Stanislaus National Forest

Recreational Activities

CAMPING

Campgrounds | Reservations | Dispersed Camping

Camping is one of the most popular recreation activities in the Stanislaus National Forest. Situated in the Central Sierra Nevada, the Forest has several campgrounds located in a variety of settings. Pick your own spot, dispersed area camping, is an option available throughout most of the Forest. Large motor homes and trailers cannot be accommodated in some campgrounds, and electric and sewer hookups are not available. All fees quoted are per site, per night and are subject to change. A RV towing a small car (vehicle) is considered an entire unit (no extra charge).

WHEN, WHERE

The ideal camping time in most Forest areas is May to October, prior to winter storm activity. Reservation campgrounds are available, however the majority of Forest campgrounds are operated on a first-come, first-served system. The maximum stay in most campgrounds is 14 days and a 21 day maximum stay per Ranger District, per calendar year. Most campgrounds fill quickly during holiday weekends, therefore visitors should come prepared to camp in undeveloped areas. Forest employees will assist you in choosing an appropriate location. Most Forest campgrounds will not accommodate oversized motor homes or camp trailers. Please contact the individual Ranger District nearest your destination to verify space availability in your selected campground. Electric hook-ups are unavailable at Forest campgrounds, however, many privately operated sites located in surrounding communities provide electricity.

GETTING THERE

Getting around on Forest roads is different from driving on streets or highways. While on the Forest, always expect and allow for extra driving time when traveling off the State highways. Most Forest roads are narrow, steep and winding routes where safe travel speeds average 20-30 mph on paved roads. Safe travel on gravel and dirt roads travel is even slower.

AT CAMP

Generally, developed campgrounds provide running water. However, remote sites may require visitors to furnish their own drinking water. Water taken from nearby rivers and streams should be boiled prior to consumption. Water that appears to be clean can contain harmful bacteria. Boil untreated water for three or more minutes before drinking. High altitudes (over 5000 feet), require a five minute boiling period to be safe. In campsites with available water, please conserve water by refraining from cleaning or washing at the water pipe or pump area. Keeping a neat campsite, free of trash and discarding all food containers, will help protect Forest wildlife. Bears, raccoons, and other critters generally become a problem in campgrounds when visitors are careless with food storage. Store food items in the trunk or inside your automobile with the windows closed. Bears consider all products with an odor as food. Toothpaste, suntan lotion, insect repellent, and chewing gum should be stored carefully. To help maintain a clean, safe environment, please place trash in provided receptacles or pack it out. When campfire rings or stoves are used, please make certain your fire is cold prior to leaving the campsite.

CAMPFIRES

Campfire permits are not required within developed campgrounds and picnic areas, however, please limit your campfire to camp stoves provided. Campfire permits are required when camping in undeveloped sites and when using a campfire or camp stove outside a recreational vehicle. Permits are free and obtainable at any Stanislaus National Forest Office.

PETS

Pets are welcome, although local county ordinances require pets to be leashed. Pets are not allowed in the Pinecrest Day Use Area, between the road and the lake, and the marina and the fishing pier, between May 15 and September 15. Dogs are required to be under voice control within the Emigrant Wilderness.