Upper Billy Creek Campground is currently closed due to hazard trees, but when operational, it offers a group camping experience across from Huntington Lake with direct access to Kaiser Wilderness trails. Sites split between lake views and creek-side spots amid large cedars, firs, and pines, making it a solid base for families or groups wanting both lake recreation and wilderness hiking.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Group
- 💵Fee per Night
- $10
- 📍GPS
- 37.23826, -119.22704
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- 559-893-2111
- 🗺️Address
- CA
The Camp
The campground sits tucked beneath a grove of large cedar, fir, and pine trees on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada. Sites are divided between those offering Huntington Lake views and others overlooking Billy Creek, where wildflowers bloom seasonally. The dirt parking spurs come with significant sloping at many sites, so factor that into your setup plans. Each site includes a picnic table and campfire ring, with both vault and flush toilets available along with drinking water.
The adjacent Billy Creek Guard Station Museum adds historical context about Huntington Lake, local Native Americans, and Forest Service operations — worth a visit during your stay.
What to Know
As a group campground, Upper Billy Creek operates on a 12-month advance booking window rather than the standard six months for individual sites. At $10 per night, it's one of the more affordable group options in the Sierra National Forest. The campground's interpretive amphitheater hosts California Land Management programs and nature walks throughout summer.
Nearby
The location puts you within striking distance of several day hikes: Rancheria Falls at 1 mile, Indian Pools at 1 mile, and Black Point at 0.7 miles. The 12-mile Kaiser Loop Trail starts nearby and connects to the broader Kaiser Wilderness trail network for longer backcountry trips.
Huntington Lake itself offers the full menu of water activities — swimming, sailing, boating, fishing, and water skiing. For a longer excursion, the 83-mile Sierra Vista Scenic Byway (Highway 168) makes for a worthwhile day trip from camp.