- Stanislaus National Forest
The best cabins in Stanislaus National Forest, CA
93% (173)
An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Stanislaus National Forest
Dog Woods
Dog Woods
94%
(99)
14mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 1 site
Come enjoy the fresh air and quiet at this relaxing and serene 3bd/1.5 bath 1968 groovy A-frame cabin. Great WIFI! Located on 1.5 wooded acres, the backyard is the Calaveras Big Trees State Park. The cabin has a huge redwood deck surrounded by blooming Dogwoods during the
springtime. Our year-round Moran Creek runs on the edge of the property.
All wood inside: tongue-in-groove pine ceilings and walnut paneling, large wood-burning stove which has three flat places to cook. We offer a fully stocked kitchen with vintage pink and white formica counters and breakfast bar which seats four. Dining on resin-topped circular table made by designer of first chair-lift in Squaw Valley. Gigantic
redwood wrap-around deck set up with comfy furniture, table and chairs to enjoy the bliss of Big Trees-Calaveras State Park. On the main floor there are two bedrooms: both with queen beds, a full bath with large bathtub/shower; in loft: one queen and one twin, and a 1/2 bath. Extra airbeds are located in the closet. Sofa is down filled. Retro decor with orange glass lamps, kilim rugs and down comforters on all beds. Vintage electric keyboard and full stereo system. Can sleep 7-8. You can enjoy weekend dinners at Snowflake lodge or make use of the
full kitchen or gas barbecue at the cabin. 35" to Bear Valley Ski Area, downhill or cross country, Lake Alpine in Summer. 20" to wine tasting in 1850's historic Murphys. So much to do or not!
Overlook Trail is 1/2 mile from the cabin.
Cabin has access to Snowflake Lodge (weekend dinners), Recreation area (swimming, tennis, basketball, ping-pong, beach volleyball) and Fly-In Lake for lake-swimming.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$225
/ night
Unplug for nature, dogs, and kids
Unplug for nature, dogs, and kids
98%
(27)
26mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 3 sites
Do you love nature and need a peaceful getaway? Love hanging out with family and friends, watching the kids run around and being free? Or how about letting your fur babies sniff their hearts out in a private but still close-to-everything setting?
Group camping or Solo glamping Retreat property … Located in Calaveras County, just outside Mokelumne Hill and Mountain Ranch, gold country, our Cozy Cabin offers 5.5 acres of outdoor escape. Enjoy your drink of choice next to a warm campfire or inside next to the wood-burning stove.
Private cabin: Inside there is one comfy queen bed, a full kitchen, wrap wrap-around table, bench seat, TV cabinet and wood burning stove. There is also a blowup mattress for small kids, or one adult inside. Others can tent camp outside. Maximum of 6 people per booking per insurance requirements.
Unplug from the screen and enjoy family time over a board game or a hand in cards. Cell towers provide internet access, but there is No WIFI (on purpose). The property has multiple sitting areas to just hang out and listen to nature. There is a treehouse platform to sit and hang out or pitch a tent on. There is also an 80 ft zip line and multiple hammocks depending on the season to enjoy.
Close by River Day use at Vox Beach on Electra Rd. or in Clements on N Mcintire Rd. Both provide bathrooms, parking, picnic options, and access to the Mokelumne River for lounging, kayaking, rafting, and water play.
GoCalaveras . com will give you more info on local events, hiking trails, outdoor recreation, wineries, shopping, festivals, events, and attractions to do while visiting.
Add-on options:
$15 per night: extra supplies chair, tent and air mattress
$25 per night Summer Only Creekside tent with full-size air mattress and single-person cot, with bedding.
$48 per night for Van sleeping quarters, queen-size bed, large deck with sitting area. Needs advance notice for setup
Bring your own firewood or gather up fallen sticks.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$84
/ night
Joyful Heart
Joyful Heart
99%
(69)
26mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 1 site
When we moved to the Sierra Foothills, we found this cozy, little spot on the property and we set up a campsite for friends and family.
People loved the space so much that we decided to build this cozy cabin and host other guests as well...
The hot tub can be filled with fresh water and be heated by wood and/or be filled using the on demand hot water heater.
