California / Madera County / Sierra National Forest

Mammoth Pool

Closed — Closed for complete rehabilitation until May 2027. The campground facilities were destroyed in the 2020 Creek Fire. Southern California Edison is conducting a two-year rebuild in partnership with the Forest Service. Dispersed camping, trails, and shore fishing in the area remain available during rehabilitation.

About

Mammoth Pool Campground is located half a mile from Mammoth Pool Reservoir along the San Joaquin River in the Sierra National Forest. The primitive campground winds through a mountainous landscape with stands of Ponderosa pine and cedar trees. The original campground, constructed in the 1950s, was a total loss from the 2020 Creek Fire and is currently undergoing complete rehabilitation. The reservoir offers fishing, boating, and a boat launch, though the reservoir is closed annually from May 1 through June 15 to protect the annual deer migration. Hikers can access the nearby French Trail, a 12.7-mile foot trail that provides access to the Ansel Adams Wilderness, known for its jagged peaks including 13,157-foot Mt. Ritter, and numerous alpine lakes and streams. The area typically operates from mid-June until snow closes the road in October or November. The campground rehabilitation project is part of a larger program connected to the relicensing of Southern California Edison's Big Creek hydroelectric projects under a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission license. While the campground and boat launch are closed for rehabilitation, designated roads, trails, dispersed camping in the area, and shore fishing at Mammoth Pool remain available to the public.

Directions

From Fresno, take Highway 41 north to Road 200. Turn right and travel east to North Fork. Continue through North Fork on Minarets Road (Forest Road 81) for 37 miles to Mammoth Pool Road, turn right, and travel 4 miles to the campground.

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