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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov⛺ 137 campsites

Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest)

Pinecrest, California · Calaveras County · Campground

Overview BIG MEADOW CAMPGROUND IS CURRENTLY CLOSED. Trash and Water Services are not available at this time. Big Meadow Campground lies at about 6,400 feet elevation on the Stanislaus National Forest. It is located 21 miles east of Arnold, California. Breathtaking views abound, and wildlife viewing opportunities includ…

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38.41639, -120.10500
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest)

Live forecast for the park. Plan your visit accordingly.

Avg High78°F
Avg Low54°F
Peak Rain Chance0%
Humidity25%
UV (avg)6
Air Quality63 · Moderate
Today
☀️
Clear
78°/49°
🌬 7mph
↑ 6:56 AM ↓ 6:42 PM
Fri
☁️
Overcast
76°/54°
🌬 11mph
↑ 6:57 AM ↓ 6:41 PM
Sat
☁️
Overcast
78°/56°
🌬 9mph
↑ 6:58 AM ↓ 6:39 PM
Sun
☁️
Overcast
80°/56°
🌬 13mph
↑ 6:59 AM ↓ 6:38 PM
Mon
☁️
Overcast
77°/55°
🌬 13mph
↑ 7:00 AM ↓ 6:36 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest)

Overview BIG MEADOW CAMPGROUND IS CURRENTLY CLOSED. Trash and Water Services are not available at this time. Big Meadow Campground lies at about 6,400 feet elevation on the Stanislaus National Forest. It is located 21 miles east of Arnold, California. Breathtaking views abound, and wildlife viewing opportunities include marmots, squirrels, and deer's.Recreation Picnicking, birding and hiking are popular pastimes at Big Meadow. Lake Alpine and Spicer Meadow Reservoir, both just a 15 minute drive away, offer fishing and other water activities. Facilities Big Meadow has 65 individual camping sites and is currently CLOSED.Big Meadow Group camp is easily accessible from Highway 4 and can accommodate a maximum of 50 guests and 20 vehicles. THERE IS CURRENTLY NO WATER & THE VAULT TOILETS ARE CLOSED FOR THE SEASON. Natural Features Situated in the central Sierra Nevada Mountains, Stanislaus National Forest is sandwiched between the well-known destinations, Lake Tahoe and Yosemite. It boasts gorgeous views of snow-capped mountain peaks and California's Great Central Valley. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (209) 753-6350.

Photos

Campsites at Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest)

137 campsites at this campground.

Showing 24 of 137 campsites.

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 6)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun 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 Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest)

Heading to Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest)? 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 Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest)?

No central reservation system listed for Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232260) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How many campsites are at Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest)?

Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest) has 137 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.

How do I get to Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest)?

From Arnold, California, take Highway 4 east for 25 miles to the Big Meadow Campground.

How do I contact Big Meadow (Stanislaus National Forest)?

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