This Beautiful Town Near Lake Tahoe Offers Scenic Camping For A Quiet Nature Escape

Straddling the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is one of North America's largest lakes, famous for glistening, crystal-clear waters and rugged mountain landscapes. It's an amazing outdoor destination offering spellbinding diversity, with a little something for everyone, from the elegant, chic north to the rugged, old-fashioned west, the secluded and underdeveloped east, and the bustling (and sometimes tacky) south shore.

There are plenty of places to stay and explore around the lake and nearby, particularly for outdoor adventurers looking to spend a few nights under canvas. During peak season, the most popular spots can get overcrowded, so canny travelers often aim to pitch their tents in some of the quieter, more secluded areas away from the lake itself. One of the most beautiful and charming of these is Pollock Pines, a gorgeous little town about 45 miles from South Lake Tahoe on the edge of El Dorado National Forest, which boasts excellent camping spots and offers the chance for a serene getaway surrounded by nature.

Located in El Dorado County, Pollock Pines is surrounded by the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada, one of the west coast's most popular mountain ranges. The closest city is Placerville, 16 miles west, while Sacramento is 56 miles away, around an hour's drive. The nearest airport is Sacramento International Airport, to the northwest of the city and 66 miles from Pollock Pines.

Pollock Pines is a place to immerse yourself in the great outdoors and enjoy the best that nature can offer. For campers, it's a paradise, with a number of excellent campgrounds located just outside the town center. Harris Family Farm and Forest is draped in history, built over 160 years ago, and run by the same family for seven generations. It's the perfect spot to enjoy the area, and offers a number of exciting extras, like jam-making classes and pick-your-own apples. Sly Park Area Campground sits on the shore of Lake Jenkinson and offers gorgeous lake views, as well as glamping options for those not wanting to rough it, while a little further afield, Sunset Serenity Ridge sits high above town, with great swimming and fishing in the river nearby. For anyone planning a Pollock Pines camping trip, it's important to remember that the town is in the mountains, at 3,980 feet, so even in summer, the temperatures drop quickly at night. Packing some extra warm clothing is always advisable!

The peaks and valleys of the Sierra Nevada make Pollock Pines a sensational destination for hikers, and there are some wonderful trails to explore. Jenkinson Lake Loop is a gentle start, a six-mile loop with shade provided by pines and redwoods, and delightful lake views. The Twin Lakes Trail into Desolation Wilderness is a grittier challenge, and you might encounter snow even in July!

It's also worth heading out to explore El Dorado National Forest, the gateway to the Sierra Nevada. It's stunning oaks and pines make it an eye-catching landscape, and it's filled with rivers, streams, and lakes, which make it a fisherman's dream!

Pollock Pines itself is small, but with a quaint charm that makes it worth spending a little time getting to know in more detail. It was founded as a staging post for pioneers, travelers, and Forty-Niners heading west to Sacramento and beyond on the Pony Express Trail during the California Gold Rush, and has been a welcoming settlement since the 1850s. There are a few nice cafes and restaurants, like Southfork 1848 and 50 Grand, as well as nice hotels and guesthouses for people who aren't feeling the campground vibes. The Sly Park Recreation Area is just outside town and worth exploring, while Bridal Veil Falls is an impressive waterfall and a popular destination.

A little way out of town, Placerville is another spot that's worth a trip if you're staying in the area. It has a charming old downtown and main street, as well as several fascinating historic sights from the Gold Rush era and beyond, including J. Pearson Soda Works, El Dorado County museum, and Gold Bug Park & Mine.

It's also worth taking time to stop off at one of the excellent wineries located just off the highway between Pollock Pines and Placerville. Starfield Vineyards and Winery offers tours and tastings, as well as a glorious amphitheater designed for picnics, and some delightful nature trails. Lewis Grace Winery and Tasting Room has a majestic setting in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, and makes an amazing place to sip a few vintages, surrounded by natural beauty.