Middle Meadows
Closed — Closed for the season. Typically open mid-May through mid-October depending on snow conditions. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.
Barrett Lake 4 X 4 Trail Motor Vehicle Prohibition
Barrett Lake Jeep trail closed to motor vehicle use in the winter.
Trash service ending for the winter in Crystal Basin on Oct. 20, 2025
Trash service within the Crystal Basin area is ending on Oct. 20, 2025, for the winter season. Please pack-out all trash with you when visiting.
Camping Occupancy Restrictions
Camping and Occupancy Restrictions for Desolation Wilderness, Mokelumne Wilderness and the Pacific Crest Trail that runs through the Eldorado National Forest boundary.
Desolation Wilderness Food and Refuse Storage Restriction
Possessing or storing any food in Desolation Wilderness unless it is in a bear proof container.
Loon Lake Campground and Trailhead are Closed for Reconstruction
The Loon Lake Campground and Trailhead is closed this season for reconstruction. The boatramp is open for day use only though Labor Day weekend and then it will close for construction. The water system will not be operational during this time.
Deer Valley Trail (19E01) & Meadow Lake Road (09N01)
Motor vehicle use restricted in these areas during snowmelt. See Forest Order Exhibit A for area map.
Horse Canyon Trail (17E21) Closure
This order prohibits use of a motorcycle or motor-driven bicycle on this trail.
Occupancy and Use Restrictions - Desolation Wilderness Area
Prohibited acts within Desolation Wilderness.
Travel Management Designation
Routes designated in Travel Management Subpart B are included as part of the current road system.
From Recreation.gov
Water Outage: No drinking water or flush toilets are available at this campground. Portable toilets are available but campers must supply all drinking water. Please plan accordingly.
About
Middle Meadows Group Campground offers a quiet, isolated camping experience far from urban bustle, nestled in the heavily forested landscape of Eldorado National Forest. Located along the South Fork of Long Canyon Creek at 4,740 feet elevation, the campground is surrounded by large cedar, pine, and fir trees that create a primitive, undiscovered atmosphere. Despite the remote setting, the area provides diverse recreational opportunities. The campground features two group campsites accommodating up to 25 and 50 guests, making it perfect for family reunions or group outings. Each site includes tables, campfire circles, grills, and bear-proof food containers. The adjacent creek provides opportunities for fishing and wading, while a swimming hole located about 0.25 miles west offers a refreshing retreat on warm days. Hell Hole Reservoir, less than 5 miles north, expands recreational options with excellent boating, fishing, and additional water sports. The reservoir's boat ramp provides easy access to the water. The scenic mountain landscape also makes this an ideal location for wildlife viewing and birding, with bears frequently visiting the area. The drive to Middle Meadows is long and winding through forest roads, but the reward is a serene, secluded campground where visitors can truly disconnect and enjoy nature's beauty. The primitive feel and remote location make this campground special for those seeking solitude and a genuine wilderness camping experience.
Directions
From Sacramento, take Interstate 80 east to Auburn. Take the Elm Street exit, turn left, and follow Highway 49 through the canyon to Cool. Turn onto Highway 193 toward Georgetown, then left at the stop sign, continuing 22 miles to 11 Pines Road (Forest Highway 2). Turn left and stay on this road for about 25 miles to reach the campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $12.5 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 25ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 25ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (530) 333-4312 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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