Black Oak
3.6417 reviewsEldorado, Georgetown, CA, USA
Black Oak
$105.00 - $145.00 / night
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$145.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group RV and tent-only sites range from $105 to $145 per night during peak season. Reservation fees include $8 for online bookings, $9 through call centers, and $3 for in-person bookings. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee plus the forfeiture of the first night’s fee.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Eldorado National Forest, Black Oak Campground beckons group adventurers seeking the perfect basecamp near the pristine waters of Stumpy Meadows Lake. This thoughtfully designed retreat features one spacious RV site and three secluded tent-only areas, each capable of hosting gatherings from intimate 25-person reunions to grand 75-person celebrations. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the natural environment, offering picnic tables for memorable meals under towering pines, grills for evening cookouts, clean vault toilets, and a convenient dump station for RV travelers.
Black Oak Campground offers group camping options suitable for large groups, including accommodations for tents and RVs.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of California's mountain climate, where sun-drenched summer days invite endless outdoor adventures and cool evenings call for campfire stories under star-filled skies. As autumn paints the landscape in golden hues, crisp mornings give way to pleasantly warm afternoons. Winter transforms the campground into a serene escape, with gentle rains nurturing the forest and occasional snowfall dusting the surrounding peaks, creating a magical wonderland for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
ElevationPerched at an ideal 4,400 feet above sea level, Black Oak Campground offers the sweet spot of mountain camping—high enough to escape the valley heat, yet accessible enough to avoid altitude concerns. This perfect elevation gifts visitors with refreshingly cool nights that guarantee restful sleep and comfortable days that invite exploration without the extremes of higher alpine environments.
Natural Features and SceneryRising 4,400 feet into the Sierra Nevada foothills, Black Oak Campground serves as your gateway to a landscape where Mediterranean warmth meets mountain majesty. The crystalline waters of nearby Stumpy Meadows Lake mirror the surrounding forest, creating an aquatic playground perfect for peaceful kayaking expeditions, serene canoe journeys, and rewarding fishing adventures. This enchanting elevation delivers sun-soaked summer days balanced by refreshingly cool evenings, while winter brings its own charm with gentle rains that awaken the forest's emerald hues.
Geological RegionDiscover the dramatic foothills of the legendary Sierra Nevada Range, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of breathtaking beauty. This unique positioning creates a remarkable Mediterranean-style microclimate, blessing the region with golden summers perfect for outdoor adventures and mild winters that showcase nature's quieter rhythms. The rugged terrain tells the story of California's geological heritage while providing modern adventurers with an accessible mountain escape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has private and secluded sites, though accessibility for mobility-impaired individuals was not explicitly addressed. Some users noted challenges in reaching the lake due to the absence of direct trails.
Sites SizeThe campground features large group sites accommodating up to 75, 50, or 25 people, depending on the site type. "Site 1 offers plenty of space for tents," while "Site 4 is tighter for 25 people," according to users.
Sites Privacy"Site 4 gets 10/10 for privacy" due to its secluded location with private parking. Other sites like Site 1 are "removed from other sites" and offer good privacy.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 1 is recommended for larger groups due to space, shade, and well-maintained facilities. Site 4 is suitable for those seeking privacy but is less ideal for large groups due to size and limited tree cover.
Best CampsitesSite 1 is highly rated for its spaciousness, shade, and clean facilities. Site 4 offers privacy but lacks shade and has limited space.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Group RV site accommodates up to 75 people
- tent sites allow 25-50 people depending on the specific site.
Groups
The campground features one large RV group site accommodating up to 75 people and several tent-only group sites for 50 or 25 people. Each site includes picnic tables, grills, and campfire circles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features one RV site and three tent-only sites. Sites include picnic tables, grills, vault toilets, and a dump station.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23, 2025 to September 6, 2026. Closed outside of these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via call centers, or in-person.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided about walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made less than 14 days before arrival forfeit the first night’s fee and incur a $10 service fee. Reservation fees are non-refundable.
