Cherry Valley
4.26123 reviewsCherry Valley
$33.00 - $66.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$33.00
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
Fees range from $33 for single sites to $66 for double sites during peak season. Additional reservation fees may apply depending on the platform used.
About this campground
Tucked into a pristine forest of towering mixed conifers just 1.5 miles from the sparkling waters of Cherry Valley Dam, Cherry Valley Campground offers an intimate escape into the Sierra Nevada wilderness. With 41 single-family sites and five spacious double-family sites, this hidden gem welcomes both tent campers seeking a traditional outdoor experience and small RV adventurers looking for a scenic basecamp. Wake up to the whisper of wind through pine boughs, spend your days exploring the crystal-clear waters of Cherry Lake, and fall asleep under a canopy of stars in this tranquil mountain retreat where fishing, swimming, and water sports await just minutes from your campsite.
Cherry Valley Campground caters primarily to tent and RV camping. It offers single and double-family sites, with space limitations for larger RVs.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Cherry Valley bring the perfect blend of warm sunshine and refreshing mountain air, with temperatures typically settling into the comfortable 60s—though sun-soaked afternoons can bring welcome warmth for lake activities. The Sierra's famously dramatic skies mean you'll want to pack layers and rain gear, as afternoon thunderstorms can roll through with little warning, painting the landscape with dramatic clouds and bringing that distinctive scent of rain on pine. These quick weather shifts are part of the mountain magic, transforming the forest into a misty wonderland before giving way to brilliant sunsets that light up the surrounding peaks.
ElevationPerched high in the Sierra Nevada's mountainous terrain, Cherry Valley Campground offers that coveted thin-air experience where every breath feels crisp and clean. While the exact elevation remains one of the area's charming mysteries, you'll feel the altitude in the cool morning air and the way the stars seem close enough to touch on clear nights.
Natural Features and SceneryJourney through the heart of the central Sierra Nevada to discover a landscape where ancient conifers create natural cathedral ceilings and dappled sunlight dances on the forest floor. The crown jewel of the area, Cherry Lake—Stanislaus National Forest's largest reservoir—beckons with its pristine waters that mirror the surrounding peaks. This angler's paradise harbors a diverse ecosystem of prized fish including feisty eastern brook trout, elusive German brown trout, silvery kokanee salmon, and the iconic rainbow trout. The winding road to camp rewards travelers with breathtaking vistas at every turn, where granite peaks pierce azure skies and endless forests stretch to the horizon.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic central Sierra Nevada range, Cherry Valley Campground sits in a geological wonderland where ancient granite formations meet lush coniferous forests. This stunning landscape surrounds Cherry Lake, a magnificent man-made reservoir that has become the crown jewel of Stanislaus National Forest, seamlessly blending human engineering with nature's grandeur to create the forest's largest and most beloved aquatic playground.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features beyond proximity to amenities are documented. Reviews indicate mixed accessibilities in campsite locations.
Sites SizeMix of small and large sites. "Some camp sites are more spacious than others."
Sites PrivacySites are generally well-spaced but lack full privacy. "Most of the sites on the main loop don’t have much privacy between them."
Total Campsites46 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 9 offers shade, proximity to restrooms, and access to a trail leading to Cherry Lake. Site 10 is near a trailhead to the lake and a waterfall. Site 14 is noted for its size and privacy.
Best CampsitesSites 3, 9, 10, and 13 are frequently mentioned as spacious and conveniently located near amenities or with good views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is available after 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates standard family size camping setups, including tents and small RVs.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops with individual sites offering varying levels of privacy and proximity to amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonGenerally open for the first day of fishing season, the last Friday in April, and closes mid-October weather permitting.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available at this campground. Sites fill quickly during peak season, especially weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur additional charges, including forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cherry Valley Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Cherry Lake enhances the recreational options and is praised for its serene environment. "The lake was large and very full; we didn't catch any fish but had a great time trying."
