Sweetwater
4.1414 reviewsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
Reservable
Sites
Varies
Season
The campground remai...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
Reservable
Sites
Varies
Season
The campground remai...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsSweetwater
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider559-642-3212clm@clm-services.com
What Campers Say
4.14
Satisfactory
Based on 14 reviews
10 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanrestrooms
Some mention
noise
"User reviews for Sweetwater Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment rating of 3.86 for campgrounds. Positive aspects include the natural beauty of the creek, clean vault toilets, and friendly camp hosts. Negative comments focus on closely spaced campsites, the lack of drinking water, and occasional litter."
Fees & Passes at Sweetwater
Free
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Planned changes to your stay should be made as far in advance as possible. A $10 change fee applies ...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Sierra Recreation / California Land Management website.
Best Time to Camp at Sweetwater
Sweetwater Campground basks in the Sierra Nevada's characteristically dry climate, where sun-drenched days are the norm rather than the exception. Peak camping conditions typically feature brilliant blue skies, comfortable temperatures that invite both relaxation and exploration, and minimal precipitation—creating the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures. While specific seasonal patterns vary, visitors consistently report ideal weather conditions that enhance every camping experience.
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)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Operating Season: The campground remains closed due to the 2020 Creek Wildfire, and Mammoth Pool is closed for boating and fishing from May 1 to June 16 for deer migration.
- Current Alerts: Sweetwater Campground remains closed due to the 2020 Creek Wildfire.
About Sweetwater
Nestled in a serene loop alongside the babbling waters of Chiquito Creek, Sweetwater Campground offers an idyllic Sierra Nevada escape where towering pines, majestic oaks, and fragrant cedars create a natural cathedral overhead. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite provides either creekside serenity or views of a gentle brook that meanders through the grounds. Adventure beckons at every turn—cast a line in the crystal-clear waters, discover hidden swimming holes perfect for afternoon dips, or venture to nearby Mammoth Pool Reservoir where boating, world-class trout fishing, scenic hiking trails, and refreshing swimming await.
Sweetwater Campground primarily caters to tent campers and small trailers. It is also suitable for primitive camping due to its minimal facilities.
Historical SignificanceThe resilient spirit of Sweetwater Campground shines through its recent history, having weathered the transformative 2020 Creek Wildfire. This natural event has become part of the campground's evolving story, showcasing nature's remarkable ability to regenerate and flourish. Today, visitors witness firsthand the powerful cycle of renewal as the forest reclaims its territory, offering a unique perspective on the dynamic relationship between fire and forest in the Sierra Nevada ecosystem.
Weather and SeasonsSweetwater Campground basks in the Sierra Nevada's characteristically dry climate, where sun-drenched days are the norm rather than the exception. Peak camping conditions typically feature brilliant blue skies, comfortable temperatures that invite both relaxation and exploration, and minimal precipitation—creating the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures. While specific seasonal patterns vary, visitors consistently report ideal weather conditions that enhance every camping experience.
ElevationPerched at a mountain elevation that offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere, Sweetwater Campground provides that quintessential Sierra Nevada experience where the air feels crisp and clean, and every breath rejuvenates the soul.
Natural Features and ScenerySweetwater Campground serves as your gateway to some of California's most breathtaking natural wonders. The immediate canopy of pine, oak, and cedar creates an intimate forest setting along Chiquito Creek, while just beyond lies the stunning Mammoth Pool Reservoir—a sapphire jewel set against granite peaks. The nearby Ansel Adams Wilderness unfolds like a photographer's dream, where the dramatic 13,157-foot Mt. Ritter pierces the sky alongside its jagged companions, and countless pristine lakes and streams create a high-country paradise that has inspired generations of adventurers and artists alike.
Geological RegionPositioned on the western slope of the central Sierra Nevada, Sweetwater Campground sits at the heart of one of North America's most spectacular mountain ranges. This geological wonderland transitions gracefully from gentle, oak-studded foothills through dense forests of the middle elevations, ultimately rising to the raw, breathtaking beauty of the High Sierra's granite peaks and alpine meadows. Here, millions of years of geological forces have sculpted a landscape that captures the imagination and calls to the adventurous spirit in us all.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility information is provided. Tight turns and narrow roads may limit accessibility for large RVs.
