Big Meadow - Us Forest Service Stanislaus National Forest (Ca)
4.5814 reviewsSTANISLAUS
Quick Facts
6,400 ftPrice
$19 - $75/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
65 campsites
Season
Open season is June ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
6,400 ftPrice
$19 - $75/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
65 campsites
Season
Open season is June ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Big Meadow - Us Forest Service Stanislaus National Forest (Ca)
$19.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Seasonal fees range from $19 for individual sites (both standard nonelectric and tent-only nonelectric) to $75 for group tent-only area.
Standard Site Fee$19.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$94.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider209-795-1381
What Campers Say
4.58
Top-Rated
Based on 14 reviews
28 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewscleanspaciouslake
Some mention
noise
"User reviews for Big Meadow Campground are generally positive, with an average sentiment of 4.357 out of 5. Highlights include the scenic environment, spacious campsites, and activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing. However, some issues were noted, including noise from Highway 4 and occasional maintenance lapses."
Fees & Passes at Big Meadow - Us Forest Service Stanislaus National Forest (Ca)
$19 - $75/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: A $10 cancellation fee applies, with additional penalties for late cancellations, including forfeitu...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official US Forest Service Stanislaus National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Big Meadow - Us Forest Service Stanislaus National Forest (Ca)
Summer brings perfect camping weather to Big Meadow, with warm, sun-drenched days and refreshingly cool mountain nights. The dry season delivers endless blue skies and comfortable temperatures that make every outdoor activity a pleasure. While winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, the campground becomes inaccessible during heavy snowfall, making late spring through early fall the sweet spot for your mountain escape.
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: June 10, 2025 - September 07, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season is June 10, 2025, to September 7, 2025. Reservations start June 25, 2025.
- Current Alerts: null
About Big Meadow - Us Forest Service Stanislaus National Forest (Ca)
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.
Campsite options include individual non-electric sites, group tent sites, and tent-only non-electric sites. The group tent area has a capacity of 50 guests and 20 vehicles.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings perfect camping weather to Big Meadow, with warm, sun-drenched days and refreshingly cool mountain nights. The dry season delivers endless blue skies and comfortable temperatures that make every outdoor activity a pleasure. While winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, the campground becomes inaccessible during heavy snowfall, making late spring through early fall the sweet spot for your mountain escape.
ElevationAt 6,400 feet above sea level, Big Meadow Campground delivers that perfect high-altitude experience where the air feels crisper and the stars shine brighter. This elevation creates an ideal habitat for fascinating mountain wildlife while offering naturally cooler temperatures that provide sweet relief from valley heat. The thin mountain air adds an invigorating quality to every breath, reminding you just how far you've climbed into California's spectacular high country.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up to panoramic views of snow-dusted Sierra Nevada peaks piercing the morning sky, their granite faces glowing pink in the alpenglow. From your campsite in Stanislaus National Forest, you'll enjoy sweeping vistas that stretch all the way to California's Great Central Valley below, creating a dramatic contrast between rugged mountain wilderness and distant golden plains. The surrounding forest teems with life, from ancient conifers to wildflower meadows that burst with color each summer, creating a living landscape that changes with every passing hour.
Geological RegionNestled in the central Sierra Nevada Mountains, Big Meadow Campground occupies a prime location in one of California's most iconic mountain ranges. Positioned perfectly between the world-famous destinations of Lake Tahoe to the north and Yosemite to the south, this geological wonderland showcases the best of Sierra granite country. Here, ancient volcanic activity and millions of years of glacial carving have sculpted a landscape of soaring peaks, deep valleys, and pristine alpine meadows that capture the imagination and inspire the soul.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are described.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with several backing up to slopes offering canyon views ("The campground was clean and spacious. Several campsites backed up to a slope with great views of the surrounding canyon.").
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Some campsites are closer to Highway 4 and subject to noise, while others are more secluded with better views. Reviews indicate that the camp can be noisy on weekends due to larger groups.
