Mi Wok Ranger District Campgrounds

Yosemite National Park

Escape the crowds and discover Tamarack Flat Campground, a hidden gem tucked three miles off Tioga Road where the wilderness beckons and simplicity reigns. This reservation-only sanctuary offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience with tent-only sites nestled among towering conifers. Each site comes equipped with the essentials—a sturdy picnic table for memorable meals under the stars, a fire pit for evening gatherings, and bear-proof food lockers to keep your provisions safe. Vault toilets provide basic facilities, but leave your expectations of modern amenities at the trailhead. With no cell service, internet, running water, or showers, Tamarack Flat invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature's rhythms.

PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389, USA

Nestled among towering evergreens, Crane Flat Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Yosemite experience without sacrificing essential comforts. This peaceful mountain retreat features thoughtfully designed sites with paved parking spurs and secure food storage lockers—essential in this wild landscape where curious bears and graceful deer frequently wander through camp. While you won't find electrical hookups or shower facilities here, the campground's flush toilets and welcoming atmosphere make it perfect for both tent campers and RV travelers who appreciate the simple pleasure of falling asleep to the whisper of pine boughs overhead.

PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389, USA

Escape the crowds and discover your own slice of wilderness at Hodgdon Meadow Campground, a tranquil haven nestled 25 miles northwest of bustling Yosemite Valley. Here, towering Red firs mingle with aromatic incense-cedars while majestic Ponderosa and Lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral overhead. Whether you're seeking solitude with family or planning a group adventure, this hidden gem offers the perfect basecamp for those who prefer their Yosemite experience with a side of serenity.

GROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA 95321, USA

Nestled in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest, Pines Group Campground offers an intimate tent-camping experience for groups of up to 50 adventurers. Just a scenic 15-mile drive from the majestic Yosemite National Park, this secluded haven serves as the perfect launching point for unforgettable wilderness expeditions. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout outing, or friends' retreat, this group-exclusive site provides the ideal blend of accessibility and natural immersion.

GROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA, 95321

Discover your perfect basecamp at Pines Campground, where towering conifers whisper secrets of the Sierra Nevada just 15 miles from Yosemite's eastern boundary. This peaceful retreat in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest offers adventurers an ideal launching point for exploring four spectacular wilderness areas—Yosemite National Park, Carson-Iceberg, Emigrant, and Mokelumne. At 3,200 feet elevation, you'll find all the essentials for a comfortable stay: sturdy vault toilets, convenient water spigots, shaded picnic tables, warming fire rings, and secure bear boxes to protect your provisions. Wake to the scent of pine and plan your next adventure from this strategic mountain haven.

9 miles east of Groveland on Old Highway 120, just east of the Groveland District office.

Nestled beneath towering conifers, Pines Campground offers an authentic Sierra Nevada camping experience just steps from the Groveland Ranger District Office. This peaceful retreat features well-appointed sites with picnic tables and campfire rings complete with grills, where evening stories and s'mores await. Modern vault toilets and refreshing potable water (available during summer months) ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. The campground serves as your gateway to the enchanting Little Golden Forest Trail, making it perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking a blend of accessibility and immersion in the forest.

34660 Evergreed Road, Dimond O CG #36, Groveland, CA, 95321, USA

Tucked away in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest, Lost Claim Campground offers an intimate escape with just 10 secluded sites that promise the perfect blend of rustic charm and adventure. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to the wonders of Yosemite National Park, a mere 15 miles down the road, while the melodic waters of the Tuolumne River provide a natural soundtrack to your wilderness retreat. Here, you'll discover the authentic Northern California camping experience—where towering trees shelter your site and starlit skies replace city lights.

GROVELAND, CA 95321

Nestled in a tranquil mixed conifer forest along Highway 120, Sweetwater Campground offers an intimate escape just moments from Yosemite National Park's wonders. This charming 12-site retreat welcomes both tent campers and RV travelers with thoughtfully appointed amenities including sturdy picnic tables, warming fire rings, and essential bear-proof storage boxes. Modern conveniences like accessible vault toilets and fresh potable well water ensure comfort without compromising the authentic outdoor experience.

34660 EVERGREEN ROAD

Nestled in the shadow of Yosemite National Park's grandeur, Dimond O Campground serves as your gateway to both the iconic park and the lesser-known treasure of Hetch Hetchy. This thoughtfully designed retreat balances modern conveniences with wilderness immersion, where paved roads lead to spacious sites equipped with level tent pads, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings. Bear-proof lockers protect your provisions while maintaining the delicate balance with local wildlife, and clean vault toilets ensure comfort during your stay. As one enchanted visitor noted, "The sites are well spaced apart, so you almost feel like you're alone in the wilderness" - a testament to the campground's masterful layout that grants each guest their own private slice of Sierra serenity.

Stanislaus National Forest

Hidden where the South Fork meets the legendary Tuolumne Wild & Scenic River, South Fork Campground offers an intimate escape into California's untamed wilderness. This remote riverside sanctuary sits just a mile from its sister sites at Lumsden and Lumsden Bridge, forming part of the cherished Tuolumne-Lumsden Recreation Area. Each thoughtfully placed campsite comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring with grill, perfect for riverside meals under towering trees. While vault toilets provide basic comfort, the campground's true luxury lies in its pristine isolation—there's no cell service here, just the ancient rhythm of flowing water. Adventurous souls can draw water directly from the river, though purification is essential before drinking from this wild source.

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Nestled in the heart of the Tuolumne Wild & Scenic River corridor, Lumsden Bridge Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. This secluded riverside retreat sits beneath a canopy of towering pines and ancient oaks, where each campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring complete with cooking grill. While the campground maintains a rustic charm with vault toilet facilities, adventurous souls will need to filter or treat water drawn from the crystal-clear Tuolumne River that flows nearby, adding an authentic wilderness touch to your camping experience.

TUTTLETOWN RECREATION AREA, 7200 REYNOLDS FERRY ROAD, SONORA, CA, 95370

Perched above the sparkling waters of New Melones Lake, Tuttletown Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its thoughtfully designed camping loops and endless recreational possibilities. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, casting a line from the shoreline, or exploring scenic hiking trails, this versatile destination offers modern amenities alongside natural beauty. Each camping loop presents its own character, from lakefront sites to secluded woodland spots, ensuring every visitor finds their perfect basecamp for adventure.

Stanislaus National Forest

Tucked into a pristine forest of towering mixed conifers just 1.5 miles from the sparkling waters of Cherry Valley Dam, Cherry Valley Campground offers an intimate escape into the Sierra Nevada wilderness. With 41 single-family sites and five spacious double-family sites, this hidden gem welcomes both tent campers seeking a traditional outdoor experience and small RV adventurers looking for a scenic basecamp. Wake up to the whisper of wind through pine boughs, spend your days exploring the crystal-clear waters of Cherry Lake, and fall asleep under a canopy of stars in this tranquil mountain retreat where fishing, swimming, and water sports await just minutes from your campsite.

Hacienda Campground, River Ranch, Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled in a tranquil shaded meadow where Basin Creek meets the North Fork Tuolumne River, River Ranch - Hacienda Campground offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness charm. This unique destination seamlessly combines public and private lands, providing campers with sweeping scenic vistas while serving as your gateway to the expansive National Forest. Whether you're seeking riverside relaxation or mountain adventure, this campground positions you at the heart of nature's playground.

GLORY HOLE RECREATION AREA, 6503 Whittle Ranch Road

Perched above the sparkling waters of New Melones Lake, Glory Hole Recreation Area beckons adventurers with 144 scenic campsites that promise both serenity and excitement. Wake up to stunning lake vistas, lace up your boots for nearby hiking trails, or launch into a day of water sports—all from your basecamp in this peaceful Sierra foothill paradise. Whether you're seeking quiet reflection by the water's edge or action-packed days on the lake, Glory Hole delivers the perfect blend of tranquility and outdoor adventure.

Stanislaus National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest, Hull Creek Campground offers an intimate escape where towering sequoias create a natural cathedral overhead. A gentle creek meanders through this hidden gem, its babbling waters providing a soothing soundtrack to your wilderness retreat. Adventure seekers will appreciate the direct access to thrilling OHV trails that wind through the surrounding forest, while those seeking tranquility can simply bask in the dappled sunlight filtering through ancient branches.

