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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

FISH CREEK (CA)

Big Creek, California · Madera County · Campground

Overview Fish Creek Campground remains closed due to the 2020 Creek Wildfire. Fish Creek Campground is a small, primitive camp offering standard and tent-only sites. The campground is surrounded by mountains and tucked into a shady spot beneath oaks and pines. Sites are located along Fish Creek. Recreation Hikers can a…

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37.26117, -119.35613
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About FISH CREEK (CA)

Overview Fish Creek Campground remains closed due to the 2020 Creek Wildfire. Fish Creek Campground is a small, primitive camp offering standard and tent-only sites. The campground is surrounded by mountains and tucked into a shady spot beneath oaks and pines. Sites are located along Fish Creek. Recreation Hikers can access the nearby French Trail, a 12.7 mile foot trail that extends from Squaw Dome Trailhead to Logan Meadow Trailhead. Other activities include hunting in designated areas and fishing.Facilities Each unit has a picnic table, grill and fire ring. Vault toilets are provided, but campers must bring drinking water.Natural Features Fish Creek Campground is located in the Bass Lake Ranger District. At an elevation of 3,400 feet, Bass Lake is a very popular area known for its variety of fish, as well as the bald and golden eagles that make their home here. 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. Nearby Attractions Nearby Mammoth Pool Reservoir offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, hiking and wildlife viewing. Campers can use a pay phone, as well as get gas and supplies at Wagner's Mammoth Pool Resort. 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 (heading east out of North Fork) for 19 miles to the Fish Creek 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 FISH CREEK (CA)

Heading to FISH CREEK (CA)? 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 FISH CREEK (CA)?

No central reservation system listed for FISH CREEK (CA). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232820) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to FISH CREEK (CA)?

From Fresno, California: Take Highway 41 north, turn northeast on Forest Road 200 and pass through North Fork. Take Minarets Road (heading east out of North Fork) for 19 miles to the Fish Creek Campground.

How do I contact FISH CREEK (CA)?

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