Best Campgrounds near Pine Grove, CA

Campgrounds near Pine Grove, California range from developed facilities to primitive sites across the Sierra Nevada foothills. Gold Country Campground Resort offers tent, RV, and cabin camping with amenities including electric hookups, showers, and a market, while Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground provides a more rustic experience with tent and RV sites nestled among oak trees. The region includes Lake Amador Resort and 49er Village RV Resort, both offering waterfront access and cabin accommodations. Several campgrounds in the area feature picnic tables, fire pits, and access to nearby hiking trails, with most allowing pets in designated areas.

Camping is available year-round at several locations including Gold Country Campground Resort, though seasonal considerations affect the experience. Summer brings warm temperatures ideal for water activities, while spring showcases wildflowers along hiking paths. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak summer weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. The proximity to historical sites like Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park allows campers to combine outdoor recreation with cultural exploration. Most developed campgrounds provide drinking water and restroom facilities, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, particularly in more remote areas. As one camper noted, "The campgrounds have a camp host at the first campsite, who can be very helpful. When I visited, they sold firewood. $7 for one bundle or $18 for three bundles."

Campers consistently highlight the natural surroundings and historical significance of the area in their reviews. The oak woodlands provide ample shade at many sites, while proximity to lakes and rivers creates opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating. Several visitors mentioned wildlife encounters, including deer that become quite comfortable around campsites. A recent review described one campground as having "sites that are small with a lot of tree coverage. It was quiet, quaint, and clean." Noise levels vary by location, with campgrounds closer to Highway 88 experiencing more traffic sounds during the day. Family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and organized activities are available at some of the larger resorts, while smaller campgrounds offer a more peaceful retreat. Proximity to Gold Country towns provides opportunities for day trips to explore the region's mining history and local cuisine.

Best Camping Sites Near Pine Grove, California (305)

    1. Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Volcano, CA
    2 miles

    $30 / night

    "So glad we did as it is tucked away on the grounds of an amazing state park!

    Most of the sites are small with a lot of tree coverage. It was quiet, quaint, and clean. "

    "Next to a beautiful state operated historical park with lots of open space, tall ancient oak trees and two easy trails. Open space great for games, frisbee, soccer, or setup a volleyball net."

    2. Gold Country Campground Resort

    8 Reviews
    Pine Grove, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (209) 296-4650

    "We used the spot to not be in the snow but make the trip up to Iron Mountain Sno-Park...a 45 minute drive. The snow looked great for skiing but not so much for snowmen or sledding."

    "Staff a very friendly and our site was just a walking distance to the bathrooms."

    3. Acorn Campground

    28 Reviews
    Valley Springs, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 772-1343

    $20 / night

    "A good clean campground, popular in central California. Reasonably priced $20 per night."

    "The lake has receded quite a but that one of the docks is about 100 yards from the actual lake now (California drought). The campsite was well maintained."

    4. Jackson Rancheria RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Jackson, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 223-1677

    $50 - $70 / night

    "We wanted a close to home location with all the hookups to make sure we knew how to use everything. We were shocked at how clean and beautiful this park was!"

    "Spacious , clean, very friendly staff, beautiful walking trail around the park. The views are so beautiful we will definitely come back!"

    5. Lake Amador Resort

    12 Reviews
    Ione, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 274-4739

    $25 - $45 / night

    "Fabulous lakeside camping.... We’ve been in March, May, July and September..... July, just too hot but we love being able to just get up and fish... The lake is stocked with Trout, Bass and Catfish."

    "We had a couple of trees behind us to filter some of the sunlight. It was hot but cooled down nicely during the evening. We had some debris from previous campers but the campsite was pretty clean."

    6. 49er Village RV Resort

    6 Reviews
    Sutter Creek, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 245-6981

    "There are trees throughout the park and although it is located right on the road, only the sites that back up to the road hear road noise. There is a small pond in the center and we saw some ducks."

    "We enjoyed walking around with our pets and getting ice cream. The only annoyance was loud music past curfew, but it was only on the weekend."

    7. North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park

    22 Reviews
    Arnold, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 795-2334

    $25 - $70 / night

    "I think this is my favorite California State Park. It is situated in the Calaveras Big Trees Giant Sequoia Grove."

    "Pros - you are in the middle of the Sequoias, near hiking, kayaking, etc. Beautiful river nearby; pretty easy in and out for small-ish RVs. Hard to beat the location."