Stanislaus National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of the forest, Fraser Flat Campground offers an intimate riverside retreat along the meandering South Fork Stanislaus River. This hidden gem features two secluded campsites perfect for those seeking solitude, complemented by modern vault toilet facilities and two thoughtfully designed accessible fishing piers that bring anglers of all abilities right to the water's edge.

Stanislaus National Forest

Tucked away in California's pristine wilderness, this hidden gem along the Middle Fork Stanislaus River offers an authentic escape into nature. Discovered by fortunate travelers who stumble upon its secluded beauty, the campground has earned glowing praise from visitors who describe it simply as 'beautiful' - though that single word hardly captures the magic of this riverside retreat.

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled along the southwest shore of the sparkling 300-acre Pinecrest Lake, Meadowview Campground welcomes you at 5,600 feet elevation in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, just 30 miles east of Sonora. Step from your campsite to discover a sandy beach, full-service marina, and scenic hiking trails, with the convenience of both reservable sites (loops 300-400) and first-come, first-served options (loops 100-200).

STANISLAUS, CA, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Pinecrest Recreational Area, Pioneer Trail Group Campground welcomes gatherings of up to 100 adventurers seeking the perfect basecamp for Sierra Nevada exploration. Just 2 miles from the sparkling waters of Pinecrest Lake, this spacious group site serves as your gateway to endless mountain adventures—from early morning fishing expeditions and leisurely boat rides to challenging hiking trails that wind through ancient forests and granite peaks.

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled within the pristine Pinecrest Basin of Stanislaus National Forest, Meadowview Campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts to its 100 thoughtfully designed sites, each featuring paved parking pads, sturdy picnic tables, and stone-ringed fire pits perfect for evening gatherings. Just a scenic mile from the sparkling waters of Pinecrest Lake, this mountain retreat combines the convenience of modern amenities—including potable water hydrants and clean flush toilets—with the timeless appeal of California's high country. Whether you're a family seeking adventure or a solo traveler craving tranquility, Meadowview offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada escape.

18 Pinecrest Lake Road

Nestled alongside the sparkling waters of Pinecrest Lake, Pinecrest Campground stands as one of the Sierra Nevada's most beloved outdoor destinations. This expansive facility draws families seeking adventure and nature lovers yearning for mountain serenity. Days here unfold with children's laughter echoing from the shoreline, hikers setting off on scenic trails, and evenings culminating in captivating programs at the campground's amphitheater. Whether you're paddling across the lake's pristine surface or simply relaxing beneath towering pines, Pinecrest offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra adventure.

Stanislaus National Forest

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada foothills, TeleLi puLaya (Black Oak) Campground invites you to experience nature from a fresh perspective. This thoughtfully renovated retreat, which welcomed its first guests in 2014, combines modern convenience with untamed beauty. Smooth paved roads wind through the property, leading to comfortable parking pads that serve as your gateway to adventure. From your campsite, the dramatic Stanislaus River Canyon unfolds before you, offering breathtaking vistas that change with each passing hour of sunlight.

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled at the southern shores of Beardsley Reservoir, just below the impressive Beardsley Dam, this intimate 16-site campground offers a perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty. The thoughtfully designed sites feature paved parking pads along the main road, while those seeking a bit more seclusion can opt for the gravel walk-in sites tucked among the trees. Each site comes equipped with a sturdy picnic table and fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Modern vault toilets, fresh potable water, and regular trash service ensure comfort during your stay. While no formal trails connect directly to the reservoir, the proximity to the water creates an atmosphere of tranquility that permeates the entire campground.

Stanislaus National Forest

Escape to the tranquil embrace of Herring Creek Campground, where seven intimate campsites await beneath a canopy of towering mixed conifers. This rustic retreat offers an authentic back-to-nature experience, with each site thoughtfully equipped with a sturdy picnic table and stone fire ring for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground's dirt roads wind through the forest, leading to spacious parking areas that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. While modern amenities are limited—with vault toilets and no potable water on-site—this simplicity is part of the charm, encouraging visitors to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the wilderness.

1170 E. Hwy. 4, Arnold, CA 95223

Nestled beneath a canopy of towering pines and ancient oaks, Oak Hollow Campground invites you to experience the tranquil beauty of Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite offers natural shade and a sense of seclusion, while modern conveniences like hot showers, clean restrooms, and secure bear lockers ensure your comfort and safety in this wilderness sanctuary.