The private outdoor shower is in a beautiful garden setting.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$95
/ night
Murray Creek Homestead
Murray Creek Homestead
100%
(30)
29mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land
Very remote off grid barn with an outhouse, vegetable garden, fruit trees, and small vineyard that I make wine from. There's a creek that runs through the property with Indian grinding holes. We also have volleyball, horseshoes, hiking trails, and much more!
You will be in gold country where you can still find gold in the creek to this day! If you're lucky, you might find a nugget, but there's mostly pickers and fines.
The nights are absolutely stunning for viewing the stars with no light pollution. You will have almost complete privacy, with the exception of an occasional over head aircraft. I have only one group at a time.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$81
/ night
Sage
Sage
93%
(15)
30mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sage (named for our beloved 15 year old lab who passed) is a conveniently located property right on Highway 88 in Pioneer, California.
Warm and inviting, Sage is a relaxing, modern spot for people heading up to Kirkwood for skiing or for nature, lakes, and fishing.
Our place offers a fully operational commercial style communal outdoor kitchen, a small stage, huge redwood, slab dining table, and 14 acres of camping area.
It also offers a beautiful 8 foot stock tank hot tub with the freshest clean snowpack water. So clean that it shares an aquifer with Crystal Geyser bottled water.
These are all communal spaces. Please keep this in mind when booking, and be prepared to meet some great folks. Be kind to one another and enjoy the experience.
We have several stay options to choose from, including a loft and group rates.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$75
/ night
Gold Wall Ranch & Vineyard
Gold Wall Ranch & Vineyard
98%
(86)
30mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
Our property is located above the famous 'Gold Wall' rock climbing area, overlooking Lake Melones. Enjoy the great 360* views of the Sierras and foothills from this 120 acre ranch property. We own a small wine vineyard that offers glamping at its finest. The perfect place to spend one or two nights before your big trip to Yosemite National Park. Our property is NOT recommended for children under 12 yrs old, as we have dangerous cliffs that are straight drop offs.
Choose to stay in 1 of our 4 cabins or just pitch a tent and camp under the stars {2 sites available}. The ranch offers fresh Mountain drinking water, with nice shady lawns and Oak trees for shade during the warm Summer weather. Dogs are allowed (2 max) at campsites but NO DOGS in the cabins. We are NOT RESPONSABLE for your animals...they must be on a leash at ALL Times. We have community outdoor areas to enjoy, including picnic tables, a fire pit and a communinal cooking gazebo area equip with BBQ and water.
The "Gold Wall" is known for mountain climbing so enjoy the view from above, we offer easy hiking trails, horse shoes, and even mini golf on the "Dragon's Teeth" 6-hole . Looking to relax and rejuvinate your Spirit, book a massage with Michele, a licensed massage therapist, or hang out at the Hawks Lair wine bar on the cliffs edge, overlooking the Gold Wall and Lake Melones. Enjoy the sunset and take in the beauty of the night sky.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
Wondernut Farm
Wondernut Farm
97%
(616)
32mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 4 sites
Wondernut Farm is an upstart, entirely off grid, working farm-stead being built from the ground up. We breed milking goats and sheep, heritage pigs, and are in the process of converting to a grade A dairy and creamery! We use organic practices, management intensive rotational grazing, and dryland pasture management. We sell our animals locally so that others can have their own milking and meat animals. Our 110 year old hay barn and the roof of the former lumber mill were all we had to work with in getting off the ground.
Being first and foremost a functional farm, we can't help but offer a somewhat warts-and-all look into everything it takes to be working to our goals. Our hearts are, and always will be, educational and local community focused, and we work closely with farmers and friends alike in better understanding our innovative animal husbandry, power, pasture and water systems. Whenever we have time, we'll afford the same time and opportunities to interested hip-campers.
Our location is stunning and historic, and the beauty of the wild, natural landscape is powerful, yet offers easy access to both Yosemite Valley and the San Francisco Bay area. The area features excellent road and mountain biking in the immediate vicinity, vast access to hiking and backpacking trails, a huge variety of rock climbing in the area, the best whitewater rafting in California on the Tuolumne River, with some tasty places to eat or drink coffee in the nearby town of Groveland, just 10 minutes away.
