About MIDDLE MEADOWS
Overview Middle Meadows Campground offers a quiet place to camp, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. The campground is isolated from other campgrounds and offers a variety of recreational activities in its vicinity. Its scenic location also provides for beautiful sightseeing, birding and wildlife viewing.Recreation Campers at Middle Meadows enjoy a forested setting and close access to a flowing creek, making it an ideal spot for family trips. Hell Hole Reservoir, located less than 5 miles from the campground, offers a variety of water-related recreation opportunities, including boating and fishing. There is a swimming hole that is located just west of Middle Meadows Group Campground about 0.25 miles.Facilities The campground offers two group campsites. The sites can accommodate up to 25 and 50 guests respectively. Each site is equipped with tables, campfire circles and grills. Vault and portable toilets are provided. Bear proof food containers and garbage receptacles are provided at each camp site. Currently, potable water is not available due to contamination problems. Please bring drinking water, containers or water filters. Potable water is available from faucets at Big Meadows Campground, which is located 2.5 miles northeast of Middle Meadows Group Campground.Natural Features Middle Meadows is located along the South Fork of Long Canyon Creek with a heavily wooded surrounding. Forests include large cedar, pine and fir trees and shrubs. Although the campground has a primitive, undiscovered feel to it, the serene mountain landscape is well worth the long drive from civilization. Nearby Attractions Middle Meadows is located adjacent to Long Canyon Creek for fishing and wading. Hell Hole Reservoir is a short drive north. A boat ramp is available at the reservoir.
How to Get There
From Sacramento, California, take Interstate 80 east to Auburn. Take the Elm Street exit and turn left at the stoplight. Follow Highway 49 down the canyon, across the American River, to Cool. Turn onto Highway 193 towards Georgetown. Turn left at the stop sign, then continue 22 miles to 11 Pines Road. Make a left and stay on this road (Forest Highway 2) for about 25 miles to the campground.
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 MIDDLE MEADOWS
Heading to MIDDLE MEADOWS? 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 MIDDLE MEADOWS?
No central reservation system listed for MIDDLE MEADOWS. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/231953) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to MIDDLE MEADOWS?
From Sacramento, California, take Interstate 80 east to Auburn. Take the Elm Street exit and turn left at the stoplight. Follow Highway 49 down the canyon, across the American River, to Cool. Turn onto Highway 193 towards Georgetown. Turn left at the stop sign, then continue 22 miles to 11 Pines Road. Make a left and stay on this road (Forest Highway 2) for about 25 miles to the campground.
How do I contact MIDDLE MEADOWS?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-333-4312.
References & Official Resources
