Lumsden Bridge Campground, near Groveland, California, is a unique spot that caters to those looking for a peaceful escape alongside the river. With free camping and spacious drive-in sites, it’s a solid choice for tent campers and RVers alike, though you might want to bring a vehicle with some clearance for the access road.

This campground is known for its beautiful riverside setting, where you can enjoy the soothing sounds of rushing water and starry nights. Visitors have mentioned that the area is relatively quiet, making it a great place to unwind after a day of adventure. One camper noted, “The campground is at the bottom of a valley right along a roaring river,” which perfectly captures the serene atmosphere here.

While amenities are basic—think vault toilets and bear-proof containers—there’s a charm in its simplicity. Some campers have found the sites to be less frequented, giving you a good chance to snag a spot. If you’re into fishing, there are plenty of spots to cast your line, though be aware of the regulations regarding bait fishing.

For those who enjoy a bit of a thrill, the drive down to the campground can be a bit daunting, but many agree it’s worth the journey. Just be cautious on the narrow roads, as they can be tricky. Whether you’re looking to relax by the river or explore the nearby trails, Lumsden Bridge Campground offers a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat.

\_\_Lumsden Bridge Campground is on a low elevation pine and oak forested site on the [Tuolumne Wild & Scenic River][1], approximately one mile from [South Fork Campground][2] and two miles from [Lumsden Campground][3], within the Tuolumne-Lumsden Recreation Area.Each site has a picnic table and a campfire pit with a grill. A vault toilet is available in the campground.\_\_Untreated water is available from river, if running. Treating water before drinking is recommended.CAUTION - BURNED AREA Please use caution while in the[Rim Fire Burned Area][4].Potential hazards include loose and falling rocks, flash floods, and debris flows.Trees may have been weakened from fire damage and ongoing drought and may fall at any time.Stay on designated roads and trails and within opened areas.Be alert for falling objects and do not linger around large trees.Avoid the area during high winds or heavy rain. 

[1]: http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/stanislaus/recreation/wateractivities/recarea/?recid=14975&actid=79
[2]: http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/stanislaus/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=14935&actid=29
[3]: http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/stanislaus/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=14929&actid=29
[4]: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/stanislaus/home/?cid=stelprdb5442963

Lumsden Bridge Campground

Searching for the best camping near Mather, CA? Mather is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Mather, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

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The dirt road to get to this campground was kind of long for a low-clearance vehicle, although we made the 5-mile trip with our Ford Fiesta.  The campground doesn't seem to be very frequented, so there's a good chance you'll find a spot and there is no fee to stay here.  There was recently a forest fire in this area, so expect to find some charred trees, but there is still plenty of shade.  Bear-proof containers are provided at each campsite, as well as picnic tables and fire rings.

Beautiful Place Next to the River

We love free campgrounds and this was a great one! We headed here after hiking out of Yosemite and it was about 8pm before we got to the turn. A ranger was blocking the road because a truck had fallen off the road earlier in the day and the tow trucks were just finishing up. He told us that it would only be about a half hour, but he warned us that the drive down is dangerous with a big drop off. The road is narrow-only wide enough for one car and the pull offs are few and far between. 

The campground is at the bottom of a valley right along a roaring river. it was dark when we finally got there so we could only appreciate the stars and the sound of the water, but we were blown away when we woke up. 

We did get up early though because I was worried about running into another car on the road, though I don't think this is that big of a deal because you can see pretty far ahead of you so you would know if someone else was driving down well in advance. 

We camped in our truck bed, but there are lots of good tent spots. I wouldn't recommend driving an RV down, but it is probably doable. 

Gorgeous site, scary drive down

Difficult to get to, but worth the drive! Free camping with large drive-in sites on River bank. Fire pit, tables, bear box and vault toilets only. Very peaceful campground with little traffic!

Need 4 wheel drive or clearance!

I've been coming here year round for 40 years. I still love this place because I know every fishing hole for about 2 miles up and down stream and I have spent probably over 1000 nights of my life here; unfortunately its not what it was and according to the Groveland Rangers Department it will never be or at least in our life time (verbatim). The cons are, the main attraction "the Lumbsden Bridge" is closed by road and the best camp sites which were on the other-side of the bridge are basically washed out.  I was told by the ranger it will not open again in our lifetime because all the funds to maintain the washed out road that leads to the bridge and campsites was used up to build and maintain the rafters launch pad, park area and bathrooms and that CA rangers are underfunded and staffed. This place now caters to rafters, the launch pad area destroyed the natural beauty by building them a really nice launch area.  Good luck finding a camp spot during prime rafting season and the rafting community HERE is not as friendly as many other outdoor communities, I say "HERE" meaning the Lumbsden Bridge; for some reason these people think they own this place. No bait fishing downstream of the bridge Lumbsden Bridge, if you want to bait fish you have to hike passed the bridge. The pro's are, once the rafters are gone their little launch and beach makes a fun hang out but its only large enough for maybe 3 small families. We showed up once and a young guy and his girl friend wanted the small beach to themselves, we got in there, offered them hot dogs and drinks and they left all butt-hurt. Anyway, other cool people came and enjoyed and we all shared like we all should. There are beautiful campsites. Bring a saw or sawzall or large cutters in the spring; I would actually bring them year round to be safe. I was last there in November and had to cut branches to access a camp site. I do have a sprinter, but I still cut when I bring my jeep.  There are some real fun rock hang outs up stream and under the main Lumbsden Bridge.

Photos of Lumsden Bridge Campground

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