Lost Claim Campground

For Californians eager to explore the majestic wonders of Yosemite National Park and the expansive beauty of the Stanislaus National Forest, Lost Claim Campground offers a straightforward and budget-friendly base camp. Situated conveniently on Big Oak Flat Road near Groveland, this rustic campground provides an authentic forest camping experience, appealing to those who prioritize natural surroundings and proximity to world-class outdoor recreation over extensive amenities. It’s an excellent option for tent campers and those with smaller rigs seeking a quiet escape amidst the towering trees.

Lost Claim Campground has weathered past challenges, including impacts from fires, but it is now fully operational and ready to welcome visitors. While it’s recognized for its "barebones" approach, its clean facilities and strategic location make it a valuable resource for locals looking to immerse themselves in the Sierra Nevada's splendor without breaking the bank. It offers a genuine connection to the outdoors, inviting campers to embrace simplicity and focus on the natural adventures that lie just beyond their campsite.

Lost Claim Campground is conveniently located at Big Oak Flat Rd, Groveland, CA 95321, USA. This places it approximately 12 to 15 miles east of Groveland on State Highway 120 (also known as Big Oak Flat Road), which serves as a primary western entrance route to Yosemite National Park. Its proximity to Yosemite's northwest boundary makes it a particularly attractive option for visitors who want to explore the park without the higher costs or intense competition for campsites within Yosemite Valley itself.

Access to Lost Claim Campground is generally straightforward via Highway 120. From Groveland, you will take Highway 120 east, and the campground entrance will be situated just east of the Groveland Ranger District Office. The roads within the campground are described as "native surface or gravel," meaning they are unpaved but typically navigable for most vehicles. While reviewer feedback suggests that some parking sites might require risers for camping vans to achieve a level setup, and some tent sites could be tricky, overall accessibility for standard vehicles and tent campers is good. Larger RVs and trailers might find certain spots challenging, and it's generally "not recommended for trailers or RVs" by the Forest Service, though some sites may accommodate smaller ones. The campground's location on a major highway means some traffic noise may be audible, as noted by some past visitors.

Lost Claim Campground provides essential services for a comfortable, though rustic, camping experience within the Stanislaus National Forest. It's designed for self-sufficient campers who appreciate basic, well-maintained facilities.

• Campsites: The campground features 10 reservable campsites, primarily suited for tents, though some sites (such as 1, 7, and 8) can accommodate tent trailers or small camping vans. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring with a grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker (bear box). Reviewers praise the bear lockers for being "brand new and large," a crucial amenity in bear country.

• Vault Toilets: There are three centrally located vault toilets. Customer reviews consistently mention that these toilets are kept "clean" and "well-maintained," a significant positive for a primitive campground. However, some note that seats were sometimes left open, leading to flies, though this is often resolved by morning cold.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from a large hand pump. While a unique feature, it's worth noting that some past campers have expressed reservations about drinking this water directly, choosing instead to filter it or bring their own. It's always wise to be prepared with your own water or purification methods when relying on hand pumps in remote areas.

• Bear Boxes: As highlighted, each campsite is equipped with a bear-proof food storage locker, essential for storing food and scented items safely away from wildlife, particularly bears, which are active in the area.

• No Electric Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available at any of the campsites, reinforcing its rustic nature.

• Camp Host (Intermittent): While some reviewers noted not seeing a constant camp host, it's officially listed as having a camp host on site, which can vary by season or specific dates of operation. Their presence helps ensure cleanliness and assists campers.

• Firewood: While reviews suggest bringing your own firewood, firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host when on-site and fire restrictions permit.

• Reservations: All sites are currently reservable through Recreation.gov, and booking up to 6 months in advance is possible. This is recommended due to its popularity as an affordable alternative to Yosemite in-park camping.

Lost Claim Campground offers several appealing features and highlights that make it a desirable choice for specific types of campers:

• Exceptional Proximity to Yosemite: Its location just 15 miles from the Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite National Park is a major draw. This allows campers to access the iconic waterfalls, giant sequoias, and world-class hiking of Yosemite with a relatively short drive, serving as an ideal "base camp" without the park's higher costs.

