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The best camping near California Cavern, CA

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Stories from the community

Mia

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake

Amazing and attentive hosts, Jeremy is awesome! Super friendly animals on the property and great views of the lake. Highly recommend, hosted our large group with ease. Will be returning!!

Chiqui

3 weeks ago

With kids

3 nights at The Painted Lake

Indescribable 10 out 10....definitely going back soon! WE MISS THE DOGS 🐕

marilyn

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake

Gorgeously rugged property, amazing views, awesome host, super fun hipcamp.

Garrett

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Historical Columbia Campground

Very peaceful and close to everything there is to do, if you want to go for a hike natural bridges is 15 minutes away

Andy

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden

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.

Dennis

November 2025

25 ft travel trailer

1 night at Squirrel Rock RV Campground

Everything was awesome, only I forgot my water hose and Julie called and let me know. I picked it up the next time I was in the area.

Samuel

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Murray Creek Homestead

Absolutely amazing place to stay. Scott was very nice and accommodating pack light because almost everything you need is there already. My wife and I enjoyed a wonderful stay there away from everybody and everything. It truly is a hidden gem!

Aiden

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake

Perfect spot to get away for the weekend! The cabin area was clean and the owners friendly. To get down to the cabin is a little steep but if you don’t feel confident getting down or out of there the owner kindly offered to help out. Great for animal lovers as the horses, chickens, goats, and more are always nearby. The fresh eggs in the morning were the cherry on top. There’s only a porta potty on site but it was in A1 condition. Definitely recommending to friends and family.

Sarah

October 2025

12 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private, Covered, and Cozy

Delightful hosts and thoughtful set up , a great place to stay while exploring the gold countryside.

Dan

October 2025

21 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden

We had a great time. Very private and quiet camping spot and we got a tour of the pottery buliding. Very interesting

Brian

October 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Squirrel Rock RV Campground

This spot is an absolute gem! It’s so nicely appointed and private. Perfect spot as a home base to explore gold country! We will absolutely be back!

View from bottom of slope where the outdoor kitchen and coop are

Betsy

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at The Painted Lake

Jeremy's "Super View Cabin" is a fun getaway with amazing view of the lake and accompanied by friendly animals. The cabin is comfortable with a queen size bed and an amazing view for sunrise and sunset. Amenities: Next to the cabin, Jeremy provides a picnic table with umbrella, chairs, propane fire pit, trash bin, BBQ stove and an outdoor shower powered by solar. While there is a water hose next to the BBQ, you may also use the outdoor kitchen area a short walk down the hill next to the chicken coop. Activities: Enjoy the view for sure! But if you're looking for other activities, there are plenty of friendly farm animals where you can get fresh eggs from the hen, say hello to the sheep/goats, and walk by the horses grazing on the grass. Like what others have said, the lake is a steep 20 min walk down and it will be challenging for little ones or elderly. If you do get to the lake, Jeremy provides kayak for you to bring down to the lake. There isn't quite an easy to hang out "beach area" of sort because it's quite rocky as the water has receded considerably for central CA agricultural needs. The super view cabin is fairly private unless you have people who camping further down driving back and forth often. Otherwise, it's a relaxing getaway for Hipcampers looking for a great lake view, fresh eggs daily and a friendly host.

jeff

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Private Reservoir

We had a great time. They had nice chairs perfect for relaxing on the dock. Lots of wildlife to enjoy the sounds of nature. 10/10 recommend.

