Highland Lakes Campground
4.2721 reviews38.491283,-119.8054
Highland Lakes Campground
$12.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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 the campground. Campsite fees are $12 per night currently, increasing to $25 in 2024 and $30 in 2026. Discounts of 50% apply to the America the Beautiful Interagency Senior and Access Pass holders for the single site they occupy.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Nestled at the gateway to the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness, Highland Lakes Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic high-country experience. This rustic retreat unfolds across two distinct camping areas—a spacious main section stretching along Highland Lakes Road and an intimate upper camp perched above the crystalline waters. Here, where conifer forests meet wildflower meadows, campers find themselves at the perfect basecamp for exploring the twin jewels of Upper and Lower Highland Lakes. Anglers cast their lines into pristine waters while hikers set off on trails that wind deep into one of California's most spectacular wilderness areas.
Highland Lakes Campground is a tent-only, primitive campground designed for campers seeking a back-to-nature experience. It does not accommodate RVs or provide group camping facilities.
Weather and SeasonsEven at the height of summer, Highland Lakes maintains its refreshing mountain character. Daytime temperatures hover around a comfortable 80°F, inviting endless outdoor adventures, while evenings bring a crisp reminder of the high country as mercury dips to 50°F. Pack that extra layer—mornings here greet campers with a invigorating chill that lingers until the sun climbs above the surrounding peaks, even in July and August when the wildflowers paint the meadows in brilliant colors.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 8,700 feet, Highland Lakes Campground places visitors in the realm of the eagles. At this elevation, the air carries a distinctive crispness that fills your lungs with pure mountain freshness. The altitude transforms every activity into an adventure—from the satisfying exhaustion of a short hike to the deepest sleep under star-studded skies. Visitors should embrace the slower pace that altitude demands and stay hydrated as they acclimate to this lofty paradise.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of towering conifers frames Highland Lakes Campground, their evergreen spires reaching toward snow-kissed peaks that crown the horizon. Alpine meadows burst with seasonal wildflowers, creating a natural amphitheater where nature's drama unfolds daily. The subalpine lakes mirror the sky's moods, from dawn's golden glow to sunset's purple majesty. This vibrant ecosystem pulses with life—black bears lumber through the forest, deer graze in twilight meadows, frogs chorus from hidden pools, and bats perform their nightly aerial ballet against the darkening sky.
Geological RegionHighland Lakes Campground stands as a sentinel at the northern threshold of the legendary Carson-Iceberg Wilderness, deep within the embrace of Stanislaus National Forest. This dramatic landscape tells an ancient story written in granite and ice—where glaciers once carved deep valleys and sculpted the subalpine lakes that now sparkle like sapphires at 8,700 feet. The surrounding terrain showcases nature's architectural prowess, with rugged peaks, pristine forests, and the kind of raw beauty that defines California's high Sierra backcountry.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes wheelchair-accessible vault toilets and is generally suitable for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe sites are designed for tent camping and are described as spacious, with some located near the lake and others tucked into the conifer forest.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites offer a mix of privacy levels, with some being heavily wooded and others less so, depending on location. The upper section is noted to be more densely wooded.
Total Campsites36 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites near Upper Highland Lake offer convenience, while sites above the lake are closer to Carson-Iceberg Wilderness trailheads. Sites in heavily wooded areas provide more privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Self-registration upon arrival.
Check-out
14 days maximum stay.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two vehicles maximum per space.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo sections of campsites—one along Highland Lakes Road and another above Upper Highland Lake—tucked among Limber pines and fir trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from July 4 through September 30, weather permitting.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available online or otherwise. Self-registration is done via an envelope at the campground entrance.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come-first-serve; no reservation system in place.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservation system; sites are first-come, first-serve.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Highland Lakes Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The scenic setting is ideal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking solitude in the wilderness.
Hiking
The Highland Creek Trail is located 0.1 miles from the campground and provides access to a network of trails within the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness. Popular hikes include the ascent of Hiram Peak, offering stunning views of the area.Fishing
Fishing is available in both Upper and Lower Highland Lakes, with brook trout being the primary catch. Reviewers note that fishing is best done from a float vessel.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed, and power boats are restricted to speeds under 5 mph. Both Upper (11 acres) and Lower (32 acres) Highland Lakes are suitable for small craft boating.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bears, and aquatic species like frogs and fish. Reviewers highlight the abundant wildlife visible in the surrounding wilderness.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground is closed outside of the summer season due to weather conditions.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking and canoeing, are possible on the lakes, although not specifically highlighted in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, with fire rings provided at each site. Visitors are reminded to bring their own firewood.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are present; visitors are advised to store food securely. Frogs, bats, and other wildlife are sensitive to human activity; visitors should avoid trampling wet areas.
Weather forecast
51
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Moderate rain
Precipitation: 5.8999999999999995%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 14.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (5.90% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate rain
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
Emergency services such as hospitals and police stations are located in Arnold, approximately 40.8 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is during the summer months, from July through August.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available. Campers must follow 'pack it in, pack it out' practices.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Upper Highland Lake (11 acres) and Lower Highland Lake (32 acres). Trails offer access to both lakes.
Common complaintsMultiple reviews mention issues caused by overcrowding, such as garbage left in vault toilets and environmental damage due to careless visitors. Complaints also discuss the poor maintenance of Highland Lakes Road and controversial behavior of the campground host.
HostMixed reviews about the campground host, ranging from maintaining cleanliness to inappropriate conduct.
Campground Map
38.491283,-119.8054
Driving directionsFrom Arnold, CA, take State Route 4 east 40.8 miles to Highland Lakes sign. Turn right after sign and go 4.9 miles to 'Y' intersection. Bear right and go 0.7 miles to campground. 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 length. Last 4.7 miles is on rough, rocky dirt road.
Highland Lakes Road is narrow, steep, and winding dirt route where safe travel speeds average 20 mph or less. Visitors should prepare for bumpy terrain and steep grades. High clearance vehicles are strongly recommended.Nearby places
Arnold (40.8 miles, approximately 1 hour)
Lake Alpine (less than 10 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials are available in Arnold, approximately 40.8 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
21 reviews
Highland Lakes Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's spectacular scenery, access to hiking trails, and peaceful atmosphere. However, they also note issues such as overcrowding and a lack of garbage maintenance by some visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is praised for its scenic beauty, including views of the alpine lakes and snow-covered peaks. Many users enjoy the sense of solitude and the availability of hiking trails.
Based on 21 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include overcrowding during peak seasons, the rough access road, and issues with trash left by some visitors. Some users also express concerns about the campground host's behavior.
Based on 21 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be plentiful. Pack warm clothing for chilly mornings and evenings. Treat all water from the campground spigots before drinking. Arrive early to secure a...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The summer season is the most popular, with pleasant daytime temperatures and cool nights. However, crowds can be an issue during this time, and reviewers recommend visiting in late summer for fewer...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Highland Lakes Campground is a gem. The views were spectacular. We went at the end of August, so the temp was a high of 80 and a low of 50—very pleasant weather." – Matt H.
"This is the best...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The upper section of the campground is noted as more densely wooded and closer to trails, while the lower section offers better access to the lake. Reviewers recommend these sites for their...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The wheelchair-accessible vault toilets are appreciated, but no additional accessibility features are noted.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Some users mention seeing dogs at the campground, but there is no detailed information about pet-specific policies or features.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025