Tells Creek Equestrian Camp

For Californians who share a passion for exploring the majestic Sierra Nevada on horseback, Tells Creek Equestrian Camp offers a truly unique and immersive experience. Nestled within the expansive Eldorado National Forest, this primitive horse camp provides a dedicated base for equestrian enthusiasts and their equine companions, offering direct access to a vast network of scenic trails. This article aims to provide a comprehensive and factual overview of Tells Creek Equestrian Camp, covering its distinctive location, the essential services it provides, its key features and highlights, and important contact information. Our goal is to help you, the local horse rider and camper, determine if this splendid destination is the perfect fit for your next high Sierra adventure.

Tells Creek Equestrian Camp is consistently praised by those who frequent it as a "wonderful place to horse camp," a testament to its suitability for equestrian activities and the beauty of its surroundings. Visitors highlight the abundance of "trails to great places" and simply describe the area as "a splendor." It caters to a more self-sufficient style of camping, emphasizing the natural environment over extensive amenities. While you won't find modern hookups or cell service, what you will discover is an authentic connection to the wilderness, miles of trails, and a peaceful atmosphere designed for both rider and horse to thrive. It’s a true escape into the heart of California’s iconic mountain range.

Tells Creek Equestrian Camp is situated within the Eldorado National Forest in California, near the general area of 01015011, CA, USA. More precisely, it is located at the Tells Creek - Van Vleck Trailhead. This places it in the high country of the Sierra Nevada, approximately 20 miles north of Highway 50 via Ice House Road, then about 6 miles on Tells Creek Road. The campground itself sits at an elevation of around 6,300 feet.

Access to Tells Creek Equestrian Camp involves navigating forest roads, offering a scenic but somewhat rugged journey. From Highway 50, you'll turn onto Ice House Road (Forest Road 3) and proceed north. Then, you'll turn onto Tells Creek Road (Forest Road 17N16). This final stretch, while making the area feel wonderfully remote, can be narrow, unpaved, and may include internal dirt roads within the camp itself, as it is described as a "primitive" site. This means that while standard vehicles can generally access it, those towing horse trailers should exercise caution and be aware of road conditions, particularly after heavy rains or early in the season. The camp is usually open from mid-June to mid-October, depending on snowmelt and weather conditions, so it's always wise to check current status before planning your trip. The drive itself showcases the beautiful forested landscapes of the Sierra Nevada, setting the stage for the wilderness experience that awaits.

Tells Creek Equestrian Camp is designed to facilitate horse camping, offering essential, albeit primitive, services tailored to the needs of riders and their horses. It is a first-come, first-served campground, meaning reservations are not accepted, so plan accordingly, especially during peak seasons.

• Designated Campsites: The campground offers a number of individual campsites. Each campsite is generally primitive, equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table for campers.
• Horse Corrals: A key amenity for an equestrian camp, corrals are available for securing horses. This ensures that horses are safely contained and helps minimize their impact on the surrounding environment.
• Large Parking Area for Trailers: The campground provides a spacious gravel parking area that is large enough to accommodate multiple trucks with horse trailers. It offers sufficient room for turning around, which is crucial for larger rigs.
• Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities in the form of vault toilets are available on-site, providing essential sanitation.
• Drinking Water (for humans): Drinking water is available via a paddle-style spigot, typically located near the corrals. This is a significant convenience for campers, as not all primitive camps offer potable water.
• Water for Horses: While not piped directly to sites, water for horses may be available from a nearby stream, as mentioned in some descriptions. However, it is always advisable for horse owners to bring supplemental water if concerned about stream levels or quality.
• Garbage Collection: Garbage collection services are available, contributing to the cleanliness and environmental responsibility of the campground. Campers are encouraged to practice "Leave No Trace" principles.
• No Electricity: It's important to note that no electricity is provided at the campsites, requiring campers to be self-sufficient in terms of power.
• Limited Cell Service: Cell service is typically non-existent at Tells Creek Equestrian Camp, encouraging a true digital detox and immersion in nature.

