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Organization
Overview
About VAN VLECK BUNKHOUSE
Overview Van Vleck Bunkhouse overlooks a 40-acre meadow and the Tells Peak portion of the Crystal Range of the Sierra Nevada, providing a rustic camping experience year-round. Built in 1957, the bunkhouse is the last remaining building at the Van Vleck Ranch site. The area was operated as a cattle ranch from the 1860s to the 1960s. Summer guests can access the bunkhouse by road and enjoy the simple pleasure of the cabin and nearby hiking and horseback riding. Winter guests take on a more challenging adventure and must traverse a 6-mile trek with a 1,300-foot elevation gain to reach the bunkhouse. The route is marked by blue reflective diamonds and this journey is for intermediate to advanced backcountry skiers only. Recreation Popular summer activities include mountain biking, hiking, backpacking in Desolation Wilderness, stream fishing in Cheese Camp Creek, horseback riding, and bird watching. The Tells Creek Primitive Equestrian Trail leads into Desolation Wilderness. In winter, cross country skiing or snowshoeing is required to reach the bunkhouse, so these are the featured activities of the trip. Facilities Popular summer activities include mountain biking, hiking, backpacking in Desolation Wilderness, stream fishing in Cheese Camp Creek, horseback riding, and bird watching. The Tells Creek Primitive Equestrian Trail leads into Desolation Wilderness. In winter, cross country skiing or snowshoeing is required to reach the bunkhouse, so these are the featured activities of the trip. Natural Features Van Vleck sits halfway up a small peak of the Sierra Nevada, about a half-mile from Cheese Camp Creek, at an elevation of 6,000 feet. The front deck overlooks a meadow and offers a view of the Crystal Range. If skiing or snowshoeing to the bunkhouse, guests will pass over a bridge on the South Fork of the Rubicon River, and past a small aspen grove and Milkhouse Meadow. Nearby Attractions The nearest general store is at Ice House Reservoir, a 30-minute drive away. In winter this is closed, so the nearest store is in Pollock Pines, a 1.5-hour drive away. Tells Creek Primitive Equestrian Campground is located near the bunkhouse.
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
530-644-2324
Getting There
From Placerville, drive 21 miles on Highway 50, then turn left on Ice House Riverton Road. Go 23 miles north and turn right on Tells Creek Road. Then drive 5 miles east and turn left on the gated, dirt/gravel road to the bunkhouse, which is 0.5-miles ahead on the left side. Winter access is from the Loon Lake parking area. From Highway 50, go 28 miles north on Icehouse Road and take the right fork to Loon Lake. Go 5 miles to the plowed parking area at the entrance to the campground road. A permit and gate combination is required and should be arranged prior to arrival with the Pacific Ranger Station at (530) 644-2349.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to VAN VLECK BUNKHOUSE.
How do reservations work for VAN VLECK BUNKHOUSE?
Reservation availability for VAN VLECK BUNKHOUSE can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at VAN VLECK BUNKHOUSE?
Campsite type details are limited right now. Check back as this listing is enriched.
Where is VAN VLECK BUNKHOUSE located?
VAN VLECK BUNKHOUSE is in California near CAMINO. Coordinates: 38.9292, -120.3250.
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