1170 E. Hwy. 4, Arnold, CA 95223

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.

Stanislaus National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of a towering mixed conifer forest, Cascade Creek Campground offers an intimate escape for those seeking solitude along scenic Highway 108. This charming self-serve campground features 14 thoughtfully spaced sites, each nestled among the trees and equipped with a sturdy picnic table and traditional fire ring for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground maintains its rustic charm with natural dirt roads and parking areas that blend seamlessly into the forest floor. While you'll need to bring your own drinking water, clean vault-style restrooms are conveniently located throughout the grounds, ensuring comfort without compromising the authentic wilderness experience.

Calaveras Big Trees State Park, California

Nestled among ancient giants, Calaveras Big Trees State Park Group Campground invites you to gather your favorite people in one of California's most awe-inspiring settings. Choose between two thoughtfully designed group areas: the Lower Group Campsite, embraced by ferns and forest shadows, or the Upper Group Campsite, where sunlight filters through the canopy overhead. Both sanctuaries offer a perfect blend of wilderness immersion and modern conveniences, creating an ideal basecamp for groups seeking to reconnect with nature and each other beneath the protective boughs of millennium-old sequoias.

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled among towering conifers and graced by a stunning grove of quaking aspens, Mill Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of the forest. Just 14 miles from Summit Ranger Station along scenic Highway 108, this peaceful retreat features 17 well-spaced sites, each thoughtfully equipped with a picnic table and fire ring for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground maintains its rustic charm with natural dirt roads and parking areas that blend seamlessly into the forest landscape. While vault toilets provide necessary facilities, visitors should note that this is a dry campground without potable water—perfect for those seeking a more authentic wilderness experience where you'll need to bring your own water supply.

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled within a serene mixed conifer forest, Niagara OHV Campground offers outdoor enthusiasts a perfect basecamp for adventure. To reach this woodland retreat, journey along Highway 108 and watch for Eagle Meadow Road (5N01) approximately 15 miles past the Summit Ranger Station. A scenic 3-mile drive down Eagle Meadow Road reveals your destination, where towering pines and firs create a natural canopy overhead.

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled along the pristine banks of the Stanislaus River, Deadman Campground offers an intimate escape with 17 thoughtfully placed campsites, including two secluded walk-in sites perfect for those seeking extra solitude. A smooth paved road guides you into this riverside retreat, where dirt-surfaced parking pads blend naturally with the forest floor. Modern conveniences meet rustic charm with well-maintained vault toilets and fresh water available from piped hydrants throughout the grounds.

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Nestled within a cathedral of towering conifers and ancient oaks, Wakalu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape along the rushing waters of the North Fork Stanislaus River. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, welcoming adventurers seeking primitive camping experiences where the sounds of the river replace the noise of modern life. Whether you arrive by vehicle or trek in on foot, you'll discover a tranquil sanctuary where nature sets the pace.

Stanislaus National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of a towering mixed conifer forest, Niagara Creek Campground offers adventurers a true escape from the modern world. Ten intimate campsites dot this secluded haven, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground's dirt roads wind through the trees, leading to parking pads that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. While amenities remain rustic with vault-style toilets and no potable water—encouraging a genuine back-to-nature experience—visitors consistently praise this hidden gem as "awesome, well-kept, quiet, and remote." It's the perfect basecamp for those seeking solitude and simplicity in the wilderness.

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled in the heart of a towering mixed conifer forest, Baker Campground offers an authentic Sierra Nevada camping experience along the pristine banks of the Stanislaus River. This well-appointed campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts with smoothly paved main roads that wind through the forest, leading to spacious dirt-surfaced camping pads equipped with sturdy picnic tables and traditional fire rings perfect for evening gatherings. Modern vault toilets are conveniently placed throughout the grounds, while fresh, clean drinking water flows from hydrants serving select campsites, ensuring comfort meets wilderness in this riverside retreat.

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled along the pristine banks of the Stanislaus River, Eureka Valley Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with 28 thoughtfully spaced campsites carved from the forest floor. This hidden gem features dirt-surfaced sites that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, including two spacious double sites perfect for families traveling together and four secluded walk-in sites for those seeking a more immersive wilderness experience. The campground maintains a rustic charm with vault toilet facilities and three hand-pump wells that provide fresh mountain water, allowing visitors to disconnect from modern life while staying comfortably equipped for their outdoor adventure.

