Camping
High on the western slope of the Sierra, near the headwaters of the American and Rubicon Rivers, lies a pristine, relatively undiscovered area.
French Meadows and Hell Hole reservoirs, owned and operated by PCWA, attract outdoor enthusiasts who want to get away for a few days of uncrowded natural beauty.
French Meadows, near the headwaters of the Middle Fork and American River, is a large 1,408 acre reservoir. Campground and boat launch facilities are located around the lake and along the Middle Fork America River upstream from the reservoir. For current fees and/or more information contact the U.S. Forest District at 530-367-2224 or visit online at USDA Forest Service. For reservations, call the National Forest Reservation System at 1-800-280-CAMP or visit them online at Reserve USA.
Hell Hole Reservoir located at the 4,630-foot elevation on the Rubicon River. The more remote Hell Hole Reservoir covers 1,253 acres and is surrounded by scenic rock outcroppings. Fishing and hiking are the main activities here. For current fees and/or more information, contact the U.S. Forest Service Georgetown Range District at 530-333-4312 or visit online at USDA Forest Service. For reservations, call the National Forest Reservation System at 1-800-280-CAMP or visit them online at Reserve USA.
Kayaking on the American River. Photo by Cheri Sprunck
Boating
River rafting, kayaking, fishing and hiking are popular activities on the American and Rubicon river watersheds. Local U.S. Forest Service district offices can provide more information.
Putting in at Oxbow. Photos by Cheri Sprunck
Off-roading at Hell Hole. Photo by Neil Bartlett
Fishing at French Meadows Reservoir. Photo by Brenda Lindley