Accommodations at the farm are certainly rustic, and private but not secluded, with occasionally heavily project-exploded shared kitchen and living space, showers, and airy flush toilets.
Do be advised that animals are pooping, hammers are hammering, sometimes we need to look into a health or animal injury related issue. Sometimes there is blood in an animal birth or slaughter, and our working guardian dogs have been known to be noisy some nights. Water and electricity are both very limited (though we reuse all our water), waste must be carefully sorted into a number of different categories, and there is always evidence of ump-teen projects unfolding at once. The most difficult condition during much of the summer are nuisance flies, which are always gone at night. We have almost no mosquitoes or ticks.
Depending on the exact situation and time of year, guests may have the opportunities to snuggle with baby animals and run our herd to or from pasture, and maybe even get their hands dirty picking veggies in the garden.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$77
/ night
The Painted Lake
The Painted Lake
97%
(136)
32mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
AWD recommended and is required in wet rainy season. Kayaks and ample eggs provided when the chickens are laying . Heat and a/c in cabins make it cozy. Explore BLM and Reclamation land along the shores of New Melones reservoir near Angels Camp. Horses, goats, sheep , and chickens await you on every fence line you come to. Kayak on the waters below as you camp on our fully vineyard-fenced 20 acre private acreage. Our land is surrounded by 100’s of acres of lake front - public Federal lands surrounded by our private acreage and great neighbors you’ll never see. Portable rented toilets on site at parking areas. Propane available on site. Gas fire pits available at request .
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$68
/ night
4,000 Ft Closer to Heaven
4,000 Ft Closer to Heaven
94%
(771)
38mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 13 sites
Discover the untamed beauty of this incredible 48-acre paradise, which far exceeds our initial expectations of 4.8 acres. From the moment we set foot on this stunning land, we became enchanted by its charm, and we’re excited to share it with you.
This is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Picture yourself basking in breathtaking sunsets and marveling at star-studded nights that will make you want to sleep under the open sky, savoring every invigorating breath of fresh air. Whether you bring your bikes, ATVs, fishing poles, hiking boots, horses, or beloved dogs, there’s an adventure waiting for you at every turn.
For those who seek tranquility, this is the perfect spot to relax with a good book and immerse yourself in nature's serenity. Set at an elevation of 4,000+ feet, the panoramic views are endless, and the crisp, clean air invigorates the soul.
With minimal light pollution and sweeping open skies, this spot offers front-row views to a nightly celestial show. Whether you’re watching the Milky Way stretch across the horizon or catching surprise meteor streaks and the occasional asteroid, the sky truly comes alive here. Bring your telescope or just a blanket—either way, you’re in for an unforgettable cosmic experience.
Nestled between the North and Middle Forks of the Cosumnes River and surrounded by the flourishing Fairplay Wine Region, you’ll also find historic Placerville just a short drive away. Come and create unforgettable memories in this remarkable slice of paradise!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$85
/ night
Willow Springs Resort
Willow Springs Resort
97%
(115)
47mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 29 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Willow Springs Resort
Please come stay with us when you are visiting the beautiful Eastern Sierras.
Willow Springs Resort is located five miles south of Bridgeport, California, in the heart of the Eastern Sierra premiere outdoor recreational region. Although you’re sure to unplug with all there is to do around here, our guests have access to some of the best Wi-Fi in the area.
The facility is a small 50’s era motel and RV park with all the amenities one normally expects. We are a pet-friendly facility. We love pets and welcome them in our RV park but not in our motel rooms (with the exception of service animals).
Willow Springs Resort was built 70 years ago and is still owned and operated by the same family. That family prides itself on operating a peaceful, beautiful, and clean vacation destination.
The fish at the left was caught in Virginia Creek, which is just across the highway from Willow Springs! There are a host of activities to enjoy in the "big backyard" of this Sierra Nevada paradise.
Whether you enjoy fishing, hunting, boating, hiking, swimming, or 4-wheeling, or want to take a photo class or tour of Bodie Ghost Town, the area offers it all.
