Bloomfield Campground
4.386 reviewsBloomfield Campground, Stanislaus National Forest, California
Bloomfield Campground
$20.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
The Forest Service operates Bloomfield Campground and charges $20 per night in 2024-2025 and $25 per night in 2026. America the Beautiful Senior and Access passes provide a 50% discount on single campsite fees.
About this campground
Nestled at 7,900 feet in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest, Bloomfield Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience where towering Lodgepole pines cast dappled shadows over rustic campsites. This pristine wilderness retreat follows a pack-it-in, pack-it-out philosophy, preserving its untouched character. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including sturdy picnic tables, fire rings perfect for evening gatherings, grills for outdoor cooking, and convenient vault toilets. The gentle murmur of the willow-lined Mokelumne River provides a natural soundtrack to your mountain escape.
Bloomfield Campground provides a rustic camping experience with 20 tent sites available. The campground operates seasonally and has a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy.
Historical SignificanceNull
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 8,000 feet, Bloomfield Campground offers a refreshing escape from valley heat, though mountain weather can be delightfully unpredictable. Even summer nights require warm layers as temperatures drop significantly after sunset, creating perfect sleeping weather for tent camping. Crisp, dry air dominates most days, while winter brings a blanket of snow that transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland. Seasoned campers know to pack for all conditions – the mountain's moods can shift from warm sunshine to chilly breezes in a matter of hours.
ElevationPerched at 7,900 feet above sea level, Bloomfield Campground delivers the authentic high-altitude camping experience that mountain enthusiasts crave. This elevation brings naturally cooler temperatures year-round, offering relief from summer heat and creating an alpine environment where the air feels crisp and clean. The thin mountain air adds an extra sparkle to star-filled nights, making this elevation perfect for those seeking to truly disconnect and breathe deeply.
Natural Features and SceneryThe North Fork Mokelumne River winds gracefully through Bloomfield, its banks adorned with delicate willows that dance in the mountain breeze. Majestic Lodgepole pines stand sentinel throughout the campground, their straight trunks reaching skyward like natural cathedral pillars. This landscape embodies the essence of dispersed camping – raw, rustic, and remarkably beautiful. Morning mist often rises from the river, while afternoon light filters through the pine canopy, creating an ever-changing tableau of wilderness beauty.
Geological RegionBloomfield Campground sits within a pristine timbered landscape where the North Fork Mokelumne River has carved its path through centuries of geological history. The terrain showcases classic Sierra Nevada forest characteristics, with Lodgepole pine forests dominating the higher elevations while riparian willows thrive along the river's edge. This unique convergence of mountain forest and river ecosystem creates diverse habitats and stunning natural contrasts that define the region's geological character.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is limited accessibility information. The toilets are not wheelchair friendly.
Sites SizeThe campground features 20 campsites suitable for tents. Sites are described as being tucked among Lodgepole pines with some overlooking the willow-lined river.
Sites PrivacySites offer a rustic and secluded experience, described as having the feel of dispersed camping but with basic amenities.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the river for scenic views. Avoid larger vehicles due to road conditions.
Best CampsitesSites overlooking the Mokelumne River are highlighted as desirable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 days maximum
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout17 sites spread out along Mokelumne River with picnic tables, grills, and fire rings at each site.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from July 4 through September 30, weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis; no reservation system in place.
Cancellation PolicyNull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Bloomfield Campground can enjoy fishing, hunting, and shooting opportunities, particularly focusing on river/stream fishing. The river also provides a scenic environment for rock hopping and exploring small waterfalls.
Fishing
Fishing is a highlight, with opportunities to catch rainbow and brook trout in the North Fork Mokelumne River. User reviews mention the river running along the western edge of the campground as a key feature.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Seasonal fire restrictions apply; check forestry alerts before camping.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBear sightings reported; food storage vigilance required. Roads described as narrow and challenging for larger vehicles.
Active alertsSeasonal fire restrictions may apply. Water pump currently unavailable as of June 6, 2024.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.3 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
Calaveras Ranger Station is 47 miles away. No specific emergency service details provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 4 through September 30
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage service at the campground. Campers must adhere to the 'pack it in, pack it out' policy.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the banks of the North Fork Mokelumne River.
Common complaintsFrequent mention of flies and cold nighttime temperatures. Roads described as challenging. Lack of potable water and garbage services noted.
HostSherri Thompson, identified as the camp host in user reviews, noted for maintaining clean bathrooms, grounds, and fire pits.
Campground Map
Bloomfield Campground, Stanislaus National Forest, California
Driving directionsFrom Arnold, CA take State Route 4 east 40.8 miles to Highland Lakes sign. Turn right at sign and go 0.9 miles to campground on right. Note: After Lake Alpine, State Route 4 becomes a narrow road with a 24% grade and lots of curves. Not recommended for vehicles over 25' in total length.
Roads after Lake Alpine are narrow, with a steep 24% grade and numerous curves, making it unsuitable for vehicles over 25 feet long. The turnoff from Highway 4 onto Highland Lakes Road is 47 miles from the Calaveras Ranger Station.Nearby places
Arnold - 40.8 miles, Calaveras Ranger Station - 47 miles
Nearby supplies
Null
Camper Reviews
4.4
6 reviews
Bloomfield Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Bloomfield Campground as a quiet and less crowded option with a natural and rustic ambiance. Positive mentions include the cool little river and the clean facilities maintained by the camp host. However, the lack of potable water, presence of flies, and occasional reckless driving on nearby roads are noted as complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
- 'Perfect little place away from everything.'
- 'Less crowded, good temperatures day and night.'
- 'Nice shade, great rock hopping creek with lots of small waterfalls.'
- 'Bathrooms, grounds, and...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Hand pump water is not available, so campers need to bring their own potable water.
- 'Lot of flies.'
- 'People drive like idiots around here.'
- The campground is described as dry camping and has...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring potable water as none is available on-site.
- Practice safe food storage as this is bear country.
- Visit the nearby Highland Lakes for additional recreation.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Campground is open seasonally from July 4 to September 30, with weather-dependent accessibility. Cooler temperatures make it a good summer getaway, but nights can get cold as noted by users.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Great place to escape the big city, no cell phone service, watch out for bears.'
- 'Nice for a typical campground. I prefer camping out of campgrounds.'
- 'Spent couple nights over the weekend...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites near the river are particularly appreciated for their scenic value. No specific site numbers are mentioned.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are available, though user feedback notes limited accessibility features such as non-wheelchair-friendly toilets.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025