North Grove Campground

4.56

68 reviews

1170 E. Hwy. 4, Arnold, CA 95223

Featured in:Forest Camping California

Quick Facts

4,764 ft

Price

$35 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

74 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

4,764 ft

Price

$35 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

74 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

North Grove Campground

$35.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees range from $35-$40 per night based on seasonality, with an additional $10 for extra vehicles. Day-use fees are $10 ($12 on holidays)....

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve California

Provider

(209) 795-2334calaverasbigtreessp@parks.ca.gov

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What Campers Say

4.56

Top-Rated

Based on 68 reviews

66 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersrestrooms

Some mention

noise

"The North Grove Campground is praised for its cleanliness, convenient amenities, and proximity to giant sequoia trees. Reviews often highlight the beauty of the area and the helpfulness of park staff, though some noted issues such as noise from the highway and the presence of yellow jackets and bears."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1170 E. Hwy. 4, Arnold, CA 95223

North Grove Campground

1170 E. Hwy. 4, Arnold, CA 95223

Driving directionsFrom the SF Bay Area: Take I-580 eastbound over Altamont Pass to I-205 toward Manteca, then US 99 North. Exit for State Hwy 4 (Angel's Camp) to the Park Entrance. Hwy 4 jogs right in Angel's Camp along State Hwy 49, then jogs left before leaving town. Calaveras Big Trees is about 35 minutes drive from Angel's Camp. From Southern California: Take I-5 or US 99 North. From I-5, cross State Hwy 4 to 99/4 South for a few miles, then follow Hwy 4 towards and beyond Farmington to the Park. Hwy 4 jogs right in Angel's Camp, then jogs left before leaving town. From Sacramento: Take US 99 South to Stockton, turning off onto State Hwy 4 towards Angel's Camp. Driving time from Stockton is approx. 1.5 hours. An alternate route is through Hwy 16 southeast to Hwy 49 South via goldrush towns to Angel's Camp, then left on Hwy 4. Driving time from Angel's Camp is ~35 minutes. From Nevada: Take US 395 to Hwy 89 West to Hwy 4. The road is scenic but steep; large motorhomes and trailers are ill-advised in winter.

Roads are paved and accessible year-round except during seasonal closures (December 1 or after heavy snowfall). Winter access is limited to North Grove Campground via first-come-first-serve camping (loops 1-11).

Nearby places

Arnold (4 miles, ~10 mins), Angel's Camp (~35 mins), Stockton (~1.5 hours), Sacramento (~2 hours).

Nearby supplies

Arnold (~4 miles) offers a grocery and hardware store, restaurants, and gas stations.

Best Time to Camp at North Grove Campground

The Sierra Nevada's dramatic seasons paint North Grove in ever-changing hues throughout the year. Summer days invite you to explore sun-dappled trails in comfortable warmth, while evenings bring that refreshing mountain coolness perfect for campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, October nights turn decidedly crisp—a reminder to pack that extra fleece and savor hot cocoa under brilliant stars. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-draped wonderland, where the giant sequoias wear mantles of white. Smart campers come prepared for Mother Nature's full repertoire, layering up for those surprise temperature swings that make mountain adventures so memorable.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 14% in CA

Summer praised for comfortable days, vibrant wildlife and accessibility to trails.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Late fall noted as quieter and scenic; prepare for cold nights.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Early spring quieter, good for sequoia viewing but cold nights possible and some seasonal pests noted.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.5 / 5

Top 23% in CA

Open year-round with limited winter camping; reviewers call snow visits 'magical' but conditions are rustic.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: North Grove Campground is open year-round for limited winter camping (first-come, first-serve basis); other campgrounds open May 1 to November 1.
Current Alerts: Seasonal road closures (Walter W. Smith Parkway closes December 1 or after snowfall). Fire restrictions typically extend until December 31.

About North Grove Campground

Imagine waking up to the gentle whisper of wind through ancient conifers at North Grove Campground, where 74 thoughtfully placed campsites create an intimate forest retreat around the serene North Grove Meadow. This enchanting basecamp puts you just a short stroll away from the awe-inspiring North Grove of Giant Sequoias, where these gentle giants have stood sentinel for millennia. The nearby Visitor Center offers fascinating insights into the area's rich history, while evening programs at the Campfire Center bring families together under starlit skies to share stories and create lasting memories.

