Gates Group

Star4.46
15 reviews
22830 Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA 95631, USA
Family FriendlySummer Destination

Quick Facts

5,200 ft

Price

$82 - $165/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open from May 21, 20...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Opens American River Ranger District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Gates Group
$82.00 - $165.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group site fees range from $82.00 to $165.00 per night during peak season. Additional reservation fees apply, including an $8 fee for online...
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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$165.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
530-367-2224
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What Campers Say

4.46

Recommended

Based on 15 reviews

10 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciouslocation

Some mention

mosquitoes

"Overall, users are positive about the campground, highlighting its spaciousness, cleanliness, and serene environment. The lack of cell phone service and sightings of bears are commonly mentioned."

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Campground Map

22830 Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA 95631, USA

Gates Group

22830 Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA 95631, USA

Driving directionsMosquito Ridge Rd outside of Foresthill is closed. As of June 2023, access to French Meadows Reservoir for low clearance vehicles, trucks pulling any type of trailer, and motorhomes/RVs is best through Georgetown on the Eldorado National Forest, taking Wentworth Springs Rd to Eleven Pines Rd. High clearance vehicles may take Foresthill Rd to the 43 Rd (Robinson Flat Rd) to Mosquito Ridge Rd, snow permitting. Access from Soda Springs and the 43 Rd is not recommended for trucks with trailers, motorhomes/RV's or passenger vehicles that are not high clearance vehicles with four-wheel drive.
High clearance vehicles can access via Foresthill Rd to the 43 Rd (Robinson Flat Rd) to Mosquito Ridge Rd, weather permitting. Low clearance vehicles or trailers are advised to access through Georgetown on Wentworth Springs Rd to Eleven Pines Rd.
Nearby places
40 miles from Foresthill.
Nearby supplies
Foresthill, 40 miles away, offers gas, ice, and other camping essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Gates Group

Summer transforms Gates into an outdoor paradise where warm, sun-drenched days invite exploration before giving way to refreshingly cool mountain nights perfect for sleeping. While the area experiences its share of dramatic weather—from winter's heavy snowfall to occasional summer thunderstorms—the most magical camping moments arrive during those pristine weeks of clear skies and gentle breezes. Seasoned visitors know to pack layers, as mountain weather can shift from brilliant sunshine to misty coolness in the span of an afternoon, adding to the adventure of high-country camping.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 14% in CA

Open May–Sept; summer offers warm days, cool nights, and full activity access (swim/boat/hike).

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Open into late Sept but fall season is short and conditions/services may diminish.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.0 / 5

Opens late May; early spring likely snowy/wet and not typical for camping here.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is closed outside the May 21–Sept 30 season.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 21, 2025 - September 30, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 21, 2025, to September 30, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: Fire restrictions may apply during dry weather conditions. Mosquito Ridge Rd outside Foresthill is currently closed (as of June 2023).

About Gates Group

Deep in the heart of Tahoe National Forest, Gates Group Campground offers an escape into pristine wilderness where the North Fork American River whispers through ancient conifers. This secluded haven, perfect for family reunions and group adventures, sits alongside the sparkling waters of French Meadows Reservoir. Here, days unfold with endless possibilities—cast a line into crystal-clear waters, explore winding forest trails, or simply lose yourself in the profound quiet that only remote mountain camping can provide. Far from the crowds, this is where memories are made around crackling campfires under star-studded skies.
Gates Group Campground is designed primarily for group camping, offering three large sites suitable for gatherings.
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
  • Up to 15 nights during one visit
  • maximum of 15 nights per year.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The campground is a hub for outdoor recreation, offering activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, and biking. The proximity to the North Fork American River and Granite Chief Wilderness provides diverse opportunities for nature exploration and water-based recreation.
HikingSeveral hiking trails surround the area, including routes leading to the Granite Chief Wilderness, known for its historic aspen trees and secluded mountain passes. The Western States Trail offers opportunities for hikers, horseback riders, and adventurous mountain bikers.
ClimbingClimbing 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.
FishingFishing is a popular activity in the North Fork American River and the nearby French Meadows Reservoir. Specific types of fish are not mentioned in the sources.
SwimmingSwimming is supported in the North Fork American River and French Meadows Reservoir. No specific details about designated swimming areas are provided.
BikingBiking trails are accessible in the region, including challenging routes in the Western States Trail and Granite Chief Wilderness.
BoatingBoating and canoeing are popular activities, with two boat ramps located within three miles of the campground allowing easy access to the French Meadows Reservoir.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity noted in user reviews. "They didn't bother us though, so keep your food locked up!" (Brandi Garner). Mosquitoes and bull ants are commonly mentioned.
Active AlertsFire restrictions may apply during dry weather conditions. Mosquito Ridge Rd outside Foresthill is currently closed (as of June 2023).
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Gates Group

Reviews

4.5
15 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Gates Group is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users are positive about the campground, highlighting its spaciousness, cleanliness, and serene environment. The lack of cell phone service and sightings of bears are commonly mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praise the campground's cleanliness, spaciousness, and proximity to natural features like the river and reservoir. A reviewer noted, 'This location is perfect for groups. It has A...
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Based on 15 reviews

Common Concerns

The remote location and lack of cell phone reception are common concerns. Users also mentioned the presence of bull ants and mosquitoes. One review stated, 'This is a medium-level camping area, by...
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Based on 15 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend locking up food due to bear activity, bringing mosquito repellent, and driving to the lake instead of hiking. One tip shared, 'Keep your food locked up! Don’t count on reception.'
Based on 15 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is open from late May to late September, aligning with warm weather ideal for outdoor activities. Users note the cool nights and warm daytime temperatures during summer.
Based on 15 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Nice camp ground. Very deep in the forest with twisty road.' - Brandi Garner - 'Very, VERY, very remote. No cellphone. Campground was nice. Very quiet and spacious.' - Aaron Daniels - 'The...
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Based on 15 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

One user reviewed campsite 03 in the POND loop, giving it a 5-star rating, emphasizing its spaciousness, cleanliness, and proximity to the river.
Based on 15 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews from users with disabilities are available.
Based on 15 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

None of the reviews mention experiences with pets.
Based on 15 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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