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
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Black Oak Campground provides opportunities for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Stumpy Meadows Lake is a central recreational feature, offering calm waters for non-motorized water activities and being stocked with rainbow trout during summer months. Campers also enjoy birding and picnicking.
Hiking
The campground is located near the Eldorado National Forest's extensive trail system, boasting over 400 miles of hiking trails. However, some users noted a lack of trails directly accessible from the campground, requiring a bit of "bushwhacking" to explore nearby areas.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with Stumpy Meadows Lake being stocked with rainbow trout from May to August. Anglers can expect a quiet, serene fishing experience thanks to the lake's 5-mph speed limit.Swimming
The clear waters of Stumpy Meadows Lake make it ideal for swimming, though the lake is a short drive from the campground. A user noted, "Water is so clear and warm!"Boating
Non-motorized boating activities such as kayaking and canoeing are popular on Stumpy Meadows Lake. The lake's 5-mph speed limit ensures a calm environment for paddlers.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently observe deer in the area, and birding is a noted activity. One user mentioned, "Lots of deer in the area," which adds to the natural charm.Winter Activities
No winter recreation options were detailed since the campground operates primarily in warmer months.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular. The lake's calm conditions and non-motorized restrictions make it ideal for these activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless fire restrictions are in place due to dry weather conditions. Check local updates for restrictions.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are frequent visitors, necessitating food storage precautions. Other hazards include yellow jackets and mosquitoes, particularly in site 4.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.3 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
Emergency services are likely available in Georgetown, approximately 17 miles away. Specific hospital and police station details are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025; May 22, 2026 - September 6, 2026.
Trash and recyclingTrash management details are missing, but food and waste must be stored securely due to bear activity in the area.
Proximity to water featuresStumpy Meadows Lake is accessible by a short drive (~3 minutes). There is no direct trail access from campsites.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include bathroom odors, lack of water access at campsites, small site sizes, and limited shade in certain areas.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful. Some hosts offer access to a Wi-Fi dish in emergencies.
Campground Map
Eldorado, Georgetown, CA, USA
Driving directionsFrom Georgetown, head northeast on Main Street/Wentworth Springs Road toward Orleans Street. Continue to follow Wentworth Springs Road for 17 miles and cross the dam at Stumpy Meadows Lake. Continue 1 mile to the campground.
Accessibility involves driving paved roads, including Wentworth Springs Road. Roads are maintained but may be subject to seasonal weather conditions, requiring caution during wet or snowy periods.Nearby places
Georgetown (approx. 17 miles, ~30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are likely available in Georgetown, 17 miles away. Specific locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are not listed.
Camper Reviews
3.6
17 reviews
Black Oak has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has mixed reviews, with some campers praising its natural beauty, quiet atmosphere, and group camping amenities, while others criticized management for perceived rudeness and site conditions. Specific issues with site cleanliness, tree debris, and overgrowth were mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
"Such a beautiful peaceful place!" Some users praised the friendly camp hosts, clean restrooms, and adequate space at certain sites. Others appreciated the secluded and private nature of sites like...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Numerous complaints centered on management being unprofessional and rude when enforcing noise restrictions. "Bathrooms stunk up most the camp site," according to one user. Limited water access and...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water as some sites lack running water. Plan for a short drive to the lake. Large groups should confirm site sizes to ensure adequate space, as some users felt the sites were too...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest summer is the most popular season for camping, with positive remarks about clear lake waters and birding activities. The campground closes by September, so late autumn and winter...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Site 4 gets 10/10 for privacy." "The lake is a short drive away, but worth it for the clear and warm water." "Vault toilets were very clean—so great job on that!"
Based on 17 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 1: Praised for its space, clean restrooms, and seclusion. Site 4: Noted for privacy but criticized for lack of shade and overgrowth. Site 2: Described as suitable for RVs but water access and...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features were not explicitly reviewed, though some users mentioned challenges in reaching the lake due to the lack of trails.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. No specific feedback from pet owners was noted.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025