Atwell Mill Campground
4.2729 reviews47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA 93271
Atwell Mill Campground
$16.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $32 per night for regular camping. Holders of valid lifetime Access Pass, lifetime Senior Pass, and annual Senior Pass receive a reduced rate of $16 per night. Entrance fees apply for the Mineral King area, with $35 per vehicle or $20 per person on foot, bicycle, or bus.
About this campground
Nestled at 7,500 feet in the pristine Mineral King wilderness, Atwell Mill Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry experience. This intimate, tent-only sanctuary features 21 sites tucked beneath towering sequoias, where the gentle murmur of the East Fork Kaweah River provides nature's soundtrack. Far from the crowds, this primitive campground serves as your personal basecamp for exploring a wonderland of crystalline alpine lakes, dramatic mountain passes, and trails that disappear into the High Sierra's granite heart.
Atwell Mill Campground is a primitive, tent-only campground with a focus on minimal facilities and a natural setting. It does not accommodate RVs, trailers, or group sites.
Historical SignificanceWalk among the ghosts of California's logging era at Atwell Mill, where massive stumps stand as monuments to the giant sequoias that once fell to pioneer saws. This hallowed ground tells a remarkable conservation story—saved from becoming another ski resort when visionary preservationists recognized that Mineral King's true value lay not in development, but in its wild, untamed beauty. Today, as part of Sequoia National Park, these forests have reclaimed their ancient rhythm, offering visitors a glimpse into both human history and nature's resilience.
Weather and SeasonsAt this lofty elevation, Atwell Mill dances between seasons even in the heart of summer. Warm sunshine filters through ancient sequoia branches by day, while crisp mountain air reminds you to pack that extra layer for evening campfires. The thin alpine air brings dramatic temperature swings that transform hot afternoons into sweater-weather evenings. By October, winter's first whispers send the campground into hibernation beneath a blanket of Sierra snow, preserving its pristine wilderness character until the following spring.
ElevationPerched at 7,500 feet where the air grows thin and the stars shine bright, Atwell Mill offers a true high-country escape. This alpine elevation transforms summer camping into a refreshing retreat from valley heat, where afternoon thunderheads build dramatic skyscapes and morning mist clings to meadows. The rarified atmosphere adds an extra challenge to your adventures while rewarding you with crystal-clear views and that distinctive mountain clarity that makes every breath feel like a gift.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral where ancient sequoias stretch skyward, their cinnamon-bark columns framing glimpses of granite peaks and sapphire sky. The East Fork Kaweah River tumbles past your tent site, its snowmelt waters singing the songs of distant glaciers. This enchanted grove serves as nature's amphitheater, where black bears lumber through huckleberry patches and stellar jays announce the dawn. Beyond camp, trails spiral upward to hidden alpine lakes that mirror the sky, while adventurous souls can chase the horizon across mountain passes where the earth touches clouds.
Geological RegionAtwell Mill rests in the geological wonderland of Mineral King, where the violent uplift of the Sierra Nevada created a landscape of soaring granite walls and U-shaped valleys. The East Fork Kaweah River has carved its course through millions of years of geological history, exposing the bones of ancient mountains. This dramatic terrain, sculpted by glaciers and polished by time, showcases the powerful forces that built California's most iconic mountain range. Here, massive sequoias sink their roots into soil enriched by centuries of decomposed granite, creating the perfect marriage of geological grandeur and biological wonder.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground lacks ADA-accessible campsites. Roads within the campground are unpaved, rutted, and uneven, posing additional challenges for individuals with mobility needs.
Sites SizeSites are generally spacious and can accommodate up to six people per site. Specific site reviews confirm ample room: "Site 15 was flat and really had a great time."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are well-spaced and secluded, while others may have reduced shade or are closer together. One review noted, "The sites were well spaced too, and the bear lockers were large."
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 17 and 15 are ideal for privacy and easy access to trails. Sites closer to the river provide scenic views but may have less shade.
