About COYOTE GROUP
Overview Coyote Group Campground is located on the northeast end of French Meadows Reservoir, near the Middle Fork of American River. The facility is located in a remote area approximately 40 miles from Foresthill. Visitors enjoy the area for its fishing, boating and trail opportunities. This campground is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.Recreation The Middle Fork of American River provides visitors with ample opportunities for fishing and swimming. Popular activities on the nearby reservoir include boating, canoeing, fishing and swimming. Two boat ramps are located within three miles of the campground. A variety of hiking and biking trails are found in the surrounding area, including some that provide access to the nearby Granite Chief Wilderness and The Western States Trail. Just down the road is the Granite Chief Wilderness which provides amazing hiking opportunities for adventurous party to explore historic aspen tree stands and secluded mountain passes and trail. The Western States Trail provides great opportunity for hiking, horesback riding, dirt biking, and for adventurous mountain bikers. Facilities The campground offers four group campsites. The Black Bear site is accessible and can accommodate up to 50 people. Brush Wolf, Little Wolf and Prairie Wolf sites can accommodate up to 25 people each. Multiple picnic tables, campfire circles and grills are provided. Vault toilets and drinking water are available throughout the campground.Natural Features The campground is situated near the river, just north of French Meadows Reservoir. A coniferous forest covers the area. At an elevation of 5,200 feet, summertime temperatures are warm throughout the day and cool at night.
How to Get There
High clearance vehicles may take Foresthill Rd to the 43 Rd (Robinson Flat Rd) to Mosquito Ridge Rd, snow permitting. Access from Soda Springs and the 43 Rd is not recommended for trucks with trailers, motorhomes/RV's or passenger vehicles that are not high clearance vehicles with four wheel drive.
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 COYOTE GROUP
Heading to COYOTE GROUP? 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 COYOTE GROUP?
No central reservation system listed for COYOTE GROUP. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232032) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to COYOTE GROUP?
High clearance vehicles may take Foresthill Rd to the 43 Rd (Robinson Flat Rd) to Mosquito Ridge Rd, snow permitting. Access from Soda Springs and the 43 Rd is not recommended for trucks with trailers, motorhomes/RV's or passenger vehicles that are not high clearance vehicles with four wheel drive.
How do I contact COYOTE GROUP?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-367-2224.
References & Official Resources
