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FRENCH MEADOWS
National Forest

FRENCH MEADOWS

Soda Springs, California
4.5 (95 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About FRENCH MEADOWS

Federal campground in California.

French Meadows offers a serene escape nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, providing RV enthusiasts with an authentic forest camping experience surrounded by towering pines and pristine natural beauty. This National Forest campground captures the essence of California's mountain wilderness, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to reconnect with nature while enjoying the comfort of their RV.

Located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, French Meadows sits at an elevation that provides cool, refreshing summers perfect for escaping the heat of lower elevations. The campground's setting among dense forest creates a peaceful atmosphere where you can truly unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors. The surrounding landscape features meadows, forest trails, and mountain vistas that inspire exploration and adventure.

The area around French Meadows is rich with outdoor recreation opportunities that appeal to a wide variety of travelers. Hiking enthusiasts will find numerous trails winding through the forests and meadows, with varying difficulty levels suitable for everyone from casual walkers to serious trekkers. The nearby lakes and streams offer excellent opportunities for fishing, particularly for those interested in catching trout. During warmer months, the water becomes inviting for swimming and cooling off after days of exploration.

Wildlife viewing is a natural part of the experience here, with opportunities to spot deer, black bears, and various bird species in their natural habitat. The night sky above French Meadows is remarkably clear, making it an excellent location for stargazing and appreciating the majesty of the cosmos away from light pollution.

This campground is perfect for families looking for a mountain retreat, couples seeking a peaceful romantic getaway, and outdoor adventurers wanting to base their explorations in a beautiful natural setting. The combination of accessibility via RV and the genuine wilderness experience makes French Meadows an exceptional choice for those who want the best of both worlds. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or an extended stay, this National Forest destination delivers the authentic Sierra Nevada experience that keeps travelers returning year after year.
4.5

Rating

95

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Soda Springs is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Soda Springs.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Soda Springs. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

FRENCH MEADOWS Reviews

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Kate Bila

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Kate Bila

Amazing place with the wildlife and nature. We enjoyed the sunrises and sunsets there. Clean, quiet and peaceful. One toilet was closed, so it was a little surprise, but still not bad. No cell service at all - thing that I liked the most. Every spot has a fire pit, food locker and picnic tables. We will come back but only after they open the main road, I wouldn’t want take a risk again and have 1... Amazing place with the wildlife and nature. We enjoyed the sunrises and sunsets there. Clean, quiet and peaceful. One toilet was closed, so it was a little surprise, but still not bad. No cell service at all - thing that I liked the most. Every spot has a fire pit, food locker and picnic tables. We will come back but only after they open the main road, I wouldn’t want take a risk again and have 1 hour drive through the detour. If you decide to go, make sure that you have all necessary tools for fixing the flat tire. Put your thumbs up if my review comes helpful for you.

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Keily Guzman

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Keily Guzman

Very pretty lake, clean campsites, very close to the lake, friendly host, no light in bathroom (clean, but after people started to arrive it was getting more dirty), it’s quiet. The only thing that we didn’t like was the drive, very bumpy and dangerous. We asked around for another route before leaving, we found a route that was much much better. Overall liked it but not sure if we will be back. Bu... Very pretty lake, clean campsites, very close to the lake, friendly host, no light in bathroom (clean, but after people started to arrive it was getting more dirty), it’s quiet. The only thing that we didn’t like was the drive, very bumpy and dangerous. We asked around for another route before leaving, we found a route that was much much better. Overall liked it but not sure if we will be back. But definitely nice to visit once.

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Chad Chapman

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Chad Chapman

This campground is one of, if not the best national forest campground that I've ever been to. The weekend campers were a little more rowdy that we would've liked, but since we were camping there mostly during the weekdays during our week long trip, it was honestly one of the best experiences I've had at one of these campgrounds. The amenities and camp host were fantastic! The camp hosts were reall... This campground is one of, if not the best national forest campground that I've ever been to. The weekend campers were a little more rowdy that we would've liked, but since we were camping there mostly during the weekdays during our week long trip, it was honestly one of the best experiences I've had at one of these campgrounds. The amenities and camp host were fantastic! The camp hosts were really accommodating and friendly. You simply can't beat how wonderful the sites were and the proximity to the lake. My father-in-law booked it because of past experiences with his grandfather, and I will be coming here with many more experiencea with my daughter!

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Lio Lopez

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Lio Lopez

We went from the 18th to 20th of September. Despite what people said about the drive to the campground in the other comments, I actually enjoyed it. It is a nice campground and we stayed on Site 49 by the lake. Unfortunately, the wind hit the site like a train and it was a bit of a pain to set up, nonetheless we had a good time. The camp host is very nice. We will definitely come back.

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jose hernandez

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by jose hernandez

The water was clear and warmer then i expected. The road to get there is quite nerve racking if you are afraid of heights, but it was worth it. I took my kids camping here and i will definitely be back.

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