Tanja

October 2025

With pets

1 night at The Painted Lake

The tree house was cozy and comfortable. The outdoor kitchen had everything we needed. The views and scenery were beautiful. Stargazing at night was incredible. I highly recommend booking a stay here ❤️

Anne

October 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Group trip

1 night at Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden

Pam, Dolores, Michel and crew make the stay at Sierra Circles/ Brice Station/ Quyle Pottery a multi-dimensional experience! Upon arrival, you immediately feel the love of 3 generations of folks who have worked on this land. Michel's incredible sculpture garden is on a beautiful knoll with great views of the area. The campsites are perfect for adventurous campers...RVs shouldn't expect hook-ups and level parking areas, but the artwork, dark skies and prolific bird life are worth it. Michel's sculptures change throughout the day as the sun migrates across the sky. A short walk down the hill takes you to the winery/tasting room, engulfed with Dolores's horticultural magic. Pam's pottery tour takes you back to another time. The music venue is sublime....we will definitely make another trip to see a show! Thank you so much for your warmth and gracious hosting! So many things to do nearby...visiting Big Trees, historic Murphy's and Columbia, wine tasting, etc. Plan to stay for at least 2 nights!

Enjoy the loft twin bed and the reading couch next to the view.

Ashutosh

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake

I booked the lake view cabin to celebrate my wife’s birthday, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience. The cabin itself was super cute, cozy, and had large windows perfect for stargazing at night. The view from the cabin was absolutely epic — both sunrise and sunset were breathtaking, and the lake was stunningly beautiful. The property has a lovely rustic charm with friendly animals like dogs, hens, sheep, goats, lambs, and a horse. There’s even a kayak available if you want to explore the lake, which we really enjoyed. Jeremy was an amazing host — friendly, responsive, and went above and beyond by arranging a beautiful bouquet for my wife at my request. He patiently answered all my questions since it was my first glamping experience, which made everything smooth and enjoyable. One small note for first-time campers: the portable toilet is a bit away from the cabin and doesn’t have a traditional flush, so it might be an adjustment at first. Overall, we had an incredible stay and would definitely love to come back again — next time with our friends! ⭐ Rating: 5/5 — Highly recommended!

Yulia

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake

We are coming for the second time!

Lita

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Murray Creek Homestead

Such a cool and fun place! Scott was an amazing host, from the first interaction, he was kind and respectful and explained everything to everyone. We really enjoyed the property and will definitely be back in the future.

Magdalena

October 2025

25 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Strange Ranch - River and Gold

We had such an amazing time! The campsite and surrounding area were spotless, and the river and landscape were absolutely beautiful. Terry was a fantastic host—friendly, welcoming, and incredibly knowledgeable about the local area and ecology. We’re definitely making this trip a yearly tradition!

HARMINDER

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake

We followed the host’s directions (not Google Maps) and arrived without any issues. The host greeted us warmly and showed us to our cabin. The road from the main house down to the cabin is a bit steep but well-maintained with gravel — I drove a truck without any problems, and even saw a Honda Accord make it up and down. As long as you drive slowly and carefully, any car should be fine. The cabin itself was beautiful and peaceful, with a stunning view — you can even see the lake right from the bed. The grill was perfect for cooking, and although the bathrooms were a short walk away, we didn’t mind. We spent time down by the lake and enjoyed seeing the horses, sheep, and chickens on the property (and even got fresh eggs from the coop!). The stargazing at night was incredible. I never seen so many stars. The only small downside was that a larger group was camping below the cabin, so a few cars passed by, but it still felt private and quiet overall. The host — friendly, helpful, and shared some exciting plans for future improvements. We’d definitely stay here again and might try the other cabin next time, though this one has the best lake view.

Top-rated campgrounds

Mighty Farm & Camp

95%

(58)

3.7mi from California Cavern · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Forest Meadows, CA

