Upper Chiquito Campground
04 reviewsBass Lake Ranger District, Sierra National Forest, California
Quick Facts
6,800 ftPrice
Free
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
11 campsites
Season
Open Memorial Day we...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
6,800 ftPrice
Free
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
11 campsites
Season
Open Memorial Day we...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Upper Chiquito Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fee for camping. The site is free and operates as a pack-in, pack-out location.
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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What Campers Say
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Limited Reviews
Based on 4 reviews
10 Google reviews
Some mention
noise
"User reviews for Upper Chiquito Campground highlight its remote and rustic nature, with activities such as fishing and ATV riding being popular. However, the maintenance of facilities and the presence of noisy ATVs and dirt bikes are common complaints."
Fees & Passes at Upper Chiquito Campground
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay is 14 days.
Cancellation: Null
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Sierra National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Upper Chiquito Campground
Experience the dynamic mountain climate that shifts dramatically with the seasons at Upper Chiquito. From July through October, enjoy mild days perfect for hiking and exploration, though visitors should remain aware of potential wildfire conditions during these drier months. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, bringing crisp mountain air and the peaceful silence that only comes with fresh snowfall. Early spring visitors should come prepared for lingering cold temperatures and possible snow, making this a true four-season adventure destination.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
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: July through September (weather-dependent). Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day - weather dependent
- Current Alerts: Site currently closed due to downed hazard trees.
About Upper Chiquito Campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of Upper Chiquito Campground, where rustic charm meets mountain serenity along the babbling waters of Chiquito Creek. This hidden gem offers 11 intimate tent sites, each thoughtfully equipped with a table and fire ring for authentic outdoor living. With its dispersed-style layout and undeveloped character, Upper Chiquito provides a genuine back-to-nature experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity in the Sierra Nevada wilderness.
Upper Chiquito Campground supports tent camping. There are 11 tent sites available, and the campground has a rustic, dispersed layout.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time and discover a piece of mountain history at the 1952 survival cabin, a testament to the rugged individuals who once called these mountains home. This weathered structure stands as a silent witness to decades of Sierra Nevada history, offering visitors a tangible connection to the pioneering spirit that shaped this wilderness region.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic mountain climate that shifts dramatically with the seasons at Upper Chiquito. From July through October, enjoy mild days perfect for hiking and exploration, though visitors should remain aware of potential wildfire conditions during these drier months. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, bringing crisp mountain air and the peaceful silence that only comes with fresh snowfall. Early spring visitors should come prepared for lingering cold temperatures and possible snow, making this a true four-season adventure destination.
ElevationPerched at 6,800 feet in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, Upper Chiquito offers a refreshing mountain retreat where crisp air and cooler temperatures provide welcome relief from valley heat. This elevated paradise treats visitors to stunning alpine vistas and the invigorating atmosphere that only high-country camping can provide.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a mountain oasis where Chiquito Creek winds through verdant meadows, creating a pristine habitat for diverse wildlife. The crystal-clear waters provide a soothing soundtrack to your camping experience, while the surrounding lush grasslands offer exceptional opportunities for wildlife observation and photography. Please help preserve this delicate ecosystem by staying on designated paths and respecting the sensitive creek habitat that makes this area so special.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the majestic Sierra Nevada landscape at 6,800 feet, where granite peaks frame expansive views and Chiquito Creek carves its ancient path through meadowed valleys. This stunning geological tapestry creates an ideal backdrop for wildlife watching, with the elevation providing a unique ecosystem where mountain and meadow converge in perfect harmony.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features or wheelchair-friendly facilities were mentioned.
Sites SizeNo explicit information on site sizes was provided.
Sites PrivacySites have an informal, dispersed layout along the creek, providing a rustic and undeveloped feel. Privacy levels were not explicitly mentioned.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from ATV trails for a quieter camping experience.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time.
Check-out
No specific check-out time.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum group size is 6 per site.
Groups
- Group camping is not supported
- each site accommodates a maximum of 6 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are dispersed along Chiquito Creek for about 0.5 miles. Informal layout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day - weather dependent
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available. Walk-up only.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up only. No reservations are accepted.
Cancellation PolicyNull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Upper Chiquito Campground offers opportunities for picnicking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and ATV riding. Its proximity to natural features like Chiquito Creek and lush meadows adds to its appeal.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available, particularly for rainbow trout. A user review noted fishing is better during wet years.Wildlife viewing
Lush meadows in the area provide opportunities for wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
No winter-specific recreational activities are listed.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned or supported.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within provided fire rings. Always follow local fire safety guidelines.
- Quiet hours are None specified.
Hazards
General hazardsKey hazards include downed hazard trees, loud ATVs and dirt bikes, and potential interactions with bears. User reviews warn of "breathing fumes constantly" from vehicle usage.
Active alertsSite currently closed due to downed hazard trees.
Weather at Upper Chiquito Campground
52
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Limited groceries, gas, and conversation are available at Jones Store south of the campground. Emergency services would likely be in Oakhurst or surrounding areas.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly through September (weather-dependent)
Trash and recyclingPack it in, pack it out policy is enforced, but there is garbage service at the entrance of the campground.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Chiquito Creek, which is a defining feature of the site.
Common complaints"Facilities are in shambles, even for a remote site." Complaints include noise from ATVs and dirt bikes, lack of potable water, and aging infrastructure.
HostNo information about campground hosts was provided.
Campground Map
Bass Lake Ranger District, Sierra National Forest, California
Driving directionsTake Hwy 41 north from Fresno; continue thru Oakhurst to Road 222. Turn right on Road 222; travel approximately 5 miles to the Beasore Road, turn left and continue north on Beasore Road (5S07) approximately 15 miles, turn left at sign to campground.
"Road is a little sketchy in places but trailers seem to make it ok on the high road." User reviews mention the road can be "hairy" but "not difficult to find." Beasore Road is a key access point. Seasonal closures due to downed hazard trees and weather-dependent openings.Nearby places
Oakhurst (approx. 23 miles, ~45-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Jones Store along Sierra Vista Scenic Byway provides limited groceries and gas. Further supplies could be acquired in Oakhurst, ~23 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
4 reviews
Upper Chiquito Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Upper Chiquito Campground highlight its remote and rustic nature, with activities such as fishing and ATV riding being popular. However, the maintenance of facilities and the presence of noisy ATVs and dirt bikes are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the campground's remote and rustic setting. Fishing, picnicking, and ATV trails are commonly mentioned as enjoyable activities. The creek and surrounding meadows received positive...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include loud ATVs and dirt bikes disrupting the peace, poorly maintained facilities, and the need to be fully self-sufficient due to the lack of water and trash services.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring all necessary supplies, including water, and ensure they are prepared for a remote and rustic camping experience. Proper food storage is essential as this is bear country. One...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Summer months may see better fishing opportunities during wet years. ATVs and dirt bikes may be more prevalent during...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Typically a very quiet rustic CG with no trash service, no water, and vault toilets.' - Leroy Grider
2. 'Facilities are in shambles, even for a remote site, be prepared to be fully...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites are not numbered in reviews, but the layout along the creek and the dispersed nature of the campground are highlighted.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mentioning pet policies or experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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