wagner's mammoth pool resort

This is the best campground in the Sierra National Forest area (out of North Fork/Bass Lake). It is right on the creek and EZ walking distance to the camp store. The restaurant just keeps getting better (think 'Pizza'!) and they have added full breakfast menu as well as the famous 'Mammoth Burger, salads, specials and old fashioned soda fountaion. They DO have showers, the nicest campground showers I have seen. This is a family-friendly, laid back campground and restaurant/store/gas station makes it the optimal site for recreation activities in the area. The creek is stocked with trout in addition to the wild and the lake ('Mammoth Pool') is just down the road. This is a small family business owned by the Wagners for generations and lovingly maintained. Many guests are 2nd and 3rd generation visitors - this place is a real gem.

My family first discovered Wagner's resort when I was 2 1/2. It has been a favorite vacation spot for us ever since. I am 62 years old and still love the place. The fact that it is almost exactly the same as the first time I visited makes it a true camping experience. Yes, it does not have all the frills and thrills of mall camping, but then it is a wilderness retreat, not Disneyland.:) I can't wait to return this summer and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere and primitive experience.

We go to Wangers Store, when we are camping up the lake at China Bar for long weekends and usually opening day of fishing on Mammoth Pool. They have basic supplies, ice, bait and etc. along with a lunch counter, ice cream etc.

Be warned: Mammoth Pool is a smaller campground that is VERY primitive and not at all what you'd expect for the fees you pay. No showers, toilets, or even water spigots in the campground, only outhouses with a seat and hole in ground. It is very dirty and dusty as no sand or gravel has been brought in and there are no paved roads inside the campground. But the campground has a nice little creek running through it that has some rapids and small waterfalls. There are some places that are safer for kids to swim, but the water is very cold (melting snow) so better for experienced swimmers or life jackets only! Also note, this place is somewhat difficult to get to as the roads are narrow and very winding. If you like a more rugged experience and don't mind the drive, then it can be a nice place to camp.