• Peaceful Forest Environment: The campground is nestled in a mixed conifer forest at an elevation of approximately 3,100 feet, providing ample shade and a tranquil atmosphere. Reviewers consistently praise its "quiet and small" nature, offering a peaceful retreat.

• Bear Awareness and Safety: The presence of large, new bear lockers at each site is a significant highlight, demonstrating a commitment to safety and responsible wildlife management. This provides peace of mind for campers in bear country.

• Access to Stanislaus National Forest: Beyond Yosemite, campers have direct access to the vast recreational opportunities within the Stanislaus National Forest, including additional hiking trails (like the Little Golden Forest Trail nearby), fishing on the Tuolumne River, and exploring other lakes in the western Sierra Nevada.

• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities (for a rustic camp): Despite being "barebones," reviewers consistently mention the cleanliness of the sites and vault toilets, indicating good upkeep by the managing agency (American Land & Leisure).

• Affordable Camping: Priced at approximately $25-$33 per night, Lost Claim offers a more budget-friendly camping option compared to many other developed campgrounds, especially those closer to popular attractions.

• Natural Beauty: The mixed conifer forest setting, with the potential for abundant wild blackberries (as noted by a reviewer), and encounters with friendly local insects like carpenter bees, adds to the natural charm and immersive experience.

For reservations and inquiries regarding Lost Claim Campground, which is managed by American Land & Leisure under a special use permit from the U.S. Forest Service, the primary contact channels are through the national reservation system and the local ranger district.

Address: Big Oak Flat Rd, Groveland, CA 95321, USA

Reservations:To check availability and make reservations for Lost Claim Campground, it is highly recommended to use the official Recreation.gov website or their toll-free number:Phone: 1-877-444-6777Website: www.recreation.govReservations can be made up to 6 months in advance, which is advisable, especially during peak seasons due to the campground's popularity as a Yosemite alternative.

Local Information / Ranger District:For more specific information regarding current conditions, fire restrictions, or any alerts concerning the Stanislaus National Forest or the Groveland Ranger District, you can contact the Stanislaus National Forest directly. While a direct phone number for Lost Claim Campground is not published, the Groveland Ranger District office handles inquiries for campgrounds in its area.Phone for campground inquiries: (209) 379-2258 (often redirects to a general Forest Service line or information)For the most up-to-date and official information, always consult the U.S. Forest Service website for the Stanislaus National Forest (www.fs.usda.gov/stanislaus).

For Californians, Lost Claim Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing option, particularly for those looking to explore the iconic Yosemite National Park and the surrounding Sierra Nevada wilderness without breaking the bank or battling the intense crowds often found within the park's more developed areas.

Firstly, its prime location just 15 miles from the Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite is a significant advantage. This means locals can enjoy relatively quick access to the park's unparalleled natural beauty and famous attractions, such as Yosemite Valley, while still returning to a more peaceful and affordable base camp. It reduces travel time compared to more distant options and avoids the notorious parking and traffic challenges inside the park.

Secondly, Lost Claim offers a genuine, rustic camping experience that many Californians appreciate. While "barebones" in terms of amenities, the emphasis on clean vault toilets, reliable hand-pumped water, and crucial bear-proof lockers demonstrates a commitment to basic comfort and safety in a natural setting. This makes it ideal for tent campers and those who enjoy a more traditional, less commercialized outdoor adventure. Its quiet atmosphere, away from the bustle of larger campgrounds, allows for true relaxation and immersion in the forest environment.

Finally, the affordability of Lost Claim Campground makes it an accessible option for frequent local getaways. Combined with the direct access to hiking trails, fishing opportunities in the Tuolumne River, and the broader recreational offerings of the Stanislaus National Forest, it provides incredible value. Lost Claim allows Californians to easily connect with the stunning wilderness in their own backyard, offering a perfect blend of adventure, tranquility, and practicality for memorable outdoor experiences.

Lost Claim Campground

Big Oak Flat Rd, Groveland, CA 95321, USA