We have 155 acres of the Sierra foothills just ~12 minutes from downtown Murphys. This is a working farm where we specialize in cut flowers and also grow a little food. When available we offer bouquets/eggs/veggies as an add-on. There are a few different listings, so make sure to read the details on your specific listing! -End of The Driveway -1 Pine -2 Pine The End of The Driveway is one big site for buses/RVs/big vans next to the Soup Kitchen. 1 Pine and 2 Pine are up a separate driveway on the ridge. The driveway spot is down the driveway a couple hundred yards from where we usually are so you’ll more or less be on your own, depending on if we have work to do down there or if there are other campers. We are happy to chat or leave you be, just let us know what your needs are. If you’re looking for a more isolated spot, see the listings for 1 Pine or 2 Pine. The 2nd area is “1 Pine” accessed by our second driveway that is 100 yards down the road from the farm. The driveway is kind of rough but definitely manageable with a truck, SUV or sedan if you’re willing to go for it. The drive goes up a couple hundred yards to the hilltop where there is a clearing and, you guessed it, 1 pine tree. From the back of the clearing there is a trail that leads you to 2 Pine, which is a walk that takes just a few minutes. 2 Pine is walk-in only but has great views of the sunset and is totally secluded and private and would be a good spot to either bring some friends for a little sunset party or for someone who wants to seriously unplug. There are plenty of flat spots to pitch a tent. **if you are a teacher or Pacific Crest Trail hiker let us know! We are happy to offer a discount :)

Murray Creek Homestead

100%

(30)

5.2mi from California Cavern · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · San Andreas, CA

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.

Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden

99%

(1249)

5.7mi from California Cavern · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Murphys, CA

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.

Scottie's Motofarm

98%

(20)

5.8mi from California Cavern · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Forest Meadows, CA

Aimed at providing a comfortable, convenient and safe facility for tourists to spend the night and refresh, Scottie's Motofarm boasts multiple lush green lawns for tent camping, many shade trees, clean and civilized indoor toilet facilities with a locking door, free wifi, a private walk-in shower/changing room large enough for two people with a locking door, outlets for phone charging, laundry washing machine (no dryer) and kitchen food prep area with fridge. Propane and briquette BBQ, fire pit, city water safe for drinking, plenty of parking. We are conveniently located on Route 4 so campers should expect some noise, however the road quiets down around at night and -- except for the occasional loud vehicle -- it gets pretty serene here during the star gazing hours! The tent camping area is fenced and we have not had any bears on the property, but we do have a few shy farm cats and the occasional racoon. For this reason, we ask all campers to be mindful about storing food and disposing of trash in the provided bins. The ranch is comprised of the camping lawns, camping facilities, several homes on the property (two Air BnB and the owner's home) and the motorcycle workshop. Car and RV campers are welcomed and there is plenty of car/RV parking on the asphalt lot outside the fence at the East Side of the property near the mailboxes at the intersection of Rte 4 and Brice Station Road.

Unplug for nature, dogs, and kids

98%

(26)

5.8mi from California Cavern · 3 sites · Lodging · Mokelumne Hill, CA

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 with one comfy queen bed, a blowup mattress for small kids, or one adult inside, and others can tent camp outside. Maximum of 6 people per booking, with an additional $25 per night for those exceeding the first 6 guests (Hipcamp insurance requires this). Property is monitored by security camera. 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). 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. Close-by lakes for fishing, swimming, picnics, etc. include Camanche, New Hogan, Emery Reservoir, and New Melones. We are on the backside of Murphys, Arnold, and Angels Camp to explore wine tasting and stroll around. It's about a 30-minute drive on back roads, but you pop up in the heart of Murphy's near parking behind Main Street. Nearby towns offer afternoon craft fairs, car shows, farmers market, etc. Small historic sites are nearby in Cave City, Mokelumne Museum, and old town San Andres with a Saloon and a performing arts theater. In the evenings, gather around the fire pit and bring out the movie projector and grill on either the propane or Weber. Our add on options: $8 per bundle of firewood $15 for extra supplies of tent and air mattress $25 per night tent use $48 per night for Van sleeping quarters, needs advance notice for set up

Little Arnold A-Frame

99%

(64)

8.1mi from California Cavern · 1 site · Lodging · Arnold, CA

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.

