About LOST CLAIM
Overview Lost Claim attracts families and friends with its convenient location, just 15 miles from the northwest Yosemite National Park boundary in northern California. Deemed as an ideal base camp, visitors can explore not only Yosemite, but also the fantastic wilderness areas of the Stanislaus National Forest. Pets are welcome, but must be compliant with Tuolumne County leash laws.Recreation Hike the Little Golden Forest Trail, a half-mile interpretive loop with the option for a longer two-mile loop. A short drive takes visitors to the Tuolumne River for wading and fishing.Facilities The 10 camping sites are all suited for tents. Sites 1, 7, and 8 would also accommodate tent trailers. The roads and spurs are native surface or gravel. Each site has a picnic table, food storage box and campfire ring. Drinking water and vault toilets are available. Natural Features At 3,100 feet in elevation, the tranquil campground sits in a mixed conifer forest with ample shade at each campsite. Nearby is the Tuolumne River, which flows for 150 miles from the central Sierra Nevadas to the San Joaquin River. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (801) 226-3564. Nearby Attractions Take a scenic drive through Yosemite and explore its legendary waterfalls. Enjoy world class fishing on the Tuolumne River or at one of the many lakes in this western Sierra Nevada location. Go hiking on one of the many nearby trails. The town of Groveland boasts many shopping and tourist activities; check with the Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau for more information.
How to Get There
From Groveland, Take State Highway 120 east for 12 miles. The campground is just east of the Groveland Ranger District Office.
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 LOST CLAIM
Heading to LOST CLAIM? 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 LOST CLAIM?
No central reservation system listed for LOST CLAIM. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234761) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to LOST CLAIM?
From Groveland, Take State Highway 120 east for 12 miles. The campground is just east of the Groveland Ranger District Office.
How do I contact LOST CLAIM?
You can reach the park at phone: 209-379-2258 or email: Help.Stanislaus.Groveland@AmericanLL.com.
References & Official Resources