Mosquito Lakes Campground
4.418 reviewsMosquito Lakes Campground
$8.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
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
"$8/night, deposit in ranger fee envelope." from user reviews.
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About this campground
Escape to this intimate mountain retreat where simplicity meets serenity. This cozy 11-site campground offers a genuine back-to-basics experience with picnic tables and vault toilets nestled among the pines. While you'll need to bring your own water and won't find electrical hookups, what you will discover is the authentic camping experience that draws adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty away from the crowds.
Mosquito Lakes Campground offers first-come, first-serve camping with minimal amenities. It is suited for tent and small-scale camping.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms this alpine sanctuary into a pristine wonderland, though visitors should come prepared for nature's full force. During peak winter weeks, heavy snowfall blankets the landscape while moderate winds whisper through the trees and temperatures plunge well below freezing. The dramatic seasonal changes create an ever-evolving backdrop that rewards the well-prepared camper with stunning snow-covered vistas and crisp mountain air.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a hidden gem where crystal-clear waters reflect towering pines and mountain peaks. This stunning lakeside setting has earned its reputation as a must-see destination for those exploring the region. The pristine lake serves as the campground's centerpiece, offering breathtaking views and endless photo opportunities. While summer visitors should pack insect repellent for the occasional mosquito, the minor inconveniences pale in comparison to the spectacular natural beauty surrounding every campsite.
Geological RegionTucked into the heart of the Stanislaus National Forest, this secluded haven sits just 6 miles east of the popular Lake Alpine. The campground's limited footprint preserves the intimate feel of the surrounding mountainous alpine ecosystem, where ancient granite peaks rise above dense conifer forests. This pristine wilderness setting offers campers a chance to immerse themselves in one of California's most spectacular high-country landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information is provided about accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites are not described in terms of size; only 11 sites are specified.
Sites PrivacyNo information is provided about the privacy level of the sites.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No group camping details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Walk-in Availability"11 sites, first come, first serve." User review mentions no reservation system in place.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Mosquito Lakes Campground are not explicitly mentioned, but its proximity to natural settings implies potential for hiking and lake-related activities.
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazards"Some mosquitos." "Zero amenity campground (has a restroom but no TP) and the lake is used as a watering hole for cows so a bit of a mess." User reviews highlight challenges with mosquitoes and water quality.
Weather forecast
54
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Moderate drizzle
Precipitation: 0.8%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 13 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (0.80% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate drizzle
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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo details about trash or recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water features"Lake is not well stocked for fishing." A nearby lake is used as a watering hole for cows.
Common complaints"Some picnic tables are broken." "Zero amenity campground (has a restroom but no TP) and the lake is used as a watering hole for cows so a bit of a mess." User reviews.
Campground Map
"When Highway 4 is closed, no access is possible." Roads may be closed seasonally, limiting access.
Camper Reviews
4.4
8 reviews
Mosquito Lakes Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews indicate that Mosquito Lakes Campground is appreciated for its natural beauty but criticized for its lack of amenities and maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
"Beautiful lake and campground, a must-visit." "Entire area is great for camping." "Beautiful scenery and well-maintained campsites."
Based on 8 reviewsCommon Concerns
"Zero amenity campground (has a restroom but no toilet paper)." "The lake is used as a watering hole for cows, so a bit of a mess." "Some picnic tables are broken."
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own drinking water and necessary supplies due to the lack of on-site amenities.
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground appears less crowded in the summer, as noted in a review from July 8, 2021. Accessibility may be weather-dependent since Highway 4 closures can limit access.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Beautiful scenery and the campsites are well maintained." 2. "Zero amenity campground (has a restroom but no TP)." 3. "Some picnic tables are broken." 4. "Beautiful nice camp found our favorite...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site feedback within the campground is not provided.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews mention accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies or experiences are not directly mentioned by reviewers.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025