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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

MAMMOTH POOL

Big Creek, California · Madera County · Campground

Overview Mammoth Pool will be closed until further notice due to a massive hazard tree removal. Mammoth Pool Campground is located half a mile from the recreation area at Mammoth Pool Reservoir. This primitive campground winds through a stand of Ponderosa pine and cedar trees along the San Joaquin River in the midst of…

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About MAMMOTH POOL

Overview Mammoth Pool will be closed until further notice due to a massive hazard tree removal. Mammoth Pool Campground is located half a mile from the recreation area at Mammoth Pool Reservoir. This primitive campground winds through a stand of Ponderosa pine and cedar trees along the San Joaquin River in the midst of a mountainous landscape.Recreation Mammoth Pool Reservoir offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, hiking and wildlife viewing. A boat ramp is available at the reservoir. Hikers can access the nearby French Trail, a 12.7-mile foot trail that provides access to the Ansel Adams Wilderness.Facilities Each campsite has a picnic table, grill and campfire ring. Vault toilets are provided, but campers must bring drinking water. Campers will find a pay phone, gas and camping supplies at nearby Wagner's Mammoth Pool Resort.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. Mammoth Pool Campground is located near the Ansel Adams Wilderness, known for its jagged peaks, including 13,157-foot Mt. Ritter, and numerous lakes and streams. Nearby Attractions A popular pastime in the area is to take a drive on the 83-mile Sierra Vista Scenic Byway.

How to Get There

From Fresno, California, take Highway 41 north. Turn northeast on Forest Road 200 and pass through North Fork. Take Minarets Road east, follow it 37 miles, turn right on Mammoth Pool Road and follow it 4 miles to Mammoth Pool 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 MAMMOTH POOL

Heading to MAMMOTH POOL? 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 MAMMOTH POOL?

No central reservation system listed for MAMMOTH POOL. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232817) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to MAMMOTH POOL?

From Fresno, California, take Highway 41 north. Turn northeast on Forest Road 200 and pass through North Fork. Take Minarets Road east, follow it 37 miles, turn right on Mammoth Pool Road and follow it 4 miles to Mammoth Pool Campground.

How do I contact MAMMOTH POOL?

You can reach the park at phone: 559-642-3212 or email: clm@clm-services.com.