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Tucked away along the pristine banks of the Stanislaus River, Pigeon Flat Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just seven walk-in sites. This rustic retreat invites you to leave your vehicle at the dirt parking area and venture on foot beyond the main gate, where each campsite awaits with its own table and metal fire ring. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with vault toilets and no potable water—so pack plenty for your stay—the reward is an authentic wilderness experience where the river's gentle melody becomes your soundtrack.

Stanislaus National Forest

Escape to the tranquil embrace of Dardanelle Campground, where 28 thoughtfully designed campsites await beneath a canopy of towering conifers. This riverside retreat offers something for every camping style, from spacious double sites perfect for family gatherings to secluded walk-in sites for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature. The gentle sounds of the Stanislaus River provide a natural soundtrack to your stay, while modern conveniences like vault toilets and fresh piped water ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. Two scenic trails wind their way from the campground down to the river's edge, inviting exploration and offering prime spots for fishing, swimming, or simply soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere.

Stanislaus National Forest

Tucked away along the winding banks of the Stanislaus River, Brightman Flat Campground offers a serene escape into California's high country. This rustic retreat features 33 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring for evening gatherings under the stars. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with vault toilets and no running water, it rewards visitors with the authentic sounds of the rushing river and whispering conifers. Two separate entrances provide easy access via well-maintained dirt roads, making this hidden gem accessible yet wonderfully secluded, just 22 miles east of Pinecrest along scenic Highway 108.

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled within a tranquil mixed conifer forest, Boulder Flat Campground offers an enchanting riverside retreat along the pristine waters of the Stanislaus River. Here, towering pines and firs create a natural canopy overhead while the gentle sounds of flowing water provide a soothing soundtrack to your wilderness escape. This riverside haven perfectly balances accessibility with the authentic feel of backcountry camping, making it an ideal basecamp for both relaxation and adventure.

/Clark Fork Road, Stanislaus National Forest

Escape to the serene heights of Fence Creek Campground, where 38 secluded sites nestle among towering mixed conifers high above the rushing waters of the Clark Fork of the Stanislaus River. This rustic mountain retreat offers the perfect blend of wilderness solitude and basic amenities, with each site featuring its own picnic table and fire ring for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground's dirt roads and parking pads preserve the natural character of the forest, while vault toilets provide necessary facilities. As this is a true backcountry experience, visitors should come prepared with their own water supply – a small price to pay for the tranquility and authentic connection with nature that awaits.

Stanislaus National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of adventure country, Black Springs OHV Campground serves as the perfect basecamp for off-road enthusiasts seeking their next thrilling ride. Eight thoughtfully designed campsites await, each outfitted with essential amenities including sturdy fire rings for evening gatherings, spacious picnic tables for outdoor dining, and secure bear boxes to protect your provisions. With direct access to the renowned Black Springs OHV trail system just steps away, you'll wake up to the promise of dusty trails and mountain adventures right outside your tent flap.

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Nestled in the heart of the Stanislaus National Forest, Clark Fork Campground welcomes adventurers with two distinct camping experiences across its thoughtfully designed A-Loop and B-Loop sections. The smaller, intimate A-Loop offers 28 sites including three spacious double sites, perfect for families camping together, while the expansive B-Loop provides 60 sites with six double sites for larger groups. Every campsite comes complete with its own sturdy picnic table and traditional campfire ring, where countless stories have been shared under starlit skies. Smooth paved roads and parking pads make arrival effortless, while modern amenities blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings—vault toilets serve the cozy A-Loop, and convenient flush toilets accommodate the busier B-Loop.

9.3 miles southeast of Highway 4 on Spicer Reservoir Road (7N01)

Nestled among towering pines at the edge of the pristine Spicer Reservoir, this group campground offers an ideal mountain retreat for families, scout troops, and outdoor organizations. Managed by Royal Elk Park Management, the facility seamlessly blends modern amenities with natural beauty, featuring a spacious covered shelter perfect for group gatherings, dedicated cooking areas with multiple fireplaces, and a charming primitive amphitheater where evening programs and campfire stories come to life under the stars. The thoughtfully designed layout includes ample parking and ensures groups can enjoy both togetherness and the peaceful Sierra Nevada surroundings.