Hiking
Nearby hiking trails vary in difficulty. The trail to Cherry Lake is described as steep and rocky but manageable. "The trail is moderate; even my 3-year-old was able to hike down."Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant at Cherry Lake, known for eastern brook trout, German brown trout, kokanee salmon, and rainbow trout. "Anglers flock to Cherry Lake every year, plotting their next catch."Swimming
Swimming is possible in Cherry Lake, noted for its clean water and scenic surroundings. "Lake was really nice for swimming. Tons of stars at night."Boating
Boating is supported with a boat ramp near Cherry Lake Dam. "Cherry Lake has a boat ramp near the dam conveniently located off Cherry Lake Road."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include woodpeckers, squirrels, wild ducks, butterflies, and bald eagles. "Saw bald eagles fly all afternoon."Winter Activities
Minimal winter recreation is suggested due to the campground's seasonal closures.Water Sports
Cherry Lake supports water sports such as swimming and boating, but no specific facilities for non-motorized water sports are noted.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood restrictions are in effect to prevent the spread of disease and invasive insects.
- Quiet hours are enforced starting at 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is located in bear country, requiring the use of bear-proof containers for food storage. Roads leading to the campground are narrow with steep drop-offs and blind curves. Wildlife such as deer and occasional bears can be seen in the area.
Active alertsDue to drought conditions, water availability is limited to one spigot for the entire campground.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 14.5 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
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
Tuolumne City: Emergency services including hospitals and police stations are located approximately 1 hour east.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 26, 2025 - October 13, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided and well-maintained by camp hosts. Recycling facilities are not documented.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is approximately 0.25 miles from Cherry Lake, with access via trails or a short drive. The lake features a boat ramp and is suitable for swimming and fishing.
Common complaintsMany reviews mention the challenging road conditions, limited water availability, and occasional noise from other campers.
HostHosts are available on-site, and reviews describe them as helpful and attentive, although some reports mention occasional unresponsiveness.
Campground Map
Driving directionsCampground can be reached from Hwy 120 using Cherry Lake Road also known as Forest Road (FR) 1N07 or from Cottonwood Road also known as FR 1N04. Traveling from Hwy 120, go East from Groveland 13.8 miles, turn left on Cherry Lake Road/1N07 for 23.5 miles where it becomes Cottonwood Road. Turn left and travel approximately 0.5 miles North. You will see the Cherry Valley Campground sign turn right North East 0.75 miles to campground. Traveling from Tuolumne, turn onto Buchanan Road, which turns into Cottonwood Road/1N04 and travel approximately 30 miles. Turn left at Cherry Valley Campground sign. NOTE: The Tuolumne route is advisable for RVs and towing.
The road to Cherry Valley is a winding mountain road, narrow in sections, with steep uphill and downhill switchbacks. It is not recommended for motorhomes over 24 feet long or for trailers. The Tuolumne route is advisable for larger vehicles due to its wider road and less challenging grades. Roads are paved but poorly maintained in some sections, with branches overhanging and blind curves.Nearby places
Groveland: 1 hour northeast
Tuolumne City: 1 hour east
Yosemite Valley: Approximately 2.5 hours northwest
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available in Groveland (1 hour northeast) and Tuolumne City (1 hour east).
Camper Reviews
4.3
123 reviews
Cherry Valley is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Cherry Valley Campground is positively reviewed for its serene environment, clean facilities, and proximity to Cherry Lake. However, access issues, limited water availability, and challenging roads are noted drawbacks. "Bathrooms were spotless," "Road is winding and steep, not advised for large RVs," and "Bring your own water due to drought conditions."
Review Summaries
Based on 123 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious campsites, pristine vault toilets, friendly camp hosts, serene surroundings, abundant wildlife, proximity to Cherry Lake.
Based on 123 reviewsCommon Concerns
Narrow and winding access roads, water shortages during droughts, lack of cell phone service, aggressive yellow jackets.
Based on 123 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra water for drinking and cleaning. Prepare for winding roads and potential weather changes. Explore nearby trails and Cherry Lake for recreational opportunities.
Based on 123 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews emphasize warm weather, swimming, and hiking. Spring provides cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Fall reviews highlight peaceful environments but caution about limited water access.
Based on 123 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms were the cleanest campsite bathrooms I've ever seen." "Bring everything (ice, food, etc.) with you." "Would definitely return for the serene environment." "Beware of steep and winding...
Based on 123 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #9: Large with room for hammocks, close to restrooms and the lake trail. Site #14: Spacious, shaded, near restrooms. Site #41: Limited parking space, recommended if adjacent site #43 is also...
Based on 123 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is mixed; some sites are closer to restrooms and water spigots, while others require steep hikes. Vault toilets are accessible but may lack other facilities.
Based on 123 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must adhere to leash laws. "Pets are welcome but must be compliant with Tuolumne County leash laws."
Based on 123 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025