Clark Fork Campground
4.5326 reviewsnull
Clark Fork Campground
$23.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
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 were payable with cash-only." - User review
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Stanislaus National Forest, Clark Fork Campground welcomes adventurers with two distinct camping experiences across its thoughtfully designed A-Loop and B-Loop sections. The smaller, intimate A-Loop offers 28 sites including three spacious double sites, perfect for families camping together, while the expansive B-Loop provides 60 sites with six double sites for larger groups. Every campsite comes complete with its own sturdy picnic table and traditional campfire ring, where countless stories have been shared under starlit skies. Smooth paved roads and parking pads make arrival effortless, while modern amenities blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings—vault toilets serve the cozy A-Loop, and convenient flush toilets accommodate the busier B-Loop.
The campground supports a mix of camping types, including standard, double, and accessible sites. RVs can be accommodated but hookups are not available.
Historical SignificanceFor nearly five decades, Clark Fork Campground has served as a cherished outdoor classroom where generations of families have forged lifelong connections with nature. One devoted camper shares a touching testament to this legacy: 'We've been camping there since 1974. Our children both learned about the outdoors at Clarksville campground.' This enduring tradition speaks to the campground's role as more than just a destination—it's a place where childhood memories take root, where parents pass down camping wisdom, and where the simple joys of outdoor living create bonds that span generations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Clark Fork brings a delightful dance of temperatures that seasoned campers have come to cherish. As one visitor notes, the days warm beautifully under the California sun, inviting endless outdoor adventures, while nightfall transforms the campground into a refreshingly cool retreat. This natural air conditioning means you'll want to pack layers—shorts for daytime exploration and cozy fleece for evening campfire gatherings. The crisp mountain nights offer some of the best sleeping weather you'll find anywhere, with temperatures that make snuggling into your sleeping bag a pure pleasure.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryThe melodic waters of the Clark Fork of the Stanislaus River serve as both the soundtrack and centerpiece of this scenic campground. Towering pines and firs create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The riverside location offers more than just beautiful views—it provides a natural playground where visitors can wade in cool mountain waters, try their luck at fishing, or simply relax on smooth granite boulders while listening to the river's ancient song. The surrounding landscape showcases the raw beauty of the Sierra Nevada foothills, where every turn of the trail reveals new vistas and hidden treasures.
Geological RegionClark Fork Campground claims its place along the legendary Clark Fork of the Stanislaus River, deep within the protected embrace of the Stanislaus National Forest. This remarkable geological region tells the story of California's gold rush era through its carved canyons and mineral-rich waters. The river has spent millennia sculpting the landscape, creating the perfect blend of accessible riverbanks and dramatic canyon walls that make this area a geological wonder. The surrounding forest represents one of California's most diverse ecosystems, where Sierra Nevada geology meets pristine mountain waterways, creating an outdoor paradise that has captivated visitors for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThree campsites in B-Loop are designated as fully accessible and are near the first restroom.
Sites SizeBoth loops provide a mix of standard and double sites. However, reviews suggest that some sites feel cramped due to proximity to neighboring campsites.
Sites PrivacySites are described variably as semi-private, with some reviewers complaining about the close proximity of campsites to one another.
Total Campsites88 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Spaces are roomy and well-groomed." - User review
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 people, 3 tents, and 2 cars per site.
Groups
No specific group camping sites are described.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo loops: A-Loop with 28 sites and B-Loop with 60 sites.
Open and Closed Season"A-loop is the first to open and last to close during the camping season." - Authoritative content
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availability"We stayed at this campground for 1 night and had no problem, without a reservation, finding a site on a Saturday night." - User review
Cancellation Policy"Camping reservations cancelled on the day before arrival ('late cancellation') will incur a $10.00 cancellation fee AND forfeit the first night's fees." - Policy excerpt
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campground activities include hiking, fishing, and star gazing. The Clark Fork River nearby is a popular spot for wading and fishing. Wildlife viewing is also highlighted, with some users mentioning abundant trout and the ability to see many stars at night.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available nearby, though specific trails are not detailed beyond the Iceberg Meadow Trailhead's proximity.Fishing
Fishing is noted as a significant activity, particularly trout fishing. One user stated, 'Great fishing (trout).'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is a highlight, with reviews mentioning abundant trout and general wildlife sightings.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned, though the campground is closed during the winter months.Water Sports
No water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- "Free to collect firewood so keep that in mind." - User review
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazards"Not to frighten anybody but we also heard Bigfoot howling one night." - User review
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.5 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months
Trash and recyclingDumpsters are available but are described as being in poor condition, with 'bottoms rotted out and patches that didn’t work,' according to one reviewer.
Proximity to water featuresAll sites are easy walking distance from the Clark Fork River.
Common complaints"The restrooms also have running water and flushable toilets, but were disgusting." - User review
Host"Love this place been coming here since I was a kid!!! I would just like to give a huge shout out the camp hosts the Bates they are amazing people." - User review
Campground Map
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Driving directions25 miles east of Pinecrest on Clark Fork Road, near Clark Fork Horse Campground and Iceberg Meadow Trailhead.
"You will arrive at this campground after leaving CA Hwy 108 and driving about 6 miles on Clark Fork Road, a good paved road, suitable for all types of vehicles." - User reviewNearby places
"It is about 25 miles east of the Summit Ranger Station." - Authoritative content
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.5
26 reviews
Clark Fork Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Clark Fork Campground is generally well-regarded, with an average sentiment score of 4.53. Positive highlights include its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to the river. Negative feedback often focuses on poorly maintained facilities, such as restrooms and dumpsters, as well as issues with site spacing and enforcement of rules.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback often highlights the campground's natural surroundings, fishing opportunities, and peaceful atmosphere. Several reviewers noted the ability to enjoy activities such as 'fishing,...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poorly maintained facilities, limited enforcement of campground rules, and a lack of privacy between campsites. One reviewer commented, 'The camp hosts were nonexistent. In...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing cash for camping fees, as payment was noted as cash-only in 2021. Another tip is to prepare for temperature fluctuations, as nights can be cold even in summer.
Based on 26 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground is most popular in the summer, with some loops closing in early fall due to weather. Temperatures are described as hot during the day but cold at night during the...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Nice, quiet little campground to take your family for a quick trip. Clean bathrooms and the camp hosts are super friendly.'
2. 'You will arrive at this campground after leaving CA Hwy 108 and...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight that A-Loop is the first to open and last to close, while B-Loop sites near the first restroom are fully accessible. Many users noted that some sites are too close...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Three campsites in B-Loop are designated as fully accessible, receiving positive mention for their proximity to restrooms.
Based on 26 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There is no specific mention of pet policies or reviews related to pet features.
Based on 26 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025