This might be the best campsite I have been to. Water for EACH site - FANTASTIC The sites are huge, It says you can only park 2 vehicles in the site - but we parked 3 and they never bothered us (Often the rangers make us move if we break the rules). The showers say $1.00 for 5 minutes - but all the campers seem to have figured out that really the (clean) showers are FREE, and the water is nice and hot. There are many bathrooms nice and close to all sites and clean. The hikes are plentiful and beautiful. One day we drove to a nearby creek, plopped our chairs in the creek and had a picnic. Only negatives are that there are a lot of aggressive wasps - we were never stung, and it is pretty dry and dusty. read more

$10 to park and play in the snow. Can't be beat. There's a visitor center that has unique gifts for all ages. Park rangers at the entrance station were very helpful and answered all of my questions. read more

One of the most beautiful places in the world. You can engage in activities like hiking and camping or just sit an admire the wonder and beauty of nature. My family and I love this place. When we were little we often had birthday parties here. Imagine being a child and having all of that land to run around and play. I love the Indian grinding rock (huge rock with a bunch of little holes for grinding acorns), giant tree stump, hiking trails and the creeks. Gorgeous. read more

An enjoyable way to spend some time. We walked the North Grove trail and enjoyed learning the history of the trees.

I am in L.O.V.E! What a marverous day in Big Trees this afternoon. The other day I suggested to a few friends that I would like to get out and go for a hike, Knight Ferry perhaps? My suggestion was rebutted with "Big Trees?" I had never been here before prior and was very interested on going. We load up and take the drive from Lathrop to Arnold. Boy, was I not disappointed. There was snow on the ground, the weather was just perfect for a lite sweater, and there was no one around. Lovely. We get out of the car in awe, pictures could never do this place justice. You can hear the snow creak and melting down the side of tree trunks and off branches. We take the North Grove trail and walk in the muddy snow and truly enjoy our mini hike. I would love to come back in the summer, or really during any time. So far, the snowy grove in Big Trees has my heart. The whole park seemed shut down, except for the two service workers roaming. The gift shop would've made a fortune off me, if it were open. Till next time! read more

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What else can you say but that nature is glorious. Our big group tried to go on a Saturday morning and we were all turned away as it was full capacity. I ended up going with 2 of my buddies on Sunday morning (yesterday) and got in at the perfect time. Sadly, the big tree that everyone remembers walking through as kids (so I was told) is no longer standing, but still, you've got to love being able to get out into the fresh air and enjoying one of life's wonders. One of our friends wanted to bring their baby with the baby stroller and I'm glad they didn't. I don't recommend strollers on the tiny, slippery trails, especially since you have to crawl over a few downed logs (at least, on the trail we took. Grove trail?). It's one of those places you have to visit to remember just how tiny we humans are in comparison to the grandiose universe. read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park Murphys CA Eerily enough, the Pioneer Cabin Tree fell as I was flying to Oakland. I had planned to go see it my 1st day, so I was shocked & disappointed ~ but not a fraction as much as those who loved it for so many years & hold precious memories. As I revamped my itinerary & decided to wait a few days, it occurred to me that . . . Maybe I wasn't meant to be standing under it . . . It was a crisp day as I passed through Murphys. As the elevation increased & the temperature decreased outside town, quite a bit of fresh snow was visible. There was only a handful of vehicles in the park. I was fascinated by the museum, it was excellent. Finally time to don those 12 lbs. of hiking boots & gear I lugged out here. The "trail" was more like a narrow footpath in 16" of snow. The forest was so quiet, I crunched every step to The Tree & felt emotional as I approached it. I was so lucky to be the only person in the North Grove. The silence was euphoric. It was like saying goodbye to something beautiful & special that I had dreamed of but never met. I could have stayed for hours. read more

