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    French Meadows Campground

    3.4 (25 reviews)

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    View of the eastern end of French Meadows reservoir from Chipmunk Ridge
    Bridget W.

    Sometimes you need to take the road less traveled. And occasionally you go a little farther.. switch to four wheel drive and crawl up a fire service path that takes you up a mountain to a cliff with the best view. Those are my kind of roads. If you like hiking, kayaking, camping and generally outdoor everything like I do, visit French Meadows Reservoir and campground. It's about 35 miles east of Foresthill. There's no official address, so use the GPS coordinates below. Camping season is May to October. Visit the website I linked when I created the page...it links you to Tahoe Forest Service's page with more details, including any postponements due to snow. The reservoir has a boat launch as well. It's more of a kayak, canoe, and fishing kind of lake so leave your wakeboards and speed boats at home. Campgrounds are sizeable and there are a ton of them. Some are spaced out well, others not so much. Most have adequate shade. No bear lockers unfortunately, so be prepared. Unless it's 4th of July weekend you can roll in here without a reservation and always get a good spot like I do.

    Ashley T.

    Took a trip with the family , had a great time , stayed at site 37 right across from the bathrooms . They did say that they were out of order but opened back up the next day. Site 37 is big and is on a slant has a steep path right down to the water ! It's full of rocks but is worth it and is beautiful! Very quiet and peaceful , in the middle of the night I would say the temperature got down to low 50s so it was very cold .. other than that the weather was perfect during the day! Also , no showers at this campsite .

    Nathan G.

    Great place to camp. The lake is small but beautiful. The bathrooms are clean with flush toilets and running water. Spigots available throughout. Water accessible from most water view campsites. Very well kept and clean made my experience here great. From swimming, to kayaking, and fishing, this place was great. Only downfall, the drive from Foresthill rd, was a mere 35 miles. But let me forewarn you, narrow and twisty was this road, (Mosquito rd), with steep exposure. Average speeds were between 25-40 mph making the drive long. Not for those who easily get car sick. (Dramamine) Otherwise, i would give this place 5 stars.

    Allison P.

    This place is really beautiful. I stayed here for two nights to have a little getaway. The campground is so close to the water , just a short walk away. I don't particularly like how close the campsites are but I wouldn't let that stop me from coming back. There's some really beautiful trails in the surrounding area and views on the drive up the mountain are breathtaking.

    We were here in August. Slightly long to get to on the windy roads at night time, but during the day the drive back wasn't bad. Loved the water access, and water was perfect temperature for swimming for our toddlers even. Great amenities (fire ring, table, bear box). Water pumps were good in the locations where water was present, but due to lower water levels, the pumps on the higher grounds had no water; had to walk to the lowest pumps (which had water, all but the last day when a big RV connected to it, and filled up the entire tank, leaving zero water for tents). Thought that was inconsiderate, and should not be allowed during drought season. Not sure if rangers can prevent that or ask RVs (who are more mobile than tents) to fill up tanks at neighboring campgrounds. Also we arrived late on Friday, so went to buy wood on Saturday morning (around 8 am). No firewood available for purchase left. If we knew that, we would have brought and purchased own wood at a grocery store (nearest town an hour away). However, we know most campgrounds don't allow outside wood, not to contaminate with non-native bugs, etc. Thankfully, there were enough dry logs in the forest nearby that we could scavenge to burn. Overall, great location, with great swimming, but some things could be improved with better facilities management.

    This is the reservoir. Very beautiful
    Elizabeth R.

    The drive there is a very long 34 miles from forest hill . The roads are not safe at all . There were 3 different parts that had been blocked off sink holes . That is a long drop off the cliff . The campground itself is very spacious. There was no showers bit bathrooms . I would much rather go somewhere else to avoid the drive . Most campgrounds in the sierras look similar . No cell service at all .

    Trash left behind
    Brett B.

    Well I guess I'm going to be the first one to leave a bad review, I have been to many campgrounds in this area, growing up near this area. When we first arrived it was okay but a couple hours later things changed, we were yelled at by the camp host for parking off the pavement, didn't see any signs for that, then a group of people arrived later in the evening with 3 SUV'S and about 15 people super loud, playing loud music, camp host said nothing to them. Then apparently the " drinking water" stopped working, shower's were closed due to "plumbing issues" and we were still charged full price. The next morning when the loud group next to us left, they filled the trash bin with air mattresses and tons of recycling materials, the recycle bin was literally next to it, they left tons of trash on the ground and the camp host said nothing to them. Maybe we just had a bad experience but it was dirty, no water and the camp host was rude to us, so we will probably not be going back.

