Herring Creek Campground Introduce
Nestled in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada region, Herring Creek Campground is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in nature. Situated in a mixed conifer forest along Herring Creek, this charming Forest Service campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rustic charm. With no entrance fee required, Herring Creek Campground provides an affordable and serene escape for families, adventurers, and nature lovers alike.
Herring Creek Campground is located on Forest Road 4N12, approximately 9 miles from the Summit Ranger Station. Accessible via a dirt road, the campground offers 7 well-maintained sites, each equipped with a table and fire ring. While potable water is not available, the site provides vault toilets for visitor convenience.
This high-elevation campground (7,400' feet) offers a short camping season due to snowfall, making it a special destination for those who enjoy cooler weather and peaceful surroundings. The area is ideal for hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby attractions like the Herring Creek Reservoir and the famous Trail of the Gargoyles.
- Location: Mixed conifer forest near Herring Creek
- Facilities: 7 sites with tables and fire rings, vault toilets
- Access: Dirt road (Forest Road 4N12), 3 miles from Summit Ranger Station
- Season: Short season due to high elevation and snowfall
- Activities: Hiking, fishing, trail exploring
- Pet-Friendly: Check local regulations for pet policies
Herring Creek Campground is a favorite among locals and visitors who appreciate its remote location and connection to nature. Many have shared heartfelt stories about their time here, including one visitor who noted that their children grew up at the campground and now work in outdoor professions. However, recent reviews have highlighted concerns about reduced access and management changes, with some expressing hope for improved maintenance in the future.
If you're looking for an authentic Sierra Nevada camping experience, Herring Creek Campground offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and explore the breathtaking landscapes of California's High Sierra. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-time adventurer, this campground promises unforgettable memories.
Location
Customer Reviews
This is my favorite Forest Service Campground. No fee, no potable water, well-maintained toilet. Easy access to The Trail of the Gargoyles, Herring Creek, and Herring Creek Reservoir Campground. It's at 7,400' elevation so the season is pretty short because of the snow. From the Forest Service website: "Herring Creek Campground situated in a mixed conifer forest near Herring Creek. It is located on Forest Road 4N12; turn right onto Herring Creek Road (4N12) off of Highway 108, about 3 miles from the Summit Ranger Station. The campground is approximately 9 miles from the Summit Ranger Station. There are 7 sites; each site has a table and a fire ring. The main road and parking pads are dirt-surfaced. Potable water is not available. Toilets are vault."
Dodge Ridge Property Management and the U.S.D.A have been systematically closing off this once incredible campground. Later and later in the season gate openings. In its glory days there was a camp host. I wish California would create and maintain more Campgrounds like this one. Our kids were raised there and are now Outdoorsmen, Hiking guides and Cal-Firefighters.
Although the creek has been a little stagnant, the campground remained opened. Beware, lots of fresh cattle dung on camp sites. No trouts this late summer time. If you seek fishing, go farther east on 108, to Stanislaus River.
Awesome. Quiet. Clean. Dispersed camping for smaller vehicles, we have a 4x 4 pickup. We did see a small fifth wheel behind a raised 4x4 the first time we visited. Vault bathroom, picnic table and fire ring are the extent of amenities. Walk in campsites as well. On 4N12, Herring Creek Rd off 108 in Sierras.
Great place to spend the day quiet and clean just a heads up it's mosquito city you will get eaten alive even with bug spray get the highest level of bug spray you can find. And watch out for the fallen trees there's a bunch of spruce trees that have a disease or I'm not sure what it is but they numerous like 25 to 30 that have fallen over and falling on structures or picnic areas.
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