Sites SizeSites are suited for small setups like pop-up trailers and tents; maximum RV length is 20 feet.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews indicate that campsites are closely spaced, leading to limited privacy.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites by the creek are recommended for better views and ambiance. Bringing an axe for firewood is advisable as the campground-provided firewood may not be sufficient.
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.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a single loop layout along a creek.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground remains closed due to the 2020 Creek Wildfire, and Mammoth Pool is closed for boating and fishing from May 1 to June 16 for deer migration.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWhile reservations are recommended, users mentioned that the reservation system is sometimes unclear, and camping can operate like first-come, first-serve during periods of low staff presence.
Cancellation PolicyPlanned changes to your stay should be made as far in advance as possible. A $10 change fee applies for completely different dates. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's recreation fee. No-shows are charged a $20 fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Sweetwater Campground offers a variety of recreational activities centered around the creek and nearby Mammoth Pool Reservoir. Campers can enjoy fishing, swimming, hiking, and boating. Wildlife viewing opportunities are also abundant.
Hiking
Several trails are available for hiking around the Mammoth Pool area, offering scenic views of the Sierra Nevada terrain.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight at Sweetwater and Mammoth Pool, with trout being the primary catch. However, Mammoth Pool is closed for fishing and boating from May 1st to June 16th for deer migration.Swimming
Swimming holes along the creek are popular among campers. The water is described as refreshing, though some areas are slippery due to moss-covered rocks.Boating
Boating is available at Mammoth Pool Reservoir, a short distance from the campground. Reviews also highlight cold plunges along the creek.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area features abundant wildlife, typical of the Sierra Nevada ecosystem. Specific species are not listed.Water Sports
Many campers engage in non-motorized water activities like swimming and wading within the creek.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions. Campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed during these periods.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country; proper food storage is required. Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to dry weather.
Active alertsSweetwater Campground remains closed due to the 2020 Creek Wildfire.
Weather at Sweetwater
63
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but reviews mention litter issues in some areas, which detract from the natural beauty.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along Chiquito Creek and near Mammoth Pool Reservoir.
Common complaintsSome campers have reported issues with littering within the campground. Others have noted that the campsites are very close to each other, leading to noise concerns. Vault toilets have been criticized for being movable and not securely fixed.
HostThe campground host is described as friendly and helpful, maintaining clean and stocked vault toilets.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Fresno, California, take Highway 41 north. Turn northeast on Forest Road 200 and pass through North Fork. Take Minarets Road east and follow it 37 miles. Turn right on Mammoth Pool Road and follow it 2 miles to Sweetwater Campground.
Parking spurs are dirt and paved, but tight turns and trees at the edge of interior roads make this camp most ideal for pop-up tent trailers, slide-ins and tent campers.Nearby supplies
Supplies are available nearby at Wagner's Mammoth Pool Resort, approximately 2 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.1
14 reviews
Sweetwater is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Sweetwater Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment rating of 3.86 for campgrounds. Positive aspects include the natural beauty of the creek, clean vault toilets, and friendly camp hosts. Negative comments focus on closely spaced campsites, the lack of drinking water, and occasional litter.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the natural setting, particularly the creek for swimming and fishing. Campers also highlighted the clean restrooms and the helpfulness of the camp hosts.
Based on 14 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users expressed frustration with the lack of cell service, drinking water, and the proximity of campsites. Trash was also cited as a problem, with some campers encountering littered areas.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and bear canisters since there are no potable water sources or bear boxes. Firewood can be purchased at Wagner's Mammoth Pool Resort nearby. An axe is recommended for gathering...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer appears to be the most popular and well-reviewed season due to the creek’s suitability for swimming and the nearby Mammoth Pool for additional recreational activities. Late spring can be...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The creek is really fun to jump in, especially on hot days." - Sean D'Souza. "Vault toilets were cleaned daily, the camp host was very nice." - Elizabeth R. "Prepare with food and drinks, but...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 5, 6, and 7 are recommended for their proximity to the creek. However, some reviews note a lack of privacy due to the spacing of campsites.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but there is a maximum of two pets per site, as noted in the campground rules.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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