Stanislaus National Forest
"There is wilderness and more Emigrant Wilderness to Explore"
Camping is one of the most popular recreation activities in the Stanislaus National Forest. The ideal camping time in most Forest areas is May to October, prior to winter storm activity. Most campgrounds fill quickly during holiday weekends, therefore visitors should come prepared to camp in undeveloped areas. Forest employees will assist you in choosing an appropriate location. Please contact the individual Ranger District nearest your destination to verify space availability in your selected campground. For a list of our favorite campgrounds visit Camping in the recreation guide.
Activities in Emigrant Wilderness include hiking, swimming, fishing and hunting. Rainbow, Brook and German Brown trout are found in almost all lakes and streams in the area. In addition, three major deer herds – Jawbone, Yosemite and Stanislaus herds – live in Emigrant Basin. For more about hunting in the Motherlode visit the hunting page in the recreation guide.
Some campsites can be reserved, but the majority of Forest campgrounds are operated on a first-come, first-served system. Pick your own spot, or dispersed area camping, is an option available on non wilderness designated land.
For the full list of camp grounds visit the Stanislaus National Forest Website.
Campfire permits are not required within developed campgrounds and picnic areas, however, please limit your campfire to camp stoves provided. Campfire permits are required when camping in undeveloped sites and when using a campfire or camp stove outside a recreational vehicle. Permits are free and must be obtained in person at any Stanislaus National Forest Office.
Pets are welcome, although local county ordinances require pets to be leashed. Dogs are required to be under voice control within the Emigrant Wilderness.
If river fishing is your way to relax, these rivers should be your destination. Patient anglers who get up with in the early hours with the sun will be sure to catch their limit of trout and take in appealing vistas.
Ranger Districts in the Mother Lode
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Stanislaus National Forest
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Hours All Year
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Phone: (209) 532-3671
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Calaveras Ranger District
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Summer Hours (May - Oct)
Winter Hours (Nov - Apr)
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Phone: (209) 795-1381
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Mi-Wok Ranger District
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Hours All Year
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Phone: (209) 586-3234
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Groveland Ranger District
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Summer Hours (Apr - Aug)
Winter Hours (September - March)
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Phone: (209) 962-7825
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| Summit Ranger District
#1 Pinecrest Lake Road Pinecrest, CA 95364 |
Summer Hours (including holidays)
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Phone: (209) 965-3434
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If you want to stay in the Mother Lode take a look our list of places to stay.
Planning a wedding, conference or other event? Take a look our list of places to host your event.
Tell us about your experience at this place! Send an email to the Destination Guide Administrator. If you would like to advertise with us, please e-mail our sales department or give us a call at (209) 533-1450. To see a gallery of our current advertisers click here.
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