Places to Camp near Arnold, CA
Camping near Arnold, California
Arnold, California, nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, offers a fantastic array of camping options for nature lovers. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent under towering sequoias or park your RV near a serene lake, Arnold has something for everyone. The campgrounds around Arnold are known for their beautiful settings, diverse activities, and family-friendly amenities.
From the majestic trees of Calaveras Big Trees State Park to the tranquil waters of Pinecrest Lake, the campgrounds near Arnold provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, it's essential to know what to expect, what to bring, and how to make the most of your camping experience in this picturesque region.
What to Do
Camping near Arnold offers a plethora of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching are just a few of the adventures you can embark on.
- At North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park, you can explore the giant sequoias and enjoy nearby hiking and kayaking. Kevin and Lisa S. mention, "You are in the middle of the Sequoias, near hiking, kayaking, etc. Beautiful river nearby."
- Pinecrest Campground offers proximity to Pinecrest Lake, where you can paddleboard, hike around the lake, and even catch an outdoor movie at the amphitheater. Steve W. shares, "We played paddle board in the lake, watched the new Minion movie at the amphitheater."
- For a more historical experience, visit Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park. Phoebe notes, "Visit the black chasm caverns nearby too!"
What Campers Like
Campers appreciate the natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and the variety of activities available at the campgrounds near Arnold.
- The North Grove Campground is praised for its beautiful location and clean sites. Xi C. says, "Great view, great facility and coin-based shower, great trails, great water access, very clean sites."
- Pinecrest Campground is loved for its clean campsites and proximity to amenities. DD mentions, "Clean campsites very close to Pinecrest Lake, the coffee shop, store, restaurant."
- Campers at Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park enjoy the peaceful environment and wildlife. Jess R. states, "So peaceful to hear all the birds in the morning, the frogs at night. Plenty of wildlife to see in the day use area as well."
What You Should Know
While camping near Arnold is generally a great experience, there are a few things to be aware of to ensure a smooth trip.
- Some campgrounds, like North Grove Campground, have inconsistent shower pricing and occasional road noise. Kevin and Lisa S. note, "Some toilets and showers were pretty nice, some pretty beat up. Inconsistent pricing on the showers."
- At Pinecrest Campground, bear boxes are not available, which can be a concern for some campers. DD points out, "Taking away 1 star because there are no bear boxes."
- Silver Lake West can be windy, which might affect your camping experience. Larry W. shares, "EXCEPT the wind can be overwhelming, and our 10-day early July stay had ONE calm day."
Tips for Camping with Families
Camping with families can be a rewarding experience, especially in the family-friendly campgrounds near Arnold.
- North Grove Campground offers well-spaced and level spots, making it easier for families with kids. Lisa C. mentions, "The spots were really well-spaced and level; the campground had clean, modern facilities and great access to the trails."
- Pinecrest Campground is great for family activities like paddleboarding and outdoor movies. Steve W. says, "We played paddle board in the lake, watched the new Minion movie at the amphitheater."
- At Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park, kids can enjoy the open space and learn about local history. Steve E. notes, "Kids will enjoy going inside the roundhouses (teepee like structures). Stop by the free museum."
Tips from RVers
RVers will find several campgrounds near Arnold that cater to their needs, but it's essential to know what to expect.
- North Grove Campground is suitable for small-ish RVs, but finding a flat spot away from the highway is recommended. Kevin and Lisa S. advise, "Pretty easy in and out for small-ish RVs. If you can get a flat spot a little farther away from the highway it would be better."
- Pinecrest Campground is big rig friendly but lacks water hookups. Ian G. shares, "On their website it did state there was water hookups unfortunately there was not."
- Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park offers amenities like showers and clean toilets, making it a comfortable spot for RVers. Christine D. mentions, "There are paid showers, and bathrooms that also accommodate HandiCapable campers."
Camping near Arnold, California, offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene lakeside retreats to adventures among giant sequoias. By knowing what to expect and planning accordingly, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable camping trip in this beautiful region.