Camping at North Grove Campground at Calaveras Big Trees State Park

General Overview

North Grove Campground is one of the two main campgrounds located in Calaveras Big Trees State Park, which lies in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. This park is renowned for its two groves of giant sequoias, including the North Grove which the campground is named after. The ancient and massive trees create an awe-inspiring backdrop for camping and nature enjoyment.

Camping Information

• Campsite Details: North Grove Campground offers several campsites suitable for tent camping, RVs, and trailers. Each site typically includes a fire ring, picnic table, and a food storage locker, considering that the area has wildlife including bears.

• Capacity: The exact number of campsites may vary, but the campground usually offers around 77 sites.

• Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak summer months. They can be made through the California State Parks reservation system either online or by phone.

• Season: While the park is open year-round, camping availability might differ. North Grove Campground is generally open from April through November, depending on weather conditions and snow levels.

• Facilities: The campground provides restrooms with flush toilets and showers. Drinking water is also available throughout the campground.

Activities

• Hiking: There are multiple trails in the park, including the one-mile North Grove Trail, which offers an easy walk through the spectacular giant sequoias.

• Educational Programs: During the summer season, park rangers typically offer guided hikes and educational programs about the giant sequoias and local ecology.

• Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors should be prepared to see animals such as squirrels, birds, and possibly even bears.

• Visitor Center: A visitor center is available and it features exhibits about the natural history, geology, and cultural history of the area.

Important Rules and Considerations

• Wildlife Precautions: Since bears are present in the park, all food, toiletries, and anything with a scent must be stored in bear-proof lockers.

• Campfire Restrictions: There may be campfire restrictions depending on the time of year and current fire danger. Always check the park's current guidelines before starting a fire.

• Pets: Pets are allowed in the campground, but they must be on a leash and are not permitted on the trails.

• Quiet Hours: Quiet hours are typically enforced from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Getting There

• Directions: North Grove Campground is located off of Highway 4 in Calaveras County. Detailed driving directions can be found on the park's website or by consulting a GPS navigation system.

• Accessibility: The campground is accessible by standard passenger vehicles, but the last section of road to the park is a winding mountain road that may be challenging during winter or adverse weather conditions.

Contact Information

Before heading to North Grove Campground, it's a good idea to check with Calaveras Big Trees State Park for the most current information regarding conditions, campsite availability, and any alerts or closures:

• Telephone: You can contact the park at a provided telephone number for the most current information and for reservations.

• Website: The California State Parks official website provides detailed information about the park and campgrounds.

When planning a trip to North Grove Campground, always ensure you have the latest information as policies, and availability can change. Being well-prepared will help ensure that your camping experience in the presence of these magnificent trees is both memorable and respectful of the natural environment.