If you prefer to read a book or catch a falling star, meet new people, and share stories at the campfire, Willow Springs Resort is here to welcome you!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Cosumnes River Ranch
Cosumnes River Ranch
99%
(1896)
48mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are a family owned/operated ranch, located along the Cosumnes River, one of the last un-dammed rivers in California.
As one of the last rivers flowing from the west slope of the Sierra without a major dam, the Cosumnes is a vital example of a healthy watershed.
Our goal is to offer a unique outdoor experience for anyone looking for a place to spend time in the great outdoors.
Whether you're looking for a single campsite, or a place for a larger gathering, we're excited to have you visit!
Take your pick of activities available on site: swimming , gold panning, fishing, camp fires, wildlife watching, floating, hiking, and mountain biking to name a few. There are 3 miles of river to explore.
*Please note: We don't allow wood campfires during the summer months (generally the last week of May through September)*
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$90
/ night
ELEMENTS LODGE
ELEMENTS LODGE
93%
(7)
12mi from Stanislaus National Forest · 1 site
You get the entire lodge! Whether you have a large family, belong to a social or recreational group, or celebrating a holiday/event, this dorm-style lodge provides the perfect location and amenities. Approximately 5,400 sqft of open living space.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$975
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Christine
2 days ago
With pets
My son and I absolutely loved the cabin and Jeremy’s land! It was beautiful set next to the late and the views were amazing. The cabin was super cozy and it was so nice to have extra amenities (sink, shower, kitchen) near by. We had so much fun going kayaking, playing with the different farm animals and dogs and eating fresh eggs from the chicken coop. The dogs were so friendly and one of them even stayed with us overnight which my son loved! We can’t wait to come back to this space. Jeremy was so kind, communicative and providing great ideas and suggestions for local places.
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R
R
2 weeks ago
With kids
Upon arrival Mac was both accommodating and friendly and the instructions in his messages were exact as how to check in if you arrive late. The accommodations are just fine for anyone looking to stay out of the elements with a warm place (well insulated) to sleep and enough of a cushion on the bunks not to wake up with a bad back. We’ve stayed both in a tent in the summer and now in one of the tiny cabins. The simplest of amenities are appreciated if you want to warm something in the microwave or store anything indoors the small refrigerator as well as a toaster and coffee machine. Having a bathroom close by is also nice. This place is nice to stay away from all the crowds in the park and it’s only a 30 min or so drive to Yosemite gate. There’s a great place to eat right down the street called the Copper Pot run by Sarah and Brandon. Great food !!
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Ahmad
2 weeks ago
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Grant
2 weeks ago
3 nights at Wondernut Farm
We had a great stay at Matt and Eve’s! Everyone we met at the farm was kind and welcoming to us, and we enjoyed getting to experience a small slice of farm life. The cabin was clean, cozy, and warm. The property and surrounding area are very beautiful. We also really appreciated the design of the structures and clever use of secondhand materials. Hope to return someday soon!
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Jenny
2 weeks ago
With pets
Malaina was a super responsive, thoughtful and accommodating host! Absolutely a delight.
I've never slept in a more comfortable bed! The heater kept the space warm and cozy. The plush bathrobes and towels were a nice touch.
Just a shame we couldn't enjoy the property fully on our first day NYE (no fault of Malaina obviously). The heavy rain made it a pain to walk to the outhouse, use the kitchen area and sit by the fire pit. New Year's Day was perfect though and we welcomed the New Year with a nice, relaxing soak.
It is the perfect place to unwind, reflect, do minimal things (I did start to get a little stir crazy with the rain pounding on our roof). I'd recommend lots of reading materials, a lantern (one was provided) and more candles.
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Jennifer
3 weeks ago
With pets
Jeremy was very communicative and gave great recommendations! The views at his property were simply amazing! I wish we would have stayed another day! We plan to come back again with our friends!
