor retreat that offers more than just a place to pitch a tent? Plasse's Resort, located at 30001 Plasse Rd, Pioneer, CA 95666, USA, presents a unique and evolving destination in the breathtaking High Sierras. Established in 1853 as a trading post, it has grown into a resort offering diverse camping experiences, set against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty near Silver Lake.

Plasse's Resort stands out for its blend of rustic charm and resort-style amenities, designed to cater to a wide range of campers, from tent enthusiasts to RV adventurers, and even those with horses. While it has seen significant changes over its long history, transforming from a simple trailhead/campground to a full-fledged resort, its core appeal remains its beautiful location at 7,200 feet elevation, offering quiet serenity and spectacular views.

In this comprehensive article, we will explore what Plasse's Resort offers to Californians looking for their next outdoor adventure. We'll delve into its picturesque location and accessibility, detail the extensive list of services and amenities available, and highlight the unique features that define a stay here. We'll also incorporate insights from past visitors, providing a balanced perspective on its evolving character. Prepare to discover a historical gem in the Sierra Nevada, perfect for family gatherings, outdoor activities, and creating new memories.

Plasse's Resort is more than just a campground; it’s a living piece of California history, nestled alongside Silver Lake in the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains. Operating since 1853, it began as a trading post along the Carson Emigrant Trail and has since evolved into a comprehensive resort, blending its rich past with modern recreational offerings. Located at an elevation of 7,200 feet, the resort offers guests the breathtaking beauty and quiet serenity of the High Sierras, complete with spectacular views of Silver Lake and Thunder Mountain.

Today, Plasse's Resort caters to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, offering tent, RV, and even equestrian camping options. It has grown to include a variety of amenities that enhance the camping experience, transforming it from a rustic spot to a more equipped destination. While this evolution has brought about many conveniences, it has also led to a shift in atmosphere, with some long-time visitors noting its transition from a rustic campground to a more developed RV park, especially with the introduction of seasonal camping across various sections.

Despite these changes, the core appeal of Plasse's remains its stunning natural surroundings and the array of activities available, including camping, hiking, fishing, and kayaking. It aims to provide a versatile setting for families and groups, allowing for both relaxation and adventure. For Californians, it represents an opportunity to experience a historic Sierra Nevada destination that continues to adapt to the needs of modern campers, offering a unique blend of heritage and outdoor recreation.

Plasse's Resort is ideally located at 30001 Plasse Rd, Pioneer, CA 95666, USA. This places it directly alongside the beautiful Silver Lake and along the scenic Carson Pass Highway (State Route 88) in the heart of the Eldorado National Forest. Its elevated position at 7,200 feet ensures stunning alpine views and cooler temperatures during the summer months, offering a refreshing escape from the heat of California's lower elevations.

Accessibility to Plasse's Resort is generally straightforward for Californians. The Carson Pass Highway is a well-traveled and maintained route through the Sierra Nevada, connecting major areas to this high-country destination. While the resort's address is in Pioneer, its true charm lies in its proximity to Silver Lake and the surrounding wilderness, making it a gateway to numerous outdoor adventures. Visitors should always check road conditions, especially during the spring and fall, as mountain passes can be subject to weather closures.

Within the resort, while some tent sites may not be clearly delineated or perfectly flat, there are options for different camping styles, including RV sites, some of which are better suited for trailers. The resort's layout encompasses various sections, including areas for seasonal campers and more traditional nightly sites. Navigating the resort itself is relatively easy, though finding specific ideal spots (like those with more shade or level ground for tents) might require a bit of exploration upon arrival. It's important to note that mobile phone reception can be limited in this High Sierra location, which many campers appreciate for a true digital detox, but it's wise to screenshot directions for the trip home as GPS might not load.

Plasse's Resort, as a comprehensive camping and recreational facility, offers a wide array of services designed to enhance the visitor experience. While its evolution has brought changes, the following amenities are typically available:

• Diverse Campsite Options: The resort accommodates various camping preferences, offering tent sites, RV sites with water hookups, and dedicated equestrian sites. Sites generally include water, picnic tables, and fire rings.
• General Store and Gift Shop: A well-stocked general store is on-site, providing camping essentials, firewood, ice, propane, and souvenirs for convenience.
• Thunder Mountain Bar & Grill: The resort features a restaurant and bar, offering dining options with views of the meadow, Silver Lake, and Thunder Mountain.
• Showerhouses and Laundromat: Two showerhouses with coin-operated showers and a coin-operated laundromat are available, making extended stays more comfortable.
• Boat Launch and Rentals: Direct access to Silver Lake is provided via a boat launch. Canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals are also available for water recreation.
• Dump Station: A self-service dump station is on-site for RVs, with an option for on-site service.
• Day Use Parking: Day-use parking is available for visitors who wish to explore the area without camping overnight.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at the resort, though specific rules apply, such as leash requirements and additional nightly fees.
• Recreational Facilities: Amenities like horse pits, volleyball courts, basketball courts, a playground for kids, and a new bocce court are provided for guest entertainment.
• Seasonal Camping: The resort now allows seasonal camping in various sections, providing long-term stay options for those wishing to immerse themselves fully in the area.
• WiFi: While mobile reception is generally poor, some areas of the resort may offer Wi-Fi access, though its reliability for all guests is not guaranteed.

Plasse's Resort boasts a variety of features and highlights that make it a distinctive destination for Californians, offering both traditional outdoor activities and unique resort amenities:

• Breathtaking High Sierra Scenery: Located at 7,200 feet amidst the Sierra Nevada, the resort offers "breathtaking beauty and quiet serenity," with spectacular views of Silver Lake and Thunder Mountain, providing incredible backdrops for outdoor activities and photography.
• Access to Silver Lake: Direct access to Silver Lake, described as "refreshing," allows for a wide range of water activities including swimming, wading, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The lake is home to various trout species, making it popular for anglers.
• Extensive Hiking and Equestrian Trails: Situated at the edge of the Mokelumne Wilderness area, the resort offers access to miles of trails for "amazing" hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with picturesque mountain meadows and wildflowers.
• On-site Dining and Store: The convenience of a general store for essentials and the Thunder Mountain Bar & Grill for meals and drinks sets it apart from more rustic campgrounds, offering a more resort-like experience.
• Variety of Camping Options: With tent, RV, and equestrian sites, Plasse's caters to a broad spectrum of campers. The "rocks and boulders for scrambling up" are particularly adored by kids.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Despite some criticisms regarding changes, the resort remains a popular spot for "family reunions and gatherings," indicating its suitability for multi-generational visits.
• Historic Significance: As one of the oldest resorts in the Sierra Nevada, established in 1853, Plasse's offers a unique historical context, allowing visitors to connect with its past as a trading post on the Emigrant Trail.
• Friendly Community: Campers often note the presence of "super nice and helpful" other campers, contributing to a positive and welcoming environment.
• Opportunities for Relaxation: For those seeking to disconnect, the limited mobile reception is a highlight, fostering a true digital detox and deeper engagement with nature.
• Evolving Resort Experience: While some long-time visitors have expressed concerns about changes (e.g., increase in seasonal RVs, golf cart use), this evolution signifies an active, dynamic resort that continuously adapts, potentially appealing to those looking for a more amenity-rich camping experience.

For inquiries and reservations concerning Plasse's Resort, please use the following contact details:

Address: 30001 Plasse Rd, Pioneer, CA 95666, USA

Phone: (209) 258-8814

Mobile Phone: +1 209-258-8814

Email: info@plassesresort.com

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 476, Sutter Creek, CA 95685

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is highly recommended to visit the official Plasse's Resort website (www.plassesresort.com) or call them directly. Their website provides details on rates for daily, weekly, and seasonal sites (tent, RV, horse), additional charges for extra guests, vehicles, and pets, as well as cancellation policies. It's crucial to review these details before booking. Additionally, the website will often have liability waivers and campground rules that guests must agree to prior to check-in. Given some of the concerns expressed in reviews about rule enforcement and the changing nature of the resort (e.g., seasonal campers, golf cart use), contacting them directly to clarify expectations can be particularly helpful for planning your stay.

Plasse's Resort offers a multifaceted and evolving outdoor experience that holds significant appeal for Californians, making it a highly suitable destination for a variety of local campers. Its strategic location on Carson Pass Highway near Silver Lake, nestled at 7,200 feet in the High Sierras, ensures easy access to stunning natural beauty and refreshing alpine air, providing a much-needed escape from California's urban centers.

For families and groups, Plasse's is particularly well-suited. Its emphasis on "family reunions and gatherings," combined with spacious sites (some combinable) and a range of recreational facilities like playgrounds and sports courts, makes it an ideal spot for creating lasting memories. The availability of tent, RV, and even equestrian sites means that diverse preferences can be accommodated within the same resort, fostering a unique communal atmosphere where different types of outdoor enthusiasts can connect.

While some long-time patrons have noted a shift towards a more developed "RV park" feel with seasonal campers and less strict rule enforcement regarding golf carts and site decor, for new visitors or those who appreciate a more amenity-rich camping experience, these aspects can be appealing. The on-site general store, restaurant, showers, laundromat, and boat launch significantly enhance convenience, allowing campers to focus on enjoying activities like fishing in Silver Lake, hiking extensive trails, or simply relaxing by a campfire without needing to leave the resort for supplies.

The limited mobile reception, though a minor inconvenience for some, is a major draw for Californians seeking a true digital detox, encouraging a deeper connection with nature and companions. Despite the presence of high fees as noted by some, the comprehensive range of services and activities, combined with the resort's rich history and stunning natural surroundings, can justify the cost for those seeking a more luxurious or convenient camping experience. Plasse's Resort, with its dynamic character and commitment to providing a full outdoor experience, remains a vibrant and versatile option for Californians looking for their next Sierra Nevada adventure.

Plasse's Resort

30001 Plasse Rd, Pioneer, CA 95666, USA