Stanislaus National Forest

Hidden deep in the rugged backcountry where only 4x4 vehicles dare to venture, Sand Flat Campground offers an exclusive wilderness experience for the most adventurous souls. This remote sanctuary features six intimate campsites, each thoughtfully appointed with sturdy picnic tables and traditional campfire rings where stories and s'mores come to life under starlit skies. Currently closed to visitors, this off-the-grid gem sits peacefully along the pristine North Fork of the Stanislaus River, waiting to welcome those brave enough to navigate the challenging terrain that guards its forest sanctuary.

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled along the scenic Clark Fork Road east of Pinecrest, Sand Flat Campground welcomes campers with 68 thoughtfully spaced sites—53 for vehicles and 15 tucked away for those seeking a walk-in experience. Whether you're pulling in with your gear or hiking to your spot, you'll find the essentials waiting: picnic tables for al fresco meals, fire rings for evening gatherings, vault toilets including accessible units, and four hand-pump wells delivering fresh, potable water straight from the mountain.

STANISLAUS

Perched at 6,400 feet in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest, Big Meadow Campground offers a front-row seat to nature's grand theater. Wake to the chirping of mountain birds and the sight of curious marmots scurrying among granite boulders, while deer graze peacefully in nearby meadows. This alpine sanctuary invites you to spend your days exploring scenic hiking trails, enjoying leisurely picnics beneath towering pines, or venturing to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Alpine and Spicer Meadow Reservoir for fishing and paddling adventures. As evening falls, watch for coyotes silhouetted against the sunset and listen to the wilderness come alive under star-studded skies.

Big Meadow Campground, Stanislaus National Forest, California

Escape to Big Meadow Campground, where towering red firs and whispering lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest. This hidden gem on the Calaveras Ranger District offers campers an authentic Sierra Nevada experience, with spacious sites tucked among ancient trees and dramatic granite outcrops. Here, morning light filters through the canopy while quaking aspens dance in the breeze, creating the perfect backdrop for your mountain adventure. Just minutes from the crystal waters of Lake Alpine and the legendary giant sequoias of Calaveras Big Trees State Park, Big Meadow serves as your peaceful basecamp for exploring some of California's most treasured landscapes.

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Nestled within a towering conifer forest, Stanislaus River Campground offers an authentic Sierra Nevada camping experience along the pristine North Fork of the Stanislaus River. This intimate 25-site campground provides a perfect basecamp for exploring the nearby Spicer Reservoir area, with each site thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and access to hand-pumped water and vault toilets. While the campground embraces a rustic charm, visitors should note that some facilities may show signs of wear, adding to the authentic wilderness experience.

Utica Reservoir campgrounds, Stanislaus National Forest, California

Nestled in the heart of a pristine granite basin, Utica Reservoir offers two distinct camping experiences through its Sandy Flat and Rocky Point campgrounds. This alpine gem captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters dotted with mysterious islands and dramatic granite slabs that cascade into the reservoir like nature's own stepping stones. Towering red firs and lodgepole pines create a natural amphitheater around this mountain sanctuary, where each campsite promises both adventure and tranquility.

18 Pinecrest Lake Road

Stanislaus National Forest

1170 E. Hwy. 4, Arnold, CA 95223

1170 E. Hwy. 4, Arnold, CA 95223

GLORY HOLE RECREATION AREA, 6503 Whittle Ranch Road

Stanislaus National Forest

Stanislaus National Forest

34660 EVERGREEN ROAD

GROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA, 95321

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GROVELAND, CA 95321

STANISLAUS, CA, USA

34660 Evergreed Road, Dimond O CG #36, Groveland, CA, 95321, USA

TUTTLETOWN RECREATION AREA, 7200 REYNOLDS FERRY ROAD, SONORA, CA, 95370

STANISLAUS

GROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA 95321, USA

Stanislaus National Forest

Hacienda Campground, River Ranch, Stanislaus National Forest

Stanislaus National Forest

Stanislaus National Forest

INYO, CA, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Big Pine Canyon offers adventurers a gateway to some of California's most dramatic alpine wilderness. This stunning canyon serves as your basecamp for exploring ancient glaciers, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and towering granite peaks that pierce the sky at over 14,000 feet. Whether you're seeking challenging mountaineering routes or peaceful streamside camping, Big Pine Canyon delivers an authentic High Sierra experience that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the sheer beauty surrounding you.