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Adrienne
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake
What an amazing place this is. We stayed in the newly built super view cabin and it absolutely was the most super view. We were there in cold weather and the cabin was so cozy and comfortable. The outdoor grill and fire pit were so great too. The animals were free range and it was magical seeing horses frolic by with their goat friends. Jeremy and his wife and son were so friendly and gave great suggestions on places to visit. By far some of the best hipcamp hosts we've had. We would give this 1000 stars if possible. In the wet weather you definitely should have a AWD or 4WD. My Mazda CX5 handled it like a champ. If you want to see the best sunrise surrounded by endless beauty, go here!
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Rebecca
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Wondernut Farm
Wondernut Farm is a perfect getaway. Everyone who lives here is super warm and welcoming. I loved hanging with all the animals, but my favorites were the sweet, smart doggies who roamed the property freely and joined on little hikes. The wood stove in the Overlook cabin was also my favorite - so cozy! And also the bed! Super comfortable and a marvelous view to wake up to too. ❤️
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Sen
December 2025
Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake
Really really nice place and nice hosts! Enjoyed staying in the tree house and all of the animals are so friendly (especially the 17 cute puppies!!!). There are a lot of things to explore and would definitely love to visit again
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Joan
December 2025
With pets
My two dogs and I had a very nice stay at this Hipcamp location. The hosts were responsive and helpful. The cabin is cozy, with a fully stocked kitchen, board games, DVDs, and a very useful binder with local information and things to do. The property is wooded and hilly, with paths cut through it, multiple seating and eating areas, and plenty of outdoor activities/games.. Nights were quiet (I did hear shooting practice down the road for a couple of hours one day). Overall, a relaxing and exceptionally well-set-up place to stay, particularly for a group..
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Jen
December 2025
4 nights at The Painted Lake
Wow, what an amazing and beautiful weekend my girlfriends and I had at the Painted Lake Treehouse! The place is absolutely stunning! It was a mystical and magical wonderland with an amazing view of the lake. We woke up every morning to sounds of the roosters crowing and goats bleeting. We also had the pleasure of being there at the time where they had puppies on the property. They were so cute! The treehouse was warm and comfortable perfect for the three of us. The two petite girls stayed in the loft bed and I stayed on the futon couch down below. The heater kept us nice and toasty as we went there in December so it got brisk at night. There was was a camp kitchen, outdoor shower hut & portopotty just a just a short walk up the hill from the treehouse. There were dishes and cooking utensils provided as well as running water and a stove for cooking. Everything we needed. Our purpose for the weekend was to be surrounded by nature and to do a healing retreat weekend. We each booked a constellation therapy session with Michelle. Let me tell you she is absolutely magical. Such a compassionate and knowledgeable healer. It was truly transformative on so many levels. The animals participated as well. My favorite part was when the horses nuzzled my back during the final session. Our hosts Jeremy and Michele made sure that all of our needs were met and were extremely welcoming and excited to have us there. I would highly recommend this to anyone! Thanks M&J!! 💖 MAGIC!
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Nichol
December 2025
With pets
Malaina was a great host, respected our privacy and wow both my boyfriend and I were significantly impressed with the hot tub. Cool area to explore, malaina recommended a hike that gave a beautiful view of Lake New Malones. The bed was a comfy and there was a gate we could close off our space with for optimal privacy/comfort for puppy off leash. Thanks for a great adventure!
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Nastashia
December 2025
1 night at Wondernut Farm
We were only able to stay one night and just wish we could have stayed longer! The cabin was nice and cosy, the super moon was bright and the dogs were so welcoming! 💓 I really wish we could have spent more time at the farm but grateful for our stay!
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Jenna
November 2025
2 nights at Wondernut Farm
Matt + Eve and their amazing staff were beyond warm and welcoming during my stay, making me feel right at home. Everyone was respectful of leaving space for solitude while also being friendly and fun/easy to converse with.
The cabin itself is super cute, but partly open-air making it pretty cold this time of year, esp when the sun isn’t on it. I would recommend bringing tons of warm base layers to sleep in or consider booking one of the other cabins with a heat source if you’re feeling unsure!
Overall I had an amazing time and would happily return.