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I hiked in December 2014 -- started at around noon. Took about 4-5 hours to hike the South Grove Trail. It was cold and rainy, and I got drenched. The place was mysterious in the fog, but awe inspiring. The majestic giant sequoia trees were simply magical. The scent of fresh pine cones filled the air. Beautiful scenery. It elevates your innermost being. Highly recommended. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the moment, but also soak the experience all in. Organically. Very important tip: read the trail signs carefully especially in the fog and rain. The deep forest has its way of tricking your mind. Bring a bright ribbon to mark your way especially in the winter. Don't get too overly confident by not bringing your flash light in the late afternoon. It can get dark pretty quickly. The sound of the wind touching the leaves and branches can feel eerie and mystical...it will send chills down your spine especially at sunset. The sight of a dark hollow sequoia tree trunk can be daunting and overwhelming, it feels as if it will suck you into it's deepest core. But be brave, it's nature reminding you who's boss deep into the woods. When you feel the creeps, just look up, close your eyes, and breathe it in.... read more

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Beautiful Scenery, VERY helpful park staff, and just all around an amazing time. The second tall section is closed off until spring, but the entire first half is still lovely! read more

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Gorgeous hike! Multiple trails to hike and consider picking up the trail guide with interesting facts about these majestic trees. We had such an enjoyable day hiking, beautiful scenery and peaceful. Take time to check out the new Visitor Center. It's very interesting and the center with a small museum. very interesting place and beautiful. read more

SNOW SNOW SNOW!!!! Closer to me than Tahoe and less traffic and more mountain to play in!! the trails are all open and easy to walk. there are mini hills to go sledding, plenty of room to feel as if you are all alone. Safe for kids of all ages. I got some great pictures!! read more

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Awesome place for family fun, nice trails, giant trees, good facilities

The park is beautiful. The only issue is the rangers seemed to prefer to harass my fiancé about her legitimate service dog. Instead of focusing on someone that is tracking through "sensitive areas" and going off the easily even covered in snow marked trails. read more

Beautiful hiking trails especially if you venture into the South Grove, out to the Creek, and on other lesser travelled trails. The North Grove trail can be crowded but it's great for strollers or those with mobility issues. My kids love the junior ranger programs too! read more

If you care even the smallest amount about the wonders of the natural world, CBTSP will change your life. Walk the short North grove trail (less than 2 miles) right from the park entrance and you will be forever affected by these magnificent trees. They gave an excellent nature center and world class campgrounds during the summer. Winter time, borrow some snowshoes and hike the north grove. When you're done come get a free cup of hot cocoa at the warming hut and let this place fill your soul. One of the greatest treasures in all the Sierra Nevada. read more

Love, love, love this place! Gorgeous groves, clean campgrounds, and excellent river access up the road. Wonderful place to camp with kids and family. Only complaint is too many people know about this wonderful nearby gem and it can get crowded. read more

A beautiful place to spend a day and learn about the Giant Sequoias. Very photogenic and peaceful trails in the area. The gift center employees are really friendly. Plan on arriving early so you can have the place to yourself. We arrived early morning when it was not very crowded and spent few hours in north grove. They provide a map of the trails which is very well marked. read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - Giant Sequoia - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

If you came here to get a view of the huge trees you're in for a treat! The North Grove trail is a perfect easy walk for families (esp kids/elderly) to cruise about and enjoy nature without having to do a rigorous hike. I came here specifically to hike and I was pretty underwhelmed with the number of trails. I ended up taking the River Canyon trail which is not really a highlight of the park imo. However, it's a great place if you're just looking to take a short walk and see the beauty of California. ~Definitely stop by the warming hut and enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee/tea! read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - River Canyon Trail - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

Always a great walk in nature. Took friends from Florida. They were in awe. Our fav spot to take out of Towner's.

My wife and I came here on a 1/2 day in the afternoon. I have been to Sequoia National Park before, and I didn't know how this place would live up. I must say I was very pleasantly impressed it was very very well done and maintained. So much fun and so much closer than Sequoia National Park. My wife has never been to the National Park so it was her 1st time seeing sequoias. We really had a great time doing all sorts of pictures who with these awesome to 2000 year old trees... I would definitely make a trip out to return. Certainly a 5 star in my book. read more

As a kid we camped here nearly every year and we have continued to stay in the area and enjoy the park's trails, swimming and fishing at the river, and the majesty of the giant sequoias. Truly a remarkable and wonderful place that brings peace and serenity to your life. Highly recommend. read more

Definitely a must do if you're in the area. We hiked the north trail and it was fairly easy. I don't know why but the road to the south trail was closed. I really wanted to go hiking on that trail. Overall, my family and I had a great time. read more

