Dinkey Creek sprawls along its namesake waterway in a thick forest of Ponderosa pines and cedars, offering both group and individual sites in the Sierra's middle elevations. The real draw here is water access — two granite-carved swimming holes and decent trout fishing make this a solid choice for families who want forest camping with built-in entertainment.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Group
- 💵Fee per Night
- $47
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 📍GPS
- 37.06809, -119.15703
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- spring, fall
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- 559-841-2705
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The campground spreads out along Dinkey Creek with sites tucked into the Ponderosa pine and cedar canopy. All sites come with paved spurs, picnic tables, and fire grills, plus accessible options for those who need them. The mix includes standard sites, tent-only spots, and a group site that handles up to 50 people. At the north end, there's a large sandy flat above the creek with picnic facilities — a good spot for larger gatherings or just spreading out.
You'll find both vault and flush toilets, plus drinking water throughout the campground. An on-site amphitheater runs educational programs on summer weekends if you're into that sort of thing.
The Water
Dinkey Creek delivers two legitimate swimming spots: The Slicks and Honeymoon Pool, both carved from granite and cold enough to shock you awake. The creek also holds brown and rainbow trout for anyone who brought tackle. This water access sets Dinkey Creek apart from campgrounds where the nearest swimming involves a drive.
What's Around
McKinley Grove sits 6 miles away with giant redwoods and easy hiking trails. The Dinkey Creek Trail starts from camp for hikers, and mountain bikers have trail access in the area as well. You're in the Sierra National Forest's middle elevation zone — not the stark alpine country higher up, but solid forest camping with actual amenities.
Reservations are required, and this place likely fills up during peak season given the swimming holes and decent facilities. The group site books 12 months out, individual sites six months ahead.