    First time at French Meadows and we will be back! We reserved site #18 & #19 for a group of 10 of us. Lots of shade. Flush toilets. Bear box on the sites which was great. Hosts provided free fire wood and asked for any donation. Site 18 is a disabled accessible site so it's nice and flat. Great site but table is completely in the sun. Space is a little smaller than the other one. Site 19 has a path straight down to the lake! Lots of shade and space for multiple tents. By far the best of the two sites we stayed on. Woke up with a view of the lake. We had bears come to the campsites every night. One raided our campsite the first night. Our fault, we left an ice chest out filled with beer soda and juice. Loved the orange juice lol Other than that they pretty much left us alone. The lake was perfect! We took the kayak out on the water.

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    2 years ago

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    2 years ago

    Great place to camp. Go here every year, a place to re center my life and be in nature with no cell service.

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    Ask the Community - French Meadows Campground

    What are nighttime temperatures typically like in mid June?

    How big are the bear boxes?

    Is there any current fire restrictions in that area?

    Is there a lot of bugs this time of year (August)?

    Is it true that the closest store where you can buy ice is an hour and a half away? Thank you

    It is true!

    I got an email for my upcoming reservation saying to bring our own drinking water, I'm just wondering if there is a spigot for non drinking water at the camp sites?

    Are any of these sitea reservable or is it all first come-first serve?

    Has anyone been recently, how are the road conditions now? I know last year they were very bad, have they been fixed? I know my suv can make the trip but we may need 2 vehicles and need to make sure my hubbies car can make it 😉

    I was just there a month ago and the roads were absolutely fine.

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    Review Highlights - French Meadows Campground

    Flush toilets working this year.

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    Lake Clementine

    Lake Clementine

    4.5(148 reviews)
    32.0 mi

    Have now done this hike/loop a few times now and it's definitely worth the drive and parking…read morefiasco. The trail is about 4 miles long and takes just a couple hours to do at a slow/medium pace. The trail is pretty wide, there were people with their dogs, a few little kids, and lots of groups enjoying the beautiful day. The majority of the trail is shady and covered by beautiful trees, some spots are under the direct sun so bring a hat or sunnies. You'll see tons of butterflies, wild flowers, birds, and of course will see the spillway. Parking is $10 cash paid to the park. This most recent time that I came it was very difficult to find parking, so if you plan to come on a weekend plan ahead and come early. I would also recommend bringing bus spray and being cautious of the poison ivy along the sides of the trail. Overall it's a beautiful hike and I'd recommend it!

    Beautiful hike!! Highly recommend! There is a $10 parking fee. The fee grants you access to…read moreMULTIPLE trails for the ENTIRE day, take advantage and check out different areas to explore the scenery. More info on their website! The hike was moderate. Pretty straight forward, some steep elevation here and there. But worth the experience! As we hiked I was greeted by the buzzing bees at work, different species of butterflies, and watched the birds glide above me. The trail is filled with trees that provided shade, accompanied by drafts of wind. Hearing the water crash as we got closer to the dam was the best motivation to quicken our pace. So stunning! There's a small bench where you can sit to enjoy the view before your hike back. We were wiped because we went at peak heat level, rookie mistake. So definitely check the weather to go at a cooler time to thoroughly enjoy this wonderful scenic hike!

    Photos
    Lake Clementine - Hiking one September with friends. Did this January 18, 2026!

    Hiking one September with friends. Did this January 18, 2026!

