Overview

Sly Guard Cabin is near Sly Park Reservoir and is a great choice for families with kids. The cabin was constructed in the early 1940s by the Forest Service as living quarters for Sly Park Rangers on guard in the forest. Modern conveniences like a phone, hot water, full bath, TV and DVD player, allow campers to balance the luxuries of home with the forested great outdoors.

The cabin is less remote than other cabins in Eldorado National Forest. It is close to many attractions like Jenkinson Lake, Apple Hill and the historic mining towns of Coloma and Placerville. Many tempting wineries are also in the region.

Natural Features:

At nearly 3,600 feet in elevation, Sly Guard Cabin sits among Ponderosa and Jeffrey pine near Pollock Pines and the Sly Park Reservoir, which is also called Jenkinson Lake. The cabin gets a lot of shade during the day, keeping it cool in the summer. A downhill dirt trail leads guests south to Sly Park Creek and the bottom of the spillway at Sly Park Reservoir.

Recreation:

Hiking, mountain biking and picnicking are great options while staying at the cabin. Sly Park Creek has a swimming hole, and Sly Park Reservoir attracts lots of boaters and anglers. Gold panning may also be done in the creek.

Facilities:

The cabin is 600 square feet and sleeps four people. A maximum of 12 campers may stay here if eight are willing to set up camp outside. The grounds can accommodate two tents, one fifth wheel or RV and two boats. Cars are limited to three vehicles.

Amenities include electricity, water, a wood stove and a propane wall heater. Sleeping accommodations include two single beds in the bedroom and a full-sized futon in the living room. The bathroom has a flush toilet and a tub or shower combination with hot and cold water. The phone can be used for local calls and a TV and DVD player is in the living room. The kitchen comes with a four person table, double sink, running water, microwave, electric stove and refrigerator. An assortment of cooking pots, pans, dishes and utensils are supplied.

The cabin grounds include a picnic table, horseshoe pit, clothesline, food preparation table and campfire circle. Small campfires are allowed when fire restrictions are not in effect.

Campers should bring food their own firewood or collect down or dead wood. Bring bedding and camping supplies. Click here for more cabin details.

Nearby Attractions:

The Sly Park Environmental Education School is located across the street. Guided nature walks are conducted daily on the trail adjacent to the cabin.

A resort at the entrance of Jenkinson Lake (Sly Creek Reservoir) offers a small store, restaurant and bar, pay phone, gas and fishing supplies. It is about a 2-mile drive.