French Meadows Campground sits on the south shore of French Meadows Reservoir in Placer County, surrounded by thick coniferous forest about 36 miles east of Foresthill via Mosquito Ridge Road. The elevation and dense trees mean you’re looking at cool nights even in summer, which is actually nice if you’re camping with a dog who doesn’t handle heat well. The reservoir itself is the main draw—there’s a concrete boat launch right there if you want to get on the water, though honestly the shoreline is worth exploring on foot too.

The campground has bear-proof boxes at each site, which isn’t just a nice touch; it’s essential in this area. Store everything food-related, and I mean everything—coolers, dog food, even that granola bar in your jacket pocket. A trailer dump station is available, which helps if you’re in an RV.

One major perk is access to the Western States Trail from the campground. Even if you’re not doing the full 100-mile route, sections near French Meadows make for excellent hiking with your dog. The Granite Chief Wilderness is also close by if you’re looking for more remote trails.

Keep in mind this entire area is within a State Game Refuge, which means no firearms or hunting implements of any kind—including bows, arrows, and slingshots. That’s good to know if you’re used to other camping areas with different rules. Also, you have to camp in the designated campground itself; dispersed camping in the surrounding area isn’t allowed here.

The drive in on Mosquito Ridge Road is long and partly dirt, so plan for slower going and make sure your vehicle is up for it. The payoff is solitude and a real forest experience without the crowds you’d hit at lower-elevation reservoirs.