Union Reservoir East Campground

For Californians seeking a truly peaceful and unblemished high Sierra experience, Union Reservoir East Campground in Arnold, CA, offers a slice of heaven. Nestled on the shores of the beautiful Union Reservoir within the majestic Stanislaus National Forest, this campground is a treasured find for those who appreciate tranquility, stunning natural scenery, and a genuine escape into the wilderness. If you're looking to disconnect from the everyday hustle and immerse yourself in clear mountain waters and serene surroundings, Union Reservoir East Campground is an exceptional choice.

This campground provides a rustic yet immensely rewarding experience, particularly favored by those who enjoy the freedom of first-come, first-served camping. Visitors consistently describe it as a "great camp" and a "peaceful place," often enjoying the solitude of being the "only guests there" during quieter periods. It’s a perfect destination for families, anglers, paddlers, and anyone looking for a truly serene base from which to explore the myriad recreational opportunities of the surrounding Stanislaus National Forest and its high-elevation lakes.

Union Reservoir East Campground is located on an Unnamed Road in Arnold, CA 95223, USA. More precisely, it is situated on the eastern shores of Union Reservoir within the Stanislaus National Forest. This high Sierra location, at an elevation of over 8,000 feet (some sources state Union Reservoir as being over 8,000 feet, while others for nearby areas cite around 6,600 feet, so confirm exact elevation with Forest Service), provides a refreshing escape from the heat of California's lower elevations.

Access to Union Reservoir and its campgrounds is typically via paved and then gravel roads. While the general area around Union Reservoir is accessible by car, some roads, particularly those leading to the more primitive or remote campgrounds like Union East, may be dirt, granite rock routes. Reviewers indicate that the road into the campground can be "rather rough and has a few big dips/bumps," suggesting that a high-clearance vehicle might be recommended for a more comfortable journey, though low-slung sedans have also been reported to reach the area. It is important to note that specific access roads might be closed seasonally due to snow, typically from late September/early October through early June.

Union Reservoir East Campground is part of the larger Utica/Union Reservoirs Recreation Area. Its immediate proximity to the clear lake means many sites offer direct water views. The remoteness of the location contributes to its peaceful atmosphere, and while some cell service might be available in the broader area, it's generally best to expect limited to no connectivity, encouraging a true digital detox. This is a destination where the journey is part of the adventure, leading you to a truly remarkable high Sierra gem.

Union Reservoir East Campground provides fundamental services to facilitate a comfortable and self-sufficient camping experience, emphasizing the natural setting over extensive amenities.

• Campsites: The campground features 12 single-family campsites. These sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, though the maximum recommended length for RVs at Union East is about 27 feet. Many of the sites offer direct water views, enhancing the camping experience. Sites 8 to 12 may require a short walk from the parking area to the actual camping spot.
• Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a food storage locker (commonly known as a "bear box" and crucial for securing food from wildlife), a fire ring, and a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying traditional campfires (always check for and adhere to current fire restrictions).
• Toilets: Vault toilets are available throughout the campground. Visitors have noted that these facilities are maintained.
• Potable Water: It is important for campers to be aware that potable (drinking) water is NOT available at Union Reservoir East Campground. Visitors must bring all their own water or be prepared to filter/purify water from the reservoir, which is generally not recommended without proper treatment.
• Trash Collection: Trash collection services are provided via trash cans or dumpsters, although some reports suggest that you might need to pack out your own trash to containers a few miles away at a crossroads. It's best to be prepared to pack out all trash to help keep the area pristine.
• Boat Launch: A small, primitive dirt boat launch is available at Union East Campground, providing direct access to Union Reservoir for boating.
• First-Come, First-Served: The campground primarily operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not typically available. This can be a "miracle" for spontaneous campers but also means that arriving by Thursday or early on weekends is highly recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak season.

Union Reservoir East Campground is celebrated for its pristine natural beauty and the array of recreational activities available directly from the campground. Its highlights emphasize a serene and engaging outdoor experience.

