- Waterside Camping
The best waterside camping near Arnold
96% (9.3K) • 97 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Arnold
Little Arnold A-Frame
1. Little Arnold A-Frame
99%
(64)
1.2mi from Arnold · 1 site
Arnold is well-located for a weekend getaway (~2.5 hours from the East Bay and ~3 hours from SF) and as a convenient base for your adventures in the Sierras. If you haven't been to Arnold and Gold Country, there is so much to explore!
The cabin is on a small parcel in a quiet neighborhood, removed but close to town. We're just a 5-minute walk to the Arnold Rim Trail (with 30+ miles of hiking), 10-minute drive to Big Trees State Park, 15 minutes to the town of Murphys (great wineries, pubs and dining), 40 minutes to Bear Valley Ski Resort, 10 minutes to White Pines Lake, 45 minutes to Lake Alpine. We’re happy to recommend our favorite spots for hiking and swimming. If your trip is taking you farther afield, we’re 2 hours from Yosemite, and 2.5 hours from Lake Tahoe via the less-traveled Highway 4 in warmer months. Or you can can always just relax with a view in the cabin.
Learn more about this land:
Our classic 1970s A-frame cabin offers a simple space of retreat with lovely light, view of the trees and uncluttered decor. Great for couples and also solo travelers! Please note there is a 2 night minimum on weekends (if overlaps with a Fri or Sat) and a 3 night minimum for holiday weekends.
We're well-located for a weekend getaway (~2.5 hours from the East Bay and ~3 hours from SF) and as a base for your adventures in the Sierras. There's lots to explore nearby with Big Trees State Park and Stanislaus National Forest within minutes, lakes, skiing, mountain towns and wine-tasting, or just relax at the cabin and take in the view.
The cabin is on a small parcel in a quiet neighborhood, removed but close to town. We're a 5-minute walk to the Stanislaus National Forest/Arnold Rim Trail (we provide a custom map for nearby hikes), 10-minute drive to Big Trees State Park, 15 minutes to the town of Murphys (great wineries, pubs and dining), 40 minutes to Bear Valley Ski Resort, 10 minutes to White Pines Lake, 45 minutes to Lake Alpine and Utica and Union lakes. We’re happy to recommend our favorite spots for hiking and swimming. If your trip is taking you farther afield, we’re ~2 hours from Yosemite's Big Oak Flat entrance, and 2.5 hours from Lake Tahoe via the less-traveled Highway 4 in warmer months.
We do our best here to strike a balance between simple amenities and comfort. A reminder that we are in the country, so the cabin is best suited to those who like a more rustic getaway.
There is no AC, television, or microwave. We've gone without a TV and landline, but WiFi means you can stream to your own devices and make WiFi calls on your cell. We have loads of board games and puzzles.
The kitchen has pots/pans/kettle, toaster, mini waffle iron, Brita pitcher, and rice cooker. For coffee drinkers, we have a coffee grinder, french press and pour over dripper. Help yourself to organic coffee and tea!
The cabin is mainly heated by a gas fireplace (looks like a wood stove, but does not need wood). We recommend bringing layers and slippers in the winter while the cabin warms up. Like most cabins in the area, there is no AC, but we provide room fans. Cell reception is unreliable throughout the Sierras except for Verizon, however at the cabin, WiFi calls are available through all carriers --to make calls, enable the setting on your cell phone.
The cabin comfortably fits 4 people, with 1 bedroom, a sleeping loft (no door) and 1.5 bathrooms. The downstairs bedroom has a queen bed, and the loft has a full-size mattress and its own half bathroom.
We have a flat parking pad instead of a driveway, which makes things easier in the winter months.
The rental rate covers a professional cleaning fee and linens and towels! Guests will need to take their garbage and recycling with them to the local refuse center which is on the way out.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$185
/ night
Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden
2. Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden
99%
(1251)
6.4mi from Arnold · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Thank you Hipcamper's for many great years of support.
Historic Brice Station 100 acres, was a horse stop on the Ebbetts Pass stage line. Horses were fed, watered and swapped here, over 100 years ago. Today, Brice station hosts a ceramics gallery and school, vineyard and tasting room, Blacksmith school, Concert series, Shakespeare performances and Master artist, Michel Olson's, Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden and campground. Born in Berlin, Germany, he has spent much of his life performing, guiding, studying, while travelling and becoming an accomplished artist in wood, stone and iron. Two of his gypsy rigs and several large art installations, are in the meadow next to the forested 6 site campground.
