Best Camping in and near Calaveras Big Trees State Park

99% (41 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Calaveras Big Trees State Park adventure.

Get ready to be amazed, because "Big Trees" is an understatement.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Calaveras Big Trees State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Calaveras Big Trees State Park

My wife and I's first moto camp trip on her new bike.

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(26)

North Grove Campground

64 sites · RVs, Tents In Calaveras Big Trees State Park

Residence Cabin Area

In Calaveras Big Trees State Park

Group Camping

In Calaveras Big Trees State Park

Nice size fire pits and large picnic tables. The wine was our own addition.

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(15)

Oak Hollow Campground

112 sites · RVs, Tents In Calaveras Big Trees State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Calaveras Big Trees State Park

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(534)

Diamond Gulch

39 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents824 acres · Groveland, CA

CLOSE TO YOSEMITE! Explore the mines and hang out on our Groveland, California ranch! We are 35 minutes to the main gate of Yosemite National Park. A great place to stay just outside of the park. We have 824 acres on a beautiful cattle ranch with two small ponds. On our property, you'll find frogs, turtles, oak trees, pine trees and stunning views of Yosemite. We have several campsites to choose from including RV camping, tent camping, and a glamping tent. Pets are welcome. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban. Potable water and toilet are available onsite. There's a golf course less than a mile away. We are also very close to town. In just a few minutes, you can drive to our local grocery store and pizza parlour. We are a 10-minute drive to Pine Mountain Lake. Beautiful Pine Mountain Lake offers golfing, dining, horseback riding, water sports and an airport. When you come to the ranch it feels like you are hundreds of miles away from civilization, but still close to everything you need. It is incredibly peaceful! This is a great place for someone who wants to escape city life and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Much of the ranch is open wilderness for you to explore, and it's not uncommon to see deer, frogs, turtles, quail, turkeys, or other countless species of birds. Diamond Gulch Camp is the perfect place to relax if you’re a photographer, artist, family or a group of friends looking for a place to camp near Yosemite. A small portion of the property was used as a gold mine years ago, and you may find remnants of old home sites if you go exploring. We're not far from Wards Ferry Road, Groveland, Lake Don Pedro and other interesting places.

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River Ranch Campgrounds

28 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Twain Harte, CA

At River Ranch Campgrounds, Tuolumne, CA we offer a wide range of activities to make your stay enjoyable. Take a hike on one of the many trails winding through the Stanislaus National Forest at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, or cast a line in the North Fork of the Tuolumne River or Basin Creek for some great native fishing. After a long day of exploration, come back to the campgrounds and relax by the firepit or enjoy a picnic in one of our many picnic areas. Activities in the campground include horseshoes and volleyball. We pride ourselves on blending nature and family camping in a safe, serene environment. We offer water hookups and centrally located restrooms with heated showers to make your stay comfortable and convenient.

89%

(254)

Yosemite Westlake Camp

33 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Coulterville, CA

Located on the John Muir Historic route to Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Westlake Campground and RV Park is convenient to all things Yosemite. Between here and the park is Rainbow Pool, a well-known swimming hole that campers here often visit on their way back to the campground for a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Coulterville was started as a gold-rush town. You can visit the museum and visitor center even try your hand at panning for gold.

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Finnon Lake Recreation Area

39 sites · RVs, Tents140 acres · Placerville, CA

*BOOK EARLY* **NO FIREWORKS OF ANY KIND ALLOWED***** DINER CLOSED EFFECTIVE JULY 5TH*** **TRAILERS AND RVs MUST USE ROCK CREEK ROAD** 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 right onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Frank's Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER IS CLOSED. 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 offers serenity in a beautifully unique setting, nestled deep into the forest. Enjoy the scenic and exhilarating drive to our hidden gem along the South Fork of the American River- this is all for you to discover. The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in most parts of 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. The lake is managed by volunteers of the community for the benefit of the residents 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, Frank's Diner. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking during your stay. Potable water, picnic tables, campfire rings, and toilets on site. The property can not accommodate horses. 2 dogs per site limit. Our property is located in Placerville, California. Placerville is a charming California gold rush town named after the placer gold deposits found in its riverbeds and hills in the late 1840s. PLEASE NOTE, there is construction on the Mosquito Bridge. Expect delays, RVs/trailers must use Rock Creek Road (even if your GPS says Mosquito Road). Please message me with any questions. Please see our website: finnonrecreationarea.com for full directions. NO FIREWORKS OF ANY KIND ARE ALLOWED. Smoking is only allowed in an enclosed vehicle.

