Bear River Group Campground (Eldorado National Forest, Ca)

4.76

36 reviews

ELDORADO NATIONAL FOREST, PIONEER, CA 95666, USA

Family FriendlySummer Destination

Featured in:Hidden Gem Campgrounds California

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$115 - $145/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open season: June 20...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Royal Elk Park Management site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$115 - $145/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open season: June 20...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Royal Elk Park Management site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Bear River Group Campground (Eldorado National Forest, Ca)

$115.00 - $145.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The group tent-only area charges vary between $115 to $145 per night during peak season. Additional fees include an $8 online reservation fee, $9 for...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$115.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

209-295-4360

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What Campers Say

4.76

Top-Rated

Based on 36 reviews

32 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanlocationfriendlywell-maintained

"User reviews highlight the campground’s suitability for group camping, emphasizing its spacious sites, clean facilities, and helpful camp host. Privacy and proximity to natural attractions like the reservoir and hiking trails are frequently mentioned as standout features."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

ELDORADO NATIONAL FOREST, PIONEER, CA 95666, USA

Bear River Group Campground (Eldorado National Forest, Ca)

ELDORADO NATIONAL FOREST, PIONEER, CA 95666, USA

Driving directionsFrom Jackson, California, travel east on State Route 88 for 39 miles and turn right (south) on Bear River Road. Travel 2 miles to Y intersection and stay to the right side, going across the dam. Drive .5 miles past South Shore Campground to Bear Group Campground, which will be located on left side of road.

Access to Bear River Group Campground is via State Route 88, followed by Bear River Road. Roads leading to the campground are paved, and the route involves crossing a dam. The campground is accessible year-round, but visitors may face seasonal weather-related challenges impacting road conditions.

Nearby places

Jackson (39 miles, approximately 1 hour), Pioneer (close proximity), Sacramento (approximately 88 miles, 2 hours)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies can be found at nearby restaurants, a general store, and boat rentals located within a few miles of the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Bear River Group Campground (Eldorado National Forest, Ca)

Summer arrives like a warm embrace at Bear River, transforming the campground into a sun-drenched paradise from June through September. Days unfold with temperatures dancing between the comfortable mid-50s and balmy low 80s, while crystal-clear skies stretch endlessly overhead. The Mediterranean climate gifts campers with predominantly dry conditions, though occasional afternoon showers might surprise you with nature's own refreshment. As evening approaches, moderate mountain breezes whisper through the pines, carrying the day's warmth into cool, perfect sleeping weather. Winter transforms this landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, with cold temperatures and frequent precipitation creating a completely different, equally magical atmosphere.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 14% in CA

Open June 20–Sept 26; summer described as a 'sun‑drenched paradise' and is peak season.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Open into late Sept (through Sept 26); early fall visits possible but season ends soon.

Spring(Mar-May)

Not recommended

Campground closed in spring; open season begins June 20.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground is closed Sept 27–June 19; winters are cold/wet and site is unavailable.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 20 - September 26 (peak season pricing applies). Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season: June 20 - September 26 annually. Closed season: September 27 - June 19.

About Bear River Group Campground (Eldorado National Forest, Ca)

Nestled high above the sparkling waters of Lower Bear River Reservoir, Bear River Group Campground beckons families and friends seeking the perfect Sierra Nevada retreat. This exclusive group camping haven features four distinct sites carved into aromatic mixed pine forests, where the only sounds are rustling branches and distant laughter. Purpose-built for tent camping enthusiasts, this mountain sanctuary opens doors to endless adventures—cast a line into pristine waters, paddle quietly across the reservoir's glassy surface, or explore winding trails that disappear into the forest. Here, large gatherings become unforgettable memories against a backdrop of towering pines and star-filled skies.

The Bear River Group Campground caters exclusively to tent camping, with group sites designed to accommodate larger numbers of people. The campground is ideal for family reunions, school groups, or other large gatherings.

Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives like a warm embrace at Bear River, transforming the campground into a sun-drenched paradise from June through September. Days unfold with temperatures dancing between the comfortable mid-50s and balmy low 80s, while crystal-clear skies stretch endlessly overhead. The Mediterranean climate gifts campers with predominantly dry conditions, though occasional afternoon showers might surprise you with nature's own refreshment. As evening approaches, moderate mountain breezes whisper through the pines, carrying the day's warmth into cool, perfect sleeping weather. Winter transforms this landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, with cold temperatures and frequent precipitation creating a completely different, equally magical atmosphere.

ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet where the air grows thin and pure, Bear River Group Campground offers a natural escape from the heat of lower elevations. At this altitude, every breath fills your lungs with crisp mountain air that seems to wash away the worries of everyday life. The elevated position creates a natural climate sanctuary where summer temperatures remain refreshingly cool, and morning mist often clings to the pines before dissolving into another perfect Sierra day.

Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape surrounding Bear River Group Campground reads like a love letter to the Sierra Nevada. Towering mixed pine forests create a natural cathedral, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Just below, Lower Bear River Reservoir mirrors the sky in its calm waters, while the nearby Upper Bear River Reservoir expands your playground even further. For those seeking elevated perspectives, the Pardoe Trail winds its way up to Squaw Ridge, climbing beyond 9,000 feet where panoramic views stretch across endless mountain ranges. Here, at 6,000 feet, the very air seems different—cleaner, cooler, and somehow more alive with possibility.