Installation include, 100 ft sacred circle, yin/yang, sun dial and calendar. Quadruple Branch Arch. Avenue of art. Glass and Brass over Grass. Stone stage with two bell racks. Wheels of time. Florence the Freightliner. Glass henge. Chain henge. Family altar. Double sand box. Stone spiral
Each, of the 6 campsites, have art installations as well.
Site 1 is spacious with multiple tent sites, art Steel TeePee, and nice shade oak. Picnic table and some chairs. Parking for 4 cars. Sites 1 and 6 together, with kitchen area, makes a great group site.
Site 2, is our largest single site. Multiple tent sites. 2 tables. Branch arch way. Parking for 6 cars. Hammock friendly trees.
Site 3, is our cozy site. Multiple tent sites. Wood wizard and frog carving. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars
Site 4, has our second metal TeePee, with melted bottle suncatchers. Multiple tent sites. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars
Site 5, has Wood Henge, made from one enormous tree. Multiple tent sites. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars.
Site 6, has a burningman bicycle fence, and ski lift chair swing. Multiple tent sites. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars.
Brice Station Winery, tasting room. Open Fri. - Sun. 12 to 6pm
.Quyle Kilns Pottery Gallery, School and ceramic art studio Wed thru Sunday 10am to 6pm
Paul Quyle Blacksmith school. C.B.A. member. First and third Sat 9am.
Brice Station Vineyard, tasting room and concerts bricestation.com
Simply put, art, nature camping, with a hint of history, at its best.
Children are full price and must be attended to. No trailers over 14 ft. No campsite open fires June thru Oct.
Communal kitchen/crafts area with large tables, BBQ and cook top available. Propane fire rings and counter top stoves allowed in campsite. Leashed dogs welcome, please pick up after.
Please no extra loud music or voices.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$59
/ night
Finnon Lake Recreation Area
3. Finnon Lake Recreation Area
95%
(2340)
44mi from Arnold · 39 sites · Tents, RVs
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON - OPEN IN MARCH OR APRIL - ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). These vehicles will not fit and cannot cross the single-lane suspension Mosquito Bridge. These vehicles and trailers will be forced to turn around or back up to take Rock Creek Road. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060. Hours are limited.
Use caution - twisty, narrow country road If it's your first time, you might want to check out the route beforehand.
From Sacramento on Hwy 50:
At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile.
Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road.
Turn onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER "Smoke on the Water" is open only Saturday and Sunday.
Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe:
make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions.
Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area!
Our lovely lake to discover.
The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky.
This private lake supports the fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District and the firefighters of this community. Community volunteers manage the lake for the residents and the Fire Station.
The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website.
Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 18-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Smoke on the Water Diner, which is open on weekends only
530-622-1060. During your stay, you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking.
Sites are from post to post.
Our property is located in Placerville, California.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Stanislaus National Forest
4. Stanislaus National Forest
93%
(173)
National forest 15mi from Arnold · 1530 sites
An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Eldorado National Forest
5. Eldorado National Forest
93%
(136)
National forest 38mi from Arnold · 980 sites
Sierra Nevada gem offers lush forests, lakes, rivers, and peaks for year-round outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Private lakeside resort, Groveland
6. Private lakeside resort, Groveland
29mi from Arnold · 1 site
Lakeside + Amenities + Sleeps 12 = WIN for an unforgettable family getaway! PRIVATE, lakeside recreation area with beach entry, kayaks, SUPs, ping pong, bocce ball, tree swing, hammock, corn hole, and BBQ ALL ON SITE! Ideal for 2-3 families or 1 larger family traveling together!
Within a 5-minute drive are the Pine Mountain Lake amenities available to all of our renters: swimming pool, beaches, pickle ball, golf, tennis, children's playground, hiking, horseback riding, archery...
The space
a King-sized bed in the Master bedroom with an ensuite bath, Queen-sized beds in the other bedrooms with an adjacent bath, and a bunk room with an adjacent bath. A total of 3 bedrooms, 1 bunk room, and 3 full baths to accommodate groups as large as 12 persons.
