Clover Meadow Campground
3.627 reviewsClover Meadow Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are required for this site.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil embrace of Clover Meadow Campground, where towering Lodgepole pines and majestic firs create a natural cathedral of shade and serenity. This remote mountain retreat offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience, complete with rustic picnic tables and traditional fire rings for those memorable evenings under the stars. Open seasonally from June through September, this hidden gem becomes a winter wonderland accessible only by foot or ski when the access road closes for the snowy months.
Clover Meadow Campground is a primitive camping site with no fees, located in a remote mountain area. It caters to tent camping and may serve as a base for accessing nearby wilderness trailheads.
Historical SignificanceNestled on the doorstep of the legendary Ansel Adams Wilderness, this campground sits in a landscape that has inspired generations of photographers, artists, and nature lovers. While the campground itself may not bear ancient stories, its proximity to one of America's most celebrated wilderness areas connects visitors to a rich legacy of conservation and the enduring vision of the Sierra Nevada's most famous photographer.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives late in these high meadows, with the camping season stretching from June through September when wildflowers paint the landscape and warm days invite exploration. Visitors often find themselves in a peaceful haven of warmth and remarkable quiet, though wise campers come prepared for nature's smaller residents – gnats and mosquitoes can be particularly enthusiastic hosts during drier years when snowmelt is minimal. As autumn approaches, crisp mountain air signals the end of the season before winter transforms the area into an inaccessible snow-covered paradise.
ElevationPerched in the rarified air of a pristine high-elevation meadow, this mountain sanctuary offers the crisp, clean atmosphere that only altitude can provide. Here, where the forest meets meadow in nature's perfect balance, campers experience the unique ecosystem that thrives in these lofty Sierra Nevada heights.
Natural Features and SceneryClover Meadow spreads like a verdant carpet beside the campground, creating an enchanting contrast to the surrounding forest of stately Lodgepole pines and aromatic firs. This remote ecological treasure offers visitors a front-row seat to one of the Sierra's most pristine environments, where the wilderness boundary lies just beyond your tent door. The interplay of meadow and forest creates a diverse habitat that delights both casual nature lovers and serious wildlife enthusiasts.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Sierra National Forest, the campground occupies a special corner of California's granite backbone where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning beauty. The surrounding terrain tells the story of glacial carving and volcanic activity that created these high mountain meadows, while the nearby Ansel Adams Wilderness showcases some of the Sierra Nevada's most dramatic peaks and valleys. This is classic Sierra country – a place where Lodgepole pines and firs have adapted to thrive in thin mountain soils, creating the perfect backdrop for your wilderness adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit mention of accessibility options or features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizePrimitive camping sites without specific size details provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is likely limited, as user reviews mention people walking through campsites.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose later in the season if possible to avoid gnats and mosquitos, especially following high snow years.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time is provided.
Check-out
No specific check-out time is provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay is 14 days.
Groups
Group camping is not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutPrimitive, remote layout with no detailed loops or sections described.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open seasonally from June to September.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms required as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservation system in place.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are accepted, so no cancellation policy applies.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers basic recreational opportunities, primarily focused on picnicking and hiking. Wildlife viewing and reflection in nature are highlighted by user reviews.
Hiking
Day hiking is available in the surrounding area. User reviews note an easy trail along a creek leading to Fernandez Trailhead, which provides access to the Ansel Adams Wilderness.Wildlife viewing
User reviews mention opportunities for reflection and enjoying majestic views. Specific wildlife species are not listed.Winter Activities
Not mentioned.Water Sports
Not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours are mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsAs noted, bears are a safety concern in the area. Mosquitos and gnats can also be a nuisance, especially in low-snow years.
Active alertsHigh-clearance vehicles are required for current access.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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 are likely in North Fork, which is 52 miles (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes) away. No explicit details provided on hospitals or ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune to September.
Trash and recyclingNo details provided about trash and recycling facilities. Likely must pack out trash due to the primitive nature of the campground.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby streams or water bodies are listed; one review disputes the presence of a stream.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include poor maintenance of the campground, rudimentary outhouses, and the need for visitors to bring their own water. User reviews also report significant mosquito activity, especially in low snow years. Visitors also mention limited privacy due to people walking through sites.
HostNo information provided about campground hosts.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Fresno take Hwy 41 north to Road 200. Turn right and travel East to North Fork. Continue through North Fork to Minarets Road (Forest 81); The Clover Meadow Station is 52 miles from the Bass Lake Ranger District in North Fork. Driving time is 1 hour and 45 minutes from North Fork. Once you get to the ranger station turn left on road 5S47 and travel ½ mile to the campground.
Access is limited to high-clearance vehicles. The access road is closed in winter and may be challenging during some conditions. The campground is remote and primitive.Nearby places
North Fork (52 miles, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes driving time).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in North Fork, approximately 52 miles away. There are no supplies available at the campground itself.
Camper Reviews
3.6
7 reviews
Clover Meadow Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews offer mixed sentiments about the campground. Positive aspects include its remote location and opportunities for reflection. Negative reviews criticize restroom maintenance, a lack of water, and dying trees due to bark beetles.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
"Love this campground. Bring plenty of water!" "Awesome places for camping and reflection and detoxing from stress and anxieties from normal days of life." "Great for everyone to enjoy nature and...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
"Not the place to go to. Tried it out but the outhouse was bad. The ranger was rude and people constantly walking through other people's campgrounds." "In low snow years this campground WILL be...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring insect repellant and plenty of water. Plan visits during high snow years for fewer insects.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During low snow years, gnats and mosquitos are prevalent. Visiting later in the season or during high snow years improves conditions.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Primitive campground. I stay here when I want to get an early start on nearby trailheads into the Ansel Adams Wilderness. Bring your own water and insect repellant." "Quiet and hot!! No stream at...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites are not reviewed or rated.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not discussed in user reviews.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There is no information regarding pet policies or pet-friendly features.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025