Middle Meadows
03 reviewsGEORGETOWN RANGER STATION, 7600 WENTWORTH SPRINGS ROAD, GEORGETOWN, CA, 95634
Middle Meadows
$12.50 - $50.00 / 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$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary depending on the group site and date. Peak season group sites range from $12.50 to $50 per night. Reservation fees are non-refundable. Additional fees may apply for cancellations or modifications.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Eldorado National Forest, Middle Meadows Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. This hidden gem caters exclusively to group camping, where the gentle murmur of Long Canyon Creek provides a natural soundtrack to your wilderness adventure. Dense forests create a sanctuary for both campers and the abundant wildlife that call these woods home, making every morning a potential encounter with deer, birds, and other forest dwellers.
Middle Meadows Campground provides primitive, group, and tent camping facilities. There are no RV-specific amenities such as hookups, and the campground lacks modern facilities like flush toilets and potable water on-site.
Weather and SeasonsThe camping season stretches from May through September, each month painting the landscape with its own unique palette. Spring arrives with occasional rain showers that awaken the wildflowers, while summer transforms the campground into a sun-dappled haven with warm days perfect for creek-side relaxation. As autumn approaches, crisp mornings remind visitors to pack extra layers, and the possibility of early snow adds an element of mountain magic. Winter blankets the area in snow, creating a pristine wonderland accessible only to the most adventurous souls.
ElevationPerched among the peaks and valleys of the majestic Eldorado National Forest, Middle Meadows sits at a mountain elevation that offers refreshing temperatures and that distinctive pine-scented air that only comes with altitude. While specific elevation details remain nature's secret, visitors will feel the characteristic mountain atmosphere in every breath.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering cedars, pines, and firs creates a natural amphitheater around Middle Meadows, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The South Fork of Long Canyon Creek winds gracefully past the campground, its crystal-clear waters offering both a peaceful ambiance and opportunities for streamside exploration. This densely forested haven showcases the Sierra Nevada's signature beauty, where every trail promises discovery and every clearing reveals mountain vistas that inspire quiet contemplation.
Geological RegionMiddle Meadows rests along the pristine waters of South Fork Long Canyon Creek, where centuries of geological activity have carved a perfect camping retreat within Eldorado National Forest. The surrounding landscape tells the story of ancient forests and patient streams, with towering cedars, pines, and firs standing as living monuments to the region's rich natural heritage. This heavily wooded sanctuary represents the quintessential Sierra Nevada experience, where granite foundations support a thriving ecosystem of evergreen giants.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information about accessibility features at the campground.
Sites SizeThere are two group campsites at Middle Meadows: one for up to 25 guests and another for up to 50 guests.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as isolated and surrounded by heavily wooded areas, which likely provides a sense of privacy and seclusion.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose creekside sections for proximity to Long Canyon Creek and shade from large trees.
Best CampsitesThe most suitable sites are the two group walk-in campsites accommodating 25 and 50 people.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites accommodate 25-50 guests.
Groups
The campground offers two group campsites: one accommodates up to 25 guests, and the other accommodates up to 50 guests. These are walk-in sites equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings, and grills.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo walk-in group campsites designed to facilitate easy access to shared amenities like tables, grills, and campfire circles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9 through September 7 (2025 and 2026). Closed October 13 through May 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and additional penalties for late cancellation. Late cancellations for group facilities are defined as fewer than 14 days before check-in, resulting in forfeiture of the first night's fees.
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
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Middle Meadows Campground offers several recreational opportunities such as birding, wildlife viewing, fishing, swimming, and boating. The adjacent South Fork of Long Canyon Creek and the nearby Hell Hole Reservoir enhance the recreational experience. A swimming hole is located 0.25 miles west of the campground.
Fishing
Fishing is available adjacent to Long Canyon Creek and at the nearby Hell Hole Reservoir.Swimming
A swimming hole is located just 0.25 miles west of Middle Meadows Campground. No specific safety measures or facilities are mentioned in the source.Boating
Boating opportunities are available at Hell Hole Reservoir, which is less than 5 miles from the campground. "Hell Hole Reservoir offers a variety of water-related recreation opportunities, including boating and fishing."Wildlife viewing
The campground is noted for its surrounding natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities. "Its scenic location also provides for beautiful sightseeing, birding and wildlife viewing."Water Sports
Water sports, including swimming and boating, are available in nearby water bodies.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires may be restricted during fire danger periods.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent this area. Mosquitoes are common, especially in warmer months.
Active alertsPotable water is unavailable due to contamination problems; visitors must bring drinking water or filters. Forested areas surrounding the campground have been affected by previous fires.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.6 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
Georgetown Ranger Station, 7600 Wentworth Springs Road, Georgetown, CA, approximately 22 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 through September 8 (2025 and 2026)
Trash and recyclingThe campground is equipped with garbage receptacles and recycling facilities. "Bear proof food containers and garbage receptacles are provided at each camp site."
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Long Canyon Creek for fishing and wading. Located less than 5 miles from Hell Hole Reservoir with swimming hole 0.25 miles west of campground.
Common complaintsComplaints include broken water systems, locked vault toilets (necessitating portable toilets), and mosquito prevalence. Some visitors noted forest damage from fires.
HostNo information about campground hosts available.
Campground Map
GEORGETOWN RANGER STATION, 7600 WENTWORTH SPRINGS ROAD, GEORGETOWN, CA, 95634
Driving directionsFrom Sacramento, California, take Interstate 80 east to Auburn. Take the Elm Street exit and turn left at the stoplight. Follow Highway 49 down the canyon, across the American River, to Cool. Turn onto Highway 193 towards Georgetown. Turn left at the stop sign, then continue 22 miles to 11 Pines Road. Make a left and stay on this road (Forest Highway 2) for about 25 miles to the campground.
Accessible by paved roads with directions including major highways and turns. Requires approximately 25 miles of driving on Forest Highway 2 to reach.Nearby places
Georgetown (22 miles), Sacramento (approximately 80 miles), Auburn (approximately 50 miles)
Nearby supplies
Big Meadows Campground, 2.5 miles northeast, offers potable water. Other supplies likely available in Georgetown, approximately 22 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Middle Meadows has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Middle Meadows Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment rating of 3.5 for general experiences and 3.0 specific to campgrounds. Common themes in user reviews include the isolated setting, wildlife, and proximity to recreational opportunities, but also notes of limited facilities and mosquito presence.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
"Nice campsite near the creek and close to the Reservoir that [is] good for boat[ing]." (Review by Chanthy, 2022)
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
The lack of potable water and locked toilet facilities were recurring issues. For example, "The toilets were locked and unusable (and we had to use port o potties), the water system is broken..."...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors should prepare to bring their own potable water and consider mosquito repellent due to reports of high mosquito activity. It's also advised to verify the status of toilet facilities before...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is more accessible and enjoyable during the summer months when activities like swimming and boating are viable. However, late spring or early fall might be preferable to minimize...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Although it rained/snowed us out it was fun and a great campground!" (Review by Destiny Kintz, 2019)
Based on 3 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Reviews don't specifically single out one group site over another, but general feedback about the facilities applies to both.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
There is no information or reviews addressing accessibility features.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, but no specific reviews address pet experiences.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025