Dispersed camping near Cedar Ridge, California provides access to Stanislaus National Forest with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 85°F and cold winters with significant snowfall at higher elevations, typically closing most unpaved forest roads from November through April. Forest Route 5N56 offers multiple primitive camping spots within 15 minutes of Arnold.
What to do
Water recreation: Swimming holes near Boards Crossing provide cooling relief during summer months. Though the campground is decommissioned, a visitor notes you can "walk down the hill from the campsites" to find "a few great swimming holes—definitely worth the effort on a warm day."
Hiking with sequoias: Calaveras Big Trees State Park offers multiple trail options ranging from easy 1-mile interpretive walks to more challenging 4-mile loops. A camper mentions there are "lots of trails to hike here, an extensive ranger station with a Visitor Center, snack bar, and organized talks and activities."
Mountain biking: Forest trails around Top of Arnold accommodate various skill levels. One visitor observed "people on dirt bikes ripping around trails" in September, making this area suitable for both motorized and non-motorized trail activities.
What campers like
Solitude and space: Many dispersed sites offer privacy not found at established campgrounds. A camper at Forest Route 4N39 recommends you "drive to the back area for tree shade and level grounds" for the best camping experience on the ridgeline.
Accessibility to nature: Most tent camping spots near Cedar Ridge provide immediate access to forest environments. At Crabtree TH, a visitor noted "3 mi RT to Camp Lake, 8 to Bear Lake" with "good places for swimming," making it convenient for day hiking.
Wildlife encounters: Bears are active throughout the area. A camper at North Grove Campground reported, "Bear came through our camp one night hit the Bear box and walked off."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads leading to the best tent camping near Cedar Ridge, California become rutted after winter. At Top of Arnold, a camper warned "the dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes," though noted their "Toyota Yaris made it up" despite the challenges.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have no amenities. Boards Crossing "used to be a fully operational campground, but it's now decommissioned" with only worn wooden picnic tables at some sites. The visitor advises "no toilets, no running water" so preparation is essential.
Seasonal considerations: Camping conditions vary dramatically by season. A visitor to Eagle Point appreciated the "ton of space, peace and quiet, and true wilderness" in spring before summer crowds arrive.
Fire restrictions: Regulations change frequently based on conditions. At Top of Arnold, fires are typically prohibited during peak fire season (July-October), while some established campgrounds maintain designated fire rings with seasonal allowances.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water: With no reliable water sources at dispersed sites, family groups should bring 1-2 gallons per person per day. The dusty conditions at Top of Arnold can increase water needs, as one camper noted "the ground is basically dust dirt" which affects comfort.
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage is critical in all Cedar Ridge area camping. A family camping at North Grove Campground appreciated that "bear boxes are provided" at established sites, making food management easier with children.
Choose established campgrounds for amenities: Families often prefer North Grove Campground where a camper found "campsites are clean and spacious with large trees surrounding everywhere and the bathrooms at the campsites were well kept (which is a huge plus!)."
Tips for RVers
Size restrictions: Many forest roads near Cedar Ridge have limited clearance and turning radius. A reviewer at Forest Route 4N39 noted "you don't need 4x4 but you definitely will need a vehicle with some decent clearance" due to "weirdly purposefully placed speed bumps" that challenge larger vehicles.
Limited hookups: RV campers seeking services should note most dispersed areas offer no facilities. North Grove Campground provides more options but "no trailer hookups," though "every site has a water but can't connect it with the trailer," and "the park does have a dump station" included with space rent.
Seasonal access: Winter conditions severely limit RV camping opportunities. Most unpaved roads become impassable from November through April, restricting the best tent camping near Cedar Ridge, California primarily to summer and early fall for larger vehicles.
