Penny Pines Campground

Overview This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site.

Once on-site, you are able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.

In order to utilize Scan & Pay on site, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

Recreation The Forest Service in cooperation with the State of California Off-Highway Vehicle Fund, (Green Sticker), has developed roads, trails, and facilities for further enjoyment of the OHV user. Remember, these are your facilities and OHV funds are being used to develop and maintain them. 

Forest Service roads open to Off-Highway Vehicles are considered public roads. All motorcycle riders on public lands in the State of California must wear a safety helmet meeting the standards adopted by the US Department of Transportation. 

State law requires all vehicles, including motorcycles to be registered. You must have a current Green or Red Sticker, or Highway License. Highway licensed vehicles must meet all standards for operating on a public highway and be operated in accordance with California state law. 

Your vehicle must be equipped with a properly installed Forest Service approved spark arrester in good working condition. 

For your safety and the safety of others, Off-Highway Vehicles must never be operated in a manner likely to endanger any person or property. Driving at excessive speeds, careless and reckless driving, racing and "wheelies" are not only prohibited, but also dangerous on forest roads and camping areas. 

State and Federal law prohibit operating any vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This applies equally to the operation on Off-Highway vehicles, including those statutes prohibiting drinking while driving (CVC 23220), and drinking in a motor vehicle (CVC 23221). 

Motorcycles and ATVs must meet state sound requirement of 96 dba or lower. 

Unlicensed juveniles operating motorcycles and ATVs must be under the supervision of a licensed adult. 

Facilities Penny Pines campground offers 10 campsites equipped with picnic tables and fire rings.

Campground provides restrooms.

Campground does not provide trash service, so please take your trash with you to dispose of at home. Please leave a clean campsite.

Natural Features The public is free to use the plentiful downed trees and limbs for campfires in the campground and with a valid campfire permit.

From CA SR20, take Mendenhall north and follow it to a stop sign. Upper Lake Ranger Station will be on your left there.

Turn left onto Elk Mountain Road, aka M1, and follow it past Middle Creek Campground and past the 2 turnoffs for Deer Valley Campground, and continue to Penny Pines, which will be on your left.