1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Tucked into a scenic bend along the melodious Lee Vining Creek, Big Bend Campground invites adventurers to claim one of its 17 intimate campsites within the majestic Inyo National Forest. This hidden gem serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to both Yosemite's stunning Tuolumne Meadows entrance and the otherworldly landscapes of Mono Basin Scenic Area. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets, fresh potable water, and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure both comfort and wildlife safety during your stay.

Modoc National Forest

Nestled at the gateway to the South Warner Wilderness, Pepperdine Campground offers three distinct camping experiences in one remarkable location. Equestrian enthusiasts will discover a dedicated horse camp complete with convenient stock water and pole stalls at select sites. The trailhead staging area beckons adventurers with ample parking and corrals, serving as your launching point into the wilderness. For those seeking a more intimate experience, a cozy family camping loop awaits beneath a canopy of ancient fir trees. As a pack-it-in, pack-it-out facility, Pepperdine encourages visitors to embrace Leave No Trace principles while immersing themselves in this pristine mountain environment.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Gather your favorite people at Camp 4 Group Campsite, where up to 35 adventurers can create lasting memories together in the heart of nature. This thoughtfully developed campground welcomes groups with everything needed for the perfect outdoor gathering – spacious picnic tables for shared meals under towering trees, crackling fire pits for evening storytelling, convenient vault toilets, and regular garbage collection that lets you focus on what matters most: quality time with friends and family.

Upper Soda Springs Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Nestled in the heart of Reds Meadow Valley, Upper Soda Springs Campground offers an intimate escape where the melodic San Joaquin River becomes your constant companion. This tranquil retreat features 28 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with bear-proof lockers, picnic tables, and access to pristine pit toilets and fresh potable water. Adventure beckons from every direction—cast a line into the crystal-clear river waters, set out on scenic trails that wind through ancient forests, or venture to the nearby geological wonder of Devil's Postpile National Monument and the breathtaking cascade of Rainbow Falls.

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Saddle up for an unforgettable equestrian adventure at Los Vaqueros Group Horse Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern camping comfort. This specialized horse-friendly retreat beckons riders and their four-legged companions with direct access to the legendary California Riding and Hiking Trail. Well-appointed horse corrals ensure your equine partners rest as comfortably as you do, making this the perfect basecamp for exploring miles of scenic trails that wind through California's stunning backcountry.

Doran Regional Park

Nestled along a stunning 2-mile stretch of sandy beach on Bodega Bay, Doran Regional Park Campground offers 112 year-round campsites where the Pacific Ocean meets coastal adventure. With five distinct camping zones ranging from harbor-side spots to tent-only areas, this family-friendly destination combines beach camping with exceptional access to fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Whether you're launching your kayak into the bay, exploring tide pools along the rock jetty, or simply enjoying soft sand and mellow surf, Doran delivers a quintessential California coastal camping experience.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked into a peaceful inlet at Lake Pillsbury's northwestern corner, this campground offers the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and easy water access. Just a short stroll from your campsite, the shimmering waters of Mendocino National Forest's largest lake beckon with endless possibilities for adventure. Whether you're launching your boat from the nearby ramp at dawn, casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, or taking an afternoon swim, this scenic basecamp puts you at the heart of one of Northern California's most beloved recreational lakes.

17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott CA 95571

Escape into the cathedral-like sanctuary of Hamilton Barn Environmental Campground, where primitive hike-in campsites nestle beneath towering old-growth redwoods. This hidden gem rewards adventurous souls with unparalleled privacy and profound solitude, offering a rare chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's ancient rhythms.

CA-108, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, California

Nestled along the scenic Sonora Pass on CA-108, Sonora Bridge Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 22 tranquil sites carved into a landscape of towering Jeffrey pines and aromatic sagebrush. Here, where the melodious West Walker River flows just steps away, anglers cast their lines into pristine waters while hikers set off to explore the dramatic high country. This rustic mountain retreat offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventures, complete with firewood available on-site to fuel evening campfires under star-studded skies.