Stanislaus National Forest

Situated in the Central Sierra, the Forest has more than 40 developed campgrounds with more than a thousand sites in a variety of settings. One of these, the Highland Lakes Campground, is a particular favorite among enthusiasts of the High Sierras. "Pick your own spot" camping is an option in areas throughout the Forest. Detailed Forest maps showing campgrounds, picnic areas, lakes, rivers, streams, roads, and trails may be requested by mail or purchased at any of five Forest offices. Brochures describing special interest areas and regulations regarding recreational Forest use also are available, at no charge.

The ideal camping time in most Forest areas is May to October, before winter storms set in. Forest campgrounds are operated on a first-come, first-served basis, except for Pinecrest Campground and Pioneer Trail Group Campground on the Summit Ranger District. Reservations for those campgrounds can only be made through Mistix at 800-280-CAMP. Reservations aren't needed if the campgrounds are less than full, but are recommended because the area is popular. There is a 14-day stay limit in effect at most campgrounds. Check entrance board for regulations.

Most campgrounds fill quickly on holiday weekends so be prepared to camp in an undeveloped area. Forest employees can help you choose a location. Some campgrounds cannot accommodate all size motorhomes and trailers, so check with individual Ranger Districts to be certain the space is available in your selected campground! No electric hookups exist at Forest campgrounds, but some privately operated sites are located in surrounding communities.