    Lake Clementine
    Lake Clementine

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    American River Canyon Overlook Park - Mushroom

    American River Canyon Overlook Park

    5.0(11 reviews)
    35.7 mi

    If you can handle straight down and straight up hiking, trail running, or horseback riding with…read morecliff drop-offs, this Bud's for you! Head down the paved road to the river. Someone else said it's 3 miles round trip but my Strava says 3.2 miles up from the river with 800' gain. :shrug Check out Alltrails app for more input and routes. If you stick to the pavement route, the path is very wide, two cars width and more at times. So no fears of steep drop-offs. Beyond the river, it's single track. On the dirt routes going down to the river, it's very technical and steep. Though I've never been on it, I know about K2/Cardiac Hill. LOL! If you want to explore the Western States trail that's used by Tevis Cup and Western States Endurance Race (both 100 mile endurance races one on horse one on foot), then head down the dirt trail off the horse side. If you travel a little more than 3 miles down this path you'll encounter a waterfall if there's still flowing water. Cross in the water or on the bridge (horses ok either way). But again, this trail isn't for the faint of heart when it comes to horses and their riders. Be mindful it may be too much for you or your horse. Horse side has a large watering hole that had water in it in early April 2023 (while some locations fear the horse sicknesses and have shut off water). There's also tying rails. And plenty of room to maneuver a rig. Paved side has a building with restrooms. The restroom is accessed by the paved lot but is on the side nearest the dirt lot/horse trailer parking. I don't recall it having soap or towels or hand dryers in April 2023. C'mon 'rona, give us soap even if it's the sandpaper powder! Be aware that some days there are major events and you may not be able to park there. I suppose you can call City of Auburn or just be prepared to go somewhere different such as railroad park. Major events include: Tevis Cup, Western States Endurance Race, and American River Endurance Race.

    Beautiful large park. Costs $7 to enter/park, and there's a strict close time to leave at sundown…read more Highly recommend for biking, but not so much for casual walking with kids. This place is huge and has a decent amount of hills and flat areas.

    Photos
    American River Canyon Overlook Park - Equestrian side (dirt lot) next to the canal at sunset. April 2, 2023

    Equestrian side (dirt lot) next to the canal at sunset. April 2, 2023

    American River Canyon Overlook Park
    American River Canyon Overlook Park - American River 10-25-50 finish area is ADO. Also where you catch the bus to the start.

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    American River 10-25-50 finish area is ADO. Also where you catch the bus to the start.

    Black Hole of Calcutta Falls - 24

    Black Hole of Calcutta Falls

    4.6(39 reviews)
    33.4 mi

    On AllTrails app search "Western States Trail to Calcutta Falls". Parallel Parking on the street…read moreClose to the trailhead - get here early otherwise your parking will be part of your hike. It's early spring. There is lots of wildflowers - lots and lots of butterflies to see. Got to see many reptiles - skinks and a variety of lizards. Many hawks flying overhead. Lots of amazing views of the river. And a couple of small waterfalls. Walked further than the posted trail on All Trails just to add some extra mileage.

    We stopped by on a Friday afternoon and the sun was peaking in and out from the clouds. The…read moreopening to the trail can be easily missed so just pay attention to the signs. The address on Yelp is not accurate so I would suggest using Google for directions. Parking is limited so if you don't get lucky with snagging one of the parking spots in the front then just park down the corridor and make the walk back up. The entire trail itself is flat with very little to no incline. We had my three younger nieces with us and they were able to physically complete the hike with no complaints. As you reach the bridge, walk across it and keep going to see the end prize of a gorgeous waterfall. The hike will amaze you with some scenic views of beautiful mountain backdrops with clear waters roaming down the stream. It was a very peaceful and therapeutic experience. We were able to have conversations without the disruptions of life, and we had a chance to soak in nature without the nuances of digital connectivity. So -- bring some water, snacks, and maybe a light lunch to enjoy the short and yet breathtaking experience with your loved ones. P.S. you will pass a few mini waterfalls before getting to the grand prize. Even if you don't see or hear anything for a while, just keep going because once you turn the corner -- it will all have been worth it. Although I'm an avid hiker and have walked through many trails throughout the state, this trail will remain my favorite trail in all of California.

    Photos
    Black Hole of Calcutta Falls - Someone's creation.  Super cool.

    Someone's creation. Super cool.

    Black Hole of Calcutta Falls
    Black Hole of Calcutta Falls - Peaceful.

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    Peaceful.