Geological RegionBear River Group Campground claims its place within the majestic Eldorado National Forest, a crown jewel of California's central Sierra Nevada. This geological wonderland showcases the region's characteristic Mediterranean climate, where rain-soaked winters give way to gloriously dry summers. Positioned strategically above the south shore of Lower Bear River Reservoir, the campground occupies a sweet spot in the Sierra's complex topography—high enough to escape valley heat, yet accessible enough for family adventures. The surrounding landscape tells the story of ancient geological forces that carved these mountains, creating the dramatic ridges, gentle valleys, and pristine water bodies that define this remarkable corner of the Sierra Nevada.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 14 nights per calendar year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Site-specific guest limits vary, with Site 1 accommodating up to 50 people and Sites 2-4 accommodating up to 25 people each.

Groups

Campsite 1 accommodates up to 50 people, while sites 2, 3, and 4 each accommodate up to 25 people. Multiple user reviews praised the spacious and well-separated group sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized into four group sites: Kokanee (50 people), Chipmunk (25 people), Junco (25 people), and Smokey (25 people). Each site is equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, either online, through the app, or by calling the contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground must be reserved in advance; no walk-up availability is mentioned.

Cancellation PolicyCustomers may cancel reservations anytime prior to their stay, but cancellations made less than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 service fee and forfeit the first night’s use fee. Late cancellations for one-night reservations forfeit the entire amount paid.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described in the authoritative content or user reviews.

Site SizeGroup campsites vary in size: Campsite 1 accommodates up to 50 people, while the other three sites have a maximum capacity of 25 persons each.

PrivacyUsers frequently highlighted the privacy of individual campsites, with descriptions such as 'great separation from other sites,' 'secluded,' and 'far away from everyone.

Total Campsites4 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 1 is ideal for large groups due to its capacity and separation from other sites. Site 4 is recommended for sun-seekers. Visitors to Chipmunk or Junco sites highlight their privacy and shade.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a variety of recreational activities centered around the nearby Lower Bear River Reservoir and the surrounding Sierra Nevada forest. Popular activities include fishing, swimming, boating, canoeing, hiking, and picnicking. Fishing is a highlight, with abundant rainbow trout as well as smaller populations of brown and mackinaw trout. Hiking trails include the Pardoe Trail, which leads to the Mokelumne Wilderness and Squaw Ridge, offering panoramic views from elevations above 9,000 feet. Wildlife viewing opportunities are also available, although bears reportedly frequent the area.

HikingThe campground is near the Pardoe Trail, which runs up Squaw Ridge, reaching elevations above 9,000 feet and offering stunning views of the Mokelumne Wilderness.

FishingRainbow trout are abundant throughout the season, along with smaller populations of brown and mackinaw trout. Fishing is a major draw for visitors.

SwimmingSwimming is available in the reservoir, although the water temperature tends to be on the cooler side, particularly in early summer (estimated in the lower 60s Fahrenheit).

BoatingBoating and canoeing are popular activities on the Lower Bear River Reservoir. However, motorized boats are not allowed.

Wildlife viewingThe area offers opportunities for observing wildlife, including bear activity. Visitors are advised to use bear-proof containers for food storage.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential wildlife hazards include bears and mosquitoes. Seasonal fire restrictions may impact campfire use, and low water levels may require hiking to access swimming areas.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are available at each site, designed to protect food from bears.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Restrictions may apply during hot and dry weather conditions.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services include a hospital in Jackson (approximately 39 miles away), police and fire stations in Pioneer, and local ranger stations within Eldorado National Forest.

Trash & RecyclingNo specific details on trash and recycling facilities are provided. General campground practices may apply.

Water FeaturesLocated approximately one mile from the Lower Bear River Reservoir. Visitors may drive or hike to the reservoir for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating.

Camp HostThe campground host, Steve, is widely commended in user reviews for his helpfulness, professionalism, and friendly demeanor.

Weather at Bear River Group Campground (Eldorado National Forest, Ca)

Reviews

4.8

36 reviews

Top-Rated

Bear River Group Campground (Eldorado National Forest, Ca) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground’s suitability for group camping, emphasizing its spacious sites, clean facilities, and helpful camp host. Privacy and proximity to natural attractions like the reservoir and hiking trails are frequently mentioned as standout features.

Review Summaries

Based on 36 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean vault toilets, ample picnic tables, bear-proof storage containers, well-maintained cooking facilities, and scenic locations. Users often praise the helpfulness and friendliness of the camp...

Based on 36 reviews

Common Concerns

Distance from the reservoir (approximately 20 minutes on foot), occasional odors from vault toilets, mosquitoes, and instances of low water levels in the reservoir. Wasps were noted as a nuisance in...

Based on 36 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring insect repellent for mosquitoes; pack warm clothing for cooler water temperatures in early summer; use bear-proof storage containers; and drive to the swimming area instead of walking if...

Based on 36 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with cooler water temperatures in early summer and occasional insect activity. Winters are cold and wet due to the area’s Mediterranean climate, and camping is not...

Based on 36 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great group campground: lots of flat spots, roomy, shade. Great infrastructure.' 2. 'Stayed in group site Smokey. Really nice flat group site. Really liked how sunny the spot was.' 3. 'The trip...

Based on 36 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 1 (Kokanee) received praise for roominess and privacy: 'Site 1 had plenty of room for all of us, great separation from the other sites.' Site 4 (Smokey) was noted for its sunny location. The...

Based on 36 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility issues are not explicitly mentioned in user reviews or authoritative sources.

Based on 36 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not specifically mentioned in reviews or authoritative sources.

Based on 36 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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