Creekside Camping on Love Creek

98%

(26)

8.7mi from California Cavern · 5 sites · Lodging · Avery, CA

We are excited to welcome you to our unique 2.5-acre forest retreat, Creekside Camping at Love Creek. This campsite is adults-only, designed to provide a quiet and tranquil environment for you to relax and enjoy nature. Our spacious 6'x8' stand-up tents are designed for your comfort, each equipped with a comfortable bed. All you need to bring “bedding and your towel”. *** If you prefer to travel light, we offer a "full-service" option that includes bedding and towels for a one-time fee. Please let us know if you're interested, and we can provide you with more details. For your convenience, our full bathroom facility, complete with hot water for the shower and sink, flushing toilet. You'll find many peaceful spots around the property to unwind and reconnect with nature. We've also provided a few extra amenities for your comfort, including pillows and blankets you can use outside while stargazing. A year-round, spring-fed creek meanders through the property, creating a truly serene and cooling atmosphere. Our campsites offer well-maintained pads with lovely views overlooking Love Creek and the lush canyon, all accompanied by the soothing sounds of the creek. As evening falls, our thoughtfully placed lighting creates a magical ambiance throughout the surroundings. While we offer a unique off-grid experience, we're conveniently located just a 5-minute drive down a paved road to HWY-4 and a coffee shop at the corner for your morning brew. The fantastic Red Apple bakery, known for its delicious fresh-baked goods, is also just down the road. For groceries, Big Trees supermarket in Arnold is a quick 8-minute drive. The charming town of Murphys also called the ‘Queen of the Sierra’ is only a 13-minute drive from our property. Nature lovers will be delighted to know that Big Trees State Park, home to magnificent Sequoia groves, is just a 10-minute drive away. If you're interested in swimming, several beautiful mountain lakes, including Utica Reservoir, Lake Alpine, and White Pines Lake (only 5 miles away), offer wonderful opportunities. For those seeking adventure, we are located just 1 mile from an extensive network of gravel roads, ideal for activities such as mountain biking. We very much look forward to welcoming you to our unique retreat!

Pine Ridge Campground with lodge

96%

(13)

10mi from California Cavern · 2 sites · Lodging · Mokelumne Hill, CA

Nestled in California's Gold Country, Pine Ridge Ranch is the perfect destination for private group retreats, family reunions, lodge getaways, or group camping experiences. We provide a cozy 3-bedroom guest lodge and you can also bring your own RV or tent for camping under the stars. We have a limit of 40 RVs per group and 70 guests maximum. It is $35 for wifi, PLEASE add this as an extra at checkout if you would like wifi during your stay. We charge a pet fee and it is $50 per pet per night, 5 dogs maximum. PLEASE add this as an extra at checkout. For example, if you are bringing 5 pets for 5 nights, please select 25 as the quantity. Embrace the exclusivity of our private 25-acre resort, featuring scenic trails for hiking and exploration, a refreshing swimming pool accompanied by an outdoor bar and kitchen, and a charming private saloon equipped with a pool table. At Pine Ridge Ranch, your group will be the sole guests, ensuring a truly intimate and personalized retreat experience.

Strange Ranch - River and Gold

100%

(112)

11mi from California Cavern · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Wilseyville, CA

Secluded private river camping in a forest and oak woodland on the South Fork Mokelumne River. The site boasts incredible views with a pristine private gold-bearing trout stream with mining history and wildlife preserve located in the gold country of the Sierra Nevada foothills of northern Calaveras County. This unique property is adjacent to over 900 acres of public land and 2 miles of private stream for exploring. With a total of only 4 campsites, it is a great location for a group to reserve the entire campground. All campsites have potable well water spigots and access to a cool water shower. Guests will enjoy the privacy while swimming, stream exploring, hiking, spelunking, forest immersion, fishing for wild trout, gold panning, or simply relaxing in a breathtaking environment – come fall in love with this special private ranch. After one stay, you will be a repeat guest. PLEASE NOTE: An All-Wheel Drive or 4-Wheel Drive vehicle is MANDATORY to access campsites 1 through 3 due to the road incline and rock and gravel road surface. PLEASE PREPARE ACCORDINGLY! Campsite 4 is accessible with a 2-wd vehicle, and has potable well water and 20 amps of power. All sites have beautiful open views of the property and river canyon with natural shade in the morning and late afternoon. Sounds of the river will lull you to sleep. Although partially shaded, please plan to provide your own portable shade structure(s) during late morning and afternoon as the direct sun can be an inconvenience. The Stranges are professional fish and wildlife biologists and have decided to share this special place for others to enjoy. The property hosts a diversity of plant and wildlife species that might be observed during your stay. Prehistoric and historic resources can be observed along the river corridor. Please be aware that some wildlife species including rattlesnakes, bears, and mountain lions have been observed on the 117-acre property and could potentially be observed near the campsites. The Ranch's northern portion of the property supports a leased farming operation. Farming operations should not interfere with camping activities. Day trips are possible to Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, Calaveras Big Trees State Park, local caverns and wine tasting, and historic gold towns.