    Hidden Falls Regional Park

    Hidden Falls Regional Park

    4.3(280 reviews)
    38.7 mi

    Another nice, easy hike to add to our list around the Roseville area! Biggest tip is to be sure and…read morego online to reserve ahead of time and pay a small fee, if necessary. Reservations are required on weekends, some Fridays, and selected dates. Otherwise, Mon thru Thu are free with no reservations required. Parking available inside is limited so come early to avoid the hassle. I believe they open at 6:30 AM and closing is dependent on sundown. We hiked with our 2 little girls and dogs. Even with the little ones, we were able to make it to the Canyon View Overlook and back. In case your dog needs a bathroom break, bag it up and I recall there was at least one trash can along the path towards the Overlooks. Help keep this hiking gem clean! Scenery was gorgeous, hike was pretty easy without difficulty, and be sure to visit both Overlooks for some beautiful sights. We took the North Legacy Way, in case you're curious. Great for hiking enthusiasts, families, quality time with nature, and perfect for those that want to avoid lots of foot traffic!

    Paid for the ticket reservation online. $8 for all day parking pass. They have $4 options but those…read moreare for early morning or later in the afternoon. I much prefer a reservation system like this because it saves on the stress and time of fighting for parking and an overcrowded park. People who rated this low are just mad because they didn't do research or come prepared. Theres plenty of trail options here but we did the main hidden falls loop trail that was on AllTrails. (Poppy Trail, N Legacy Way, then Hidden Falls Access Trail, total loop about 3.2 miles) It was a beautiful hike with tons of mushrooms everywhere right now, and hidden falls is flowing! Theres two observation decks. I kind of don't like how the deck at hidden falls is right above the falls so it blocks the falls, you have to look down over the rail/ledge, so there's no way you can get a good photo with the falls behind you

    Photos
    Hidden Falls Regional Park
    Hidden Falls Regional Park - California Sister

    California Sister

    Hidden Falls Regional Park - So pretty here

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    So pretty here

    Big Hill Vista Point - Outhouse on top of the mountain with a view!

    Big Hill Vista Point

    4.8(4 reviews)
    18.6 mi

    This location is also known as the Big Hill Vista Point. There is a lookout tower here. But that is…read moreoff limits to visitors. It's actually used by the El Dorado National Forest to actually look out for fire activity. There is even a helipad. Below the hill with the tower and facility building is a parking lot and walking path to the Vista Point. Gorgeous views all around. The path is flat, no elevation gain. The point is about a 1-2 minute walk down the path. The vista point is carved out of the hillside with views and f the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Crystal Basin. The point was dedicated in 2002 by SMUD ( the local energy supply company) and the El Dorado National Forest. Not only can you simply enjoy the beautiful scenery, they have informational placards. Ohh how I luv an information board. I learned that in 1958 SMUD started the local hydroelectric projects in the area. First with Ice House Dam and Reservoir. Then in 1971, they completed the "stairway of power" that is the 40 miles of tunnels, reservoirs, and penstocks that deliver hydroelectric power using the water and snowpack from the western slope Sierra Nevada mountains. Wow! What a work of technology and people strength. To think that's how we get our electricity! The vista point is free, it's free to drive around inside the El Dorado National Forest to look a loo. But if you stay long for a hike, picnic, whatever; then you will need to pay the parking fee. To get to the vista point is not easy. The road is rural, curving, uphill, narrow at points, and riddled with pot holes in various stretches. I don't recommend driving up here is a low profile vehicle. Leave your Maserati at home.

    The morning air was crisp and clean so what better time to drive up to "Big Hill Vista Point" in…read moreEldorado National Forest to see spectacular views of "Crystal Basin".. I was telling my wife that the last time I visited here was over a year ago. There was so much smoke in the valley from forest fires that you couldn't even see the lake. The road to "Big Hill Vista Point" is right off of Icehouse Road. The Road is two and one- half mile long and takes you up to an elevation of 6,132 feet to the top. Here you will find an observation area overlooking "Crystal Basin." Vista Point is also shared by the "Big Hill Lookout Tower" which is a lookout tower and command post for fire operations. Due to weather constraints, the road to Big Hill Vista Point is not always open. Best to see on a clear day ! Enjoy ! Live/Love/Travel

    Photos
    Big Hill Vista Point - The view from this spot is EPIC.

    The view from this spot is EPIC.

    Big Hill Vista Point
    Big Hill Vista Point

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    French Meadows Campground - hiking - Updated May 2026

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