Hidden Camping Sites in the Sierra’s
by Ted on January 21, 2008
About 15 miles above Oakhurst California are some of the finest camping spots in the central Sierra Nevada Mountains. These are the camping sites used by the locals, off the beaten path and are located in beautiful areas with ponderosa pines, incense cedars, giant sequoias and beautiful wild flowers. All are on creeks, with from about 7 to 18 camping sites per campground. All feature toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, note: none of these campgrounds have piped water for drinking. Bring your own or use a filtering system. All these campgrounds are on or very close to fresh mountain streams with swimming holes and good fishing. All but one are drive in-no reservation. Reservations are required for Soquel Camp Ground. (1/2 off if you have golden age passport)
1. Soquel Meadows: Elevation 5400 ft. Next to Willow Creek, all sites are along the creek. The area has a total of 11 camping spaces, hiking, fishing and exploring are some of the pastimes. If you can not get into
Soquel then there is a free camping area just north of this camp ground along the banks of willow creek.
2. Fresno Dome: Elevation 6400 ft. No reservations (fee required) 15 sites next to Big Creek, 
good fishing and exploring or hike to the top of Fresno Dome Elevation: 7540 ft. There are expansive views of the Sierra’s, the San Joaquin Valley and on clear days to the Coast Range Mountains.
3. Big Sandy Elevation: Elevation 5800 ft., no reservations (fee required) 18 sites more of a challenge to get into and a little more remote. This camp located along the banks of Big Creek with good fishing for Rainbow, Brown and Golden trout.
4. Grays Mountain: Elevation 5400, no reservations (fee required) on the banks of Willow Creek, Swimming holes, hiking and fishing.
5. Nelder Grove: no reservations Elevation 5300, only 7 sites, on Nelder creek, giant sequoia trees that you can get up and personal, display of logging methods used to down these giant trees. Home of the giant
sequoia tree, Bull Buck the third largest tree in the world. This is a free camping area. There are many free camping areas in this area up and down Nelder Creek. ©Ted McCaleb
sequoia tree, Bull Buck the third largest tree in the world. This is a free camping area. There are many free camping areas in this area up and down Nelder Creek. ©Ted McCaleb
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Johnny 01.23.08 at 8:00 am
At the middle of February, I planned a camping trip with my family but he haven’t decided yet on a spot. So far, Grays Mountain and Nelder Grove appeal me the most. But which one would you say it’s more appropriate for a family trip?
Regards, Johnny
Ted 01.23.08 at 11:24 am
Hi John
Thanks for the visit, both Nelder and Soquel are closed now with about 4 to 6 feet of snow. I would suggest Bass Lake or Yosemite for Winter camping
Thanks and Best Wishes
Ted
Johnny 01.24.08 at 12:53 pm
Thanks, Ted!
I really appreciate the fact that you kindly answered my question!
My best wishes to you and your loved ones!
Levi 01.26.08 at 6:36 am
Looks like fun! If I’m planning a trip out west I’ll check back for more camping ideas (specifically for these “hidden spots.)
Cardboard Robot 02.15.08 at 12:42 pm
Does anyone know of any good campsites near the Kern River? My family and I go to Hobo campgrounds which is basically car camping, and are looking to go somewhere different this time. Thanks for the post! This is a really cool blog. I already RSS’d. Thanks.