Big Meadow Campground

For Californians seeking a truly immersive wilderness experience that offers both solitude and ample space, particularly for equestrian enthusiasts, Big Meadow Campground presents an exceptional opportunity. Located within the breathtaking expanse of the Sequoia National Forest, this campground is a tranquil haven far from the urban hustle. If you're a local looking to escape into vast meadows, towering forests, and high granite mountains, Big Meadow Campground offers a unique blend of rugged beauty and essential amenities. It's a place where you can truly disconnect, whether you're bringing your horse for an unforgettable trail ride, casting a line in a pristine creek, or simply basking in the quiet grandeur of the High Sierra.

Big Meadow Campground is renowned for its spacious campsites and a remarkably large, enclosed pasture, making it a standout choice for those who wish to camp with their horses. Beyond its equestrian facilities, its remote setting ensures a peaceful and uncrowded experience, appealing to anyone who desires genuine solitude and an unfiltered connection with California's remarkable natural landscapes. Prepare for a memorable adventure where the majestic scenery and the crisp mountain air rejuvenate your spirit.

Big Meadow Campground is nestled within the expansive Sequoia National Forest, in California, USA. Specifically, it is located at an elevation of approximately 7,500 to 7,600 feet, placing it firmly in the high country of the Sierra Nevada mountains. This elevation means it offers a refreshing escape from lower-elevation heat during the summer months and provides stunning views of vast meadows, towering granite mountains, and a diverse forest of pines, firs, and aspens.

Accessing Big Meadow Campground typically involves navigating through scenic mountain roads. From Fresno, you might take Highway 180 eastward towards Kings Canyon National Park. After entering the park (a park permit may be required), you would continue on Generals Highway (Highway 198) before turning onto Big Meadow Road (Forest Road 14S11), which is paved for about 4 miles leading to the campground. The drive itself is part of the experience, winding through incredible forest landscapes. Due to its high elevation, Big Meadow Campground is generally open seasonally, usually from late June to late October, depending on snowmelt and weather conditions. It is crucial for local Californians planning a visit to check current road statuses and campground opening/closing dates with the Sequoia National Forest or Recreation.gov, as conditions can vary annually.

Its remote location contributes significantly to its appeal for those seeking solitude. As one reviewer noted, it is "very remote" and "worth the drive," emphasizing the sense of escape it provides. While it might feel off the beaten path, the well-maintained access roads ensure that it remains accessible for both tent campers and those with RVs or horse trailers.

Big Meadow Campground provides a solid set of essential services, designed to support a comfortable and self-sufficient camping experience in a wilderness setting. Customer reviews highlight its suitability for both standard and equestrian campers.

• Campsites: The campground offers 38 campsites, including 30 single-family sites and 8 double-family sites. Each campsite is spacious and typically includes a picnic table, a metal fire ring with a grill, and a food storage box (bear box). Parking spurs for RVs and trailers range from 30 to 60 feet, accommodating a variety of setups.
• Vault Toilets: Every unit in the campground is provided with a vault toilet, which are generally well-maintained. These provide basic restroom facilities in a natural setting.
• Food Storage Boxes (Bear Boxes): Given its location in bear country, Big Meadow Campground provides essential food storage lockers at each campsite. Campers are required to use these to safely store all food and scented items, protecting both their belongings and local wildlife.
• Camp Host: A camp host is typically available on-site (e.g., in Unit 1, Site #7) to assist campers with finding their sites and addressing any concerns, adding a layer of convenience and support.
• Horse Corrals/Pasture: A significant highlight for equestrian campers is the presence of horse corrals and a "BIG enclosed pasture" for horses to run around in. While the primary Big Meadow Campground has sites, the nearby Horse Camp Campground (sometimes referred to as Big Meadow Horse Camp) is exclusively for horse camping and features pipe corrals. This makes it an ideal destination for those traveling with their equine companions.
• Firewood: Firewood is sometimes available for purchase from the camp host, which is a convenient option given the remote location. However, campers should always be prepared for current fire restrictions and may need to obtain a campfire permit.
• No Potable Water: It is important for campers to note that potable (drinking) water is generally NOT available at Big Meadow Campground. Visitors must bring their own supply of water for drinking, cooking, and washing, or be prepared to filter and treat water from natural sources like Big Meadows Creek.
• Trash Collection: Trash collection services are typically available, but the "Pack It In, Pack It Out" principle is always encouraged to maintain the pristine environment.
• Reservations and First-Come, First-Served: While some sources indicate Big Meadow Campground operates on a reservation system via Recreation.gov, others suggest some sites might be first-come, first-served, particularly for horse-specific areas that are volunteer-run. It's best to check Recreation.gov or call the Hume Lake Ranger District for the most accurate booking information.

