Pines Campground
4.3917 reviews9 miles east of Groveland on Old Highway 120, just east of the Groveland District office.
Pines Campground
$21.00 - $21.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
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
$21 per night, first-come, first-serve. No reservation fees mentioned.
About this campground
Nestled beneath towering conifers, Pines Campground offers an authentic Sierra Nevada camping experience just steps from the Groveland Ranger District Office. This peaceful retreat features well-appointed sites with picnic tables and campfire rings complete with grills, where evening stories and s'mores await. Modern vault toilets and refreshing potable water (available during summer months) ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. The campground serves as your gateway to the enchanting Little Golden Forest Trail, making it perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking a blend of accessibility and immersion in the forest.
The Pines Campground caters primarily to tent and RV campers, with additional options for group camping. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is described as a peaceful alternative to the busier camping spots near Yosemite.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this specific site remains quietly tucked among the pine needles, Pines Campground sits within the greater tapestry of the Sierra Nevada's rich heritage. The surrounding forest has long served as a sanctuary for those seeking respite from civilization, continuing a tradition of mountain camping that spans generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Sierra seasons at Pines Campground. Summer brings warm days perfect for exploration, though savvy campers come prepared for the occasional fly that buzzes through the forest canopy. As autumn arrives, crisp air signals the transition to quieter months when water systems hibernate for winter. Cold-weather adventurers will find solitude in the winter months, when the campground transforms into a serene wonderland—just remember to pack that portable heater for cozy nights under star-filled skies. Spring awakens the forest with fresh growth and the return of flowing water to the campground.
ElevationPositioned at a comfortable mountain elevation within the mixed conifer belt, Pines Campground offers that perfect sweet spot where the air is crisp but not thin, and the climate remains temperate through much of the camping season. The elevation provides natural cooling during summer months while maintaining accessibility year-round.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living cathedral of mixed conifers where pine, fir, and cedar create a multi-layered canopy overhead. The campground's proximity to Little Golden Forest Trail opens up a world of exploration through diverse forest ecosystems. Previous visitors consistently praise the 'total nature' experience, where the only sounds are wind through branches and birds greeting the dawn. This quiet atmosphere creates the perfect backdrop for reconnecting with the natural world, whether you're sipping morning coffee at your picnic table or stargazing from your campfire circle.
Geological RegionSet within the western Sierra Nevada's mixed conifer belt, Pines Campground occupies a geological wonderland where ancient granite meets volcanic soils, creating the perfect conditions for the diverse forest ecosystem. The nearby Little Golden Forest Trail winds through this varied terrain, showcasing the region's complex geological history written in stone and soil beneath the towering trees.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific accessibility options are not detailed in the source materials.
Sites PrivacySome sites offer a degree of privacy, as noted in user feedback: 'A few slightly private sites on far left.' However, detailed descriptions of campsite sizes and layouts are not available.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded campsites to avoid sunny spots in summer; bring earplugs to mitigate noise from late-night campers.
Best CampsitesSome privacy noted in sites on the far left. User reviews highlight these as slightly private.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time mentioned.
Check-out
No specific check-out time mentioned.
Stay Limit
No specific stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limits mentioned.
Groups
The campground includes one large group site, though specific capacity limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutNot a loop layout; sites are spread across the campground.
Open and Closed SeasonAvailable year-round based on user reviews, but services like water may be seasonal.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve; no reservation required.
Cancellation PolicyFirst-come, first-serve basis; no advanced reservation or cancellation fees apply.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pines Campground offers limited recreational activities, focusing primarily on its natural surroundings and proximity to nearby attractions such as the Little Golden Forest Trail and Yosemite National Park. Wildlife viewing and hiking are the most prominent activities noted, along with the serene environment for relaxation.
Hiking
The campground is located adjacent to the Little Golden Forest Trail, which offers opportunities for hiking. Specific details about trail difficulty and length are not mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a notable activity, particularly due to the natural setting of the campground. Bears have also been noted in the area, so proper food storage is essential.Winter Activities
While not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative sources, user reviews indicate the campground is operational during winter, albeit with reduced services such as no water availability.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as an activity for this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire pits with grills available at each site.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsMention of bears ('be mindful') and seasonal presence of flies. Bear boxes provided at each site.
Active alertsWater availability is seasonal ('waters off for the season' during colder months).
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
Groveland Ranger District Office (adjacent), other emergency services null.
Good to know
Peak season datesLikely summer months for potable water availability.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Rainbow Pool (~short drive).
Common complaintsAnts in bear boxes (user review), lack of clear paths to toilets, and seasonal water availability.
HostCaretaker noted during summertime; 'manager was there in the morning cleaning up sites.'
Campground Map
9 miles east of Groveland on Old Highway 120, just east of the Groveland District office.
Driving directionsDrive 9 miles east of Groveland on Old Highway 120, just east of the Groveland District office.
Accessible via Old Highway 120, which appears to be paved and provides straightforward access. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain are explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Groveland (9 miles), Yosemite National Park entrance (~15 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groveland, approximately 9 miles away, offers markets for firewood and other supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.4
17 reviews
Pines Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews depict Pines Campground as a quiet, less crowded, and conveniently located site near Yosemite. It is appreciated for its cleanliness, serene setting, and well-maintained facilities. Some reviewers highlight the absence of amenities such as on-site firewood sales and Wi-Fi as limitations.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive mentions include 'super close to Yosemite,' 'cleanest pit toilets I've ever seen,' 'quiet and relaxed atmosphere,' and 'very well-maintained toilet facilities.'
Based on 17 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common criticisms include the lack of firewood sales on site, poor Wi-Fi service, and occasional noise from other campers.
Based on 17 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to secure a spot, especially in peak seasons, as the campground is first-come, first-served. They also advise bringing sealed food containers due to ants and bears in...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal trends suggest that the campground sees reduced water availability in winter, though vault toilets remain open. Summer reviews note the presence of flies and the importance of shade in...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'We had a great time for two nights, super close to Yosemite. Not hard to find a spot if you get here before sunset.' - Monica Hirst Huge
- 'Cleanest pit toilets I've ever seen! Didn't even smell...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Highlighted sites include slightly more private ones on the far left. Some reviews indicate that pathways to bathrooms can be unclear, making early arrival advantageous to familiarize oneself with...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not addressed in reviews or authoritative data.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related policies or reviews are not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025