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The best camping near Hensley Lake

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hensley Lake adventure.

100% (2 reviews)
100% (2 reviews)

Discover the scenic beauty of Hensley Lake, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.  

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Community favorites near Hensley Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Hensley Lake

89%
(243)

Yosemite Westlake Camp

33 sites ¡ RVs, Tents6 acres ¡ Coulterville, CA
Located on the John Muir Historic route to Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Westlake Campground and RV Park is convenient to all things Yosemite. Between here and the park is Rainbow Pool, a well-known swimming hole that campers here often visit on their way back to the campground for a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Coulterville was started as a gold-rush town. You can visit the museum and visitor center even try your hand at panning for gold.
from 
$48
 / night
97%
(57)

Musick Creek Falls

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Sacramento, CA
Musick Creek Falls is 40 acres that lies just south of Shaver Lake. At an elevation of, 5400ft (1.65 km). The land is regenerating in a green and lush state following the Creek Fire of five years ago, exhibiting novel and intriguing wildflowers such as Sierra Manzanita, sweet peas, and cedars. The terrain is natural, beautiful, and rugged. This property boasts three exquisite cascading waterfalls, hiking trails, 4×4 roads, hunting, rock climbing, and stargazing opportunities. We are just 8 minutes from the town of Shaver Lake, Sierra National Forest, campgrounds, boating, fishing, and about 20 minutes from China Peak Ski Resort. The road into the property, although being maintained by us and the community, can be a challenge for vehicles very low to the ground. There is water, and trash on site. We stay on site part of the year, but the campsites are far enough for privacy, or hospitality, and you are welcome to explore the entire 40 acres. There is an amazing sunset every night, and just the sounds and smells of nature. The weather is very mild most of the year, where a sweat shirt is perfect most nights and not too hot in the day We have kayaks available for use free of charge. Musick Creek Falls offers an affordable option, whereas campgrounds and cabins in the area are often booked up and very expensive. Most cell phones have good reception throughout the property. We also have spare tents and camping gear, blankets etc. if you forget something. Please be courteous to our neighbors, as the Golden rule is the law of the land. Please be advised Winter months December through February there will be no host on site and access will be limited as weather permits.
from 
$48
 / night
97%
(201)

Hudson and Wendy's Land

2 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Oakhurst, CA
Welcome to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp. We can't wait for you to stay with us and enjoy what the area has to offer.
from 
$72
 / night
100%
(389)

Ace's Yosemite Hide Out

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents30 acres ¡ Coarsegold, CA
Ace's Yosemite Hide Out Is close to Yosemite National Park South entrance on a 30 acre Ranch and is very privately located at the base of a mountain in Coarsegold Ca. with beautiful oak trees and lots of wildlife. There is a barbecue pit, picnic table, sink to wash dishes and hands and a propane fire pit at each campsite You can walk or drive a short distance to the outside shower from the campsite Take a beautiful short hike and see the horses and miniature Donkeys Yosemite Park South entrance is 27.5 miles, Takes about 50 minutes Yosemite valley is a 1 1/2 hr beautiful drive. Chukchansi casino is 5 miles. Bass Lake is on the way to Yosemite with excellent restaurants swimming and day camping by the lake! Lots of biking and hiking trails
from 
$50
 / night
98%
(662)

Yosemite's Colfax Spring

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents15 acres ¡ Groveland, CA
Welcome to Yosemite's Colfax Spring! Home to a basecamp for river rafting trips during the summertime, we are located 15 minutes driving distance to the entrance to Yosemite National Park. If you are staying with us between May - September and want to come rafting, ask us about our river trips! Our camp sits on a ridge with views down into the Tuolumne River Canyon. The Tuolumne River begins at 13,000 feet of elevation in the High Country of Tuolumne Meadows and provides drinking water for over 2.7 million people in San Francisco. With cedar and pine trees, manzanita bushes, and wildflowers in the spring, enjoy the Sierras' flora and fauna. Our family has been operating our river rafting company for over 50 years, the last 11 of those years being here at Colfax Spring. Conveniently located off Highway 120, we are in close proximity to swimming holes, hikes, and more. Enjoy the privacy of our campsite and getting world-class views to yourself, with all of the amenities (flushing toilets, wi-fi, showers.) Make sure to check the Yosemite National Park website for information about reservations to visit the park!
from 
$90
 / night
98%
(47)

