Stumpy Meadows sits on the shore of its namesake reservoir at 4,400 feet, wrapped in dense conifer forest where towering ponderosa pine and fir provide shade for all 40 sites. The crystal-clear lake offers trout fishing, swimming, and paddling opportunities, while the historic gold rush town of Georgetown lies 15 miles away.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Group
- 🏕️Total Sites
- 40
- 💵Fee per Night
- $36
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 🏔️Elevation
- 4,400 ft
- 📍GPS
- 38.90417, -120.59167
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- spring, fall
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- Yes
- 📞Phone
- 831-245-6891
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The 40 sites spread through groves of ponderosa pine, fir, oak, and cedar, with enough spacing to give you privacy from neighbors. None of the sites have water views, but the reservoir sits within a short walk. Vault toilets and drinking water from spigots handle the basics, though you'll need to drive a mile to reach the boat ramp.
The setting feels properly forested — this is heavy conifer country where the shade runs deep and the trees tower overhead. It's the kind of place where you can lose track of time listening to the forest settle around evening campfires.
The Water
Stumpy Meadows Reservoir gets stocked with rainbow and German brown trout, making it a solid fishing destination during season. The clear water works well for swimming when the weather cooperates, and kayakers and canoeers find plenty to explore. Motor boats are welcome but restricted to 5 mph, keeping the noise down and the water calm.
The boat ramp sits a mile from camp, which means a short drive to launch but also means less boat trailer traffic rolling past your site.
What to Know
This is group camping only — individual sites aren't available. Reservations are required, and given the limited group camp options in the area, booking ahead makes sense. The Mediterranean-style climate means warm, dry summers and cold, wet winters, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable conditions.
Georgetown, the self-proclaimed "pride of the mountains" from gold rush days, sits 15 miles away for supply runs or historical wandering. The El Dorado County Scenic Highway and Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park provide day trip options when you need a break from lake time.