Big Meadow Campground's appeal lies in its natural splendor and the wealth of outdoor activities it offers, particularly for those seeking a tranquil and expansive high-country experience.

• Vast Meadows and High Granite Mountains: The campground is named for the large, beautiful meadows that characterize the area, offering open spaces and stunning vistas. These are surrounded by dramatic high granite mountains, creating a picturesque and awe-inspiring backdrop for camping.
• Equestrian Facilities: For horse owners, the "BIG enclosed pasture" and horse corrals make this campground an ideal destination. It's a rare find to have such dedicated facilities in a beautiful wilderness setting, allowing riders to easily access nearby trails with their horses.
• Proximity to Jennie Lakes Wilderness: A significant draw is the nearby Jennie Lakes Wilderness. Numerous trailheads provide access into this designated wilderness area, offering opportunities for day hikes and extended backpacking trips to pristine alpine lakes and challenging mountain terrain. Fly fishing in Big Meadows Creek, which runs near the campground, is a popular activity within this wilderness.
• Access to Other Wilderness Areas: Beyond Jennie Lakes, the campground provides access to other popular wilderness destinations, including Monarch Wilderness and various areas within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, making it a hub for serious backpackers.
• Buck Rock Lookout: A short drive from the campground leads to Buck Rock Lookout, perched at an elevation of 8,500 feet. This historic fire lookout offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, the Kings River gorge, and various wilderness areas, providing an excellent short excursion for campers.
• Hume Lake: Approximately 15 miles from the campground, Hume Lake offers additional recreational opportunities, including water activities. It's a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, providing a different type of outdoor experience within reasonable driving distance.
• Wildlife Viewing and Stargazing: The remote, forested setting is excellent for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot deer, marmots, squirrels, coyotes, and various bird species. At night, with minimal light pollution, the vast Sierra sky transforms into an incredible canvas for stargazing, offering unparalleled views of the Milky Way.
• Remote and Solitude-Focused: Customer reviews emphasize the campground's remote nature, making it ideal for those who "seek solitude" and prefer a less crowded camping experience.

For the most current and specific information regarding Big Meadow Campground, including reservations, opening/closing dates, fire restrictions, and any advisories, it is best to contact the managing authority, the Sequoia National Forest, particularly the Hume Lake Ranger District.

Address: California, USA (General area within Sequoia National Forest)

For inquiries, you can typically reach the Hume Lake Ranger District:

Hume Lake Ranger District Address: 35860 East Kings Canyon Road Dunlap, CA 93621

Phone: (559) 338-2251

Additionally, for reservations, checking availability, and more detailed information, the Recreation.gov website is the primary platform:

Recreation.gov Website: www.recreation.gov

Recreation.gov Phone: 877-444-6777

It is highly recommended for all visitors, especially local Californians, to call ahead or check online before their trip to confirm current conditions, particularly regarding road access due to snow, fire restrictions, and availability, as this is a popular high-elevation campground.

Big Meadow Campground stands as an exemplary destination for Californians seeking a profound connection with the state's iconic Sierra Nevada mountains. Its unique combination of remote beauty, spacious sites, and specific amenities caters perfectly to a local populace eager to explore their natural backyard.

For Californians, the "worth the drive" aspect of Big Meadow highlights its secluded nature. It offers a genuine escape from the urban sprawl, providing the "solitude you seek" that is increasingly rare in popular recreation areas. This makes it an ideal spot for individuals, couples, or groups who truly wish to disconnect and immerse themselves in the tranquility of a high-alpine environment.

The standout feature for many locals, especially those involved in equestrian activities, is the excellent horse-friendly infrastructure, including large pastures. This provides a valuable and unique opportunity to experience the Sierra backcountry with equine companions, unlocking a different dimension of outdoor adventure that few other campgrounds can offer.

Beyond horse camping, the campground's immediate access to the Jennie Lakes Wilderness and proximity to the larger Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks makes it a prime basecamp for hiking, backpacking, and fly fishing. These opportunities allow Californians to delve deep into pristine wilderness, discover hidden alpine lakes, and challenge themselves on scenic trails leading to breathtaking vistas like Buck Rock Lookout.

While the lack of potable water requires planning, it reinforces the self-reliant ethos of true wilderness camping that many local outdoor enthusiasts embrace. The presence of well-maintained vault toilets, food storage boxes, and a camp host ensures a comfortable experience while maintaining the rustic charm. Big Meadow Campground truly embodies the spirit of California's high country, offering locals an unparalleled opportunity to create lasting memories amidst some of the state's most magnificent natural treasures.

Big Meadow Campground

California, USA