Total Campsites65 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the east end might experience more mosquitoes early in the season. Sites backing up to slopes are noted for better views.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
The group tent area accommodates up to 50 guests and 20 vehicles, providing a good option for larger gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 65 individual campsites and one group site. Sites are dispersed with potable water and functioning bear lockers available near most.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is June 10, 2025, to September 7, 2025. Reservations start June 25, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe group site is reservable, but individual campsites are managed as first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, with additional penalties for late cancellations, including forfeiture of the first night's fees. Reservation changes involve a $10 fee if entirely changing stay dates.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Big Meadow Campground provides a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, birding, and picnicking within the campground. Additionally, nearby Lake Alpine and Spicer Meadow Reservoir offer fishing and water activities. The natural scenery includes snow-capped peaks and lush forests, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. Some reviews highlight notable experiences, such as spotting hummingbirds and enjoying the aroma of the trees ("The smell of all the trees was so refreshing. I even seen a hummingbird this time.").
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available within and near the campground. A stream nearby offers additional opportunities for exploration ("There is a stream nearby that provides hiking opportunities.").Fishing
Fishing is available within a 15-minute drive at Lake Alpine and Spicer Meadow Reservoir. A user also shared catching trout in a local stream ("The little stream was nice and refreshing for the kids to play in; also caught a couple of trout!").Swimming
Swimming opportunities exist at nearby water bodies such as Lake Alpine and Spicer Meadow Reservoir. No designated swimming areas within the campground are mentioned.Boating
Boating activities are available at Lake Alpine and Spicer Meadow Reservoir, both within a short drive from the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with opportunities to see marmots, squirrels, coyotes, and deer. Some reviewers mentioned spotting hummingbirds.Winter Activities
Opportunities for winter recreation are not mentioned.Water Sports
While specific water sports are not detailed, general water activities such as boating and fishing are noted at nearby Lake Alpine and Spicer Meadow Reservoir.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted; visitors are encouraged to purchase firewood locally and burn it on-site.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are common during early summer, particularly in shaded areas of the campground.
Active alertsnull
Weather at Big Meadow - Us Forest Service Stanislaus National Forest (Ca)
37
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
Weather History
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Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesJune 10, 2025 - September 07, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details are available regarding trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLake Alpine and Spicer Meadow Reservoir are located approximately 15 minutes away and offer fishing and water recreation.
Common complaintsProximity to Hwy4 results in noise for sites near the road. Vault toilets occasionally run out of supplies, and some reviews mention a lack of enforcement of rules.
HostSome reviews note presence of a host named Gary, who is recognized for maintaining a clean campground and being pleasant.
Campground Map
STANISLAUS
Driving directionsFrom Arnold, California, take Highway 4 east for 25 miles to the Big Meadow Campground.
Big Meadow Campground is easily accessible from Highway 4, which is a paved road.Nearby places
Arnold (21 miles
approximately 25 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
null
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
14 reviews
Big Meadow - Us Forest Service Stanislaus National Forest (Ca) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Big Meadow Campground are generally positive, with an average sentiment of 4.357 out of 5. Highlights include the scenic environment, spacious campsites, and activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing. However, some issues were noted, including noise from Highway 4 and occasional maintenance lapses.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic views, spacious sites, proximity to recreational areas like Lake Alpine, and a clean and well-maintained environment when hosts are present.
Based on 14 reviewsCommon Concerns
Highway noise, lack of enforcement of rules in the absence of a host, occasional cleanliness issues such as toilet paper shortages, and mosquitoes during warmer months.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito spray, especially during summer. Sites near the road may experience traffic noise, so aim for those further back. Early arrivals increase the chances of securing a better site.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is less crowded mid-week during summer, making it ideal for visitors seeking solitude. However, weekends can be noisy due to larger groups and high traffic.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Loved the size, but remember it's close (like right next to) Hwy4." 2. "The campground, Gary, was awesome. He keeps the campground very clean and takes pride in the campground." 3. "The little...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are highlighted. Some reviews suggest sites further away from the road offer better views and less noise.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews directly address accessibility features.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed at the campground. No specific user reviews address pet experiences.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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