Tells Creek Equestrian Camp is celebrated for several distinctive features that make it a premier destination for horse camping and outdoor enthusiasts in California:

• Extensive Trail Access: The most significant highlight is its direct access to "lots of trails to great places." It serves as the Tells Creek - Van Vleck Trailhead, leading to a vast network of multi-use trails within the Eldorado National Forest. These trails are suitable for horseback riding, hiking, and sometimes mountain biking.
• Stunning High Sierra Scenery: The area is described as "a splendor" with "astounding vistas and sweeping views." Riders and hikers can explore mature forests, open meadows, and areas overlooking streams and lakes, truly immersing themselves in the "gorgeous" High Sierra landscape.
• Dedicated Horse Camping Facilities: The presence of corrals and a large parking area designed for horse trailers sets this camp apart. It caters specifically to the needs of equestrian users, making it a comfortable and convenient base for multi-day trail rides.
• Proximity to Wilderness: The camp's location near the Van Vleck Bunkhouse and within the broader Crystal Basin Recreation Area provides access to less-traveled wilderness areas, offering a sense of solitude and adventure. Nearby destinations may include Lake No. 3, Lake No. 5, Lawrence Lake, and Barrett Lake via various trails.
• Primitive and Authentic Experience: For those who appreciate a more rustic approach to camping, Tells Creek offers a truly authentic wilderness experience. The lack of electricity and cell service encourages a deeper connection with nature and a break from modern distractions.
• Cooler Mountain Climate: Situated at 6,300 feet, the camp offers a welcome cooler climate, especially during California's hot summer months, making it a comfortable place for both humans and horses.
• Peace and Quiet: Despite its popularity among equestrians, the overall atmosphere allows for significant peace and quiet, particularly once settled into your campsite and out on the trails.

As Tells Creek Equestrian Camp is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Eldorado National Forest, the primary contacts for information would be the relevant Forest Service office.

Address: 01015011, CA, USA (This general address indicates it's a forest service location in California. For navigation, it's typically best to use the name and known landmarks or coordinates.)

For specific inquiries regarding current conditions, opening and closing dates, fire restrictions, or other details, it is best to contact the Pacific Ranger District of the Eldorado National Forest, as this district oversees the area where Tells Creek is located.

Eldorado National Forest - Pacific Ranger District

Address: 7600 Warren Wagon Rd, Pollock Pines, CA 95726 (This is a common administrative office for the area.)

Phone: (530) 644-2349 (This is a general contact number for the Pacific Ranger District and can provide information or direct you to the correct resource.)

Since it is a first-come, first-served campground, direct reservations are not taken for individual sites. However, you can call the district office for operational status.

For Californians who cherish horseback riding and seeking a genuine wilderness experience, Tells Creek Equestrian Camp stands as an exceptional destination. Its location within the Eldorado National Forest provides convenient access from many parts of Northern and Central California, making it a feasible weekend getaway or a base for longer backcountry excursions. This accessibility allows local horse enthusiasts to easily transport their animals and gear to a dedicated, horse-friendly environment.

What truly makes Tells Creek suitable for locals is its unique specialization in equestrian camping. The provided corrals, spacious parking for trailers, and the direct gateway to an extensive network of "wonderful" trails cater precisely to the needs of riders. While the campground offers a primitive experience without electricity or cell service, this very aspect is a draw for those seeking a true digital detox and a deeper connection with nature. The majestic High Sierra scenery, the opportunity to explore vast wilderness areas on horseback, and the tranquil atmosphere make every effort to reach this camp worthwhile. For Californians passionate about their horses and eager to immerse themselves in the "splendor" of their state's mountains, Tells Creek Equestrian Camp is not just a campsite; it's a vital access point to unforgettable equine adventures and a cherished retreat for the equestrian community.

Tells Creek Equestrian Camp

01015011, CA, USA