Deadman Campground
Deadman Campground is within walking distance of Kennedy Meadows Resort on Sonora Pass. Because of its close proximity to the Resort and the Stanislaus River, the campground has been a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Deadman Campground's Neighbor -
Kennedy Meadows Resort
Deadman Campground visitors take advantage of many of the Kennedy Meadows Resort's amenities. Fishing along the Stanislaus River, which passes the resort property and then Deadman Campground, is famous for its bounty of trophy-size trout. Kennedy Meadow's general store and restaurant regularly draw campers up the road to resupply or take a break from camp food. Also at the resort is a western-style saloon and a pack station which provides daily trail rides.
Deadman Campground
Deadman Campground has 17 wonderful campsites - most along the rive bank, including 3 double sites and 2 walk-in sites. The campground road is paved, white parking pads are dirt-surfaced. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire pit with a grill. Drinking water is available from spigots around the campground. Vault toilets are provided near the campground entrance. The campground is located at a loop in the Stanislaus River, beside the Kennedy Meadows Road and about a ½ mile from Highway 108.
Fishing
For a guide to the best fishing around Kennedy Meadows, see Dave's Sierra Fishing - Kennedy Meadows.
Pacific Crest Trail
The popular Pacific Crest Trail crosses Highway 108 at Sonora Pass, 9.2 miles from Deadman Campground. Many hikers stop at Kennedy Meadows Resort to resupply. Some camp overnight at Deadman Campground or neighboring Baker Campground, although in the summer the campgrounds are often full. Arriving early in the morning offers the best chance for a site. (Use the PCT button to find information about the Pacific Crest Trail near Sonora Pass.)
History Note
Deadman Campground for named after nearby Deadman Creek, which in turn was named after an unfortunate 19th century traveler who attempted to cross Sonora Pass from Leavitt Meadow during the winter. His body was found weeks later, frozen at the side of a creek.
Pacific Crest Trail Information
Trail Miles Northbound from Sonora Pass
- Boulder Lake trail junction - 12.3 miles
- Paradise Valley - 17.4 miles
- Asa Lake - 24.1 miles
- Highway 4 - 31.5 miles
- Canada Border - 1,633.1 miles
Trail Miles Southbound from Sonora Pass
- Emigrant Pass trail junction - 9.8 miles
- Walker Meadow - 13.9 miles
- Mexico Border - 1016.9 miles
Nearest Town
Bridgeport - 31.5 miles southeast via Hwy. 108 & Hwy. 395
Post Office, grocery, lodging, restaurants, laundry, Ken's Sporting Goods, public transportation (Eastern Sierra Transit)
Always confirm mileages and directions with a reliable PCT source such as the Pacific Crest Trail Association's The Pacific Crest Trail: Exploring America's Wilderness Trail.
