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Robbs Hut

Overview

Robbs Hut offers a peaceful, rustic getaway with phenomenal views of the Sierra Nevada. The cozy, yet minimalistic cabin is open year-round and can be accessed by car in warmer months. From November to mid-June, guests can expect to hike, snowshoe or ski up a 3-mile trail with a 1,000-foot elevation gain to reach the hut. This trail runs along Robbs Road from Ice House Road.

Originally a sleeping quarters for rangers of the adjacent Forest Service lookout from 1934 to 1978, the hut makes an ideal recreation spot with mountain biking and off-road vehicle trails nearby. The lookout is open to the public for day use.

Recreation

Mountain biking, hiking and cross country skiing are popular activities for visitors. Access by skis to the cabin is recommended for intermediate to advanced skiers.

Facilities

The hut is equipped with a propane heater and a cookstove. The cookstove is served by piped-in propane, and there is a newly installed solar lighting system. Other amenities include three sleeping platforms (3/4 inch width), mattresses, four wool blankets, a shovel, bucket and cleaning supplies. Outside on the stone deck by the lookout are a charcoal grill, campfire ring, picnic table and vault toilet building.



No water, electricity or garbage service are available. Guests must bring their own supply of water and garbage bags. Additional items to bring include food, cooking utensils and pots, sleeping bags, toilet paper, first aid supplies, matches and a flashlight. Click here for more cabin details.

Natural Features

Perched atop Robbs Peak at an elevation of 6,686 feet, the hut boasts panoramic views of the Crystal Range in the Desolation Wilderness and the Sacramento Valley. The peak is part of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Eldorado National Forest and sits in a clearing surrounded by Jeffrey and Ponderosa pine.

Nearby Attractions

The nearest phone a pay phone at the Crystal Basin Information Station on Ice House Road, 13 miles southwest of the hut. This station is open in summer only.

Camp site features

Across 1 camp site:

  • Largest party: 6 people

Directions

From Placerville, drive 21 miles east on Highway 50, turn left on Ice House Road and go 23 miles north to the Robbs Hut Road turnoff. Look for small sign and turn left on dirt road. In winter, park here and ski or hike 3 miles along the road to the hut. In summer, use combination to access both gates and drive up. Follow blue arrows to the hut.

Stay Limit

Check in from 2 PM, check out by 1 PM.

