Stumpy Meadows
4.3553 reviewsELDORADO
Quick Facts
Price
$36 - $72/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
40 campsites
Season
Peak season runs fro...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$36 - $72/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
40 campsites
Season
Peak season runs fro...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsStumpy Meadows
$36.00 - $72.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation fees vary by location and activity. Standard Nonelectric sites are $36-$72 per night depending on occupancy and season. Reservation fees:...
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Standard Site Fee$36.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$36.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider831-245-6891
What Campers Say
4.35
Recommended
Based on 53 reviews
86 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanshadespaciousfriendly
Some mention
noisedusty
"User reviews highlight the campground's spacious sites, proximity to the reservoir, and clean facilities. Positive sentiments frequently mention the friendly campground hosts, while negative comments focus on occasional maintenance issues and camp host interactions."
Fees & Passes at Stumpy Meadows
$36 - $72/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum Consecutive Stay: 14 nights during a calendar year.
Cancellation: A $10 fee is withheld for cancellations. Late cancellation incurs an additional fee forfeiting the f...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Royal Elk Park Management website.
Best Time to Camp at Stumpy Meadows
Experience the best of California's Mediterranean climate in this mountain retreat, where golden summer days invite endless outdoor adventures and cool forest shade provides natural air conditioning when temperatures climb. As autumn arrives, crisp mornings give way to perfect hiking weather, while winter transforms the landscape into a peaceful wonderland of rain-washed forests and misty mornings. Spring brings wildflower blooms and rushing streams, making every season a unique chapter in your outdoor story.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Peak season runs from May 23 to August 31, 2025. First-come, first-served season begins September 1, 2025, and ends September 28, 2025. Out-of-season period is from September 28, 2025, to May 22, 2026.
- Current Alerts: Current restrictions include no campfires or charcoal BBQ due to drought conditions. Only gas grills permitted with a permit.
About Stumpy Meadows
Nestled beneath towering canopies of Ponderosa pine, fir, oak, and cedar, Stumpy Meadows Campground invites you to experience the serene beauty of California's forest wilderness. Each generously-sized campsite offers a private sanctuary within nature's embrace, where dappled sunlight filters through ancient branches. While the sparkling waters of Stumpy Meadows Reservoir await just a short stroll through the woods, the campground itself remains tucked into the forest, creating an intimate connection with the surrounding wilderness.
Stumpy Meadows Campground supports a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. It also offers group camping options suitable for larger gatherings.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time and discover the echoes of California's Gold Rush era, with the historic town of Georgetown—once proudly known as the 'Pride of the Mountains'—just 15 miles down the road. This former mining boomtown preserves the spirit of the 1800s with its charming Main Street and authentic architecture. Your adventure can extend to the legendary Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, where California's golden history began, or wind along the scenic El Dorado County Highway, where every turn reveals stunning vistas and stories of fortune seekers who once traversed these same mountain passes.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of California's Mediterranean climate in this mountain retreat, where golden summer days invite endless outdoor adventures and cool forest shade provides natural air conditioning when temperatures climb. As autumn arrives, crisp mornings give way to perfect hiking weather, while winter transforms the landscape into a peaceful wonderland of rain-washed forests and misty mornings. Spring brings wildflower blooms and rushing streams, making every season a unique chapter in your outdoor story.
ElevationElevation information unavailable.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of conifers where majestic Ponderosa pines stretch skyward alongside fragrant cedars, stately firs, and graceful oaks. The crystal-clear waters of the reservoir beckon water enthusiasts with perfect conditions for casting a line, taking a refreshing swim, or gliding across the surface in a kayak or canoe. As part of the expansive Eldorado National Forest, you'll have access to over 400 miles of trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, past hidden lakes, and alongside babbling rivers—each path offering its own rewards for the curious explorer.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural splendor of the Eldorado National Forest, where dense conifer forests create a living tapestry of Ponderosa pine, fir, oak, and cedar. This remarkable ecosystem thrives in the region's Mediterranean climate, characterized by sun-drenched summers perfect for outdoor adventures and rejuvenating winters that replenish the landscape. With over 400 miles of trails threading through the forest and countless pristine lakes and rivers scattered throughout, this geological wonderland offers endless opportunities to connect with California's diverse mountain environment, from ancient volcanic formations to glacier-carved valleys.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible sites and accessible water spigots, though the overall accessibility for individuals with disabilities is not extensively detailed.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious enough to accommodate multiple tents or RVs, as some visitors noted being able to fit four tents on a single site. However, some sites are sloped, which could make tent setup challenging.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are noted for their privacy due to spacing and natural underbrush. However, some sites are closer to trails, which may result in reduced privacy during busy periods.
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor easier accessibility and less maneuvering challenges, sites 3-16 are recommended for trailers. For level ground and shade, seek specific sites such as #6.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites must be occupied by checkout time the day following arrival.
