Pines Group Stanislaus
PINES GROUP STANISLAUS
Part of Stanislaus National Forest
Overview
Pines Group Campground attracts large families and groups friends with its convenient location, just 15 miles from the Yosemite National Park boundary in northern California. It is an ideal base camp for visitors to explore not only Yosemite, but also the fantastic wilderness areas within Stanislaus National Forest, including Carson-Iceberg, Emigrant and Mokelumne Wildernesses. Pets are welcome, but must be compliant with Tuolumne County leash laws.Facilities
The tent-only group site is open year-round and can accommodate up to 50 people. In winter, camping is free but water and toilet paper are not provided.Natural Features
The tranquil campground sits at an elevation of 3,200 feet, in a mixed conifer forest. The Tuolumne River is nearby, which flows for 150 mies from the central Sierra Nevada to the San Joaquin River.Recreation
Hike the Little Golden Forest Trail, a half-mile interpretive loop with the option for a longer two-mile loop. A short drive takes visitors to the Tuolumne River for wading and fishing.Winter sports are very popular in the area as well. Dodge Ridge, Bear Valley and Badger Pass Ski Areas offer a variety of winter activities.
Nearby Attractions
Take a scenic drive through Yosemite National Park to view its legendary waterfalls and scenery.Important Notices
- Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from the area after eating
- No electric hookups at this facility
- This campground has first-come, first-served single-family campsites
- A fee will be charged for additional vehicles
- Facility is not suitable for RVs or trailers
- Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.
Any accepted senior passes must be entered for the discount at the time of booking for single sites only.
- Click here for more information on Stanislaus National Forest
Notifications and Alerts
Christmas Tree Cutting Permits Information: Recreation.gov Christmas Tree cutting permits will go on sale on Friday, October 10, 2025. Christmas trees are $10.00 each and there is a maximum of two (2) trees per permit for a total of $20.00. Fourth graders can use their Every Kid Outdoors pass to obtain one (1) free tree. There is an additional $2.50 reservation fee for all permits. Tree cutting dates are Friday, November 28, 2025, through Wednesday, December 31, 2025. Starting in 2026, Christmas trees will increase in price to $20.00 per tree.
Available Activities
- SWIMMING SITE - Swimming
- HIKING - Hiking
- FISHING - Fishing
- CAMPING - Camping
- CLIMBING - Rock Climbing
Directions
From Groveland, drive 9 miles east on State Highway 120, just past the Groveland Ranger Station on Smith Park Road. Look for signs to the campground.
Contact Information
Phone: 209-379-2258
GROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120GROVELAND, CA 95321