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Like the great Bob Marley said, "There's a Natural Mystic blowing threw the air. " One of the most beautiful, jaw dropping places in California. I've never seen any living thing as big as the Seqouias. Nice trails. Very easy. Even for the elderly. Must see read more

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Thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Calaveras Big Trees SP this year. Site 29 in North Grove was lovely. Camp Hosts and all the staff were terrific. Peaceful and beautiful. Couldn't have asked for a better vacation. I plan to return next year and hopefully book the same spot. So much to see and do, I couldn't squeeze it all in. read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - NG29 Little creek that borders my campsite - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

Did a short hike here in January. It's well laid out, the trails were easy to follow, beautiful views. $10 parking, but worth it.

I can say with certainty, that this was only my FIRST visit to the park! Because, if we could visit in January with snow on the ground and only the North Grove available for us to explore... and have such a GREAT time... we will absolutely be back when the weather is warmer and we can see the even bigger trees that the South Grove has to offer! Make sure you bring a camera, even though photos seriously don't do justice what you'll see and experience... but then too don't forget to stop and look up, listen, smell, and live in the moment. Also, seriously, pay the 50 cents to get the little paper guide from the box once you're on the trail... it will give you so many fun facts about all the trees along the path. I'm already looking forward to our next trip to the Park, even though I have NO idea when that will be... it was THAT impressive. Go, you will NOT regret it... even if it's a little out of the way... go. read more

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Always enjoy going to Big Trees. They have nice campsites for tent camping and trailers. It's $35 per night. Make sure you pay when you get there, the rangers will come around and inform you if you haven't the next morning. All the staff is very nice. There is no cell phone reception (which is so nice sometimes). Some enormous fallen trees that have been gated off as part of the state park are amazing to see. Lots of snow in the winter and they have lots of restrooms and a warming hut. Nice relaxing place to go vacation for a couple days. read more

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Awesome place! Friendly people at the gate who are well informed on where to go and what to do! The North and South Groves are amazing!

Such a beautiful place to visit. If you don't mind the mosquitoes and the guitar-strumming hippies smoking copius amounts of herbal substances and singing at 3 am you'll have a great time. My two children roamed around and the camp is completely safe. The camp host is a friendly chap and is willing offer help. The trails are as fun as they are educational. Enjoy a quick kick in the Stanislaus River inside the park. We will definitely plan on going back again for another weekend. read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

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Absolutely Amazing. There are a couple different trails. South Grove: the less maintained longer exploration trail is closed for the winter. (Something to keep in mind) But there also is Norrh Grove Trail (1.6 miles). This trail has compacted trails for easier walking. It is full of beautiful views of the majestic Sequoia Trees. The only down side is the iconic walk through tree you see in photos is no longer standing. Nonetheless, this site is absolutely worth visiting. read more

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Not dog friendly! The website says they are dog friendly. We learned the hard way that according to the ranger "only the parking lot is dog friendly". In California heat it is unacceptable, to confine dogs to the hot parking lot. Will never visit again. There are other places in California to enjoy the magnificent sequoia trees, with your whole family. read more

We camped in one of two campgrounds, fished in the Stanislaus River and Beaver Creek, visited the Visitors Center, hiked out to the South Grove of Giant Sequoias, picnicked under the trees one day and at the water's edge another, and walked through the North Grove and marveled at the age and size of some of the most massive living things on the planet. It was awe inspiring. And while we were there, we learned how it could have all been lost do to the greed and ignorance of man. You need to experience this place. read more

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Big Trees is an amazing park. When you first pull in you can turn right to get to the visitors center and there's a 1.7 mile loop you can walk to see some truly amazing trees. Take the whole walk. It doesn't take that long and it's very flat so it's not too physically demanding. If you go straight as you drive into the park you go down into the park where there's a river to explore, campsites, and another grove. Unfortunately we didn't have time to check out the lower grove but next time I will. There's plenty to see in this park for multiple visits! read more

Beautiful park! We thoroughly enjoyed our time here--we spent about 4 hours and took our time doing the North Grove loop. Flat, easy walk on a soft dirt path. Nice place to spend half a day to one day exploring. Great for kids--there are some huge hollowed out sequoias that are lying on the ground that kids can run through and play in. Make sure to grab a paper pamphlet (they ask for a donation for this, but it id well worth it) it gives you interesting info on some of the biggest trees and what makes these types of trees so rare and resilient. read more

