Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Pioneer, CA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Pioneer, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
$30 / night
"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."
"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. "
"Staff a very friendly and our site was just a walking distance to the bathrooms."
"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."
$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."
$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!"
$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."
"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!"
$34 - $108 / night
"Good access to the river from many of the sites and in general the river is kid-friendly (during summer). Spots vary in size wildly so larger RV's might not be a good idea."
"The site was close to the water but you could not see the stream from the campsite. At night we could hear the water as it flowed over the boulders. Very peaceful!"
"They are set into the mountains with trees behind you. The park rangers are very present to keep people in check and the camp host drives by multiple times to keep the bathrooms clean."
"The lake is GORGEOUS and amazingly cool during the summer, and we also love winter camping in the snow as well."
$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!"
"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."
GuideThere 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.
TravelerMy 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.
TravelerBlue lakes in the Markleeville area are some of the most beautiful lakes I've camped at. Will definitely be visiting again.
LegendEasy 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.
GuideThis 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.
TravelerIt 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.
TravelerWe 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.
TravelerGreat 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.
GuideI 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.
Camping near Pioneer, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.
Camping near Pioneer, California, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pioneer Campground located and how do I get there?
Pioneer Campground is located in the Sierra Nevada foothills of California, in Amador County. The area is known for its Gold Country history and beautiful natural surroundings. To get there, you can access the campground via Highway 88, which is a main route through the region. Kit Carson Campground is nearby, situated in a 5-mile valley with tall stone walls on both sides along the West Fork of the Kit Carson River and Highway 88. For alternate options in the vicinity, Gold Country Campground Resort near Pine Grove is also accessible by car with drive-in and walk-in access options.
What amenities are available at Pioneer Campground?
Pioneer Campground typically offers standard camping amenities including fire pits, picnic tables, and restroom facilities. In the same region, Lake Camanche campgrounds are well-maintained with clean bathrooms and hot water, though some areas may not have showers on-site. Similarly, Acorn Campground provides clean facilities at reasonable rates ($20 per night, with discounts for Golden Age passes), and is suitable for small trailers and tents, with some sites that can accommodate larger RVs. Many campgrounds in the Pioneer area are situated near water features, offering recreational opportunities like fishing, swimming, and boating, though water levels may vary seasonally due to California drought conditions.
Is Pioneer Campground near Yosemite National Park?
Pioneer Campground is not particularly close to Yosemite National Park. While both are in the Sierra Nevada region, they're separated by substantial distance. From Pioneer, you would need to travel south and east to reach Yosemite, typically requiring a 2-3 hour drive depending on the exact route and conditions. For camping options closer to Yosemite, consider alternatives like Clark Fork Campground, which is more conveniently located for accessing the park. Clark Fork features 88 spacious sites with good separation between neighbors, making it suitable for families and groups planning Yosemite visits. Pipi Campground is another option that offers river access and various site sizes, though larger RVs might find space limitations.
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