Reviews

Ratings (34)
5 stars
25
4 stars
4
3 stars
1
2 stars
2
1 stars
2
Laurie S
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed a month ago
Robb's hut is magical! the view is spectacular, it's very peaceful and the cabin itself is stocked with helpful items (a flashlight! which we forgot to bring). It's not for everyone--it's a treacherous road to get there and there are creatures living in the walls of the cabin. But we love it and look forward to going back.
Michael K
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 2 months ago
We had a Great time- 2nd time camping there!!! Beautiful place- chipmunks are living In The roof lol
Eric S
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 5 months ago
everything was as expected
Whitney M
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 6 months ago
Robbs Hut in the snow times is incredible. The three mile hike is clearly marked and it's on the road so it is easy to follow. The small cabin is kept very clean by guests and staff. The propane heater is an absolute delight after a cold hike in the snow. The kitchen makes meal prep and cooking easy. Everything was clean and well stocked. I lucked out getting this reservation and I look forward to coming back many winters. We camp in Crystal Basin every summer and now we can enjoy this area year round.
Angela A
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 6 months ago
We had a blast at the hut! Such a great little snowshoe trek. We clocked it at 3.7 miles each way. The cabin is cozy and the little gas stove keeps it very warm. The solar lights only last about 30 mins and we only had one on but we brought our headlamps. We also brought bottled water and boiled water to was hands, faces and dishes. Next time we’ll take out backpacking filter to filter out the small debris after boiling so we can drink it. The big window is definitely the crown jewel of the little cabin. They have a vault toilet which is close to the house and the day we were up there we were all alone.
Donald E
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 7 months ago
A unique and picturesque location, far away from civilization and many amenities. Be prepared for a long, rugged, narrow and winding gravel forest road to get in and out. Expect a small, rustic cabin without electricity or running water. A basic gas top range in kitchen, a small table and chairs, and lots of board games and books. The serenity and privacy on this small mountain top make it all worthwhile, and the 360 degree views of the surrounding forest are spectacular.
Angela E
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed a year ago
I've been to Robbs Hut many times and it's been awesome. Unfortunately, our last stay included rodents scurrying around in the attice space (very noisy), and infestation of flies and some wasps in the vault toilet. If this gets remedied, I recommend Robbs Hut. Until then, I wouldn't stay.
Braulio C
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed a year ago
It was amazing and clean. The gate was bent before we got there and it seemed like someone else was up there before us. Toilet paper was ripped to pieces like an animal did it and there was a cute little mouse inside the cabin. The views were excellent and the little time we did spend inside the cabin was cozy. We left the place cleaner than we left it and even left cleaning supplies behind for the next person. One thing I will say there is that there will be hikers coming up on your space. We have several people visit us and they had no idea we were up there. There would be a sign to warn people that there’s people up there but that was okay. We offered them food and water but they were just passing through. Great place, this was my second time up there.
Tom C
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed a year ago
x
Wiebke I
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed a year ago
Great place, snowshoed up with our kids and they loved it! Will definitely come again.
Jodi M
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed a year ago
We snowshoed to the hut. It was a fabulous trail, and easy to follow. The hut had all of the amenities and so much space. Spent the daytime exploring the area, and the nights enjoying the amazing sunsets. Will be back.
Mike H
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 2 years ago
Great place to hang out in the snow, for those of us who don't experience that at home. Incredible views.
John K
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 2 years ago
The hut was clean, tidy and comfortable ... as usual. Currently (1-10-25) and until there is another storm, recommend showshoes, not skis. Great views of the Crystal Range from the hut and a few places enroute. Thank you Forest Serrvice.
ABOLI S
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 2 years ago
Couldn’t reach at all as there is no path to the cabin. Covered in deep snow.
Maksym D
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 2 years ago
Great experience! Went there on Jan 5. The plan was to snowshoe to the cabin. Upon arrival, we found that the snow was not very deep, so we decided to walk instead. It took us about two hours to walk to the cabin. The cabin was amazing—clean beds and plenty of room for 3–4 people, but it can fit up to 6. The bunk beds are full-size and built to last. I was sleeping on the bottom level of the bunk bed and couldn’t feel any rocking or movement from the person on the upper level. The heater worked great, controlled by a thermostat, and maintained a comfortable 72°F all night long. The kitchen was well-stocked with tons of stuff: plates, pots, pans, bottle openers—you name it! Overall, I’m rating this hut 5 stars out of 5. I will definitely try to come back again.
Bob C
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 2 years ago
2 nights this year, 3 nights last year. This is a great quiet retreat on a 3 mile one way high clearance/4WD road, which is in good condition. The working gas stove makes food prep a breeze. Hikes, lakes and rivers nearby. As always, upon departure, do your best to make the place cleaner than at your arrival. For those who have never been here, I feel your visit will be unique experience.
Jon W
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 2 years ago
Robbs hurts a great change of pace. The cabin is very rustic/ outdated which I think adds to the adventure. Great views and it’s the perfect distance on the dirt road to have some adventure without any risk of getting stuck. “We came by car in the summer”
Alek M
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 2 years ago
Robbs hut is beautiful, we have stayed in other lookouts but this one is a little different. The scenery is gorgeous and if it isn't too hot out the hut itself would be cozy. We unfortunately didn't feel like staying the night as there seemed to be a large animal larger than a squirrel making a bunch of noise in the crawl space above the sleeping area. I tried to not let it get to me but my wife and 2 young daughters asked to not sleep there. We enjoyed our day until sunset and decided to head home and consider it for what it was.
