Wench Creek Campground

Wench Creek Campground, cradled on the serene eastern shore of Union Valley Reservoir within the magnificent Eldorado National Forest, offers Californians an idyllic retreat into the heart of the Sierra Nevada foothills. This beloved campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it’s a vibrant hub for "everything enjoyable about lake life," where the clear, inviting waters beckon for a myriad of activities. Surrounded by a beautiful ponderosa pine forest that seems to "filter your air, but also your mind," Wench Creek provides a tranquil yet engaging environment for all types of campers. Whether you're a solo adventurer seeking peace, a family looking for fun-filled days by the water, or a large group planning a memorable gathering, Wench Creek Campground delivers a quintessential California outdoor experience. Its blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a friendly atmosphere ensures that visitors can truly unwind and connect with the stunning landscapes of their home state.

Wench Creek Campground is conveniently located within the Eldorado National Forest in California, on the east shore of Union Valley Reservoir. While a precise street address is not typically used for campgrounds deep within national forests, its location can be pinpointed for accessibility. To reach Wench Creek, visitors typically take U.S. Highway 50, a major thoroughfare through the Sierra Nevada, heading east from Placerville. Approximately 23 miles east of Placerville (or 21 miles east of Riverton), you'll turn north onto Ice House Road (Forest Road 3). From there, it's about a 15-mile drive on Ice House Road to the Wench Creek turnoff. This road is generally well-maintained, suitable for both cars and RVs, including larger trailers.

The campground sits at an elevation of approximately 4,900 feet, offering a refreshing escape from the heat of lower elevations. Its strategic placement directly on the eastern shore of Union Valley Reservoir provides exceptional access to the water. While some campsites are available on a "first-come, first-served" basis, two group campsites and numerous single-family sites are also available, with reservations often recommended, especially during peak seasons. Travelers should be aware of a travel notice for May-September 2024 regarding Ice House Road repairs, which may cause traffic delays. Despite its immersive forest setting, Wench Creek benefits from reliable 5G cell phone service throughout the campground, a valuable convenience for modern campers. Its accessibility, combined with its stunning lakeside location, makes Wench Creek Campground a highly desirable and easily reachable destination for Californians seeking a genuine mountain and lake adventure.

Services Offered:

• Campsites: Wench Creek Campground offers 100 single-family campsites and 2 group campsites. Sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs (with some sites accommodating RVs up to 60 feet). Parking spurs range from 25 to 50 feet.
• Group Campsites: Two dedicated group campsites are available. One is tent-only, while the other is a standard site suitable for tents, RVs, or trailers. Group sites can accommodate up to 50 people and often include private amenities like a bonfire pit and group kitchen/dining areas with barbecue pits.
• Potable Drinking Water: Drinking water is available throughout the campground via spigots. However, RV tank filling from piped water sources is generally not permitted.
• Restrooms: The campground provides both vault toilets (non-flush) and flush toilets, which are noted by visitors to be clean and well-maintained. Campers are advised to bring their own toilet paper or wipes, as supplies can run out.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite, whether single-family or group, is equipped with a picnic table for dining and food preparation.
• Fire Rings & Grates: Individual fire rings with cooking grates are provided at each campsite for campfires and cooking. Visitors should always check for current fire restrictions and use only dead and down wood found on-site for fires.
• Bear-Safe Practices: While specific bear boxes are not listed for every site, bears do frequent the area. Campers are required to store food and scented items properly, typically in approved containers or hard-sided vehicles, to ensure safety and prevent wildlife interactions.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host, providing a convenient source for campfires.
• Dump Station: While not located directly at Wench Creek, dump stations are available nearby at Sunset and Yellowjacket Campgrounds, offering convenient waste disposal for RV users.
• Boat Mooring: It is possible to moor boats on the shoreline of Union Valley Reservoir, offering direct access for watercraft.
• Camp Hosts: Friendly and helpful camp hosts are on-site, providing assistance, information, and ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.
• Pet-Friendly: Wench Creek Campground is pet-friendly, allowing furry companions to join the adventure, provided they are kept on a leash at all times.

Features / Highlights:

• Direct Access to Union Valley Reservoir: A primary highlight is the campground's prime location on the eastern shore of Union Valley Reservoir. This provides irresistibly clear water, perfect for a wide array of water activities including stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, motorized boating, water skiing, swimming, and fishing for rainbow, brown, smallmouth bass, and kokanee salmon.
• Beautiful Ponderosa Pine Forest Setting: The campground is nestled within a stunning ponderosa pine forest, offering ample shade, fresh air, and a serene natural environment that contributes to a tranquil and relaxing camping experience.
• Extensive Recreational Opportunities: Beyond the lake, Wench Creek offers direct access to the Union Valley Bike Trail, a 4.8-mile paved trail connecting other campgrounds along the reservoir, ideal for biking and hiking. The Bassi Falls Hiking Trail is also nearby, offering another popular outdoor adventure.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With spacious sites, clear lake water for swimming, and a variety of activities, Wench Creek is celebrated as a "Great family campground" where children and adults alike can enjoy the outdoors.
• Accommodation for Groups: The inclusion of two large group campsites, one specifically for tents and another for tents/RVs, with private amenities like a bonfire pit and group kitchen, makes it an excellent choice for larger gatherings and events.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the facilities, including both vault and flush toilets, which contributes significantly to a comfortable camping experience.
• Reliable Cell Service: Uniquely for a forested mountain campground, Wench Creek boasts "5G cell phone service throughout campground," providing a crucial link for safety or communication while enjoying the wilderness.
• First-Come, First-Served & Reservable Sites: The availability of both first-come, first-served and reservable sites (up to 6 months in advance) offers flexibility for different planning preferences, though popular sites and group sites may require early booking.
• Proximity to Wilderness Areas: The campground's location in Eldorado National Forest provides access to broader wilderness areas and trails, including the nearby Desolation Wilderness, for those seeking more challenging backcountry experiences.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecosystem surrounding the campground means opportunities to observe various wildlife species, enhancing the natural immersion.

Contact Information:

Address: California, USA (Located within Eldorado National Forest on Union Valley Reservoir)

Phone: (530) 644-2349 (This is often the Placerville Ranger District office number for Eldorado National Forest, which manages the campground. For reservations, utilize Recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.)

For Californians seeking the quintessential lake and forest camping experience, Wench Creek Campground stands out as an exceptional choice. Its prime location on Union Valley Reservoir within the Eldorado National Forest makes it easily accessible from various parts of the state, offering a convenient yet immersive escape into the Sierra Nevada. What makes it particularly suitable for locals is its versatility: whether you're a family looking for safe, clear water for swimming and play, a group planning a memorable reunion with ample space, or an individual seeking to explore extensive hiking and biking trails, Wench Creek caters to diverse needs. The combination of clean, well-maintained facilities, the availability of both vault and flush toilets, and even reliable 5G cell service provides a level of comfort not always found in rustic campgrounds, striking a perfect balance between modern convenience and a true wilderness feel. Its popularity for "lake life" activities like SUP, kayaking, and boating means Californians can fully embrace their love for water sports. Furthermore, the welcoming atmosphere fostered by friendly camp hosts ensures a positive and supportive environment, making it easy to settle in and enjoy. For those who cherish outdoor adventures and desire a place where memories are effortlessly made amidst breathtaking scenery and abundant recreation, Wench Creek Campground offers an ideal and highly recommended destination within the Golden State.

Wench Creek Campground

California, USA