The North Grove Campground accommodates a range of camping types, including tent sites, RV sites, group camping, and environmental campsites. The campground provides a mix of amenities catering to various camping preferences.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you walk the same paths that led to one of California's most pivotal moments in conservation history. The legendary 'Discovery Tree,' first documented in 1852, sparked a worldwide fascination with Sierra redwoods that continues to this day. As you explore the interpretive trails, historical markers reveal captivating stories of early tourists who traveled for days just to glimpse these botanical wonders, of lumber barons whose plans were thankfully thwarted, and of visionary conservationists who fought to preserve this irreplaceable ecosystem. Each giant sequoia stands as a living monument to the delicate balance between human ambition and natural preservation.

Weather and SeasonsThe Sierra Nevada's dramatic seasons paint North Grove in ever-changing hues throughout the year. Summer days invite you to explore sun-dappled trails in comfortable warmth, while evenings bring that refreshing mountain coolness perfect for campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, October nights turn decidedly crisp—a reminder to pack that extra fleece and savor hot cocoa under brilliant stars. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-draped wonderland, where the giant sequoias wear mantles of white. Smart campers come prepared for Mother Nature's full repertoire, layering up for those surprise temperature swings that make mountain adventures so memorable.

ElevationPerched at classic Sierra Nevada elevations where the air is crisp and pine-scented, North Grove offers that perfect mountain atmosphere without the challenges of extreme altitude. The campground's positioning provides comfortable conditions for all ages while still delivering that authentic high-country experience.

Natural Features and SceneryNorth Grove unfolds like nature's own cathedral, where towering sequoias reach skyward alongside their conifer cousins—sugar pines, Douglas firs, and incense cedars creating a multi-layered canopy of green. Sunlight filters through this living architecture, illuminating emerald meadows where wildflowers dance in summer breezes. Crystal-clear creeks tumble through the forest, their pools hiding rainbow trout that flash silver in the dappled light. Keep your camera ready for the area's charismatic wildlife—from the comical antics of Steller's jays with their punk-rock crests to the occasional glimpse of a black bear foraging for berries. Coyotes might serenade you at dusk, their wild songs echoing through the trees as another magical day in the Sierra Nevada draws to a close.

Geological RegionNorth Grove sits within the heart of the Sierra Nevada, that mighty granite backbone of California where fire and ice have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. Ancient volcanic activity left its mark here, creating the mineral-rich soils that nurture the giant sequoias found nowhere else on Earth. The nearby Stanislaus River has carved its own story through the bedrock, creating a ribbon of life that sustains the surrounding mixed conifer forests. Natural meadows dot the terrain like emerald jewels, each one a reminder of the geological forces that continue to shape this dynamic mountain ecosystem. This is a landscape that tells the story of millions of years, where every rock formation and forest grove speaks to the powerful forces that created one of America's most treasured natural wonders.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each campsite is limited to 8 people.

Groups

Group camping is available across Highway 4, with Upper Group Camp accommodating 40 people and 15 vehicles, while Lower Group Camp supports 60 people and 20 vehicles. Shared restroom facilities include coin showers and running water.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites spread through a mature conifer forest and encircle the North Grove Meadow. Loop 1–10 offers RV-friendly sites.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Reserve California at 800-444-PARK (7275) or online at www.parks.ca.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited sites available on a first-come, first-serve basis during off-season (November 2 through April 30).

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled through Reserve California, but policies regarding penalties or fees are unspecified.

AccessibilityThe North Grove Campground offers accessible campsites, restrooms, and shower facilities. Nine accessible campsites with accessible tables and tent pads are noted. Trails such as the Three Senses Trail are accessible, providing compacted soil and wood surfaces with gentle slopes.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious and accommodating up to eight people and two vehicles.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some being secluded and set back from neighboring sites. For example, site #43 is noted for being 'set back and somewhat isolated with only one adjoining neighbor.

Total Campsites74 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy, consider Site #43, but be aware of bear activity. Sites 23, 25, and 27 may be noisy due to proximity to the road.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Activities you can enjoy

The North Grove Campground provides access to a range of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, guided programs, and fishing opportunities. The nearby trails offer varied experiences ranging from easy to strenuous, with remarkable views of giant sequoias and the surrounding forest.

