Within Stanislaus National Forest, Crabtree TH operates as a trailhead campground managed by the US Forest Service with a one-night maximum stay limit. The facility features a medium-sized parking lot plus several back-in sites that accommodate both hikers and equestrian users. No pets are permitted at this location.

The campground serves as a launching point for multiple lake destinations, with Camp Lake accessible via a 3-mile round trip hike and Bear Lake requiring an 8-mile trek. Swimming opportunities exist at these backcountry lakes. Dispersed camping is allowed in the surrounding area for those seeking extended stays beyond the overnight limit. Pine Valley Horse Camp sits less than a mile away for equestrian groups needing longer-term accommodations.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

SPONSORED BYT-Mobile

Map & DirectionsCrabtree TH is located in California near Stanislaus National Forest

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

38.17884798 N
119.9076714 W

Open in Google Maps

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

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

Have you camped here? Help us improve this campground page.

Add Access Type

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

Have you camped here? Help us improve this campground page.

Add a Feature

Drive Time


2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews1 Camper Review - Crabtree TH

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

0%
100%
0%
0%
0%

4.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Jul. 26, 2025

Popular trails - Camp Lake, Bear Lake

Max overnight stay = 1 night at trailhead (other nearby THs are Bell Meadow & Gianelli), and dispersed camping is allowed. Medium sized parking lot, plus a few back-in sites. Popular with hikers/ backpackers & horses. 3 mi RT to Camp Lake, 8 to Bear Lake. I will try Lilly Lake next time. Good places for swimming.

SiteParked in the main lot (horse trailers Im most of the back-in sites).
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Crabtree TH by Harold M., July 26, 2025
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Crabtree TH by Harold M., July 26, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What hiking trails can be accessed from the Crabtree Trailhead campground?

Crabtree Trailhead provides access to several scenic hiking destinations in the Stanislaus National Forest. From here, you can take a 3-mile round trip to Camp Lake, ideal for day hikers. For more ambitious backpackers, an 8-mile trek leads to Bear Lake. Lily Lake is another destination accessible from this trailhead. These trails are popular with both hikers and equestrians, offering beautiful Sierra Nevada mountain scenery and alpine lake destinations.

Do I need a permit to camp at Crabtree Trailhead?

Overnight stays at Crabtree Trailhead are limited to a maximum of 1 night. While specific permit requirements aren't detailed, dispersed camping is allowed in the surrounding area. For extended wilderness trips departing from this trailhead, wilderness permits may be required depending on your destination and group size. Check with Stanislaus National Forest or the nearest ranger station for current permit requirements before your trip, especially if planning to venture deeper into the wilderness beyond the trailhead area.

Where is the Crabtree Trailhead campground located?

Crabtree Trailhead campground is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, serving as a gateway to the Stanislaus National Forest wilderness. It's positioned near two other trailheads (Bell Meadow and Gianelli), making it a strategic starting point for hikers and backpackers exploring this region of California. The trailhead features a medium-sized parking lot and is accessible by vehicle, though specific road conditions may vary seasonally.

What amenities are available at Crabtree Trailhead campground?

Crabtree Trailhead offers basic amenities focused on serving as a launching point for wilderness adventures. The site includes a medium-sized parking lot and a few back-in camping sites for overnight stays. As a trailhead campground, don't expect extensive facilities - it's primarily designed for short stays before heading into the backcountry. The campground is popular with both hikers and equestrians, so you'll find room for vehicles and horse trailers.