Dog Woods

94%

(99)

11mi from California Cavern · 1 site · Lodging · Arnold, CA

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.

Camp Electra in Mokelumne Hill

95%

(21)

12mi from California Cavern · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mokelumne Hill, CA

Meander through Historic Mokelumne Hill also known as Moke Hill to locals. Listen to music and have a drink on weekends at the Renegade Winery. Explore the Mokelumne river up Electra road. Plenty to see and experience all within walking distance. Mokelumne Hill is a quant town with lots of charm in the heart of the Gold Country. Bring your own tent or your small RV and campout at our rig site or "glamp" in our vintage VW "Choncho".

Historical Columbia Campground

97%

(18)

12mi from California Cavern · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Columbia, CA

Tucked-Away Camping Retreat Near Historic Columbia Escape to this peaceful, tucked-away slice of land just minutes from the heart of Columbia. Nestled just outside town, the land offers wide, flat space ideal for tent camping or RV parking (no hookups, just how the wild likes it). Enjoy the simplicity of the outdoors with picnic tables, a convenient wash station, and a classic outhouse as your restroom option — true rustic camping charm. Wander along the on-site ¼-mile nature trail or sit back and listen to the sounds of bluejays, woodpeckers, and doves. If you're lucky, you might catch sight of a wild turkey or a deer passing through. Spring and summer evenings bring stunning sunsets you won’t want to miss. Nearby Attractions: Just a 15–20 minute walk (or under a mile drive) to Historic Downtown Columbia 6 miles to the scenic Natural Bridges 6 miles to downtown Sonora — great for shopping, dining, and local brews 13 miles to Murphys, home to charming shops and renowned local wineries 15 miles to Ironstone Vineyard 10miles to the awe-inspiring Moaning Caverns Within 30 miles: five beautiful lakes — New Melones, Don Pedro, Lake Tulloch, Lake Hogan, and Wood Lakes - Perfect for Fishing & Kayaking Independently owned and operated, no other affiliations.

The best camping near California Cavern, CA guide

Overview

About

California Cavern is a limestone cave that burrows into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Winter and spring bring on the wet season where water levels will rise to fill reflecting pools within the most extensive system of caverns and passageways to be found in the historic gold mining region. Initially found by mistake this cavern system became the first location of it's kind to be open for guided tours and to this day remains one of the top 5 caving locations in the United States.

When to go

The best time to visit California Cavern is during the dry season for the Trail of Lights Tour, available on weekends. For a different experience, the wet season offers the Trail of Lakes Tour, showcasing the cavern's reflective pools. Mid-summer marks the opening of the more adventurous expeditions. Avoid visiting during extreme weather conditions that may lead to closures.

Know before you go

Wear appropriate footwear as cave floors can be slippery and uneven.
Check weather conditions and cavern water levels, as tours may vary seasonally.
Children must be closely supervised; backpacks are not allowed for safety reasons.
Reservations are required for expedition tours; call ahead to secure your spot.
Bring a light jacket as temperatures inside the cavern can be cooler than outside.

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