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Hidden in the El Dorado National Forest, Ice House Reservoir is a 700-acre mountain lake known for its pristine waters and rustic feel. Located about 80 miles east of Sacramento, it’s a quiet escape for anglers and campers. Trout fishing is excellent, with regular stockings of rainbow and brown trout. The Ice House Campground provides easy access for tent campers and RVs alike. Paddleboarding and kayaking are popular thanks to calm waters, and scenic trails like Wrights Lake Tie Trail connect hikers to nearby alpine lakes. There’s no commercial marina, but a boat launch and day-use areas are available. It’s a perfect base for exploring Desolation Wilderness or just soaking up the pine-scented serenity.
- Surface area (mi)
- 1.72
- Max depth (ft)
- 80
- Elevation (ft)
- 5436.35
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 8.99
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Wakeboarding
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Jet Skiing
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Marinas on Ice House Reservoir
Nearby lakes
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Ice House Reservoir has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, swimming is allowed at Ice House Reservoir. There is a designated swimming area, and the reservoir also offers other activities like fishing and boating.
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Ice House Reservoir is a popular destination for outdoor activities because it offers swimming, fishing, and boating. The reservoir is home to rainbow, brown, and trout, and there is a boat ramp on site. Additionally, the area has hiking and biking trails, including the 3.1-mile Ice House Mountain Bike Trail with views of the reservoir and the Crystal Range.
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Rainbow, brown, and brook trout are planted in Ice House Reservoir. These trout are planted every other week from May through September by the California Department of Fish and Game. This regular stocking ensures a consistent population of catchable-size trout throughout the fishing season.
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Yes, there is a public beach at Ice House Reservoir. The reservoir has a designated swimming area and a boat ramp on site. Restrooms are also available.
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The closest towns to Ice House Reservoir in California are Pollock Pines and Riverton. Pollock Pines is accessible via Route 50, and Riverton is about 12 miles from the reservoir. These towns provide convenient access to the campground and recreational activities around the reservoir.
