Spinning Wheel Campground
The campground generally operates from late spring through early fall, weather permitting. Similar campgrounds in the Highway 120 corridor typically open in May and close in September. No potable water is available; campers must bring their own water supply. Payment is cash or check only.
National Forest System Roads
Follow California Vehicle Code on National Forest System Roads
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Forest order limiting occupancy and use remains in effect
Forest order STF-16-2026-09, limits occupancy and use in developed and undeveloped locations from July 31, 2026, through July 30, 2029. This order supersedes Forest Order STF-16-2022-06 executed July 28, 2022, for the same purpose.
About
Spinning Wheel Campground is a primitive camping area situated in the Stanislaus National Forest, managed by the Groveland Ranger District. The campground is located near Cherry Lake, the largest lake in the forest, and provides convenient access to Yosemite National Park's Big Oak Flat entrance along Highway 120. The campground offers basic facilities typical of national forest camping areas, including vault toilets. However, there is no potable water available on site, so campers must bring an adequate supply of drinking water. Sites are available for $25 per night and payment is by cash or check only. The surrounding area offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Cherry Lake is approximately 1.5 miles northeast and provides fishing for brook trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, and rainbow trout. The mixed conifer forest setting at approximately 3,000 feet elevation offers relief from summer valley heat while maintaining reasonable accessibility.
Directions
From Highway 120, head east towards Sweetwater Campground via Forest Road 1S15Y.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $25 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (209) 962-7825 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!