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Will
November 2025
With kids
Wondernut Farm is fantastic. The lookout was gorgeous, calm and super cozy. Despite an overnight 41 degree F temp, we were warm and the amenities were fantastic. The farm is gorgeous as well, we got to see pigs, goats and sheep, and may daughter had the time of her life. Matt and Eve were super welcoming, and everyone was kind. Can't say enough good things.
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Caroline
November 2025
1 night at Wondernut Farm
We loved this little cabin and the entire stay at Wondernut Farm! Eve met us on arrival around a roaring wood stove in the hand-built glass communal living room. We met all the sweet dogs and then she showed us around the expansive shared kitchen before walking us up the hill to our adorable cabin. The huge window has a great view of the hillside, and we laid in bed watching shooting stars. The bed was SO comfortable, with a thick foam topper and nice sheets and pillows. The next morning, we got to meet the goats, sheep, and pigs as well as learn a little bit about the cheese making process. Highly highly recommend — we hope to go back!
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Megan
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Joyful Heart
Malaina’s space was magical and Malaina was a fantastic, attentive host. We arrived a bit late and Malaina had started a fire and heated up the cabin for our arrival. The hot tub was a fun touch, the instant hot water was great, and we loved the outdoor shower! Perfect spot for a romantic, private getaway with spectacular stargazing and waking up to the birds singing.
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Jessica
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Cosumnes River Ranch
Wow what an absolutely beautiful property. Rachel and Jon are very kind and helpful. We enjoyed a few hours of hiking around the property. Loved seeing so much wild life and the sweet cows that graze around the property. I can see why summer would be a more enjoyable time to visit.
We stayed in cabin # 2 and although a very beautiful spot and cabin, For the $480 for 2 nights price I was surprised there wasn’t sheets/blankets or a propane stove or bbq or some way to cook food. so make sure you bring anything necessary to cook food and linens and blankets for the bed. There is a fire pit outside but no grill or way to cook food. It does have a wood stove inside as a heat source so make sure you also bring firewood especially in the colder months.
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Zachary
November 2025
With pets
Everything was excellent! It was exactly what we needed! Definitely still a work in progress but what has been completed is very cool!
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Tim
November 2025
With pets
Lovely site great hiking and swimming, cabin was great, bed comfy. One addition I'd like to see would be some hooks/pegs to hang up towels, clothes etc.
thank you, we had a wonderful weekend!
See more 93%
173 ratings · 51 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
A little slice of River heaven
Tent · With pets · Group trip ·
Pigeon Flat Campground
This is a walk-in campground, meaning you cannot drive directly to your site. That being said, it’s worth the effort! There are maybe 6-7 sites, and no 1 is the biggest and best. 4 sites are right along the river and you can’t even hear the traffic from highway 108 when you are on the river. We stayed for 3 nights, but most folks used it as a one night stopover perhaps on the way to backpacking? We had a huge shady area next to camp where we posted up for two days along the river with hammocks, books and snacks and were never more satisfied! We did the short trail at the parking lot to see the geologic wonder of the Giant Columns which was very interesting. Lots of birds to see (osprey especially), not many bugs, fires allowed in the pits even in mid July. If you’re up for hauling your gear down a dirt path, this place is golden and much calmer than the nearby big campgrounds
Shannon H.
16 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Perfect little spot by the Pinecrest Lake
15 ft RV · With pets ·
Pinecrest Campground
we lucked out with a spot right by the lake, which made it even better with the nice cold breeze! the park ranger/host was also super cool and friendly—really added to the good vibes. would definitely come back! 🌲💛
Ax S.
3 reviews
Didn’t get in.
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Jeanne T.
6 reviews
Secluded space, flat, plenty of shade, the creek and the small waterfalls are just beautiful, less than 30 min from the south entrance of Yosemite.
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Patrizia R.
2 reviews
Recommends
· September 2023
Perfect campground
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M M.
2 years on Hipcamp
August 2023
Toilets are full to the brim and the camp host is a psychopath thief.
Beware of this guy, he is not whom he appears and has no problem stealing and deceiving you.
NOT RECOMMENDED AT THIS TIME !
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Leroy M.
