Pines Stanislaus
4.4324 reviewsGROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA, 95321
Quick Facts
3,200 ftPrice
$25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
25 campsites
Season
Open from April 26, ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
3,200 ftPrice
$25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
25 campsites
Season
Open from April 26, ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsPines Stanislaus
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates are $25 per night during peak season (April 26, 2025 - October 13, 2025).
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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$25.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider801-226-3564info@americanll.com
What Campers Say
4.43
Recommended
Based on 24 reviews
27 Google reviews
Most mentioned
quietcleanfriendly
"Reviews praise the campground for its cleanliness, tranquility, and proximity to Yosemite. Vault toilets and water availability are appreciated, but some users noted issues such as ants in food storage lockers and loud campers late at night."
Fees & Passes at Pines Stanislaus
$25/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival for a refund minus a $10 cancellat...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official American Land and Leisure website.
Best Time to Camp at Pines Stanislaus
Experience the gentle rhythm of mountain seasons at Pines Campground, where summer days warm to a comfortable 61°F—perfect for hiking and exploration—while evenings cool to a refreshing 39°F, ideal for campfire conversations under star-filled skies. When winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, the campground welcomes hardy souls with free camping, though you'll need to bring your own water and supplies as amenities hibernate until spring's return.
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: April 26, 2025 - October 13, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from April 26, 2025, to October 13, 2025.
About Pines Stanislaus
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.
The campground accommodates a range of camping preferences, including tents and RVs. Cabin or group site options are not mentioned.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of mountain seasons at Pines Campground, where summer days warm to a comfortable 61°F—perfect for hiking and exploration—while evenings cool to a refreshing 39°F, ideal for campfire conversations under star-filled skies. When winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, the campground welcomes hardy souls with free camping, though you'll need to bring your own water and supplies as amenities hibernate until spring's return.
ElevationPerched at 3,200 feet in the Stanislaus National Forest, Pines Campground offers that sweet spot of mountain elevation—high enough to escape the valley heat, yet low enough to avoid the thin air of alpine heights. This moderate elevation creates an ideal climate for both relaxation and adventure throughout most of the camping season.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living cathedral of mixed conifers, where sunlight filters through branches to create a natural mosaic on the forest floor. The nearby Tuolumne River adds its ancient song to the wilderness symphony, inviting exploration along forested trails that wind through this pristine ecosystem. Whether you're seeking a quiet morning walk among the trees or an afternoon spent discovering hidden water features, the campground's natural setting provides endless opportunities for connection with the Sierra Nevada's timeless beauty.
Geological RegionPines Campground rests within the geological wonderland of the Sierra Nevada, where ancient granite meets verdant forest at 3,200 feet elevation. The mighty Tuolumne River, carving its 150-mile journey through the landscape, has shaped these mountains over millennia, creating the dramatic terrain that surrounds you. This mixed conifer forest represents millions of years of geological evolution, offering campers a chance to sleep among giants in one of California's most storied mountain ranges.
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Campsite details
Sites SizeMost sites are equipped with a large wooden table, two benches, and their own grill. Some campsites provide more shade and privacy than others.
Sites PrivacySeveral campsites are noted as slightly private, especially on the far left. Some spots may lack shade, according to user reviews.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider sites with shade for cooler temperatures in the summer. Sites on the far left offer more privacy, according to reviews.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
No group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are not arranged in a loop, and paths to bathrooms are unclear, as per user reviews.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 26, 2025, to October 13, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online platform.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are first-come, first-serve, according to user reviews. However, reservations are recommended during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival for a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee and reservation fees. Late cancellations after midnight 1 calendar day before check-in will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and winter sports. The area is ideal for exploring Yosemite and nearby wildernesses.
Hiking
The Little Golden Forest Trail offers a half-mile interpretive loop and a longer two-mile loop. Several easy to moderate trails are accessible nearby.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is available at the Tuolumne River, which is a short drive away. No specific details about fish species or fishing quality were provided.Swimming
Visitors can wade in the Tuolumne River. No designated swimming areas or additional facilities were mentioned.Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes activities in nearby Dodge Ridge, Bear Valley, and Badger Pass Ski Areas.Water Sports
No specific details about non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent pests.
Hazards
General hazardsUsers report the presence of bears and ants in bear boxes. Yellow jackets are also noted near water stations.
Weather at Pines Stanislaus
57
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely located in Groveland, approximately 9 miles away, including ranger stations and medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 26, 2025 - October 13, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash or recycling facilities, but users mention the campground is clean, suggesting adequate waste management practices.
Proximity to water featuresNear the Tuolumne River, flowing for 150 miles from the Sierra Nevada to the San Joaquin River.
Common complaintsComplaints include the presence of flies and ants in bear boxes, yellow jackets near water stations, and unclear paths to toilets.
HostUser reviews often mention the presence of a friendly and helpful host during the summer months.
Campground Map
GROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA, 95321
Driving directions9 miles east of Groveland on Old Highway 120, just east of the Groveland District office.
Accessible via Old Highway 120. Road conditions are not detailed but generally accessible year-round.Nearby places
Groveland (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Yosemite National Park boundary (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Groveland, including markets for firewood and other essentials.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
24 reviews
Pines Stanislaus is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews praise the campground for its cleanliness, tranquility, and proximity to Yosemite. Vault toilets and water availability are appreciated, but some users noted issues such as ants in food storage lockers and loud campers late at night.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
"Quiet atmosphere," "clean toilets," and "friendly camp hosts" are among the highlights. Many users also appreciated the site's proximity to Yosemite and local attractions like Rainbow Pools.
Based on 24 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints included the presence of flies and yellow jackets, lack of clear signage for vault toilets, and campers being loud at night. One user noted poor Wi-Fi quality.
Based on 24 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive before dark to locate paths to facilities. Bring earplugs in case of noisy neighbors and ensure all food is sealed to avoid ants and bear activity.
Based on 24 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention flies and yellow jackets, while winter reviews highlight the lack of water and toilet paper but note the campground's tranquility. Spring and fall are popular for milder...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "Cleanest pit toilets I've ever seen! Didn't even smell bad." - "Super close to Yosemite. Not hard to find a spot if you get here before sunset." - "Quiet, relaxed, with a caretaker in the...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The far-left campsites are noted for being slightly more private. No specific site numbers were mentioned.
Based on 24 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews explicitly mention accessibility features or experiences for campers with disabilities.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is described as dog-friendly, with several reviewers noting its pet-welcoming environment.
Based on 24 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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