Skip to main content
FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Union West - Union Reservoir (Stanislaus NF)

Pinecrest, California · Alpine County · Campground

Overview Union Reservoir is set in a granite basin with expansive mountain views. The reservoir has lots of small islands and is kept mostly full. The Union West campground is adjacent to the reservoir, nestled in red fir and lodgepole pine forest.

Advertisement
38.42658, -119.99850
Open in OpenStreetMap

About Union West - Union Reservoir (Stanislaus NF)

Overview Union Reservoir is set in a granite basin with expansive mountain views. The reservoir has lots of small islands and is kept mostly full. The Union West campground is adjacent to the reservoir, nestled in red fir and lodgepole pine forest.

How to Get There

From Highway 4, turn onto Spicer Reservoir Road (paved) and go 8 miles. Turn left onto 7N75; from there the roads are gravel. Continue .7 miles to a T-intersection. Follow the Forest Service sign to Union West Campground. Spicer Reservoir Road is 27 miles east of the Calaveras Ranger Station in Hathaway Pines, California 95233.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Union West - Union Reservoir (Stanislaus NF)

Heading to Union West - Union Reservoir (Stanislaus NF)? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Union West - Union Reservoir (Stanislaus NF)?

No central reservation system listed for Union West - Union Reservoir (Stanislaus NF). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10357087) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Union West - Union Reservoir (Stanislaus NF)?

From Highway 4, turn onto Spicer Reservoir Road (paved) and go 8 miles. Turn left onto 7N75; from there the roads are gravel. Continue .7 miles to a T-intersection. Follow the Forest Service sign to Union West Campground. Spicer Reservoir Road is 27 miles east of the Calaveras Ranger Station in Hathaway Pines, California 95233.

How do I contact Union West - Union Reservoir (Stanislaus NF)?

You can reach the park at phone: 209-795-1381.