As good as it gets. Whether you have two hours or two days, Big Trees is a sight to see. The largest LIVING THINGS on earth, the giant sequoia, survive here and thrive thanks to the commitment of the state, park supporters, and visitors. Hit the visitor center for some of the area's best shopping (local artisan wood crafts, kids games/toys, jewelry, artwork, accessories, and gifts for nature lovers). In winter, duck into the warming hut if it's open to enjoy a cup of hot cider or rent snow shoes for guided tours. Nice campground, as well. Head to the North Grove trail (just about 1 mile) to see phenomenal examples of these historic trees on full display and read about their history (and ours) along the route. If it's the off-season or mid-week, you'll likely encounter few other people. But expect good crowds along this trail during peak weekends and summer. If you have a full day or more and/or you're looking for a good day hike, hit the South Grove trail. It boasts 1000 giant sequoia in the natural, secluded environment that you might expect. It's quiet, peaceful, and simply astounding. Few places can give you the perspective that Big Trees does. Highly recommend to anyone who finds themselves anywhere remotely near it. read more

This place holds my heart and always will. I grew up hiking (and camping) here with my family and I have such fond memories of this place. I've been on a lot of outdoor adventures as a kid but this place stuck with me. I always called it "Calvary's Big Trees" when I was a little girl and I had no idea of its proper name until I was grown and was looking to camp at the place that held my heart after so many years. Thankfully googling "Calvary's Big Trees Northern California" led me to the place I fell in love with all over again, years later. I came with a friend and we tent camped in the summer, under the open sky in the North Grove. There were so many stars out that I had to make myself turn in for the night. It was truly magical. We took a drive to Alpine Lodge the following day and rented a canoe and listened to the live band's music echo off of the water while we took in the scent and sounds of the summer night. The lodge serves excellent, local craft beers and the potato salad is so good you will feel like you're betraying your mother. I can't wait to do it again someday. I love all of the trails that I've experienced at Calaveras but most recently, when I brought my own child here to camp, did I experience the Senses Trail. I highly recommend it, especially if you have kids. It's an amazing opportunity to teach the little ones about the senses and it's even more amazing to watch them take it all in. My boy is 3 and he is as wild as the trees themselves, always rustling around like a leaf on a branch...but he was so quiet and calm on the trail. It was amazing to watch him stop to touch, smell, listen,...absorbing the world around him. Watching my wild child stop and enjoy something that Disneyland can never bring. AND it had just rained (hailed, really) and it was extra magical. The smell, the feel...go in late September, you won't be sorry. I hope that one day, he's posting his own review of this park, talking about how much he loved coming here with his family when he was a kid...and I hope he and his children get to experience the Senses trail and enjoy making memories at such a beautiful place. See you next year, "Calvary's Big Tree's". read more

I can't say enough I love big trees. The gift shop has a small walk around museum type feature which is interesting. So many trails to walk around. I have been in the winter when the snow covers the walk way they have a warming room at the top of the car park. Serving hot ciders. read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

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Big trees? More like Calaveras Small Trees State Park! The "giant" sequoias here aren't even the biggest in the world, in fact, I was taller than many of them. I really wanted to like this place, but unfortunately I drove all the way out to this place to be disappointed. I even had to drive back to the Bay Area IN THE RAIN. What a fiasco. See photo for proof. read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - This woman is almost as tall as these so-called "big" trees. - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

Amazing Site! You won't believe it till you walk around or hike the trails. Be sure to dress appropriately for a hike. There are trails for those that are mobility impaired which is also nice. $10 is not a bad price but I personally feel that Nature should be FREE! CA State Parks do offer disability access for Residents Only. Again Nature should not have a Monetary CO$T. read more

My husband and 3 year old daughter had a great time! We got there at noon after having lunch in Murphy and there was still plenty of parking. Our daughter picked out some cute items in the gift shop and participated in a craft that was being made. Bring sunblock and bug spray for the hike. It did get pretty hot later on in the day. We saw signs for the Stanislaus River and found an opening for swimming. Nice day trip from Sacramento. read more

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