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West Kaiser Campground

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Access to West Kaiser Campground requires navigating challenging roads that vary significantly by season and weather conditions. The route from Big Creek climbs steeply on narrow pavement before continuing along the San Joaquin Canyon, where Creek Fire damage has left ongoing hazards including mudslides and fallen trees. Road conditions change frequently, making contact with the Prather Ranger Station essential before departure.

This dispersed camping area operates June through October with vault toilets and allows campfires, pets, and RVs up to 25 feet. A small creek provides the only water source on-site. The location serves as a staging point for Kaiser Pass loops, Florence Lake visits, and Mount Tom's former fire lookout, with OHV opportunities available for street-legal vehicles. Campers should carry extra supplies and check current road status, particularly during early or late season visits when conditions prove most unpredictable.

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Map & DirectionsWest Kaiser Campground is located in California near Lakeshore

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From the town of Shaver Lake travel 4 miles north on Hwy 168, pass Shaver Dam, travel approximately .5 mile, turn left on Old Huntington Lake Road towards Big Creek, travel 11 miles to the town of Big Creek, continue on Old Huntington Lake Road, travel 2 miles to the junction of Stump Springs Road (Forest Road 5) turn left, travel 19 miles to the campground. Campsites on both sides of road.

Coordinates

37.34500005 N
119.24300036 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time

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Reviews1 Camper Review - West Kaiser Campground

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4.0

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1 Review

Reviewed Nov. 30, 2021

Pleasant Simple Campground

This is a free dispersed type camping area with vault toilets that is near a small creek. No water is available other than the creek.

The best access is through the small town of Big Creek which has a small store/ deli. Be aware that the road out of Big Creek is extremely steep and narrow but scenic. Please watch out for oncoming traffic. Other access routes include from the West end of Huntington Lake and from Kaiser Pass.

After the climb out of Big creek is a long two lane paved road that goes along the San Joaquin Canyon. This an area that was severely burned by the creek fire so there are many hazards present such as mud slides, boulders, and fallen trees. The road is not regularly cleared so conditions can vary greatly. In October 2021 the road was down to one lane in many places due to piles of mud that built up on the inside lane during a rain storm. Please be careful and check with the Prather ranger station, especially early or late in the season, to confirm that the road is passable. Also do not rely on the road if heavy rain is possibly, it has a history of huge mudslides that have destroyed portions of it.

In May through July expect abundant wildflowers along the road.

If you have a capable vehicle I recommend visiting Mt. Tom for a 360 degree view from a former fire lookout. Making a loop over Kaiser Pass and/or visiting Florence Lake is also recommended.

There are many OHV opportunities but be aware that only street legal vehicles are allowed on the main road through the area.

Month of VisitOctober
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kaiser Pass Road open for accessing West Kaiser Campground?

Kaiser Pass Road's accessibility varies seasonally due to weather conditions. The recommended access route to West Kaiser Campground is through the small town of Big Creek. Be aware that the road leaving Big Creek is extremely steep and narrow, which can be challenging for some vehicles. Winter snow typically closes mountain access routes in this area. Always check current road conditions with Sierra National Forest or Caltrans before planning your trip, especially during spring and fall when conditions can change rapidly.

What is the best time of year to visit West Kaiser Campground?

Summer and early fall (June through September) offer the best conditions for visiting West Kaiser Campground. During these months, the mountain access roads are typically clear, temperatures are pleasant, and the nearby creek provides a refreshing feature. Late spring can be viable depending on snowmelt conditions, but always verify road access. The campground's higher elevation location means it offers cooler temperatures than valley areas during hot summer months, making it an excellent retreat during peak heat.

What amenities are available at West Kaiser Campground?

West Kaiser Campground offers basic, primitive facilities typical of dispersed camping areas. The campground provides vault toilets for visitors but has no potable water system. Campers must bring their own water supply or filter water from the small creek that runs near the camping area. There are no electrical hookups, shower facilities, or trash services available. This is a free camping area with a rustic, natural setting perfect for those seeking a more primitive outdoor experience.

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