HikingThe North Grove Trail is a gentle 1.5-mile loop offering historical and natural insights into the park's giant sequoias. Highlights include the Empire State Tree, Pioneer Cabin Tree, and Father of the Forest. Other trails accessible from the campground include the River Canyon Trail and Grove Overlook Trail. A user noted, 'Nice paths to enjoy the trees by.' Guided hikes on Saturdays provide additional enrichment.

FishingFishing is permitted at the Stanislaus River and Beaver Creek, offering opportunities to catch rainbow trout. A valid California fishing license is required for anglers aged 16 and over.

BikingBiking is permitted on dirt fire roads, paved roads, and campgrounds. Bikes are not allowed on hiking trails. Bicyclists under 18 are required to wear helmets.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is abundant in the park, with species such as black bears, bobcats, coyotes, raccoons, and various birds. A user commented, 'Amazing to see some big trees, and exciting to actually to be able to walk within one. Nature is beautiful.'

Cultural and Educational ProgramsGuided hikes, campfire programs, Junior Ranger programs, and astronomy nights are available seasonally at the campground. Junior Rangers programs are designed for children aged 7-12, and campfire programs run mid-June through mid-August.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBlack bears are a common hazard. Food lockers must be used to store all food and scented items securely. Aggressive bees and mosquitoes are mentioned in user reviews.

Active AlertsSeasonal road closures (Walter W. Smith Parkway closes December 1 or after snowfall). Fire restrictions typically extend until December 31.

Food Storage RequiredBear-resistant lockers measuring 4 feet by 3 feet by 2 feet are available at each campsite. All food, scented items, and waste must be stored securely.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed only in designated fire rings or stoves. Firewood can be purchased at the park; gathering is prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are accessible by dialing 911. Nearest facilities include a ranger station within the park and hospitals in Arnold (~4 miles) or Stockton (~1.5 hours).

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal is facilitated through bear-resistant dumpsters located throughout the campground. Proper disposal of trash is enforced to mitigate wildlife interactions.

Water FeaturesThe campground encircles the North Grove Meadow and is near Big Tree Creek, supporting native trout populations.

Camp HostHosts are generally helpful, though one user complained about unresponsiveness when trying to purchase firewood. Rangers are praised for quick handling of noise complaints.

Weather at North Grove Campground

Reviews

4.6

68 reviews

Top-Rated

North Grove Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

The North Grove Campground is praised for its cleanliness, convenient amenities, and proximity to giant sequoia trees. Reviews often highlight the beauty of the area and the helpfulness of park staff, though some noted issues such as noise from the highway and the presence of yellow jackets and bears.

Review Summaries

Based on 68 reviews

What Campers Love

Users consistently highlight the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers, the stunning natural beauty of the campground, and the close proximity to trails and giant sequoias. As one user noted,...

Based on 68 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include aggressive bees, noise from nearby highways, and occasional bear visits. One visitor said, 'Yellow jackets were bad this year but still were tolerable,' while another mentioned,...

Based on 68 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing quarters for showers, traps for yellow jackets, and keeping bear bins chained shut. Another tip is to 'feed the meat bees first' by leaving food outside the camp before...

Based on 68 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate that late fall and early spring offer quieter camping experiences, but campers should prepare for cold nights during these seasons. Summer is noted for its vibrant wildlife and...

Based on 68 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Bathrooms are clean and hot showers are available.' 2. 'The meteor shower was spectacular from the Vista point as well as from the meadow.' 3. 'Wonderful spot for camping! You will not be...

Based on 68 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #43 - Large and somewhat isolated; noted for privacy but complaints about incline and yellow jackets. Meadowside RV loop sites (1-10) - Fantastic views, particularly during thunderstorms. Sites...

Based on 68 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites and restrooms are praised, with features including firm surfaces and accessible shower stalls. The Three Senses Trail provides an early accessible design trail experience for...

Based on 68 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed in the campground but prohibited on trails. Reviews mention the leash requirement and restrictions on unattended pets, with one stating, 'Dogs must be confined inside your tent or...

Based on 68 reviews

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