Big Trees Calaveras State Park is a great place to visit by day, but it’s also a fantastic place to bring the family for a camping trip. Big Trees is a sizable park with two main campgrounds and multiple picnicking areas within it, and the lovely Stanislaus River running through the middle of it all. If you want a campground with lots of trees and a little elbow room between you and your neighbors, this is a good option.

All campsites in the park have picnic tables and fire rings, and you can purchase firewood at the entrance on your way into the park. While many campgrounds in California ban campfires or limit them to Duraflame logs in dry summer months, making a “real campfire” with wood is often still allowed here. Don’t forget your marshmallows—or the Jiffy Pop!
Like its southeastern neighbor Yosemite with the River Merced, you will find many nice spots for picnicking along the Stanislaus River, with some sandy beaches exposed and toddler-friendly wading areas later in summer months when the river is low. Unlike Yosemite, you won’t have to deal with the crowds and parking issues, however, you will have to store your food and scented items in a bear locker and use the dishwashing station at the restrooms.

For more information about Big Trees:
Safe journey,
Shelly Rivoli, author of the award-winning guide Travels with Baby