Pine Hill Ecological Reserve

Pine Hill Ecological Reserve is a protected area covering about 400 acres in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The land features grassland, woodland, and shrubland vegetation that create a diverse natural landscape.

The area was designated as a protected reserve in 1979 after environmental groups campaigned to prevent development. This action aimed to safeguard the natural habitats of this sensitive region.

The reserve protects plant species found nowhere else, thriving in the unique soil conditions of this foothill region. Visitors can observe how these specialized plants exist within their natural habitat.

Visiting requires advance permission from the state agency responsible for wildlife and fisheries. Access is granted primarily for educational and research activities.

The western part of El Dorado County contains nearly 10 percent of California's native plant species. This concentrated plant diversity makes this corner of the region exceptionally rich from a botanical perspective.

Location: California

GPS coordinates: 38.71940,-120.99100

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:00