New Spicer Meadows

Stanislaus National Forest — lakeside

Location: CA, CA

Price: From $30 per night

Price range: $30–$200 per night

Rating: 3.9 out of 5 (9 reviews)

Season: May through October

Spicer Reservoir has a surface area of 2,000 acres when full. Maximum speed on the lower portion of the lake is 10 mph; the upper portion, surrounded by the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness, is managed for non-motorized uses only. Spicer Reservoir visitors enjoy camping, fishing, hiking and horseback riding.

Cell coverage (FCC estimate): weak signal. Actual signal may vary in remote areas. Best carrier: Verizon. Verizon 4G: 100%. AT&T 4G: 0%. T-Mobile 4G: 0%.

Amenities: Fire Rings, Picnic Tables

Availability alerts: Set a free cancellation alert at camperwatch.org/campground/new-spicer-meadows to be notified when sites open up.

Spicer Reservoir offers 2,000 acres of scenic camping with access to fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. Campers praise the beautiful setting, smooth pavement throughout, and family-friendly atmosphere with reliable water availability by late June.

Wildlife alert: Mountain Beaver, Pacific Marten, Douglas' Squirrel, Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel, Spotted Owl, Bald Eagle, Dark-eyed Junco, Sierra Garter Snake, Northern Rubber Boa, and Spiny Lizards present. Bears have been documented in the campground.

Insider tips for New Spicer Meadows: Book early—this is a federal campground that fills quickly Arrive with a full water tank or plan to use fresh water facilities for cleanup Water level fluctuates; plan water activities for late June onward when levels stabilize

Skip New Spicer Meadows if: You require RV hookups—no hookups available at most sites; only suitable for self-contained RVs. You need camping outside May through October—seasonal operations only. You cannot secure an early reservation—campground frequently reaches capacity.

Best time to visit New Spicer Meadows: Late June through September — Water temperatures reach 60-65 degrees by end of June, weather is optimal mid-summer, and campground operates May through October with seasonal demand.

Nearby campgrounds: Union West - Union Reservoir (Stanislaus Nf) (Markleeville, CA), Sandy Flat - Utica Reservoir (Stanislaus Nf) (Twain Harte, CA), (Lake Alpine) West Shore (Arnold, CA), (Lake Alpine) Backpackers (Markleeville, CA).