• Serene Union Reservoir: The campground is situated on the shores of Union Reservoir, known for its clear, calm waters. This provides an incredibly peaceful setting for all water-based activities.
• Excellent Swimming: Despite the "challenging but great" initial chill, the clear lake is ideal for swimming, especially as the water warms by mid-summer (surface temperatures hover in the 60-65 degree Fahrenheit range by late June).
• Boating and Paddling Paradise: Union Reservoir allows motorized boats but with a strict 5 mph speed limit, ensuring a quiet experience on the water for non-motorized crafts like canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. It's a perfect spot to "zip around with your small motorboat across clear water surrounded by towering granite peaks" or paddle to small islands.
• Great Fishing: The reservoir offers abundant fishing opportunities, with various fish species including smallmouth bass, Mackinaw trout, rainbow trout, German brown trout, and Kokanee salmon. Anglers often find success from the shoreline or by boat.
• Proximity to Wilderness Trails: The campground serves as a gateway to extensive hiking and mountain biking trails, including routes that lead up into the surrounding mountains and to neighboring lakes like Alpine Lake and Mosquito Lake. The area is also close to the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness, offering more rugged adventures.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Visitors consistently rave about the "peaceful place" and "heaven on earth" feel, particularly during weekdays when there are fewer people around. The "surrounded by the wildness" aspect adds to the sense of tranquility.
• Stunning Scenery: The "beautiful lake formed in majestic Sierra granite" provides picturesque views from almost everywhere, making every moment visually rewarding.
• Wildlife Observation: The wilderness setting means opportunities for bird watching and observing other local wildlife.

For inquiries and to plan your visit to Union Reservoir East Campground, it is best to contact the managing Forest Service office, as this campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis without direct reservations via a phone number for the site itself.

Address: Unnamed Road, Arnold, CA 95223, USA (located within the Stanislaus National Forest)

For general inquiries, conditions, and information related to Stanislaus National Forest campgrounds, you can contact the managing Forest Service office:

Stanislaus National Forest Supervisor's Office:

Phone: (209) 532-3671

Mobile Phone: +1 209-532-3671 (This is the same as the main phone number, serving as a general contact for the Forest.)

It is highly recommended to check the official USDA Forest Service website for the Stanislaus National Forest (fs.usda.gov/stanislaus) for the most up-to-date information regarding operating seasons, current fire restrictions, and any changes to the first-come, first-served policy. Given its popularity, arriving early, especially on Thursdays for a weekend stay, is often crucial to secure a spot.

For Californians seeking a truly authentic, serene, and deeply rewarding high Sierra camping experience, Union Reservoir East Campground offers an unparalleled local gem. Its first-come, first-served policy, while challenging for some, is a "miracle" for those who cherish spontaneous adventures and the chance to secure a coveted spot in such a pristine environment, away from the typical reservation crowds. Arriving by Thursday often guarantees a peaceful weekend, making it perfect for locals looking for a quick and impactful escape.

The campground's location on Union Reservoir provides direct access to clear, cool mountain waters, ideal for invigorating swims, peaceful paddling, and excellent fishing opportunities for various trout species. This blend of water-based activities caters to diverse interests, whether you're an avid angler or a family looking to cool off in a natural, uncrowded setting. The surrounding Stanislaus National Forest offers boundless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring, leading to other beautiful lakes and providing breathtaking mountain vistas.

Beyond the activities, the profound sense of peace and wildness, as described by visitors who felt "surrounded by the wildness" and "lucky" to be among the few guests, is a significant draw. It’s an ideal place for a true digital detox, allowing for genuine reconnection with nature and loved ones. For Californians valuing tranquility, natural beauty, and a hands-on, authentic outdoor experience in the majestic Sierra Nevada, Union Reservoir East Campground is an incredibly suitable and unforgettable destination.

To get a visual sense of Union Reservoir East and West Campgrounds, you can watch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IW_IC_37CBQ).

Union Reservoir East Campground

Unnamed Road, Arnold, CA 95223, USA