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.
How to Get There
From Arnold, California, take Highway 4 east for 25 miles to the Big Meadow 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 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 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.
References & Official Resources
