Loon Lake Area
Sub-alpine red fir and lodgepole forests, granite bowls, and a spectacular view of the Crystal Range of the Sierra Nevada Mountains characterize the area. The lake is formed by Loon Lake Dam, completed in 1963 as part of the Upper American River Project by Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) to conserve spring snow melt runoff for use during the summer and autumn for hydroelectric power production. One of the trailheads for the Rubicon Trail is accessed adjacent to this lake.
Active Alerts
General Information
For information about trails around Loon Lake into the Desolation Wilderness check the Desolation Wilderness Trails and Trailheads page.
- El Dorado County Parks & Recreation Rubicon Trail Information
- Find the Pacific MVUM at Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM) Locator
- Loon Lake Winter Recreation Opportunity Guide
Passes & Permits
The Desolation Wilderness can be accessed from this area (Loon Lake Trailhead). If entering the Desolation Wilderness, a Wilderness Permit is required
Travel is restricted to horseback or foot only in the wilderness.
Recreation Sites
Loon Lake Campground
Loon Lake Chalet
Loon Lake Trailhead
Northshore Campground
Pleasant Campground
Red Fir Group Campground
Wentworth Springs Campground