Guest access
Self-check-in is available with door access granted by entry code via a Schlage smart lock.
***Please note that a $50 per car entry fee is not included in the listing fees and must be paid at your initial entry into the Pine Mountain Lake community. You will receive a Guest Pass to hang on your car for the duration of your stay. Proceeds of this fee are used to maintain facilities and operations of the PML community amenities shared with our guests.
Other things to note
Memory foam mattresses, 100% down pillows and comforters, and 100% cotton sheets.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$644
/ night
Luxury By The Lake, Groveland CA
7. Luxury By The Lake, Groveland CA
29mi from Arnold · 1 site
Experience Groveland's premier luxury Lake House at the Pine Mountain Lake gated community.
The Peninsula Lake House was professionally designed and furnished by a prominent Bay Area developer. The wide frontage to the main lake offers panoramic views and easy water access with a private dock. Included are 2 canoes and 2 SUPs with life jackets. A large game room with a pool table, arcade-grade air hockey table, Sonos sound system, and a vintage upright piano provides indoor entertainment.
The space
The Peninsula Lake House was professionally designed and furnished by a prominent Bay Area developer.
Guest access
smart lock access by code
***Please note that a $50 per car entry fee is not included in the listing fees and must be paid at your initial entry into the Pine Mountain Lake community. You will receive a Guest Pass to hang on your car for the duration of your stay. Proceeds of this fee are used to maintain facilities and operations of the PML community amenities shared with our guests.
Other things to note
Located at the quiet end of the Lake away from the Marina, the property features:
- Private dock access into Pine Mountain Lake
- Canoes (x2), Standup Paddle boards (x2), and life jackets (all sizes)
- Ping Pong
- Pool Table
- Air hockey
- BBQ grill/Griddle
- piano
- Sonos sound system
The wide frontage to the main lake offers panoramic views and easy water access with a private dock.
The two large wraparound redwood decks offer prime views of the lake, outdoor dining and BBQ areas, and Adirondack lounge chairs to relax in and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$713
/ night
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
8. Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
94%
(123)
National forest 51mi from Arnold · 933 sites
Beautiful lakeside views and endless exploration on the Nevada/California border.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
9. Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
83%
(7)
State park 45mi from Arnold · 111 sites
Park with both lake and river offers camping and water recreation in the San Joaquin Valley.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sierra National Forest
10. Sierra National Forest
92%
(176)
National forest 88mi from Arnold · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
96% (9.3K) • 97 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Arnold
Little Arnold A-Frame
1. Little Arnold A-Frame
99%
(64)
1.2mi from Arnold · 1 site
Arnold is well-located for a weekend getaway (~2.5 hours from the East Bay and ~3 hours from SF) and as a convenient base for your adventures in the Sierras. If you haven't been to Arnold and Gold Country, there is so much to explore!
The cabin is on a small parcel in a quiet neighborhood, removed but close to town. We're just a 5-minute walk to the Arnold Rim Trail (with 30+ miles of hiking), 10-minute drive to Big Trees State Park, 15 minutes to the town of Murphys (great wineries, pubs and dining), 40 minutes to Bear Valley Ski Resort, 10 minutes to White Pines Lake, 45 minutes to Lake Alpine. We’re happy to recommend our favorite spots for hiking and swimming. If your trip is taking you farther afield, we’re 2 hours from Yosemite, and 2.5 hours from Lake Tahoe via the less-traveled Highway 4 in warmer months. Or you can can always just relax with a view in the cabin.
Learn more about this land:
Our classic 1970s A-frame cabin offers a simple space of retreat with lovely light, view of the trees and uncluttered decor. Great for couples and also solo travelers! Please note there is a 2 night minimum on weekends (if overlaps with a Fri or Sat) and a 3 night minimum for holiday weekends.
We're well-located for a weekend getaway (~2.5 hours from the East Bay and ~3 hours from SF) and as a base for your adventures in the Sierras. There's lots to explore nearby with Big Trees State Park and Stanislaus National Forest within minutes, lakes, skiing, mountain towns and wine-tasting, or just relax at the cabin and take in the view.
