About JACKASS MEADOW
Overview Jackass Meadow Campground remains closed until further notice due to hazard tree removal. Jackass Meadow Campground is situated below Florence Lake on the San Joaquin River, surrounded by the craggy peaks of the John Muir Wilderness. Jackass Meadow is shaded by a stand of Aspen and Lodgepole Pine, and the South Fork of the San Joaquin runs through the campground. This camp is located near several Native American archaeological sites.Recreation There is a .7 mile accessible hiking trail near the campground. Nature walks are held every Saturday during the summer. Most of the recreation opportunities here can be found in and around Florence Lake. There is a boat ramp and boat rentals at the Florence Lake Store.Facilities Each campsite has a table, fire ring and grill. Bear-proof food lockers, water and accessible vault toilets are provided. Supplies and groceries can be purchased half a mile from the campground at the Florence Lake Store.Natural Features The Sierra National Forest, located on the western slope of the central Sierra Nevada, is known for its spectacular mountain scenery and abundant natural resources. The terrain includes rolling, oak-covered foothills, heavily forested middle elevation slopes and the starkly beautiful alpine landscape of the High Sierra. The John Muir Wilderness stretches for 100 miles along the crest of the Sierra. It is a land of lofty snow-capped mountains, deep canyons and vast expanses of glacially carved terrain. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (909) 638-6117. Nearby Attractions A popular activity is to take a ferry from Florence Lake to the John Muir Trail, which is part of the Pacific Crest Trail, which stretches from Mexico to Canada. Ferry tickets can be purchased at the Florence Lake Store.
How to Get There
From Clovis, California: Take Hwy 168 north for 70 miles to Huntington Lake Campground office at Eastwood. Turn right and follow Kaiser Pass Road approximately 21 miles to Jackass 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 JACKASS MEADOW
Heading to JACKASS MEADOW? 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 JACKASS MEADOW?
No central reservation system listed for JACKASS MEADOW. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232803) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to JACKASS MEADOW?
From Clovis, California: Take Hwy 168 north for 70 miles to Huntington Lake Campground office at Eastwood. Turn right and follow Kaiser Pass Road approximately 21 miles to Jackass Meadow campground.
How do I contact JACKASS MEADOW?
You can reach the park at phone: 559-893-2111 or email: vista@vista-rec.com.
References & Official Resources