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Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Somerset, CA

A six acre organic vineyard & natural winery on 21 acres awaits you at Gold Dust Vineyard. A working natural winery and cidery, come enjoy a glass, relax in the breezes at 2’700 feet. Decomposed granite soils and high elevation make for sweeping views and even better natural wine and cider! We welcome guests year round! Surrounded by nature, there is so much to do! Up in the Foothills, we experience all four seasons! Come relax☮️ March - May 🌸Don’t miss the wildflowers & babbling brooks, steams & rivers June - September 🏞Swimming in the Consumnes River or paddle boarding at Jenkinson Lake September - December 🍂🍁Fall foliage, wine harvest, apple picking and alpaca petting December - March ❄️⛷Snowy hikes, mushroom hunting and quick trips to South Lake Tahoe We accept reservations for wine and cider tastings and typically host guests between the hours of 11 am and 5 pm. Occasionally, during very hot and busy holiday weekends, we will host an evening tasting. Please note, we are a mom and pop shop with just two of us and our young son running the show. We live on site in a tiny house and use the tasting area as our 'back yard' during off hours. We ask that guests please respect our area and off hours requests. We do not permit live fires or generators.

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(21)

Atticus Woods Hilltop Camping

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Fiddletown, CA

Atticus Woods sits on a sunny hilltop that is 5 acres of peace and quiet. The land is gently sloping, rolling hills and has pathways to enjoy all the views. The terrain makes for easy hiking and family friendly hangouts with a variety of cedar, oaks, manzanita and pines. The property has much to offer, including views to die for. Accommodations Atticus Woods offers tent camping, vintage campers, car camping and RV spaces with accommodations. We have an outhouse with a composting toilet, sink and privacy. Next to the outhouse, you will find the outdoor shower that faces the El Dorado National Forest for privacy and serenity. The 300' deep well provides clean, tasty water. Speaking of H2o, each campsite has its own water spigot as well as a campfire positioned close to the water for safety. The tent sites have been cleared of poison oak, leveled and prepped to offer multiple configurations. Each site has its own appeal, read through to get a better understanding. For example, shady and tucked away or open and with views. It's good to note that the sites are still in the wilderness and are bound to get rough around the edges, however much I try to push back. You can expect some natural grade, rough spots and areas without a top soil layer of decomposed granite. Electrical outlets for charging phones and other devices are located at 3 different parts of the property. You will find a few barbecues that can be used on a first come first serve basis, this includes 3 weber for the tabletop and a full-size weber as well as some options for grilling over an open fire. I don't offer coals or starter fluid etc., anymore, I couldn't keep up with demand and remain affordable, my apologies. Please consider bringing these items with you. Keep in mind: I am ALWAYS willing to help out if you are in need, forgot something crucial etc., so don't hesitate to ask. I understand and most likely have what you need, if I am on the property. Firewood Atticus Woods has 5 + acres of woods and meadow. The trees will drop branches during storms, giving lots of good firewood for your campfire. We cut and stack wood for the house, but there's more than we need. So, as long as it lasts, firewood found on the property is free while you are staying with us. Campers enjoy the walks around the property to collect wood for their fire and kindling for a starter. I do have heavy, seasoned oak rounds for purchase if you are not interested in collecting wood and would like something that will burn for a long time. In addition, I have fire starter logs for purchase as well. Please reach out to host if you need to purchase. **Firewood Seasoned Oak Logs are sold out until Oct. 2024 Campfires and Fire Circles Camping just isn't the same without a campfire. We agree. But, this is a highly dangerous area with most of the year out of the question, unless the campfire is positioned next to a water source and folks are educated in fire safety. We have prioritized fire safety and made each campsite complete with a water spigot next to the campfire, allowing campfires most of the year. Along with campfires at campsites, Camp Atticus is all about the communal fire circles created to encourage community and give options for larger groups. Our Communal Fire Circles are a truly beautiful experience when the property is fully booked! Whether