Calaveras Big Trees State Park Group Campground
03 reviewsCalaveras Big Trees State Park, California
Calaveras Big Trees State Park Group Campground
$135.00 - $200.00
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$200.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee ranges from $135 to $200 per night depending on the specific group site reserved. An additional reservation processing fee of $8.25 applies.
About this campground
Nestled among ancient giants, Calaveras Big Trees State Park Group Campground invites you to gather your favorite people in one of California's most awe-inspiring settings. Choose between two thoughtfully designed group areas: the Lower Group Campsite, embraced by ferns and forest shadows, or the Upper Group Campsite, where sunlight filters through the canopy overhead. Both sanctuaries offer a perfect blend of wilderness immersion and modern conveniences, creating an ideal basecamp for groups seeking to reconnect with nature and each other beneath the protective boughs of millennium-old sequoias.
The Calaveras Big Trees State Park Group Campground is designed for large groups, offering facilities to accommodate gatherings such as family reunions or organizational trips. It caters exclusively to group camping needs.
Historical SignificanceSince the mid-1800s, visitors have made pilgrimages to stand in humble reverence before these botanical titans, the giant sequoias of Calaveras. These trees have witnessed centuries pass, surviving ice ages, fires, and the march of civilizations. The park serves as both a living museum and a testament to early conservation efforts, preserving not just the trees themselves but the stories they hold—from Native American heritage to the Gold Rush era explorers who first shared tales of trees so large that dance floors were built on their stumps. Today, the park continues its legacy as a bridge between our modern world and the ancient rhythms of the natural world.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives gently in this mountain paradise, bringing pleasantly cool days averaging 63°F that invite exploration, while evenings dip to a crisp 39°F—perfect for campfire storytelling. The shoulder seasons paint the forest in golden light and autumn colors, offering fewer crowds and spectacular photography opportunities. Winter transforms the grove into a hushed wonderland where snow may dust the giant sequoias' shoulders, though accessibility can be limited during heavy snowfall. Each season reveals a different facet of this timeless forest, from spring's wildflower carpets to summer's warm, resin-scented afternoons.
ElevationPerched in the sweet spot of the Sierra Nevada's western slope, the campground sits at an elevation where mountain air stays refreshingly cool and giant sequoias thrive in their natural habitat. This mid-elevation paradise offers the perfect balance—high enough to escape valley heat, yet accessible without the challenges of extreme altitude.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to shafts of golden light filtering through a cathedral of giants, where sequoias older than memory reach skyward with bark as thick as a small car. The campground immerses you in a diverse tapestry of Sierra Nevada ecosystems, from the cinnamon-barked giants to graceful sugar pines and aromatic incense cedars. Lucky visitors might spot a black bear foraging for acorns at dawn, while mule deer ghost through the understory at dusk. Steller's jays provide a raucous soundtrack, and if you're still, you might glimpse a pine marten or hear the haunting call of a spotted owl echoing through the twilight forest.
Geological RegionSet within the western slopes of the mighty Sierra Nevada, this campground occupies a geological sweet spot where ancient volcanic soils and perfect climate conditions converge to nurture the world's largest trees. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in granite and greenery—a testament to millions of years of mountain building, glacial carving, and the patient work of forests reclaiming the land. Here, where Pacific storms meet mountain barriers, the unique combination of elevation, precipitation, and soil creates one of the only places on Earth where giant sequoias naturally flourish.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides handicap-accessible bathrooms and shower stalls, catering to visitors with disabilities. There is also an ADA Group Tent Site designation for some areas.
Sites SizeThe pad length is 30 feet for both Upper and Lower Group Campsites, as per official data. Sites feature standard widths and large, open areas for group camping.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews highlight the secluded nature of the sites: "You are away from other campsites. Away from highway and secluded." The Upper and Lower sites are the only two within the immediate area, ensuring privacy.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Lower Group Campsite for larger groups and Upper Group Campsite for smaller gatherings. Both sites offer similar amenities.
Best CampsitesLower Group Campsite is recommended for larger groups due to its higher capacity and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
The maximum stay limit is not explicitly mentioned, but generally aligns with state park rules.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Lower Group Campsite allows up to 60 guests while Upper Group Campsite accommodates 40.
Groups
The Lower Group Campsite accommodates up to 60 people and allows for 20 vehicles, while the Upper Group Campsite accommodates up to 40 people with a limit of 15 vehicles. Both sites are designed for tent camping and include large, open areas for setting up tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe group campground consists of two large areas: Lower Group Campsite and Upper Group Campsite. Lower Group Campsite accommodates up to 60 people, while Upper Group Campsite accommodates 40.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but closures may occur due to snow during winter months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the official Calaveras Big Trees State Park website or by contacting the Visitor Center at (209) 795-3840.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not explicitly mentioned, reservations recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not provided.
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Calaveras Big Trees State Park Group Campground are centered around exploring nature and enjoying the serene environment. The park itself offers additional recreational opportunities, such as hikes through the Giant Sequoia groves and educational programs at the Visitor Center.
Wildlife viewingActive bears are present in the area, though no encounters were reported during reviews. Campers are advised about proper food storage to avoid wildlife issues.
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced, but specific times are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are active in the area; proper food storage is critical. Occasional icy or snowy conditions may impact accessibility during winter.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Closest hospital is Mark Twain Medical Center in San Andreas (approx. 30 miles). Police and ranger services are available within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesTypically peak season aligns with summer months, especially June through August.
Trash and recyclingThe campground includes trash and recycling facilities for campers, though specific locations or pickup schedules are not detailed.
Proximity to water featuresnull
Common complaintsNo significant complaints noted in reviews; campers highlight cleanliness and seclusion.
HostA campsite groundskeeper is available daily to assist with food storage advice and general queries.
Campground Map
Calaveras Big Trees State Park, California
Driving directions: Take State Route 4 heading east from the town of Arnold, California. Follow the highway until reaching the entrance for Calaveras Big Trees State Park. The Group Campsites are located within the park boundaries.
Access to the campground is paved and generally accessible year-round. However, occasional closures due to snow or inclement weather may occur.Nearby places
Arnold (approx. 4 miles), Murphys (approx. 16 miles), Angels Camp (approx. 25 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Arnold (approx. 4 miles away).
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Calaveras Big Trees State Park Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally praise the campground for its seclusion, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. The Lower Group Campsite, in particular, receives high marks for its spaciousness and privacy.
Review Summaries
Positive aspects include seclusion from other campsites, clean and well-maintained facilities, and the presence of helpful rangers and groundskeepers. "Book this campsite," writes one user,...
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No significant complaints are noted in the provided reviews.
Campers recommend booking the Lower Group Campsite for its privacy and extensive facilities. Proper food storage is advised due to active bear presence.
Reviews do not specify seasonal trends or variations in camper experiences.
"Book this campsite. It comes with 5 bear lockers, plenty of bathrooms (handicap bathroom) and showers. $1.25 for 5-minute shower. Rangers clean bathrooms every morning." - Shemainee Carranza. "You...
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The Lower Group Campsite is highlighted for its 60-person capacity, 20 parking spaces, and seclusion. The Upper Group Campsite accommodates up to 40 people with 15 parking spaces and shares some...
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Accessibility is a strong point, with ADA-accessible bathrooms and shower stalls available in both the Upper and Lower Group Campsites.
Pets are not allowed at the group campground, as confirmed by official data.
Last updated July 31, 2025