Check-out
Sites must be vacated by 1 PM on the day of departure.
Stay Limit
Maximum Consecutive Stay: 14 nights during a calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One vehicle per single site. Most sites accommodate one extra vehicle for an additional fee.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are well spaced, offering ample privacy. No sites have direct water views, but walking trails lead to the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season runs from May 23 to August 31, 2025. First-come, first-served season begins September 1, 2025, and ends September 28, 2025. Out-of-season period is from September 28, 2025, to May 22, 2026.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites remain listed as FF for the entire season. You must be on-site to claim an FF site.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 fee is withheld for cancellations. Late cancellation incurs an additional fee forfeiting the first night’s use fee. No changes or refunds for Scan and Pay transactions. Refund requests require facility manager approval.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Stumpy Meadows Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and slow-paced motor boating. The crystal-clear reservoir is a major attraction for anglers targeting Rainbow and German Brown Trout as well as for swimmers looking for a refreshing dip. Wildlife viewing along the trails and near the water is also common.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible from the campground with over 400 miles of trails in the Eldorado National Forest.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with the reservoir stocked with Rainbow and German Brown Trout.Swimming
Swimming in the clear reservoir is a favorite summer activity. However, one review mentioned rocky conditions along the shoreline, making water shoes recommended.Biking
Biking trails are available and accessible, making it a good location for mountain biking enthusiasts.Boating
Boating activities are allowed, but motor boats are restricted to a 5 mph speed limit, making the lake ideal for kayaking and canoeing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, though specific species are not detailed in the reviews.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground has a seasonal closure during colder months.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular water sports at this campground, taking advantage of the reservoir's calm and clear waters.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during hot, dry weather conditions. Call (530) 644-6048 for current status.
- Quiet hours begin at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent; bring insect repellant. Dusty ground conditions can be challenging, especially in dry weather. The area has a history of roaches and pincher bugs during some seasons. Wildlife may be attracted to improperly stored food.
Active alertsCurrent restrictions include no campfires or charcoal BBQ due to drought conditions. Only gas grills permitted with a permit.
Weather at Stumpy Meadows
44
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Closest hospital and emergency services are located in Georgetown, CA, approximately 15 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities include dumpsters for waste disposal. Campers are advised to be mindful of waste management to maintain the campground's cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresThe reservoir is a short walk from the campground, and a boat ramp is located one mile away.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention dusty sites, poor management of noise levels, and unpleasant interactions with camp hosts. Others note maintenance issues with vault toilets and lack of drinkable water during some periods.
HostHost availability varies. Some reviews praise hosts for friendliness and cleanliness, while others report rude or confrontational behavior.
Campground Map
ELDORADO
Driving directionsFrom Placerville take Hwy 49 N for 1/2 mile, turn right on Hwy 193 to Georgetown. Take a right on main street in Georgetown and proceed 15 miles to the campground. From Auburn, Take Hwy 49 S to Cool, turn left on Hwy 193 to Georgetown, turn left on main street in Georgetown and proceed 15 miles to the campground.
Several of the curves in this campground are very hard to maneuver with a trailer because they are lined with large pines; If you are an inexperienced driver, sites 3 - 16 are the easiest to access (5th wheels maneuver the road more easily than other trailers). Roads are paved but can be challenging due to sharp curves and large trees.Nearby places
Georgetown is 15 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Georgetown, CA, located 15 miles from the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
53 reviews
Stumpy Meadows is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's spacious sites, proximity to the reservoir, and clean facilities. Positive sentiments frequently mention the friendly campground hosts, while negative comments focus on occasional maintenance issues and camp host interactions.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground's spacious and well-maintained sites, clean vault toilets, and shaded areas are highly praised. The friendly and accommodating camp hosts are also frequently mentioned positively.
Based on 53 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative feedback includes dusty campsites, inconsistent restroom maintenance, and occasional conflicts with camp hosts. Noise and privacy issues were also noted by some reviewers.
Based on 53 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent and water shoes for rocky shorelines. A reviewer suggested a shower tent for personal convenience. If planning to fish or kayak, arrive early to secure a good site close to...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular time for camping, with reviews frequently mentioning swimming and fishing activities. However, the hot and dry conditions lead to higher mosquito activity and dusty...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Bathrooms were clean, and the camp host was very helpful. He also showed us the trail that led to the lake." - Sharon Day. 2. "The campground is a little smaller than average but it is very well...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #28 was praised for having a great view and easy lake access. Site #13 was noted to be sloped, making it less ideal for tents. Site #33 lacked shade and was tight for larger trailers.
Based on 53 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are accessible campsites, but reviews do not provide further information about accessibility beyond parking and vault toilets.
Based on 53 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and some reviewers mentioned bringing their dogs. One noted finding a quiet spot for their dogs near the lake.
Based on 53 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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