About PINES GROUP SITE - STONY GORGE RESERVOIR
Overview Pines Group Site is conveniently located at the Stony Gorge Dam, just 18 miles downstream from East Park Dam and 5 miles west of Fruto in western Glenn county. Stony Gorge Dam, Orland Project, was completed in 1928 and is a concrete slab and buttress structure with a height of 139 feet and a crest length of 868 feet. The group campsite area is complete with views of the Stony Gorge Reservoir and the scenic hills beyond. There's plenty of open space to throw a ball around, stroll, and explore the area's wildflowers. Plus the warm-water fishery with an 18-mile shoreline is huge draw for avid fishermen. Recreation All water sports are highly recommended at this campground. The area boasts excellent boating and shoreline accessibility. One boat ramp useable most of the summer, is dependent on water levels. Available bass species include largemouth and smallmouth bass of Texan strain that grow faster and mature earlier (10 to 12 pounds) and a thriving bluegill and crappie population (2 to 3 pounds). Catfishing is good year-round (up to 20 pounds). Swimming in the warm, refreshing waters is also popular.Facilities A boat launch is located 1 mile from the campsite, and the group area is ideal for swimming. Picnic tables are dispersed so that some are shaded by trees, while others capture the warm sun. The camping area has a stone fire pit and a large brick barbecue.Natural Features Pines Group Site is set on the northwest tip of the reservoir along 18 miles of lake shoreline. The area is part of the foothills beside the Mendocino National Forest, which straddles the Coastal Mountain Range. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (530) 685-8618. Nearby Attractions Hike the Red Mountain Trail for 360-degree views of Black Butte Lake, Lassen Peak, and Mount Shasta. Don't miss out on a scenic drive through the Mendocino Forest either.
How to Get There
In Glenn County, located near Elk Creek, CA. Exit Interstate-5 at # 603 - Willows and proceed west on California Highway 162. Travel approximately 20 miles to the junction of County Road 304. Turn south on the roadway and continue over two cattle guards approximately 2.5 miles. Take the first right at Stony Gorge Resevior welcome sign and continue on the gravel surface to the end of the road (approximately 1/4 mile) at which a locked gate marks the entrance of the group camp. Welcome to Pines Group Camp.
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 PINES GROUP SITE - STONY GORGE RESERVOIR
Heading to PINES GROUP SITE - STONY GORGE RESERVOIR? 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 PINES GROUP SITE - STONY GORGE RESERVOIR?
No central reservation system listed for PINES GROUP SITE - STONY GORGE RESERVOIR. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233183) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to PINES GROUP SITE - STONY GORGE RESERVOIR?
In Glenn County, located near Elk Creek, CA. Exit Interstate-5 at # 603 - Willows and proceed west on California Highway 162. Travel approximately 20 miles to the junction of County Road 304. Turn south on the roadway and continue over two cattle guards approximately 2.5 miles. Take the first right at Stony Gorge Resevior welcome sign and continue on the gravel surface to the end of the road (appr…
How do I contact PINES GROUP SITE - STONY GORGE RESERVOIR?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-968-5267.
References & Official Resources
