Bloomfield Campground

For California locals seeking a rustic and serene camping experience amidst the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, Bloomfield Campground near Arnold, CA, offers a compelling option. Tucked within the sprawling Stanislaus National Forest, this charming campground provides a no-frills yet deeply rewarding connection with nature. It’s a perfect spot for those who prefer tent camping, appreciate the sounds of a cool river, and are looking for an affordable escape from the everyday.

Bloomfield Campground is characterized by its tranquil atmosphere and its proximity to the North Fork Mokelumne River. While not overly large, with approximately 15-20 sites, it fosters a sense of intimacy and allows campers to truly immerse themselves in the forested surroundings. It's a place where you might hear the unique sounds of cattle bells from nearby herds, adding to the authentic, rural California mountain experience.

This campground caters to those who value simplicity and self-reliance in their outdoor adventures. It’s ideal for campers seeking a quiet retreat for fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing by a campfire (when conditions allow). While basic amenities are provided, the true highlight of Bloomfield Campground lies in its untouched natural beauty and the opportunity it offers to disconnect and rejuvenate in the heart of California's high country.

Location and Accessibility

Bloomfield Campground is located in the Stanislaus National Forest, near Arnold, CA 95223, USA. Specifically, it is situated along the banks of the North Fork Mokelumne River, approximately 2.4 miles west of Ebbetts Pass and four miles north of Highland Lakes. This puts it in a beautiful, forested setting that embodies the quintessential Sierra Nevada experience.

Access to Bloomfield Campground generally involves traveling on State Route 4, a scenic highway that winds through the mountains. From Arnold, CA, campers would take State Route 4 east for approximately 40.8 miles. Look for the Highland Lakes sign, turn right at the sign, and continue for about 0.9 miles to find the campground on your right. It's important to note that after Lake Alpine, State Route 4 becomes a narrower road with significant grades (up to 24%) and numerous curves. For this reason, the road is not recommended for vehicles over 25 feet in total length, making the campground best suited for tent camping, camper vans, and smaller trailers or RVs.

Given its mountain location, visitors should always check current road conditions, especially during the spring and fall, as snow or other weather events can affect accessibility to mountain passes and forest roads. The campground typically opens mid-to-late May and remains open until late September, weather permitting. Its relatively remote location ensures a peaceful atmosphere, though it’s still within a reasonable drive for many Northern and Central California residents seeking an escape to higher elevations.

Services Offered

• Approximately 15-20 individual campsites are available.
• Each campsite includes a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill for cooking and campfires (subject to fire restrictions).
• Vault toilets (pit toilets) are provided and generally reported to be adequate for visitor use.
• Drinking water is available via a hand pump, typically during the summer season only. Visitors should confirm water availability or plan to bring their own.
• All campsites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted. Arriving early, especially on weekends or during peak season, is advisable to secure a spot.
• The nightly use fee is $12 (as of recent customer reviews), offering an affordable camping option.
• Pets are welcome at the campground, but owners are expected to follow responsible pet guidelines, including leash laws.
• Trash collection is not provided; campers are required to practice "pack it in, pack it out" to maintain the pristine environment.
• Cell service is generally not available in the area, offering a true opportunity to disconnect.

Features / Highlights

• Proximity to North Fork Mokelumne River: The campground is located directly next to a "cool little river," the North Fork Mokelumne River. This provides a beautiful natural backdrop, soothing sounds, and opportunities for fishing (trout fishing is a popular activity) and possibly wading.
• Peaceful and Secluded Atmosphere: With a relatively small number of sites and its forested setting, Bloomfield Campground offers a quiet escape. It's often less crowded than larger, more accessible campgrounds, especially during mid-week visits.
• Unique Local Charm: As noted by a reviewer, the presence of nearby cattle herds with bells passing through can add an interesting and rustic element to the camping experience.
• Affordable Camping: At $12 per night, Bloomfield Campground provides a budget-friendly option for enjoying the Sierra Nevada wilderness, making it accessible for frequent getaways.
• Ideal for Tent Camping: Given the challenging access road for larger vehicles, the campground is perfectly suited for traditional tent camping, offering a more authentic and immersive outdoor experience.
• Access to Outdoor Recreation: Situated within the Stanislaus National Forest, the area surrounding Bloomfield Campground offers extensive opportunities for fishing, hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, mountain biking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: With no cell service and minimal light pollution, the campground provides an excellent opportunity for stargazing and appreciating the vastness of the night sky.
• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each site is equipped with essential amenities, allowing campers to enjoy outdoor meals and traditional campfires (always check current fire danger levels and restrictions).

Contact Information

Address: Arnold, CA 95223, USA

While no direct phone number for Bloomfield Campground specifically is provided in the prompt, for general inquiries, current conditions, or information regarding the Stanislaus National Forest, it is recommended to contact the relevant Ranger District.

Local Phone (for Stanislaus National Forest, Calaveras Ranger District, which oversees this area): (209) 795-1381.

Website: For more detailed information, visitors can refer to the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Stanislaus National Forest or other reputable camping resources like CampsitePhotos.com or Hipcamp, which often provide updated information on open seasons and conditions.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For California locals, Bloomfield Campground offers a compelling and authentic Sierra Nevada camping experience that is both accessible and remarkably affordable. Its prime location within the Stanislaus National Forest, near Arnold, provides a convenient escape for those living in Central and Northern California, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips or longer, rejuvenating stays without extensive travel.

The campground's suitability for locals stems from its rustic charm and focus on natural beauty. Unlike highly developed parks, Bloomfield embraces a simpler approach, offering basic amenities like pit toilets and hand-pump water, which appeals to campers seeking a more traditional and immersive outdoor adventure. The $12 nightly fee is a significant draw, making quality outdoor recreation accessible on a budget, a crucial factor for many Californians.

The presence of the "cool little river," the North Fork Mokelumne, provides a constant, soothing soundtrack and excellent opportunities for trout fishing – a popular pastime for many local outdoor enthusiasts. The absence of cell service is a deliberate and cherished feature for those seeking a true digital detox, allowing for uninterrupted connection with family, friends, and the serene environment. This encourages residents to truly unplug from daily stressors and fully embrace the present moment.

Furthermore, Bloomfield Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Stanislaus National Forest, with abundant opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and experiencing the unique character of the high Sierra, including the possibility of encountering local cattle herds. While the access road might require a suitable vehicle, this characteristic helps preserve the campground's quiet and secluded atmosphere, ensuring a more peaceful experience for those who make the journey.

In essence, Bloomfield Campground provides California locals with an authentic, budget-friendly, and profoundly peaceful gateway to the Sierra Nevada. It's a place where simple amenities meet immense natural beauty, offering an ideal setting to relax, recreate, and create lasting memories in the heart of their home state's stunning wilderness.

Bloomfield Campground

Arnold, CA 95223, USA