you and your partner are the only campers on the property or the campgrounds are fully booked, the vibe is right. A truly spectacular outdoor experience at Atticus Woods Campgrounds. Getting around The main trail winds around the 3 campsites and continues to the Shower/Outhouse. We find the dark skies to be exhilarating, but we have lit up the trails to help you find your way. The entire property glows at night with solar string lights high in the trees helping you find your way, its kind of magical. The private acreage has its own entrance to El Dorado National Forest with 1000's of acres of wild that provides views as far as the eye can see. This visual freedom allows the start of your "reset" as you stay here and connect with nature. Atticus Woods was created to bring people together with nature's beauty, open skies and the quiet stillness found here. The campsites are clustered around a communal space giving privacy and community as well. The communal spaces are located in 3 separate parts of the property, giving you options to spread out, be alone, explore and always have a space close by to sit back and take it all in. Multiple fire circles (3) offer opportunity for meetings of minds under starry night skies as well as provide a place to be solo or to be quiet (even when fully booked). We really like that. Atticus Woods has just added dispersed camping of your choice as an option that is really affordable and a casual, easy site to book. This option is taking advantage of the undeveloped, or less developed sites to pitch a tent. You might have a bit more work to prep your site, but the options are seemingly endless. Come on up and scout out your site today! Directions to the Campsites: Once you arrive to the property you will first take a long driveway that curves around to the top of the hillside. Keep in mind that you will not be able to see anything upon turning up the driveway. Actually, you will not see anything until after driving through the gate located about 3/4 of the way up. You will see a home on your left and the deep canyon of the national forest on your right. There's fencing around the home that is about 2 acres. Most of this area is meant only for the home's privacy except for the circular drive in front of the home. This circular drive has a communal pure pit in the middle of it and can be enjoyed by all. Beyond the communal fire pit, we ask that you respectfully keep a privacy boundary for the home's surrounding acreage. You will, of course, be driving through on your way to the campsites. Atticus Woods campsites are located at the top of the hill on the far end of the property as well as the communal fire pit areas along the way. Keep in mind that there are maps available at the rock with a sign that says, "Atticus Woods Camp" and an arrow pointing to the renovation area. Please return when you are no longer using so other guests can use them too. Check between the rock and the sign for this very handy map that will give a much better understanding of where you are going! Take the road past the Airstream Renovation area and the tractor barn. Finally you will come to the water holding tank on your left and the well house on your right, these markers are just before you reach the campsites. Keep following the pathway or dirt road (yes, you may drive your vehicle)to the top of the hill that will open up to a sunny clearing with a fire pit, tables, barbecues and lots of firewood. The right hand side is a communal area for all to use, first come first serve for the Weber Barbecues, as well as firewood. On your right hand side you will see campsite "A." This is the first site and marks the beginning of the upper camping area. If you follow This pathway, you will see campsite "B", Campsite "C" as well. The trail will end at the outdoor shower/compost toilet providing hot and cold water from our 300' deep well. Each site provides a shady respite with semi leveled ground that has been cleared with care and has a soft base of decomposed granite . A fresh water spigot is located in each site along with a small campfire ring and a string of solar lights. All the trails have been cleared of poison oak and have been lit with solar motion detected lights to help you find your way in the dark of the night. The campgrounds look spectacular at night, they actually have a warm glow and its a blast when the different communal areas have a roaring fire and marshmallows, beverages and good conversations! A Thank You I am so grateful for the opportunity to host Hipcampers. This has allowed me to continue land ownership by offsetting high costs in California. The unexpected bonus is how much fun it can be. This is better than I imagined and I appreciate every camper. Come to Atticus Woods and experience the California foothill's gold country and party in the woods on my gorgeous piece of earth!

