How much does camping cost at Gates Group?

Camping fees at Gates Group are $82 - $165/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Gates Group first-come first-served or reservation?

Gates Group accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Gates Group before I book?

Yes! Gates Group has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Gates Group?

Gates Group is open May 14 to September 30. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Gates Group?

Gates Group does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Gates Group have?

Gates Group has 3 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Gates Group?

Pets are not allowed at Gates Group. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Gates Group?

Gates Group offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Gates Group?

Popular activities at Gates Group include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Gates Group

Q: Can I have a campfire at Gates Group?

Fire policies at Gates Group: Water systems are on and water is potable. Water Systems at remote recreation sites can be unreliable, it is highly recommended to bring additional drinking water for your stay. If water system fails the closest services are in Foresthill, 40 miles away. Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. For current fire conditions or weather closures contact the American River Ranger District (530) 367-. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.40

21 reviews

22830 Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA 95631, USA

Summer Destination

Featured in:Group Camping California

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

Book on American River Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

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

Book on American River Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Gates Group

$82.00 - $165.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC-Aspen, Lodgepole: $82.00; GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC-Ponderosa: $165.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee...

Group Site Fee$165.00

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Provider

530-367-2224

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

22830 Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA 95631, USA

Gates Group

22830 Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA 95631, USA

Nearby places

40 miles from Foresthill.

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.

Weather at Gates Group

Current alerts(7)

Click here for more information on the Tahoe National Forest
Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.
Due to a temporary disruption with our water system the campground currently has no potable water, but the water system should be operational soon. You will need to bring your own drinking water. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Due to a temporary disruption with our water system the campground currently has no potable water, but the water system should be operational soon. You will need to bring your own water or you may fill water jugs in the French Meadows Campground.

Best Time to Camp at Gates Group

Best season: summer. Summer delivers the most reliable weather and full access to French Meadows Reservoir — expect warm, sun‑filled days in the mid‑70s to low‑80s°F and crisp nights in the mid‑40s to low‑50s°F at 5,200 ft. This is peak time for boating, swimming, trout fishing, long alpine hikes and group gatherings at the campground when water levels are high and trails are clear. Weekends in July and August are busiest for the group sites, while September offers the same warm days with far fewer crowds and calmer Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season: summer; warm days, full reservoir access and listed as peak season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 14 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 21, 2025, to September 30, 2025.

About Gates Group

Gates Group sits at 5,200 feet in Tahoe National Forest, a single reservation-only group site operated by the American River Ranger District near French Meadows Reservoir. The spacious layout accommodates large gatherings with vault toilets, potable water, and direct access to swimming, boating, and fishing on the reservoir. Reviewers highlight exceptional cleanliness and elbow room, though the site is remote with no cell service.

Gates Group Campground is designed primarily for group camping, offering three large sites suitable for gatherings.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer delivers the most reliable weather and full access to French Meadows Reservoir — expect warm, sun‑filled days in the mid‑70s to low‑80s°F and crisp nights in the mid‑40s to low‑50s°F at 5,200 ft. This is peak time for boating, swimming, trout fishing, long alpine hikes and group gatherings at the campground when water levels are high and trails are clear. Weekends in July and August are busiest for the group sites, while September offers the same warm days with far fewer crowds and calmer Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation5200 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryConiferous forest surrounds the campground at 5,200 feet elevation. The North Fork American River runs nearby, and French Meadows Reservoir sits within reach. Though visitors suggest driving rather than hiking to the lake. The granite basin holds snowmelt in a landscape carved by glaciers. Reviewers consistently note how quiet and spacious the sites feel under the tree canopy. Bear sightings are common enough that campers warn about locking up food. Mosquitoes and bull ants appear in reviews as downsides to the otherwise peaceful setting.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo on-site hotel-style lodging or permanent accommodations are provided.

Programs & ActivitiesThere is no mention of cultural or educational programs being offered.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

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

Guests Allowed Per Site

25 for smaller sites
75 for larger sites.

Groups

The campground offers three group sites. Two accommodate up to 25 people and 8 vehicles each, while the third accommodates up to 75 people and 25 vehicles. User reviews describe the sites as spacious and suitable for large gatherings.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessibility features specific to individuals with disabilities are not mentioned in the available information.

Site SizeThe campground provides three group sites. Two sites accommodate up to 25 people and 8 vehicles each, while the third site accommodates up to 75 people and 25 vehicles.

PrivacyThe sites are described as quiet and spacious. One user review states, 'Very quiet and spacious.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesUser reviews suggest site 03 in Pond Loop for proximity to the river and spaciousness.

Need help booking Gates Group?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Gates Group Campground offers essential amenities suitable for group camping. The facilities include picnic tables, campfire circles, and grills at each site. Vault toilets are provided, and drinking water is available through a water spigot, though visitors are advised to bring extra drinking water due to potential water system unreliability. Trash collection services are available. A significant feature highlighted in user reviews is the cleanliness and adequacy of the facilities, with one user stating, 'Bathrooms are quite comfortable, and very clean. There was running water in many areas.'

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Things to do at Gates Group

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.

Fishing4.0/5

Fishing popular on North Fork American River and French Meadows Reservoir; ramps nearby.

Boating4.0/5

Boating/canoeing popular; two boat ramps within ~3 miles and reservoir access.

Hiking3.5/5

Several trails nearby, including routes toward the Granite Chief Wilderness.

Swimming3.5/5

Direct access to French Meadows Reservoir and North Fork river; swimming mentioned.

Biking3.5/5

Biking trails accessible, including challenging routes on the Western States Trail.

Water Sports3.5/5

Canoeing/boating popular on French Meadows Reservoir; ramps make kayaking viable.

Signature experiences

Stargazing3.5/5Remote location and lack of cell service at 5,200 ft suggest dark skies for stargazing.

Photography4.0/5Granite landscapes, reservoir, river and forest offer varied photogenic subjects.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; vault toilets are the sole option.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

Fire PolicyWater systems are on and water is potable. Water Systems at remote recreation sites can be unreliable, it is highly recommended to bring additional drinking water for your stay. If water system fails the closest services are in Foresthill, 40 miles away. Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. For current fire conditions or weather closures contact the American River Ranger District (530) 367-

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection services are available. Visitors are reminded to secure food and trash due to bear activity.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

21 reviews

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 21 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...

Based on 21 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...

Based on 21 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 21 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 21 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 21 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...

Based on 21 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

None of the reviews mention experiences with pets.

Based on 21 reviews

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Gates Group

$82.00 - $165.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC-Aspen, Lodgepole: $82.00; GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC-Ponderosa: $165.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee...

Group Site Fee$165.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

530-367-2224

Go if

You're planning a large group gathering and want reservoir access with plenty of space and solitude.

Skip if

You need cell reception, individual site reservations, or want to avoid mosquitoes and bull ants.

Nearby Campgrounds

22830 Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA, 95631

Ahart Campground sits in mid-elevation forest within Tahoe National Forest near French Meadows Reservoir, operated by the U.S. Forest Service. This small, budget-friendly campground offers primitive tent sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors come for fishing, boating on the reservoir, and hiking, with riverside sites providing extra space and privacy.

Gates Group

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Gates Group

Campground Map

Weather at Gates Group

Current alerts(7)

Best Time to Camp at Gates Group

Planning Tips

About Gates Group

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Gates Group?

Amenities available

Things to do at Gates Group

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

Explore related camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Gates Group

Current alerts(7)

Best Time to Camp at Gates Group

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Gates Group?

Amenities available

Things to do at Gates Group

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews