Upper Stony Creek Campground
4.6085 reviewsUpper Stony Creek Campground
$34.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$34.00
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
Standard non-electric and tent-only non-electric sites are priced at $34 per night during peak season. Additional holiday charges of $2 apply. Extra vehicle fees are $8 per night per vehicle after the first one.
About this campground
Nestled along the gentle curves of Stony Creek, Upper Stony Creek Campground invites you to experience the tranquility of 17 thoughtfully spaced campsites beneath a canopy of towering Douglas firs and fragrant Jeffrey pines. Each site comes equipped with modern conveniences including vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, fresh drinking water, warming fire pits, and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure both comfort and safety during your mountain retreat. Operated by Rocky Mountain Recreation Company under ExplorUS, this hidden gem offers the perfect balance of wilderness immersion and essential amenities.
Upper Stony Creek Campground offers primitive camping options and is suitable for tent campers and RVs without hookups.
Historical SignificanceThis enchanting corner of the Kings River Watershed carries echoes of California's logging heritage, when mighty trees fueled the state's growth and Hume Lake first filled to power sawmill operations. Today, the campground serves as a gateway to the storied landscapes of Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, where centuries of natural and human history intertwine. From ancient Native American settlements to the conservation movements that preserved these forests, every trail tells a story of the enduring relationship between people and these majestic mountains.
Weather and SeasonsMountain evenings at Upper Stony Creek bring a refreshing coolness that calls for cozy sleeping bags and warm layers around the campfire. While the region enjoys predominantly clear skies and dry conditions, winter months dust the landscape with moderate snowfall, transforming the forest into a pristine wonderland. Seasoned campers recommend packing extra blankets to fully enjoy stargazing on those crisp, clear nights when the Milky Way seems close enough to touch.
ElevationPerched at 5,250 feet above sea level, the campground offers a refreshing escape from valley heat into a world of cool mountain breezes and pine-scented air. This perfect elevation creates an alpine microclimate where summer days remain comfortable and nights bring that distinctive mountain chill that makes morning coffee taste extraordinary.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Sequoia National Forest, where ancient timber giants frame your camping experience and crystal-clear mountain streams provide nature's soundtrack. Adventure seekers will discover refreshing swimming holes carved by centuries of flowing water, while dramatic waterfalls like Salmon Creek Falls and Grizzly Falls offer spectacular day trip destinations. The creek running through camp creates peaceful pools and small cascades, perfect for afternoon exploration or quiet contemplation.
Geological RegionRising from the granite heart of the Sierra Nevada at 5,250 feet, this campground showcases the raw geological beauty that defines California's most iconic mountain range. Majestic Douglas firs and aromatic Jeffrey pines thrive in this elevation, their roots anchored in ancient soils deposited over millennia. Part of the vital Kings River Watershed, the area feeds into nearby Hume Lake, a historic reservoir that once powered the timber industry but now reflects the surrounding peaks in its placid waters. This is where the forces of nature have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty and ecological importance.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with reviewers frequently mentioning spaciousness: "Site 6 is very spacious." "The sites we had 15-17 provided ample space for a large family."
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a mix of private and open sites. "Upper Stony Creek has the most spaced-out sites." "Sites are large, quiet and clean." "Sites were well spaced out."
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite C is ideal for privacy and creek access. Site 6 is spacious. Site 12 offers excellent creek views. Sites 15-17 are suitable for large families.
Best CampsitesSite C is highly praised for privacy and proximity to a swimming hole. Sites 4, 5, 6, and 12 are noted for spaciousness and better creek views.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spread out along Stony Creek, providing privacy and proximity to water features.
Open and Closed SeasonOpens May 23, 2025, and closes September 27, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, through their website, contact center, and mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites, including walk-in site C, are available on a first-come, first-served basis, as noted in reviews.
Cancellation PolicyThere is a $10 cancellation fee for changes and cancellations made before the scheduled check-in date. Late cancellations include forfeiture of the first night's fees and cannot be made through Recreation.gov after the reservation start date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a broad range of activities that cater to nature enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing, and photography. Reviewers noted: "The creek is wonderful with a waterfall and deep swimming hole." "My favorite hike was behind Stony Creek Lodge parking lot."
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity at Upper Stony Creek Campground, with trails offering varying levels of difficulty. "Trailhead for a moderately intense hiking trail at campground." "My favorite hike was behind Stony Creek Lodge parking lot."Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the nearby creek and Hume Lake. "Fishing hole there is stocked occasionally." "Fishing wasn't the best unfortunately."Swimming
Swimming opportunities include a small swimming hole near the campground: "There's a small swimming hole nearby." "The creek is wonderful with a waterfall and deep swimming hole."Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted on Hume Lake, located near the campground.Wildlife viewing
Common wildlife sightings include deer, as noted by a reviewer: "Family of deer comes by everyday."Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are available at Hume Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bear activity is noted, requiring strict adherence to food storage rules. Wasps were reported near water spigots in some campsites.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 15.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Null
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 27, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present and well-maintained. "Excess trash/recycle was not an overflow problem."
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Stony Creek, which offers swimming holes and waterfalls. Hume Lake is nearby for fishing and non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsWasps near water spigots, dusty conditions due to unpaved roads, and occasional noisy neighbors.
HostMultiple reviews praised hosts like Neil, Michelle, and Manuel for their friendliness and diligence in maintaining the sites.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Fresno, California, take highway 180 east towards Kings Canyon/Sequoia Park. Take the Generals Highway fork to the right. After approximately 13 miles, the campground entrance will be on the left.
The access road from Generals Road is described as short and a bit rough but manageable for an RV. User reviews indicate the road is narrow and unpaved, creating dusty conditions.Nearby supplies
A store and restaurant are within walking distance, and a gas station is located a short drive away, approximately 1 mile up the road.
Camper Reviews
4.6
85 reviews
Upper Stony Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Upper Stony Creek Campground are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its peace, cleanliness, and natural beauty. Camp hosts receive consistent praise for their hospitality and maintenance efforts.
Review Summaries
Based on 85 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised aspects include the friendly camp hosts, clean facilities, proximity to the creek, spacious campsites, and quiet environment. Quotes include: "Neil is the best host in a campground...
Based on 85 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised include dusty conditions, aggressive flies near pit toilets, and occasional difficulties with the vault toilet doors: "Made for a dusty trip." "Aggressive flies coming at us from pit...
Based on 85 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring pliers for water spigots, warm clothing for chilly nights, and a canopy for sites with less shade. "Make sure to bring a canopy." "Bring pliers to open the water spigot." "Bring warm sleeping...
Based on 85 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews mention family-friendly activities like swimming and fishing. "Creek right below campsite made for refreshing family moments." Winter reviews highlight peace and quiet due to fewer...
Based on 85 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"It was nice and quiet." "Bathrooms were clean." "Sites were large, quiet and clean." "Creek nearby is amazing." "Camp host Neil is the best." "Vault toilets are very clean."
Based on 85 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site C is noted for its privacy and proximity to the swimming hole. Sites 7, 8, and 12 are praised for their cleanliness and creek access. "We loved our site #6 because it was the biggest spot."...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features and reviews are not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 85 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and user reviews reflect positive experiences for pet owners: "My 6-month-old and Frenchie enjoyed the views and the creek right behind the campsite."
Based on 85 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025