Wanted to go for a weekend trip somewhere in the southern part of Western Sierra. Anybody knows what's happening around Camp Nelson this time of the year? The road is open? Chains required? Campfires allowed?

Road is plows on SR190 4.5mi east of Camp Nelson, then closed for the season. Chains currently required or 4WD with snow tires.
http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/displ ... page=sr190

There's some nice snowshoe trips on a couple of the Sequoia groves around Camp Nelson. Can always head up to Jordan Peak lookout or Slate Mountain if you want a more committing outing.

Wow, someone who's heard of Camp Nelson. Depending on the snow level, you can go almost anywhere. Right in town, you can hike to Belknap Campground. Nice grove there. Bear Creek Trail is nice, which starts right by where they stop plowing the road to Coy Flat. You can hike to the Stagg Tree, up by Sequoia Crest. If you drive up to quaking Aspen/Ponderosa, you can hike up the North Road, or walk from Ponderosa to the top of Dome Rock. Fire roads all over the place up there. You'll be limited only by the conditions. Bring chains. With all wheel drive you probably won't need them, but bring them anyways.