The cabin is on a small parcel in a quiet neighborhood, removed but close to town. We're a 5-minute walk to the Stanislaus National Forest/Arnold Rim Trail (we provide a custom map for nearby hikes), 10-minute drive to Big Trees State Park, 15 minutes to the town of Murphys (great wineries, pubs and dining), 40 minutes to Bear Valley Ski Resort, 10 minutes to White Pines Lake, 45 minutes to Lake Alpine and Utica and Union lakes. We’re happy to recommend our favorite spots for hiking and swimming. If your trip is taking you farther afield, we’re ~2 hours from Yosemite's Big Oak Flat entrance, and 2.5 hours from Lake Tahoe via the less-traveled Highway 4 in warmer months.
We do our best here to strike a balance between simple amenities and comfort. A reminder that we are in the country, so the cabin is best suited to those who like a more rustic getaway.
There is no AC, television, or microwave. We've gone without a TV and landline, but WiFi means you can stream to your own devices and make WiFi calls on your cell. We have loads of board games and puzzles.
The kitchen has pots/pans/kettle, toaster, mini waffle iron, Brita pitcher, and rice cooker. For coffee drinkers, we have a coffee grinder, french press and pour over dripper. Help yourself to organic coffee and tea!
The cabin is mainly heated by a gas fireplace (looks like a wood stove, but does not need wood). We recommend bringing layers and slippers in the winter while the cabin warms up. Like most cabins in the area, there is no AC, but we provide room fans. Cell reception is unreliable throughout the Sierras except for Verizon, however at the cabin, WiFi calls are available through all carriers --to make calls, enable the setting on your cell phone.
The cabin comfortably fits 4 people, with 1 bedroom, a sleeping loft (no door) and 1.5 bathrooms. The downstairs bedroom has a queen bed, and the loft has a full-size mattress and its own half bathroom.
We have a flat parking pad instead of a driveway, which makes things easier in the winter months.
The rental rate covers a professional cleaning fee and linens and towels! Guests will need to take their garbage and recycling with them to the local refuse center which is on the way out.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$185
/ night
Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden
2. Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden
99%
(1251)
6.4mi from Arnold · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Thank you Hipcamper's for many great years of support.
Historic Brice Station 100 acres, was a horse stop on the Ebbetts Pass stage line. Horses were fed, watered and swapped here, over 100 years ago. Today, Brice station hosts a ceramics gallery and school, vineyard and tasting room, Blacksmith school, Concert series, Shakespeare performances and Master artist, Michel Olson's, Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden and campground. Born in Berlin, Germany, he has spent much of his life performing, guiding, studying, while travelling and becoming an accomplished artist in wood, stone and iron. Two of his gypsy rigs and several large art installations, are in the meadow next to the forested 6 site campground.
Installation include, 100 ft sacred circle, yin/yang, sun dial and calendar. Quadruple Branch Arch. Avenue of art. Glass and Brass over Grass. Stone stage with two bell racks. Wheels of time. Florence the Freightliner. Glass henge. Chain henge. Family altar. Double sand box. Stone spiral
Each, of the 6 campsites, have art installations as well.
Site 1 is spacious with multiple tent sites, art Steel TeePee, and nice shade oak. Picnic table and some chairs. Parking for 4 cars. Sites 1 and 6 together, with kitchen area, makes a great group site.
Site 2, is our largest single site. Multiple tent sites. 2 tables. Branch arch way. Parking for 6 cars. Hammock friendly trees.
Site 3, is our cozy site. Multiple tent sites. Wood wizard and frog carving. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars
Site 4, has our second metal TeePee, with melted bottle suncatchers. Multiple tent sites. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars
Site 5, has Wood Henge, made from one enormous tree. Multiple tent sites. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars.
Site 6, has a burningman bicycle fence, and ski lift chair swing. Multiple tent sites. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars.
Brice Station Winery, tasting room. Open Fri. - Sun. 12 to 6pm
.Quyle Kilns Pottery Gallery, School and ceramic art studio Wed thru Sunday 10am to 6pm
Paul Quyle Blacksmith school. C.B.A. member. First and third Sat 9am.
Brice Station Vineyard, tasting room and concerts bricestation.com
Simply put, art, nature camping, with a hint of history, at its best.