2 years on Hipcamp
July 2021
I have a reserved spot for one night. One of the reviewers left a message 4 years ago that there were some walk up spots. Does anyone know if that is still true? Thanks! Rich
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Richard S.
4 years on Hipcamp
June 2021
Question: so, you don’t actually backpack to this campground? Do you just park your car outside the campground and walk in? So it’s car camping…without the car in your immediate camp spot?
Mel G.
4 years on Hipcamp
May 2021
Good stuff!
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Jaume A.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2021
I hesitate to review this campsite because one of it's positives is that it's reasonably bookable! But I do love this campground. The sites are perfectly located, near to Lake Alpine but not on it (which is where the people who want to party tend to be). A groomed trail (a little under a mile) leads from the campground to the lake. Two things to be aware of -- you will need to be bear-safe with your food storage, and bears regularly ramble through the sites (like Yosemite).
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Vickie J.
5 years on Hipcamp
Not recommend
· September 2020
Already left a review, but wasn't given the choice to recommend or not. Definitely a NO unless you like the adventure of quickly coming up with a 'Plan B' when campsites are full on a Thursday or when you realize you don't have enough water to make it through the week (hand pump was broken). Must love difficult roads, mosquitos, intense hail storms in August, total 'roughing it' to like this place. Yes it is beautiful, but there are much better places to go.
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Jan L.
5 years on Hipcamp
September 2020
experienced campers - I do not recommend this place. Thought this was going to be the perfect beautiful get away for our extended weekend. What we found was a run-down campground in serious need of repairs. Picnic tables smashed into the mud or legs broken off, the water pump out of service, the outhouse broken down and not venting properly.... We were grateful we got there early in the week as the place was packed out by Thursday afternoon; I felt badly for all the campers driving in Thursday night through Saturday looking for a place to camp. This place is remote with 6 miles of bad road to get to it, and the nearest cell-service a 1.25 hour drive away (or hike to the top of a nearby peak. Heaven forbid if you have an emergency.
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Jan L.
5 years on Hipcamp
September 2020
Difficult to get to and no amenities other than broken down pit toilets and snow-crushed picnic tables. The water pump is broken, so pack in all water. We experienced the most violent, frightening thunder/hail storm of our lives up there in July. It's high and unprotected, and the only refuge from the storm was the car. It's beautiful, but be prepared to literally be one with nature and all the elements can throw at you.
Holly B.
5 years on Hipcamp
Not recommend
· August 2020
Stayed with husband and young daughter on July 31st. Campsite was nice and spacious. Area is very pretty and wooded. Unfortunately there was a group in site 37 that stayed up until 3:30am partying with loud music. The campground hosts did not make any attempt to quiet the group. We complained the next morning and were told that one of the managers had not felt well, fell asleep and did not do rounds. I was sorry the manager hadn’t felt well, but there were two people managing the campground so I didn’t understand why one of them couldn’t do rounds. People talking past quiet hours is not an issue for me, I bring ear plugs in case there is a lot of chatter, but blasting music until 3:30am is unacceptable. It was terrible experience.
Jennifer S.
5 years on Hipcamp
Not recommend
· July 2020
Beautiful spot with a ton of potential. Unfortunately the camp host doesn't seem to have much pride in their land. The entire campground was littered in garbage. You couldn't walk more than 6 ft without seeing garbage. We had to spend 20 min walking our site picking up trash before we could unload our truck. The bathrooms work, but are disgusting.
Cheryl E.
9 years on Hipcamp
September 2019
Awesome campsite, lots of different sites to choose from. The river is healthy and the water is flowing fast as of Sept 2019.
J
Jordan B.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2019
Great spot and campsites are spread out. The river is a 3-4 minute walk from most sites.
J
Jordan B.
6 years on Hipcamp
April 2019
I forgot to add there is a trail to the Lake from Cherry Valley Campground. It's about a 1/2 mile to the lake. There is also a very cool waterfall next to that trail. The trail does get steep in spots especially in dryer years. That shouldn't be the case this year!! Once upon a time, there was a rope swing at the end of the trail. The lake is quite cool early in the season with it getting much warmer by August.