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Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents23 acres · Somerset, CA

This land was home to the Miwok, then European and Chinese miners, then a cattle rancher. It was also home to a former nun who quit the dominican order to purchase this land for inner city kids to have a chance to ride, swim, hike and fish. We moved here in 2017 and purchased this land with the main goal to raise our large family here, but we have found that good things must be shared! There is NOTHING like being in the wilderness of this area for a good re-centering of the soul! We have found it to be a true blessing for our family, and we hope you can experience this blessing as we share this space with you. We feel certain you will not be disappointed with this beautiful river canyon. Our property is situated right on the middle fork cosumnes river. We have 2 sleeping cabins and several tent sites (can be rented separately). The cabins offer a rustic/minimalist type vibe - bring your own bedding/pillows to sleep on the comfy futon. A table and chairs are provided for the cabins. Tent sites have a wood table (bring your camp chairs) and a fire pit when the season is open for burning. The swimming is awesome and the stars at night will put you into a state of awe! Many family owned wineries in the area, most of them offering free tasting. It’s a short drive to Tahoe and the Marshall gold discovery site as well as the historic hangtown Placerville. The recent Caldor Fire was VERY close to our property and a back burn was initiated nearby the cabins. It is still as beautiful as ever but please know there are lots of slash piles. Falling trees and burned up stump holes are also a risk and it is presumed campers will be cautious and use at their own risk. Please don't hesitate to shoot us a message if you have any questions!

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Rocksteady Adventures

4 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Copperopolis, CA

Off-grid campground adjacent to 1000 acre private reservoir perfect for fishing, kayaking & paddle boarding. 70 acres in Sierra Nevada Foothills with Valley Oaks, Gray Pines & Manzanita. Best birding in Calaveras County with over 188 species including Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles, Osprey & waterfowl.

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Yosemite's Colfax Spring

8 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Groveland, CA

Welcome to Yosemite's Colfax Spring! Home to a basecamp for river rafting trips during the summertime, we are located 15 minutes driving distance to the entrance to Yosemite National Park. If you are staying with us between May - September and want to come rafting, ask us about our river trips! Our camp sits on a ridge with views down into the Tuolumne River Canyon. The Tuolumne River begins at 13,000 feet of elevation in the High Country of Tuolumne Meadows and provides drinking water for over 2.7 million people in San Francisco. With cedar and pine trees, manzanita bushes, and wildflowers in the spring, enjoy the Sierras' flora and fauna. Our family has been operating our river rafting company for over 50 years, the last 11 of those years being here at Colfax Spring. Conveniently located off Highway 120, we are in close proximity to swimming holes, hikes, and more. Enjoy the privacy of our campsite and getting world-class views to yourself, with all of the amenities (flushing toilets, wi-fi, showers.) Make sure to check the Yosemite National Park website for information about reservations to visit the park!

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Cosumnes River Ranch

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Plymouth, CA

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. Private and noise free. Porta potties on site.

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Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden

7 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Murphys, CA

Thank you Hipcamper's for another wonderful season. We will be closed for winter weather and new art installations till April 15, 2024. We look forward to hosting you next season. Michel and Pamela Historic Brice Station 100 acres hosts Master artist, Michel Olson's Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden. Born in Berlin, Germany, he has spent his life time 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. Newest installation, 100 ft sacred circle, yin/yang, sun dial and calendar. 3 miles of hiking trails, with art, continue to be expanded. Site 1 is spacious with multiple tent sites, art TeePee, and nice shade oak.Site 2 is largest with multiple levels/tent sites and best sunset views. Site 3 is woodsy and cozy. Site 4 has iron TeePee with chandelier and several shaded tent sites. Site 5 has small grass meadow and wheel sculpture. Site 6 has burningman bicycle fence and 2 person swing. All sites have parking, tables, benches, and trees for shade, hammocks or slack lines. On site activities: 3 walking trail loops, each about 1 mile long Sun. morning YOGA 10am. Brice Station Winery, tasting room. Open Fri. - Sun. 12 to 6pm .Quyle Kilns ceramic art studio and classes,Open Wed.- Sun. 10am to 6 pm. Paul Quyle Blacksmith school. First and third Sat 9am. Seasonal concerts and Shakespeare. Equinox and Solstice celebrations. Simply put, nature/art camping 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. Kitchen fire ring for summer fires. Counter top stoves allowed in campsite. Leashed dogs welcome, please pick up after. Please no extra loud music or voices.

