Black Springs Ohv Campground
04 reviewsBlack Springs Ohv Campground
$15.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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 and charges $15 per night for the years 2024 and 2025. Fees will increase to $20 per night in 2026. America the Beautiful, Interagency Senior, and Access Passes receive 50% off the nightly rate if the pass number is written on the fee envelope. Interagency Annual and Volunteer passes do not provide discounts.
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About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of adventure country, Black Springs OHV Campground serves as the perfect basecamp for off-road enthusiasts seeking their next thrilling ride. Eight thoughtfully designed campsites await, each outfitted with essential amenities including sturdy fire rings for evening gatherings, spacious picnic tables for outdoor dining, and secure bear boxes to protect your provisions. With direct access to the renowned Black Springs OHV trail system just steps away, you'll wake up to the promise of dusty trails and mountain adventures right outside your tent flap.
Black Springs OHV Campground accommodates both tent campers and RV users, with a focus on providing a base for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts. The sites are basic and lack luxuries.
Historical SignificanceNot mentioned.
Weather and SeasonsThe sweet spot for camping at Black Springs stretches from mid-May through mid-October, when the mountain air carries just the right blend of warmth and crispness. Summer transforms this high-altitude haven into an outdoor paradise, with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 81°F during peak season (weeks 15-27). These golden months deliver endless blue-sky days perfect for trail riding, while cool evenings invite campfire stories and stargazing under crystal-clear skies.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,500 feet above sea level, Black Springs offers a refreshing escape from valley heat while providing breathtaking high-altitude vistas that stretch for miles. This elevated position creates an ideal climate where summer days remain pleasantly warm rather than scorching, and nights cool down just enough to make that sleeping bag feel extra cozy. The thin mountain air adds an exhilarating edge to every outdoor adventure.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by the towering conifers of Stanislaus National Forest, Black Springs creates an enchanting backdrop where ancient pines and firs frame every view. The campground strikes a perfect balance between shaded forest groves and sun-dappled clearings, offering both shelter and open sky. Morning light filters through the evergreen canopy while afternoon breezes carry the distinctive scent of pine needles and mountain air, creating a sensory experience that embodies the essence of Sierra camping.
Geological RegionNestled within the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range at 6,500 feet, Black Springs sits in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest's diverse ecosystem. This geological wonderland showcases the region's signature mixed conifer forests, where centuries-old trees have adapted to the unique mountain environment. The surrounding landscape tells the story of ancient geological forces that shaped these peaks and valleys, creating the rugged terrain that makes this area a playground for outdoor enthusiasts today.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options for campers with disabilities are not mentioned in the provided materials.
Sites SizeEach campsite is equipped with a fire ring and picnic table, but specific dimensions of the sites are not provided.
Sites PrivacyNo information is provided regarding the level of privacy at the campsites.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNot available.
Best CampsitesNot specified.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not stated.
Check-out
Not stated.
Stay Limit
Not stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutEight sites arranged near the OHV staging area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen mid-May to mid-October.
Reservation PlatformsNot stated.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot stated.
Cancellation PolicyNot stated.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Black Springs OHV Campground is primarily geared toward off-highway vehicle (OHV) activities and outdoor learning opportunities. It serves as a convenient base for accessing the Black Springs OHV system trails. Additional recreational opportunities include participation in visitor programs focused on outdoor science and education.
Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitor programs focused on outdoor science and learning are listed as recreation opportunities.Winter Activities
OHV use is prohibited between December 15th and April 15th, limiting winter recreation opportunities.Water Sports
No water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in fire rings at each site.
- Quiet hours are Not stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential bear presence; campers are advised to store food securely in bear boxes. No potable water or restrooms could pose hygiene risks.
Active alertsNo active alerts noted.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.8 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Stanislaus National Forest Ranger Station in Hathway Pines, nearest hospital and police locations are unknown.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot stated.
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage service available at this site. Campers must pack out their own trash, following a 'leave no trace' ethic.
Proximity to water featuresNot stated.
Common complaintsLack of potable water and garbage services, as noted by users.
HostNot stated.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom the Calaveras Ranger Station in Hathway Pines, take Highway 4 east 19 miles and turn left on Black Springs Road (Forest Road 7N23). Campground is ½ mile on left.
Road access quality is maintained throughout the season; roads are paved until you turn onto Black Springs Road, which leads to the campground. However, the area is closed to motorized wheeled vehicles from December 15th to April 15th.Nearby places
Hathway Pines: 19 miles (approximately 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Pack it in, pack it out
nearest supplies unknown.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Black Springs Ohv Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's appeal to OHV users and its general cleanliness and maintenance. Users have mixed opinions on the lack of facilities, with some appreciating the quiet, remote experience and others noting the absence of water and trash services as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground for being 'quiet and serene' with 'well-maintained' grounds and restrooms. Other positive remarks include dog-friendliness and the presence of essential features like bear...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The absence of water and garbage services is frequently noted as an inconvenience. One user mentioned that they would be willing to pay more for such amenities.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
It is recommended to pack sufficient water and prepare to handle your own trash due to the lack of these facilities. Storing food in bear lockers is strongly advised to prevent wildlife encounters.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is operational between mid-May and mid-October, and user reviews do not detail season-specific experiences. However, the area's OHV trails are closed from December 15th to April 15th,...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Well-maintained campground. Inexpensive. Would pay more to have water & garbage service tho.' - Nate Moore (Rebootkid)
2. 'Very quiet and serene. Restroom was well maintained, and the camp...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews or site numbers are detailed in user feedback.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is described as dog-friendly, with users appreciating the ability to bring their pets.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025