Pines Group Stanislaus
5.156 reviewsGROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA 95321, USA
Pines Group Stanislaus
$150.00 - $150.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric costs $150 per night during peak season (April 26 to October 13). Winter camping is free but lacks water and toilet paper.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest, Pines Group Campground offers an intimate tent-camping experience for groups of up to 50 adventurers. Just a scenic 15-mile drive from the majestic Yosemite National Park, this secluded haven serves as the perfect launching point for unforgettable wilderness expeditions. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout outing, or friends' retreat, this group-exclusive site provides the ideal blend of accessibility and natural immersion.
Pines Group Campground is designed for tent-only group camping and is open year-round. It accommodates up to 50 people and is not suitable for RVs or trailers.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Sierra Nevada foothills throughout the year. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for the hardy cold-weather enthusiast. As spring emerges, the forest awakens with vibrant wildflowers and rushing snowmelt. Summer brings those perfect camping days—warm sunshine filtered through towering pines, cool mountain evenings around the campfire, and endless blue skies that make every outdoor adventure memorable. The dry, moderate summer temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking, swimming, and stargazing.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 3,200 feet above sea level, Pines Group Campground strikes the perfect balance between mountain atmosphere and accessibility. This moderate elevation means you'll enjoy cooler temperatures than the valley floor without the challenges of high-altitude camping—making it ideal for groups with varying fitness levels and perfect for acclimatizing before higher mountain adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the serene embrace of a pristine mixed conifer forest, where towering pines and firs create a natural cathedral overhead. The campground's 3,200-foot elevation places you in the sweet spot of Sierra biodiversity, where mountain meadows meet dense woodland. Just beyond your tent, the mighty Tuolumne River carves its 150-mile journey through the landscape, its crystal-clear waters providing a stunning backdrop for exploration and reflection. Wake to the gentle rustling of pine needles and the melodic calls of mountain birds in this tranquil forest sanctuary.
Geological RegionThe campground sits within the remarkable geological tapestry of Stanislaus National Forest, where ancient Sierra Nevada granite meets volcanic formations in a landscape sculpted by millennia of natural forces. At 3,200 feet elevation, you're perfectly positioned in the mixed conifer belt—a diverse ecosystem where ponderosa pines mingle with Douglas firs and incense cedars. This dynamic terrain, shaped by rivers cutting through mountain valleys and surrounded by designated wilderness areas, offers endless opportunities for geological discovery and scenic wonder. The proximity to the Tuolumne River corridor adds another dimension to the region's rich geological story.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features or ADA-compliant facilities are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe site is spacious and open, accommodating up to 50 people. "Plenty of tent space, as the site is mostly open with few trees within the site," states a reviewer.
Sites PrivacyThe campsite offers limited privacy due to its open layout.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIdeal for groups up to 50 people seeking proximity to Yosemite and spacious outdoor accommodations.
Best CampsitesOnly one group campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
The maximum consecutive stay allowed is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 50 people per group campsite.
Groups
The group camping site accommodates up to 50 people, with two bear containers available for food storage. One reviewer suggested adding another bear container for larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe group site is mostly open with few trees within the site, featuring six tables arranged in sets of two for communal dining.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; peak season is April 26 to October 13.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served single-family campsites are available but not specified for group sites.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 change fee if new dates are completely different. Cancellations before the scheduled arrival date incur a $10 fee, plus any reservation fees paid, and may forfeit the first night's use fee if canceled late (less than 14 days before arrival).
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers can enjoy hiking trails like the Little Golden Forest Trail, a half-mile interpretive loop with an option for a longer two-mile loop. Fishing opportunities are available at the nearby Tuolumne River. Winter sports are popular in the area, with Dodge Ridge, Bear Valley, and Badger Pass Ski Areas offering activities during colder months. "Another group spent the day hiking in Hetch Hetchy, which was even closer," noted one reviewer.
HikingThe Little Golden Forest Trail offers a half-mile interpretive loop with an option for a longer two-mile loop. The area also provides access to trails in nearby wilderness areas, including Carson-Iceberg and Emigrant Wilderness.
ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
FishingFishing is available at the Tuolumne River, which is a short drive from the campground.
SwimmingThe Tuolumne River offers opportunities for wading and swimming.
BikingNo biking trails or paths are mentioned.
BoatingBoating opportunities are not mentioned.
Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings include turkeys and their chicks, as noted in user reviews. "Wild Turkeys came into camp with their baby Turkeys," mentioned one camper.
Beach activitiesNo beach activities are reported.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.
Winter ActivitiesWinter sports are available at Dodge Ridge, Bear Valley, and Badger Pass Ski Areas.
Water SportsNo non-motorized water sports are mentioned.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted using deadfall wood from the area. Fire safety rules must be followed.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear activity and large spiders. All food must be stored properly to deter wildlife.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 20
Wednesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Groveland Ranger Station is nearby. Emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, can be accessed in Groveland, ~9 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 26 to October 13.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresTuolumne River is nearby for wading, fishing, and scenic enjoyment.
Common complaintsLimited bear container space at the group site for large groups. Occasional road noise during the night.
HostHosts and contractors are available to provide guidelines and ensure clean facilities. Hosts check in visitors to explain rules and assist.
Campground Map
GROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA 95321, USA
Driving directionsFrom Groveland, drive 9 miles east on State Highway 120, just past the Groveland Ranger Station on Smith Park Road. Look for signs to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. The roads are well-maintained and suitable for standard vehicles. Winter access may be challenged due to snow.Nearby places
Groveland (9 miles, ~15 minutes), Yosemite National Park entrance (16 miles, ~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groveland offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel about 9 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
5.2
6 reviews
Pines Group Stanislaus is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, spaciousness, and proximity to Yosemite National Park. Vault toilets and potable water are consistently praised, though cell service is limited. Reviewers also appreciate the large campfire ring and ample tent space.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets with air fresheners, potable water during peak season, spacious site accommodating up to 50 people, proximity to Yosemite National Park, and opportunities for hiking and fishing.
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
Limited cell phone service and no electricity. Some reviewers noted that the site could benefit from an additional bear container for food storage.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to avoid Yosemite's entry lines. Use approved containers or vehicles for food storage to prevent bear encounters. Bring extra toilet paper and water if visiting during winter.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight accessibility to Yosemite and nearby attractions. Winter reviews emphasize free camping but note the lack of water and toilet paper. Spring and fall reviews focus on hiking...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campfire ring is the largest I have ever seen!" "Plenty of tent space, as the site is mostly open with few trees within the site." "The bathrooms are extremely clean." "No electricity or signal...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site PGS within AREA PINES GROUP/STANISLAUS has been praised for its spaciousness and cleanliness. One reviewer mentioned adding another bear container to accommodate larger groups.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews on accessibility features were provided.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must follow Tuolumne County leash laws. "Keep the dogs leashed so they don’t go off and get hurt," noted one user.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025