I can not emphasize enough that we are stewards of these places. Show respect and clean up after yourself. If you are wilderness camping, make sure to research field sanitation. So many people go up here and have no idea of what do to with their waste!
Be advised people do target shoot up here. Hopefully, they follow the rules
Don A.
6 years on Hipcamp
April 2019
The Cherry Valley Campground does take reservations and it has "hosts" who collect fees and empty trash. There are bears so use the bear lockers!! No kidding!!!!
I haven't camped in the camp ground for 20 years because I prefer to wilderness camp. If that's for you, I suggest Jawbone Falls which isn't far from Cherry Lake. I camp, next to Jawbone Creek. It is a pack your trash out situation. Seriously. That means your brass as well!!!
From Tuolumne take forest road 1N04 to forest road 2N22. Take 2N22 all the way until it Ts into 2N08Y. Turn right and the falls are to your right about 1 mile. Make sure you clean up after yourself!! I, personally, clean up as much trash as I can bring back with me. Honor the native people who lived there.
Don A.
6 years on Hipcamp
April 2019
I've been camping up here for over 35 years!! Here's what you need to know:
The campground gets full on holidays. On the spillway side of the damn there are lots of free camping spots and port-a-poties
If you have the equipment, you can wilderness camp anywhere. No camping next to the lake unless you have a boat. Campsites in the campground cost like 20 bucks. If you like campgrounds, it's nice campground. Lake access is limited to the boat ramp area and on the opposite side of the damn. The shore is very rocky and steep. There is an island in the lake if you have a boat. There are no stores or gas stations so you need to gas up at Buck Meadow on hwy 120 or the Black Oak Casino if you come up from Sonora. Very little cellular reception
Don A.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2019
It's named Mosquito Lakes for a reason, bring bug spray!
Chris H.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2019
Pack in all your own water, food, and firewood. There are no services for miles.
M
Mandy S.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2018
Great campsite for the weekend. Very kid friendly and an awesome place to swim in the summer
Nora V.
4 reviews
July 2018
Great little out of the spot away from the busy campsites. Its situated along OHV trails which is nice if you use them however the dust is pretty bad. Campsites look roomy and not compacted next to each other.
The walk to the reservoir is about .5 miles from camp and is a very easy walk. Be sure to use some bug spray before venturing out. The mosquitoes are relentless and are all over this time of year "July-September".
In all great little spot for the OHV families and plenty of trails to visit.
B
Brandon T.
7 years on Hipcamp
June 2018
Nice quiet campground away from the crowds at the lake. Hosts were very friendly, informative, and kept the facilities clean. One can either walk about 15-20min to the lake or drive out there in about 5 minutes. Definitely a lot of activities from swimming, fishing, hiking and off road trails nearby. There are also a couple of places from Bear valley to the Lake Alpine Lodge that rent out equipment. Coin operated Showers and Laundromat located at Lake Alpine lodge. Only downside was it was closer to the road than expected.
Jonathan V.
7 years on Hipcamp
April 2018
We started camping here years ago and it used to be our goto camp ground. It used to be very nice. In the past 5 years it has gone down hill steadily! Extremely crowded and camp hosts do not enforce max people per campsite. It suppose to be 6 people per site. There are consistently 12-15 people per site on the weekends. They also do not enforce noisy campers past 10pm. The past 3 years it has been so bad we won't return!
Julie P.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2017
Bring your bathing suit! Awesome swimming hole behind the bottom campsites.
K
Kristin S.
8 years on Hipcamp
September 2017
This is a fine little campground located right on the Stanislaus River. There are two walking campsites, 1 & 2, that are great if you're tent camping and don't mind walking with your gear down into the sites. These two sites are right on the river and fairly secluded from the rest of the campground. The rest of the sites are good but the river side one's are wonderful but hard to get I'm sure. Three out houses are clean and there is water. Your 1/3 mile from the Kennedy Meadows resort with showers and a restaurant which I hear is good.
B Douglas J.
4 reviews
Recommends
· July 2017
bears
Z
Zan S.
2 reviews
Mixed feelings
· June 2017
It is very crowded with kids and teenagers.
K
Katie C.
8 years on Hipcamp