**Note: Jackass Meadow Campground remains closed until further notice due to hazard tree removal.** When operational, this Florence Lake-area camp sits in prime John Muir Wilderness access territory, with the South Fork San Joaquin River running right through the grounds. The aspen and lodgepole pine cover makes it one of the shadier options in this granite country.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Developed
- 💵Fee per Night
- $26
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 📍GPS
- 37.27916, -118.96570
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- summer, fall
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- 559-893-2111
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
Jackass Meadow occupies a sweet spot below Florence Lake, where the South Fork of the San Joaquin River threads between the sites. The aspen and lodgepole pine canopy provides actual shade — not always a given in the Sierra. Each site comes with the standard table, fire ring, and grill setup, plus bear-proof food lockers that you'll definitely need this close to the wilderness boundary.
The campground sits near several Native American archaeological sites, adding a layer of human history to the granite and pine setting. Accessible vault toilets and water are on-site, and you're only half a mile from the Florence Lake Store for supplies and groceries.
What to Know
Reservations are required for this developed campground, which runs $26 per night during its summer and fall operating season. The camp offers a 0.7-mile accessible hiking trail, and nature walks happen every Saturday during summer months — good intel if you're camping with kids or less mobile family members.
Nearby
Florence Lake is the main attraction, with a boat ramp and rentals available at the store. The big draw for backpackers is the ferry service from Florence Lake to the John Muir Trail, which connects with the Pacific Crest Trail. Ferry tickets can be purchased at the Florence Lake Store, making this campground a strategic base camp for wilderness access without the full approach hike.
The John Muir Wilderness stretches 100 miles along the Sierra crest from here — classic high country terrain of snow-capped peaks, deep canyons, and glacially carved granite.