How much does camping cost at North Grove Campground?

Camping fees at North Grove Campground range from $35-$40/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is North Grove Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

North Grove Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at North Grove Campground before I book?

Yes! North Grove Campground has 16 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit North Grove Campground?

North Grove Campground is open Camping: All campsites are open as of May 15th.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at North Grove Campground?

Yes, North Grove Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at North Grove Campground?

Cell phone service at North Grove Campground is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does North Grove Campground have?

North Grove Campground has 74 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at North Grove Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at North Grove Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at North Grove Campground?

North Grove Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

North Grove Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at North Grove Campground?

Fire policies at North Grove Campground: Campfires allowed only in designated fire rings or stoves. Firewood can be purchased at the park; gathering is prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.44

68 reviews

1170 E. Hwy. 4, Arnold, CA 95223

Featured in:Forest Camping California

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,764 ft

Price

$35 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

74 campsites

Season

Camping: All campsit...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,764 ft

Price

$35 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

74 campsites

Season

Camping: All campsit...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

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

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Reserve California

Provider

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

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

1170 E. Hwy. 4, Arnold, CA 95223

North Grove Campground

1170 E. Hwy. 4, Arnold, CA 95223

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.

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).

Weather at North Grove Campground

Current alert: Seasonal road closures (Walter W. Smith Parkway closes December 1 or after snowfall). Fire restrictions typically extend until December 31.

Best Time to Camp at North Grove Campground

Summer brings mid-70s to low-80s daytime temperatures with nights in the 40s-50s. This is peak season for reliable access, active visitor programs, and full campground services. July and August see the highest crowds, especially holiday weekends. Winter brings snow that transforms the landscape but limits access. October nights turn crisp. The elevation means temperature swings between day and night year-round.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season: mid-70s, full services, active programs and reliable access.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Camping: All campsites are open as of May 15th.

About North Grove Campground

North Grove Campground sits at 4,764 feet in Calaveras Big Trees State Park, its 74 sites spread through mixed conifer forest near Arnold. The campground puts you within walking distance of the North Grove's giant sequoias and offers full amenities including hot showers, flush toilets, and bear lockers. Sites run $35-40 per night and accommodate up to eight people and two vehicles.

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 Significance

The Discovery Tree, first documented in 1852, sits within the park and sparked worldwide interest in Sierra redwoods. Interpretive trails include historical markers describing early tourists, lumber industry threats, and the conservation efforts that led to the park's creation.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings mid-70s to low-80s daytime temperatures with nights in the 40s-50s. This is peak season for reliable access, active visitor programs, and full campground services. July and August see the highest crowds, especially holiday weekends. Winter brings snow that transforms the landscape but limits access. October nights turn crisp. The elevation means temperature swings between day and night year-round.

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 SceneryThe campground sits within Sierra Nevada mixed conifer forest where giant sequoias grow alongside sugar pines, Douglas firs, and incense cedars. Meadows break up the forest canopy, and creeks run through the area with pools holding rainbow trout. The Stanislaus River cuts through nearby terrain. Wildlife includes black bears (frequent enough that bear lockers are standard), Steller's jays, and coyotes. Yellow jackets can be aggressive during certain seasons, particularly around cooking areas.

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.

Scenic ViewsCampsites offer views of the forest, meadow, and occasionally the Stanislaus River. Meadow sites on RV Loop (1-10) provide scenic vistas and are ideal for thunderstorm viewing.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe North Grove Campground primarily offers campsites for tents and RVs, but cabin accommodations are listed as unavailable due to construction. Sites include amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and bear lockers. Group camping and environmental camping options are also available. A mini group site offers double the capacity and amenities of regular campsites.

Programs & ActivitiesGuided 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.

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 layoutSites spread through mature conifer forest and circle North Grove Meadow. Loop 1-10 accommodates RVs. Site spacing varies, with some secluded and set back from neighbors while others sit closer together. The highway generates noise at sites near the park boundary.

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.

Best CampsitesSites 1-10 on the RV Loop offer meadow views and close proximity to amenities. Site 43 provides privacy, set back with only one adjoining neighbor, though it sits on an incline and sees bear visits.

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Amenities available

The North Grove Campground at Calaveras Big Trees State Park offers an array of amenities for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Amenities include clean restrooms and coin-operated hot showers, potable water, fire rings, picnic tables, and a dump station. Notable features include bear-resistant food lockers at every campsite, ensuring safety against wildlife. User reviews highlight the accessibility and convenience of the facilities, stating, 'Bathrooms are clean and hot showers are available (bring quarters),' and 'Tap water is provided. The restroom is clean.'

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

I manage this campground

RV details

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.

Hiking

The 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.

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

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.

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.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

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.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception at the campground varies, with good Wi-Fi coverage reported around the amphitheater but dodgy or unavailable wireless service elsewhere. A user noted, 'Good Wi-Fi in and around the amphitheater; zero or dodgy wireless everywhere else.'

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

68 reviews

Recommended

North Grove Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% 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

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

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

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

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Families chasing the big trees will find the North Grove Trail right outside camp, with Junior Ranger programs and campfire nights running mid-June through mid-August. Site #43 gives you real separation from neighbors; meadow-loop sites 1-10 are the call for RVs under 30 feet wan

Skip if

Highway noise is real on sites like #23, #25, and #27, and yellow jackets get aggressive around cooking areas late summer. No electric or water hookups means larger RV setups won't get far here.

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