Ellen O
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 2 years ago
This hut is wonderful, I try to go every winter.
Mike H
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 3 years ago
I love going to Robbs Hut in the winter to have a snow experience that I cannot get at home.
John K
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 3 years ago
The hut is clean and comfortable. If driving in, a high clearance vehicle is recommended, but not required. If skiing, watch for the route to veer sharply to the right at about the 2 mile mark (one mile to go). the blue diamonds are far apart in this area. As you approach the top, the route wraps around to the left and again, the markers are sparse. However, unless it has just snowed, just follow the track. The skiing is easy in both directions and can be done on waxless ("fishscale") skis without the need for skins, under most snow conditions. You really cant get lost, just keep climbing. The hut is at the top. There is not much to do other than read a book or enjoy the views, but the latter is fantastic. For the adventurous, there is an alternate exit route possible to the north (car shuttle required) The cookware provided is fine for boiling water to reconstitute food and make hot drinks. Consider bringing your own non-stick gear if you have ambitious culinary plans. I also recommend bringing your own plates and cups, etc. Remember the only source of water is snow, when available. Be aware the information on Rec.gov says it accommodates six. While there is, in theory, sleeping space for six, it would be quite cramped and the one table inside can seat only three for a meal. Keep it clean and conserve fuel during the winter. Enjoy!
Koji W
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 3 years ago
I could clearly see that Eldorado National Forest service cares about this place and the people who visit it. It was very clean and everything I needed was there. The view is amazing. I drove up the last 3 miles of dirt road. My Honda civic made it up and back down without any damage to the underside or tires. It IS a tricky ride though. You’ll need to slowly negotiate some of the spots if your car is not a high clearance.
Ken W
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 3 years ago
Good time
Russell B
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 3 years ago
Amazing place.
michael k
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 3 years ago
great place.
Ken Y
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 4 years ago
The three mile hike was very gradual, which helped when snowshoeing. Everything was clean, cozy and comfortable. THANK YOU, Eldorado NF!
Genevieve V
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 4 years ago
It was an adventure backcountry skiing in the dark with my 12 year old. It was a relief to get into the cozy well appointed cabin with its solar light set up and propane gas stove. The power only lasted the first 2 hours then was out for rest of trip, but we had headlamps so we’re just fine . We enjoyed a peaceful snowy first day then the sun graced us the second for our decent to the car. Bring your ham radio.. Great reception up there !!
John K
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 4 years ago
The ski in was easy to follow. There was a nice shortcut at about halfway there which followed up next to a ravine directly up to the hut. Following the blue diamond trail markers up the FS road also works fine. Be careful at about 1/2 mile away to make a hard right turn. You should cross a gate across the road, which will be buried, but there is a sign also. The trail markers are sketchy in this area. The hut is very nice and comfortable (but kinda small.) Please keep it clean!! There is not much to do there - anywhere you ski is downhill. If you have two vehicles, consider placing one about 1 mile north on Icehouse road and ski out by following the ridge north from the hut. This route spills out onto an unplowed road which you follow east about 1 mile to your car. Makes a nice semi-loop for the adventurous. The skiing is a little more challenging than retracing the route in but very fun. Do this at your own risk! Enjoy your outing.
Mike H
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 4 years ago
Plenty of pots, pans and silverware, I didn't need to bring my own. The dishtowel is discusting! I'm bringing my own next time! The cookstove and heater are self lighting now, I remember the days when I had to learn to light the pilots...
Jonas P
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 4 years ago
Sunset and stars are second to none! Well maintained hut with great views. Hut is definitely well taken care of and fully stocked. Picnic tables outside, pit toilet 30 feet to the south, fire lookout with access to the deck only about 50 feet to the west. Hut and toilet are clean. Hut is fully exposed, so if you're there in the summer, it will be HOT in the hut (think 80-90 degrees in the summer). No running water, as advertised, but there is a propane cooking stove and a propane heating stove which would be really nice in the winter. Don't plan on taking a car or daddy's fancy SUV up the access road because you will come back with branch scratches down the side of whatever you drive. And although clearance isn't too much of an issue and you won't need 4x4, the road is rough in a few spots. Overall, a fantastic experience for individuals or the whole family. Easy to access, but still feels like the middle of nowhere. Good instructions provided by the USFS.
danny l
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 6 years ago
Whatever you do, don't go here. There is nobody there, there is nothing to do, Just vast wilderness. who wants to see a bunch of trees and mountains. I recommend going to Disneyland instead.
Edgar W
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 6 years ago
Robbs Hut is amazing. There are plenty of supplies for cooking and eating so you don't need to bring much. The beds are starting to crack a little, so just be aware of that and the new solar lights are awesome. Not as bright as the old propane lights, but so much safer.
Yu L
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 7 years ago
Visited this place in December. Always check the weather Before you go. Bring food to cook it does have a kitchen. Bring water if you don’t want to boil the snow. That’s pretty much it. And fun enjoy it.
Max C
Loop:Area Robbs Hut
Site:1
Reviewed 7 years ago
The view is breathtaking. But during a snowstorm, it can be literally breathtaking
Popularity

Busy · 73%

Busiest in August, when about 73% of sites are booked. Based on 8 years of reservations.

Availability

See the Camp Sites section below to find detailed booking availability.

Location
ELDORADO NATIONAL FOREST PLACERVILLE RANGER DISTRICT4260 EIGHT MILE ROAD
CAMINO, CA 95709

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