Children are full price and must be attended to. No trailers over 14 ft. No campsite open fires June thru Oct.
Communal kitchen/crafts area with large tables, BBQ and cook top available. Propane fire rings and counter top stoves allowed in campsite. Leashed dogs welcome, please pick up after.
Please no extra loud music or voices.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$59
/ night
Finnon Lake Recreation Area
3. Finnon Lake Recreation Area
95%
(2340)
44mi from Arnold · 39 sites · Tents, RVs
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON - OPEN IN MARCH OR APRIL - ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). These vehicles will not fit and cannot cross the single-lane suspension Mosquito Bridge. These vehicles and trailers will be forced to turn around or back up to take Rock Creek Road. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060. Hours are limited.
Use caution - twisty, narrow country road If it's your first time, you might want to check out the route beforehand.
From Sacramento on Hwy 50:
At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile.
Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road.
Turn onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER "Smoke on the Water" is open only Saturday and Sunday.
Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe:
make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions.
Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area!
Our lovely lake to discover.
The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky.
This private lake supports the fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District and the firefighters of this community. Community volunteers manage the lake for the residents and the Fire Station.
The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website.
Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 18-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Smoke on the Water Diner, which is open on weekends only
530-622-1060. During your stay, you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking.
Sites are from post to post.
Our property is located in Placerville, California.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Stanislaus National Forest
4. Stanislaus National Forest
93%
(173)
National forest 15mi from Arnold · 1530 sites
An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Eldorado National Forest
5. Eldorado National Forest
93%
(136)
National forest 38mi from Arnold · 980 sites
Sierra Nevada gem offers lush forests, lakes, rivers, and peaks for year-round outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Private lakeside resort, Groveland
6. Private lakeside resort, Groveland
29mi from Arnold · 1 site
Lakeside + Amenities + Sleeps 12 = WIN for an unforgettable family getaway! PRIVATE, lakeside recreation area with beach entry, kayaks, SUPs, ping pong, bocce ball, tree swing, hammock, corn hole, and BBQ ALL ON SITE! Ideal for 2-3 families or 1 larger family traveling together!
Within a 5-minute drive are the Pine Mountain Lake amenities available to all of our renters: swimming pool, beaches, pickle ball, golf, tennis, children's playground, hiking, horseback riding, archery...
The space
a King-sized bed in the Master bedroom with an ensuite bath, Queen-sized beds in the other bedrooms with an adjacent bath, and a bunk room with an adjacent bath. A total of 3 bedrooms, 1 bunk room, and 3 full baths to accommodate groups as large as 12 persons.
Guest access
Self-check-in is available with door access granted by entry code via a Schlage smart lock.
***Please note that a $50 per car entry fee is not included in the listing fees and must be paid at your initial entry into the Pine Mountain Lake community. You will receive a Guest Pass to hang on your car for the duration of your stay. Proceeds of this fee are used to maintain facilities and operations of the PML community amenities shared with our guests.
Other things to note
Memory foam mattresses, 100% down pillows and comforters, and 100% cotton sheets.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$644
/ night
Luxury By The Lake, Groveland CA
7. Luxury By The Lake, Groveland CA
29mi from Arnold · 1 site
Experience Groveland's premier luxury Lake House at the Pine Mountain Lake gated community.
The Peninsula Lake House was professionally designed and furnished by a prominent Bay Area developer. The wide frontage to the main lake offers panoramic views and easy water access with a private dock. Included are 2 canoes and 2 SUPs with life jackets. A large game room with a pool table, arcade-grade air hockey table, Sonos sound system, and a vintage upright piano provides indoor entertainment.
The space
The Peninsula Lake House was professionally designed and furnished by a prominent Bay Area developer.
Guest access
smart lock access by code
***Please note that a $50 per car entry fee is not included in the listing fees and must be paid at your initial entry into the Pine Mountain Lake community. You will receive a Guest Pass to hang on your car for the duration of your stay. Proceeds of this fee are used to maintain facilities and operations of the PML community amenities shared with our guests.
Other things to note
Located at the quiet end of the Lake away from the Marina, the property features:
- Private dock access into Pine Mountain Lake
- Canoes (x2), Standup Paddle boards (x2), and life jackets (all sizes)
- Ping Pong
- Pool Table
- Air hockey
- BBQ grill/Griddle
- piano
- Sonos sound system
The wide frontage to the main lake offers panoramic views and easy water access with a private dock.
