Black Springs OHV Campground

For California locals seeking a unique blend of serene natural beauty and thrilling outdoor recreation, Black Springs OHV Campground near Camp Connell, CA, presents an exceptional destination. Nestled within the vast Stanislaus National Forest at an elevation of 6,500 feet, this campground offers a peaceful retreat while providing direct access to over 100 miles of diverse Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trails. It’s a perfect spot for those who love the quiet embrace of the mountains but also enjoy the excitement of exploring on two or four wheels.

Black Springs OHV Campground is specifically designed to cater to OHV enthusiasts, featuring large, spread-out campsites that can accommodate trailers up to 60 feet. Despite its popularity with motorized recreation, visitors often praise the "peace and quiet" found amidst the "beautiful surroundings." It's a testament to the spacious layout and the encompassing natural environment that allows for both adventure and relaxation.

While the campground embraces a more rustic approach to amenities, with no running water or traditional restrooms in all areas, it offers essential provisions for a comfortable stay. It's a first-come, first-served gem, inviting spontaneous getaways and authentic outdoor experiences. For Californians looking for an affordable, scenic, and activity-rich escape into the high country, Black Springs OHV Campground delivers an unforgettable adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Black Springs OHV Campground is strategically located within the Stanislaus National Forest, near Camp Connell, CA 95223, USA. This placement in the central Sierra Nevada mountains provides a stunning backdrop and convenient access for residents across California, particularly those in Northern and Central California looking for a mountain getaway. The campground sits at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet, offering cooler temperatures and clear mountain air.

Access to Black Springs OHV Campground is typically via California State Route 4, a scenic highway that winds through the high country. From the west, you would travel through Arnold and Camp Connell, continuing east on Highway 4. The campground is situated on the north side of Highway 4. While the highway itself is generally well-maintained, visitors should be aware that the final approach to the campground may involve forest roads that vary in condition. The area is known for its extensive network of forest roads and trails, making it a popular spot for vehicles designed for off-highway travel.

It's crucial for visitors to check current road conditions, especially during the spring and fall, as higher elevation roads in the Sierra Nevada can be subject to seasonal closures due to snow or other weather events. The campground generally operates seasonally, from April 15 to December 15, weather permitting. Its proximity to the Black Springs OHV staging area means direct access to the trail system is a major advantage for riders. While Camp Connell and Arnold offer basic services like gas and groceries, it's always advisable to arrive prepared with all necessary supplies, as cell service is generally poor in the area.

Services Offered

• 8 large, first-come, first-served campsites, designed to accommodate both tents and RVs/trailers up to 60 feet.
• Each campsite includes a gravel parking area, a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill.
• Bear-proof food storage lockers (bear boxes) are provided at each site, essential for safe food storage in bear country.
• Vault toilets are available for visitor use within the campground.
• Drinking water is NOT provided; campers must bring their own potable water.
• Trash service is NOT provided; campers are required to practice "pack it in, pack it out" to maintain the pristine environment.
• Cell service is poor or non-existent in the area, offering a true opportunity to disconnect.
• The current nightly fee is $15 (for 2025), increasing to $20 in 2026. America the Beautiful, Interagency Senior, and Access Passes are honored, providing a 50% discount on the nightly rate.
• Permits and stickers for OHV use (such as CA OHMVR stickers) are required for vehicles on designated trails. Spark arrestors and specific noise limits (96 dB for 1986/newer vehicles) apply to OHVs.

Features / Highlights

• Premier OHV Access: Black Springs OHV Campground provides direct access to over 100 miles of connecting forest roads and trails, forming extensive loops suitable for all levels and types of OHV users, including ATVs, dirt bikes, UTVs, SXS, and even registered SUVs/Jeeps. The adjacent Black Springs OHV staging area is a major convenience.
• Beautiful and Secluded Surroundings: Despite its OHV focus, the campground is noted for its "beautiful surroundings" and "peace and quiet." Campsites are large and well-spaced, offering a sense of privacy amidst the forested area.
• Serene Babbling Brook: Some campsites have the added charm of a "sweet babbling brook going by," enhancing the tranquil atmosphere and offering soothing natural sounds.
• Affordable Camping: With a reasonable nightly fee (and discounts for pass holders), Black Springs OHV Campground offers a budget-friendly option for an active outdoor getaway.
• Bear Country Preparedness: The provision of bear-proof food storage lockers at each site highlights the commitment to both visitor safety and wildlife protection, acknowledging the presence of bears in the area.
• Extensive Recreational Opportunities: Beyond OHV riding, the area offers hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. The network of trails provides ample ground to cover for various outdoor pursuits.
• First-Come, First-Served: This policy allows for spontaneous camping trips, appealing to those who prefer flexibility over advance reservations.
• High Elevation Benefits: Located at 6,500 feet, the campground offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat of lower elevations, with cooler temperatures perfect for outdoor activities.
• Minimal Cell Service: For those seeking a true digital detox, the poor cell service in the area is a feature, encouraging campers to disconnect and fully immerse themselves in nature.

Contact Information

Address: Camp Connell, CA 95223, USA

Phone (Stanislaus National Forest, Calaveras Ranger District): (209) 795-1381

For more specific information regarding current conditions, trail status, fire restrictions, or to verify fees and pass acceptance, it is highly recommended to contact the Calaveras Ranger District of the Stanislaus National Forest, which oversees Black Springs OHV Campground.

Official information can also often be found on the U.S. Forest Service website for the Stanislaus National Forest or through Recreation.gov (though reservations are not offered for this campground).

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Black Springs OHV Campground offers a uniquely suitable and highly appealing outdoor experience for California locals, particularly those who appreciate a blend of serene natural beauty and exhilarating recreational activities. Its location within the vast Stanislaus National Forest, easily accessible from central and northern California via State Route 4, makes it a convenient yet immersive escape from urban life.

For Californians with a passion for OHV riding, this campground is a dream come true. With direct access to over 100 miles of diverse trails, it provides endless opportunities for dirt biking, ATVing, and exploring on four wheels. This dedicated OHV focus, coupled with large, accommodating campsites, means riders can seamlessly transition from their vehicle to their comfortable camp, making it a highly efficient and enjoyable base for their adventures.

Beyond the motorized fun, the campground’s "beautiful surroundings" and notable "peace and quiet" (despite the OHV activity) cater to a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts. The presence of a babbling brook adds a tranquil element, while opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and especially stargazing (due to the minimal light pollution and poor cell service) provide ample ways to enjoy the natural environment. The lack of cell service is a deliberate and welcomed feature for many locals seeking a complete digital detox, allowing for a deeper connection with nature and fellow campers.

Furthermore, the affordability of the campsites (with discounts for federal pass holders) makes Black Springs OHV Campground a highly budget-friendly option for regular getaways. The inclusion of bear-proof food lockers demonstrates a commitment to visitor safety and responsible wildlife interaction, important considerations in California's wildlands. For locals seeking an active, affordable, and authentically rustic mountain experience that combines the thrill of OHV exploration with the tranquility of nature, Black Springs OHV Campground is an ideal and highly recommended choice.

Black Springs OHV Campground

Camp Connell, CA 95223, USA