    8. Lake Camanche

    18 Reviews
    Wallace, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 763-5121

    $50 / night

    "Easy access to the lake. Campground is well maintained. Bathrooms are always clean and with hot water. No shower at this site. But there’s one close by at the Riverview, walking distance."

    "I come here with my family every year around 4th of July. I would book way ahead for busy holidays like that. 

    The water level really varies on the year."

    9. Roaring Camp

    2 Reviews
    Pine Grove, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 296-4100

    "No camping here but it is next to Henry Cowell SP. Tight turns, I would not recommend for RV’ers."

    "We found a huge group site out here for our Burns Canyon trail run. I’m not sure if it was this exact location but it’s hard to miss! We’re planning another trip back already!"

    10. Buffalo Hill

    1 Review
    Pine Grove, CA
    1 mile
    +1 (707) 474-2693

    $39 - $90 / night

    "I love the rich history behind it. The cabin boasts a king sized bed. We're excited to have them on The Dyrt!"

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Recent Reviews near Pine Grove, CA

1040 Reviews of 305 Pine Grove Campgrounds


  • Victoria S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Serene Camping

    There were definitely a few long term campers here. But the place was very clean. No cell service fyi. Easy to get to, road is dirt but has very few bumps.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Lower Blue Lake Campground

    Beautiful location!

    My cousins and I stayed in sites one through three. They are extremely close to the lake, near the dam. We were able to leave our chairs and kayaks down by the water, and felt totally secure. we were able to kayak down to the other end of the lake, where there is a small waterfall. our sites had to be reserved, but there are some FCFS sites as well. Pit bathrooms are OK. The portable water spigot was broken, so we had to get some water from Middle blue lake Campground, about a mile away. The water issues is the only reason I am taking a star off, this place is beautiful, and we are definitely coming back. A couple of the sites will accommodate, decent sized rigs.

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

    Good spot for a night or two but nothing here

    Easy to get to and easy to park at although not a great spot for tents. Unfortunately there was a massive fire here and there is nothing to look at but burned out trees.

  • Jacqueline G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Dispersed USFS

    Worth the climbs to get here!!

    This is full wilderness camping off the main road between hope valley and the blue lakes. I had no problem getting in with my 30ft bus towing a jeep but the road is steep and winding for about 7 miles to the pull off. There were a lot of other campers for Labor Day weekend but the rest of the time there was no one around. Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction. PLEASE NOTE: There are prolonged climbs to get here (up to about 8% grade) but my bus did fine. Slow and steady and you’ll be fine. Also WATCH THE WEATHER! Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit and deep puddles can appear. There are loads of rocks and fallen trees around to fill in holes if needed. If you’re moderate to high clearance rig you’ll be fine just be mindful. The Blue Lakes are just down the road for swimming, boating, kayaking etc and lots of amazing 4x4 trails. Rivers for fishing and endless hiking and biking. Elevation is 8300ft so definitely a bit high. The trees help with the air however. Not nearly as tough as the high desert of Utah (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you’re not used to high altitude.

  • Rajesh N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Great area for car camping

    It is a great site just near the road. We arrived on Monday afternoon and there were lots of places. There were other people but everyone has enough space. There’s a pit restroom which seems comparatively new. We didn’t get bugs problems. We car camped.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Pinecrest Campground

    Beautiful Location With Talkitive Ravens

    We went to Pinecrest as the first trip we took with our brand new travel trailer. Not only was it a great break-in trip but the location was lovely. The hosts were friendly and very helpful when we had difficulty getting into the site we reserved. Once we set up camp in our new sire, we started to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. And the ravens. Lots of talkative ravens. Very entertaining.

    We were thrilled to find out there’s a restaurant and general store located right across the street from the campground. It was just delicious icing on a very tasty cake. Two thumbs up for Pinecrest Campground and an extra thumbs up and thank you to the hosts.

  • eric A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Highland Lakes Campground

    Lake Views, Swimming, Mountain Trails

    Great place to camp, fish, kayak, hike and relax. Dirt roads all the way in from Hwy 4 so be prepared for mild offroading and dust.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park

    Nice for an established campground

    I prefer dispersed camping for the quiet and solitude but we met friends here who picked the campground. That said, this is a nice established cg. Not a lot of privacy (wide open so you can see everyone around you) but individual sites have room between them. Campers when we were there were fairly quiet but even quiet sounds travel, especially at night. Smoke from all the campfires is not great for people with asthma. Bathrooms are very nice: clean, flush toilets, and sinks with cold water taps. Bear boxes provided. There’s lots of trails to hike here, an an extensive ranger station with a Visitor Center, snack bar, and organized talks and activities. The big trees are exactly as advertised: incredibly big and awe-inspiring. Just wish state parks would let you take your leashed dogs on the trails. Otherwise, a very nice public campground if that’s your thing.