The two large wraparound redwood decks offer prime views of the lake, outdoor dining and BBQ areas, and Adirondack lounge chairs to relax in and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$713
/ night
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
8. Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
94%
(123)
National forest 51mi from Arnold · 933 sites
Beautiful lakeside views and endless exploration on the Nevada/California border.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
9. Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
83%
(7)
State park 45mi from Arnold · 111 sites
Park with both lake and river offers camping and water recreation in the San Joaquin Valley.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sierra National Forest
10. Sierra National Forest
92%
(176)
National forest 88mi from Arnold · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
D
Deverie
2 weeks ago
22 ft travel trailer
❤️🩷 Valentines weekend spent camping at this amazing place!! Wondered around taking in the art & history. Close to Big Trees, Arnold Rim trail & White Lake. Our visit was peaceful & private.
Everyone was so friendly & helpful. We would definitely go again.
See more
M
Matthew
December 2025
Tent
The hosts are incredibly nice and a good chat, too, having lived and worked in the area, plus being involved in local arts and culture. It certainly doesn't hurt that there is an actual wine tasting room on the premises.
We slept at one of the sheetmetal teepees and enjoyed a campfire and star watching. The structure blocks a lot of wind, looks out onto a valley, and is has ample seating. In the morning one wakes up to the sights of the art garden (it's more than that, really), which is a unique experience.
See moreA
Andy
November 2025
Tent
Sierra Circles was wonderful! I had the camping area to myself due to the time of year and it was the perfect blend of a quiet experience in the woods that I was looking for and close enough to Murphy's to be able to pick up a few supplies. Check in was super easy and the hosts were very friendly and accommodating. I would definitely stay here again.
See more
H
Hebe
November 2025
Tent
With pets
The lake front campsites are simply beautiful. We have a Ford transit van and also a sedan. A huge tent and we still have a lot of space on the site. The campsite has a downward slope just like described but we found a flat spot for our tent. The lake is beautiful for boating and fishing. How peaceful the campground is solely depending on how other campers are especially your neighbors, because the campsites are very close to each other. We didn't have a great night the first night because our neighbors arrived at 2 am and were setting things up and talking, laughing pretty loudly. So we essentially did not sleep at all that night. While the quite time is listed on the rules but seems like it is not enforced at all. So while I love this campground, I highly recommend going during the weekdays.
The bathroom is a very nice addition. Again, it's clean majority of the time but it depends on how the campers take care of it.
They are dogs friendly. They need to be on leash. We got a tie down which works amazing.
There's also a lot of wildlife. I didn't hear frogs but a lot of birds. We saw eagles and their nest which is so beautiful.
There is a restaurant called Smoke on the water. The food is AWESOME. They also have firewood for sale. Just need to double check their business hours.
The drive up there was good. Remember to pay attention the detours. The last 15 minutes was really twisty. We will be back for sure!
See more
D
Dan
October 2025
21 ft Class B
We had a great time. Very private and quiet camping spot and we got a tour of the pottery buliding. Very interesting
See more
John
October 2025
Tent
Michel was hospitable as usual, and we enjoyed our second trip to the property. Everything was clean and well maintained, just as it was in 2020. I hope we get to stay there again.
See more
S
Sabrina
October 2025
Tent
We had a nice stay at Sierra Circles camping site, Iron Teepee. We went wine tasting ant Brice Station and really enjoyed both the wine and the friendly host. The campsite was well maintained. We appreciated that Michel, our host, took the time to chop extra wood for us- it was a nice touch.
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Garrett
October 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With pets
This was our second time staying here, and it just keeps getting better! The host is incredibly friendly. We love having the winery right on site; it’s such a beautiful spot to relax with a glass of wine after exploring. The art throughout the camp is amazing — there’s so much creativity everywhere you look. It’s become a tradition for us now, and we can’t wait to come back again!