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Red Dragonfly Ranch

17 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Groveland, CA

At Red Dragonfly Ranch our goal is to make a HipCamp that our campers can fully enjoy and have the property be the destination of choice when visiting Yosemite or the gold country of the Sierra’s. Red Dragonfly Ranch is conveniently located. We are only 29 miles from Yosemite Big Oak Flat entrance and only minutes away from the beautiful town of Groveland " The Gateway to Yosemite" and all the hidden gems in between. There are chickens and we are working on maintaining the many raised beds, our goal is being able to have our campers feel free to pick fresh herbs, fruits and veggies for their pleasure. There is a seasonal spring fed creek to cool off in and shade is plentiful. Rv's are welcome , but we are boondocking only. Follow us on instagram @red_dragonfly_ranch Please shoot us a message if you have any questions. Yosemite National Park Reservation Information : A reservation is required to drive through Yosemite National Park for those driving into the park between 5 am and 4 pm as follows: April 13 through June 30: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays ( May 27 and June 19) . July 1 through August 16 : A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm every day August 17 through October 27: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays ( September 2 and October 14 ).

The best camping near Calaveras Big Trees State Park guide

Overview

About

Walking among giants—in Calaveras, it's more than just an expression. Some of the sequoias here are over 2,000 years old. Sites such as the "Big Stump" make jaws drop.

The park sits just past Angels Camp in the heart of gold country. Spanning 6,400 acres in the High Sierra, this spot wows visitors with its two groves of giant sequoias. Casual hikers will have plenty to love here. More than ten miles of trails wind through the mixed conifer forests.

The park has 129 sites between its two campgrounds, plus a few walk-in rustic sites. The main campground is located at the North Grove, just past the park entrance. The less crowded Oak Hollow campground is tucked further in, closer to the secluded South Grove.

Both campgrounds are closed in winter, though the trails do stay open year round. For overnight trips, March to November are your go-to months.

Insider tip: Embark on a spring trip to beat the crowds and see the dogwood blossoms in full bloom.

Notable campgrounds

Environmental Campsites: Immerse yourself in nature at these minimal-impact sites, designed for those seeking a rustic experience.
Family Campsites: Enjoy the park's beauty with your loved ones at these comfortable and spacious sites, perfect for creating lasting memories.
Group Campsites: Ideal for larger gatherings, these sites offer ample space for friends and family to connect and explore together.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early: Reservations can be made six months in advance, so plan ahead to secure your ideal spot.
Be flexible: Consider midweek stays or off-peak seasons for better availability and a quieter experience.
Check for cancellations: Keep an eye on the reservation system for last-minute openings due to cancellations.
Explore nearby camping options: If the park is full, look for other local campsites that can serve as a base for your park adventures.

When to go

The best time to visit Calaveras Big Trees State Park is from March through November when the park is fully accessible and the weather is favorable. Winter brings closures due to snow, limiting access to some areas, but offers a serene, snowy landscape for those prepared for the cold.

Know before you go

Check road conditions: Seasonal closures affect access, so verify the status of Walter W. Smith Parkway and other routes before your trip.
Respect park rules: Dogs are welcome in campgrounds and on fire roads, but ensure they are leashed and under control.
Stay safe: Familiarize yourself with safety tips provided by the park, especially if you plan to hike or engage in water activities.
Accessibility: The park offers accessible features for all visitors, ensuring everyone can enjoy the natural splendor.
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, and drinking water are available, but always come prepared with your own supplies.