Best CampsitesBased on user reviews, Site 17 is highly praised for its proximity to trails while remaining secluded. Site 15 is noted for its flat terrain and quiet environment.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12 Noon
Check-out
12 Noon
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground, and up to 30 nights total within each year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is six people per campsite. Larger groups must purchase additional sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 21 sites arranged in a loop layout, offering tent-only accommodations.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from May 21 to October 14. Closures typically occur from October 16 to May 20.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability during summer months as all sites are exclusively reservable.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for all reservations canceled before the arrival date. Late cancellations (after midnight the day before arrival) also forfeit the first night’s use fee. Recreation.gov policies apply to all reservations, cancellations, refunds, and date changes.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Atwell Mill Campground offers access to recreational activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the natural beauty of the Mineral King area. Campers can enjoy nearby trails leading to alpine lakes, mountain passes, and waterfalls.
Hiking
The Atwell-Hockett Trail begins at the campground and offers access to scenic routes, including hikes to alpine lakes and mountain passes. A reviewer shared, "I recommend taking a day hike to the bridge waterfall on the Atwell-Hockett trail from Atwell Mill campground – it’s 3 miles round trip."Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including frequent sightings of black bears. "We saw a mama bear and her cub frequently here," noted one camper.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during winter months. Snow and cold conditions limit activities in the area.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be within designated fire rings and extinguished completely before leaving. Fire restrictions may vary based on conditions and are updated regularly.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsKey hazards include active bears, steep and winding access roads, slippery rocks near rivers, falling tree branches, and difficult terrain.
Active alertsMineral King Road is open but subject to weekday construction delays, with up to 30-minute traffic delays. Some nearby roads are closed due to storm-related damage.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
The nearest emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are located in the town of Three Rivers, approximately 1.5 hours (23 miles / 37 km) away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 21 - October 14
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash dumpsters are provided. Campers are reminded to lock or relatch dumpsters to prevent bear access.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the East Fork of the Kaweah River, providing opportunities for exploration, though visitors are cautioned about strong currents.
Common complaintsVisitors have reported pungent vault toilets during peak season and challenging road access. Some reviews lament the lack of first-come-first-serve options.
HostUser reviews note a friendly and helpful campground host during peak season.
Campground Map
47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA 93271
Driving directionsAtwell Mill Campground is located 19 miles (31 km) from Highway 198 on Mineral King Road, which turns off in Three Rivers, and 6 miles (10 km) before the end of the road. The road is primarily unpaved, narrow, winding, and deeply rutted in places. It is not advised for longer vehicles, especially recreational vehicles. No RVs or trailers are permitted in the campground.
The road to the campground is largely unpaved, narrow, winding, and deeply rutted in places, making it challenging for longer vehicles such as RVs and trailers. It takes approximately 90 minutes to drive the 19 miles from Highway 198 to the campground.Nearby places
Silver City Resort is 1.7 miles (3 km) east of the campground, while Three Rivers is 23 miles (37 km) west of Atwell Mill Campground. Driving to Three Rivers takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Nearby supplies
Limited services, including showers and basic groceries, are available at Silver City Resort, located 1.7 miles (3 km) east of the campground. More extensive services, including fuel and supplies, are available in Three Rivers, 23 miles (37 km) west of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.3
29 reviews
Atwell Mill Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User feedback highlights Atwell Mill Campground as a peaceful, secluded, and scenic destination. Common themes include the beauty of the sequoia surroundings, the challenging access road, and mixed reviews on facility cleanliness.
Review Summaries
Based on 29 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the tranquility and natural beauty of the area, proximity to trails, and spacious campsites. A reviewer described it as, "Absolutely stunning place! You are in the trees!"
Based on 29 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent concerns include the rugged road leading to the campground, vault toilet odors, and the absence of modern amenities. "The bathrooms were really pungent and not well maintained," stated one...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend taking advantage of nearby trails, bringing sufficient supplies due to limited nearby services, and preparing for the rough access road. "Be prepared for a slow, windy drive up....
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is popular during the summer months when weather conditions are favorable. Late-season crowds are noted to be smaller, offering a more tranquil experience.
Based on 29 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The road is a bit grueling to go up and down but staying here and hiking the Mineral King area is the BEST!" - Lindsey D. "The area was beautiful, the late-season crowds were low, and the bathroom...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews mention varying conditions: Site 18 has little shade and is on an incline, while Site 15 is described as flat and ideal for groups. Site 17 is noted for its proximity to trails...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground's rugged terrain and lack of ADA-accessible facilities present challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 29 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground but must be on a leash no longer than six feet. Several users appreciated this policy given the natural surroundings.
Based on 29 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025