Stanislaus National Forest Camping

A hidden gem in the Stanislaus National Forest. The signboard at the entrance says this site is called either Black Oak Flats or Tele Li pu Laya Campgrounds (though Google Maps currently lists it, frustratingly, as just "Campgrounds"). The entrance is off the road to Beardsley Lake, though there is no sign there to direct you.

At the time of this writing (Spring 2021), the grounds appear to be completely renovated. The asphalt road and pads are smooth and clean, as if they were laid down just a few weeks ago. The bathrooms--vault toilets only, no sinks--also look brand new. They were spotlessly clean during our visit.

We camped here the week prior to Memorial Day and found the campground nearly full, even at mid-week. Three or four sites have a wonderful view over the lake and canyon below. These are highly coveted with little turnover. When someone does leave, we noted that neighbors would move right in. Two wonderful group sites are nestled into a very quaint grove of trees near the view sites.

Our site was away from the spectacular view, up closer to the road. It appears there was some logging activity around there at some point in the past few years, so firewood scavenging was simple. We were taken by the quietness of the grounds. We didn't hear any traffic noise and the residents were extraordinarily thoughtful and courteous about generators, night lights and after-dark parties.