See moreM
Matt
October 2025
14 ft travel trailer
Excellent location. Fun decor, clean, and it's great to be in walking distance of the winery
See more
Kelli
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
The camp ground and lake were beautiful. The bathroom were clean. Toilet paper, paper towels and soap to wash your hands. Also lights in the bathroom. No shower which was very hard to do. But we all enjoy the time spent at Finnon lake. We will be coming back next year.
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Marc
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Spectacular stay at Sierra Circles (our 3rd trip). Michael is always super helpful with recommendations of things to see and do locally. The camp situation is spacious, private, and beautiful.
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Elizabeth
September 2025
Tent
We love this place! Full relaxation, wonderful artwork to enjoy, Wine tasting, pottery making and buying - what more can you ask for from a few days in the beautiful Sierras!
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Stephanie
September 2025
Tent
This place is a hidden gem. Everyone I’ve talked to that is affiliated with this place seems to have life figured out and interesting stories to sharez
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Pam
August 2025
22 ft campervan
Fun and funky! Well kept. Loved having the concert so close, it was fabulous. We will be back!
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Paolo
August 2025
16 ft campervan
Group trip
We had a great two-day stay at Sierra Circles. Michel is friendly and engaging, and his artwork is mesmerizing, especially when the sun hits it at dawn and sunset! Great location near Murphys and the beautiful nature and concerts.
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Catherine
August 2025
Tent
With pets
We loved our two night stay . We were a bit worried about the concert on Saturday night but the camp sites were far enough away from the music that we didn’t hear it. The scenery was amazing and everyone was very friendly! Loved it and we will definitely be back.
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Angelina
August 2025
20 ft campervan
Perfect campsite while visiting the foothills. We came in late at night after a concert at Ironside Winery. Michel gave us detailed directions to easily locate our campsite in the dark. The toilets are super clean! Very peaceful good vibes, on this working property with cool art dispersed throughout. Thanks for making our last-minute stay so easy, including the warm welcome wave in the morning. Looking forward to returning soon to explore the ceramics shop, winery, and on-site concerts.
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Rick
August 2025
25 ft travel trailer
Peaceful and awesome stay. Michel is a great host and Brice is a great patch of earth. Moved to Site 4 to grab a bit more shade. Site 5 would be preferred earlier in the season.
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Susan
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
We thoroughly enjoyed tent camping at Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden. It was a very warm weekend, so we were thankful that our site had a lot of trees for shade. Plus, the trees were perfect for hanging our hammocks.
Our host Michel was awesome and did a great job familiarizing us with the property. He is the creator behind many of the sculptures, which were fascinating to explore. We also enjoyed checking out the onsite clay and pottery studio as well as sampling wines at the onsite winery, Brice Station.
The conveniences of well-maintained port-a-potties, non-potable water, picnic tables and hand-crafted wooden tables and benches, and an outdoor shower made camping feel a little less like camping.
The location was great and allowed us to easily drive to the quaint town of Murphys and to Calaveras Big Trees State Park to hike through Sequoia groves.
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MyDung
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
Finnon Campsite offers a peaceful atmosphere, safety, and cleanliness.
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hipcamp.com/discover/california/calaveras-big-trees'>Calaveras Big Trees State Park.
The best waterside camping near Arnold guide
Where to go
Calaveras Big Trees State Park and Around
Among California's longest-running attractions, Calaveras Big Trees State Park features two groves of gargantuan sequoias along with ample camping opportunities and trails. While this is the biggest attraction in the immediate Arnold area, there are also plenty of other quieter spots to take in nature, including the Sourgrass Day Use Area just up the road.
Stanislaus National Forest
Spread out over 1.4 million square miles in the Sierra Nevada, this sprawling forest area has long been a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts, owing to its numerous lakes and hundreds of miles of rivers and other flowing waterways. Stanislaus campgrounds are plentiful.
Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway
It’s worth taking a drive along the 61-mile-long Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway, which connects Arnold with the town of Markleeville. You can expect to see views of volcanoes, basalt and granite rock formations, lakes, rivers, and plenty of trees, including—of course—giant sequoias.
When to go
Arnold and the surrounding areas are at their most pleasant from late May through early October, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is usually nonexistent. Summers are busy, particularly with those visiting for outdoor recreation, but they rarely get too hot, with July and August highs hovering in the mid 80s. If visiting between November and March, be prepared for the possibility of snowfall and road closures or delays.