Guide to Pine Grove

Camping near Pine Grove, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore Yosemite National Park: Just a short drive away, Yosemite is a must-see. One camper mentioned, “It was a nice and quiet place and only a 45 min. drive to Yosemite Valley” while staying at Hodgdon Meadow Campground.
  • Visit Fallen Leaf Lake: This spot is perfect for swimming and hiking. A reviewer said, “The lake is a 5 min walk away not to mention near the start of many hiking trails in desolation wilderness” at Fallen Leaf Campground.
  • Enjoy water activities at Folsom Lake: Campers can swim, kayak, or fish. One visitor noted, “Great access to hiking, bike trails, clean and fairly quiet” while at Beals Point Campground.

What campers like:

  • Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the roomy spots. A review for Fallen Leaf Campground mentioned, “Some sites very spacious.”
  • Clean facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are a big plus. A camper at D.L. Bliss State Park Campground said, “The restrooms are filthy. Try to get a site near the beach! The beach is awesome!”
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. One visitor at Yosemite Pines RV Resort said, “Staff was very friendly and helpful.”

What you should know:

  • Bear activity: Be cautious about food storage. A camper at Eagle Point Campground warned, “We had a bear visit our campsite, so it’s crucial to store your food in the provided bear boxes.”
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds lack showers or markets. A review for Acorn Campground stated, “Not expensive and has bathrooms, garbage, fire pits and picnic tables but no privacy.”
  • Crowded sites: Some campgrounds can feel cramped. A camper at Zephyr Cove Resort noted, “My fire ring was at the bumper of my vehicle, the picnic table was basically in someone else’s campsite.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One camper at Tahoe Valley Campground said, “This is a great spot if you have kids. Lots of stuff to do just at the resort.”
  • Plan for bear safety: Teach kids about food storage. A review for Hodgdon Meadow Campground mentioned, “Old, dusty, extremely crowded campsites, with aging facilities.”
  • Bring outdoor games: Keep kids entertained with games. A camper at Yosemite Pines RV Resort enjoyed “a nature trail that goes to an old gold mine.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Beals Point Campground noted, “The sites are clean. Bathrooms however where not.”
  • Book early: Popular spots fill up fast. A camper at D.L. Bliss State Park Campground advised, “Definitely book six months in advance.”
  • Bring extra supplies: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Tahoe Valley Campground mentioned, “The store is lovely but not open often.”

Camping near Pine Grove, California, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Pine Grove Campground?

Campgrounds in the Pine Grove area offer a range of amenities. Gold Country Campground Resort features family-friendly facilities including recreational areas that received approval from younger campers. Most sites in the region provide basic amenities like fire pits and picnic tables. Acorn Campground is reasonably priced at $20 per night, accepts Golden Age passes (reducing costs to $10/night), and is best suited for small trailers and tents, though some larger RV sites are available. The campground is clean and well-maintained, making it a popular choice in central California.

How do I make reservations at Pine Grove Camping Resort?

To make reservations near Pine Grove, several options are available. Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground is a small, quiet campground with only 23 sites, making advance reservations advisable, especially for weekend stays. Lake Amador Resort offers reservable sites with water and toilet facilities, suitable for various camping styles including drive-in and hike-in access. For most campgrounds in the area, reservations can be made through their official websites or by calling directly. During peak season (summer months), booking well in advance is recommended to secure your preferred dates.

What attractions can I visit near Pine Grove, CA while camping?

The Pine Grove area offers diverse attractions for campers. American River Resort provides easy river access and is just a half-mile walk to town for shopping and dining. For history enthusiasts, Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park features fascinating historical exhibits and open spaces for exploration. The region also offers natural attractions like Clark Fork Campground, which provides spacious sites in a scenic valley with the West Fork of Carson River running through. Many campgrounds serve as excellent basecamps for day trips to Gold Country attractions, including historic mining towns, wineries, and outdoor recreation areas.