Camp SourBerry (near Yosemite)

1 site ¡ RV40 acres ¡ Oakhurst, CA
Welcome to Camp SourBerry! Here, you can park your home-on-wheels in a private space with a view. You can enjoy the feeling of rural seclusion while within walking distance (~1 mile) from shops and restaurants in Oakhurst. The South Gate to Yosemite National Park is less than a 30-minute drive (~75 minutes drive-time to the Valley floor), and Bass Lake's shores are only 15 minutes away. Local wildlife is abundant. Wild turkeys are a common sighting, especially in the spring and fall, as are squirrels, bears, deer, coyotes, and bobcats, plus all kinds of native birds (hawks, quail, jays, woodpeckers, ravens, vultures, and eagles). We have a small homestead-style farm and so do the neighbors, so you can hear the distant sounds of chickens, turkeys, sheep, goats, and cows. Because the safety of our animals (and yours) is paramount, we do not allow other pets to visit. The parking location is an ease pull-through for passenger vehicles and shorter trailers. People with longer, taller trailers find it easier to pull-in and back out. The best view is on the passenger side of the drive! Whether you want to stay put and enjoy the natural setting or have a base from which to explore world-class attractions, we would love to host your next vacation.
from 
$40
 / night
100%
(7)

River Creek Ranch

1 site ¡ Tent10 acres ¡ Ahwahnee, CA
10 acres in the Sierra Nevada foothills right outside of Yosemite national Park, river frontage property were Miami creek runs into a Fresno River swimming is available in both large granite rock outcroppings and wildlife abound. This is a shared property with an active Airbnb. 110 power available and water hook ups.
from 
$65
 / night
100%
(19)

Willow Creek Camp North

4 sites ¡ Tents160 acres ¡ North Fork, CA
Campsite is located on the creek. With 160 acres to explore you can hike along the trails we have made, which are along the creek and on the hills above. We have built an out house and have a nice wood picnic table at the North Camp. South Camp has an outhouse and picnic table is coming soon. The cleared area is approx 25 feet wide by 75 feet long. Manzanita lake is 10 min away and Bass Lake is a 20 min drive. There are a few restaurants there as well. In North Fork proper there is Pizza Factory and North Fork BBQ. Trash must be taken with you when you vacate the premises. Please bring heavy duty trash bags We do not have trash cans. Let us know if you can not take it we will charge 25.00 which is the fee at the dump. Also dogs are allowed.
from 
$60
 / night
50%
(4)

Granite Mountain RV Park

32 sites ¡ RVs10 acres ¡ Oakhurst, CA
Our property takes pride in its no-frills approach, emphasizing our prime location, ease-of-access, and affordable prices. While we offer minimal services and amenities, this straightforward approach caters to travelers seeking a practical and unembellished stay while visiting, or just passing through on their way into the park. We offer a simple and convenient arrival experience. For guests who have already made reservations, just drive straight to your assigned spot! Walk-ins are also welcome, with a self-check-in area available on the property complete with clear instructions on how to book a site and get settled in after a long day on the road.
from 
$49
 / night
Saved 4 times

Red Barn Connection’s Land

9 sites ¡ RVs3 acres ¡ Coarsegold, CA
The Red Barn Connection is a place for solace and relaxation. The home itself is available for rent, check out @red_barn_connection on Instagram for availability. The land sits on 3.35 acres, is fully fenced with wires as neighbors have cows that have liked to wander whenever possible. The land is left to it’s natural element, with regular maintenance around the home for access. The land has some flat ground, especially by the shop, trailers, or sea trains, as well as by the water tower, and the rest ranges from rocky to hilly. There are plenty of fruit trees and berry bushes for mindful foraging. Please beware of wildlife, there are snakes and scorpions in warmer seasons. Beware for potholes as well, from our local groundhogs.
from 
$65
 / night
100%
(1)

Golden Foothills

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents80 acres ¡ Coarsegold, CA
This is a piece of land that belongs solely to itself, and the beauty of the surrounding region. A history too rich and long, to wholly know.The honor of its stewardship has fallen to my family these last couple decades. A family of several generations in California. Most recently home to Coyotes, Pigs, Snakes and Birds, as well as a wild grey-bearded elder named "Uncle Robbert". Presently, home to myself, and in passing to those who seek moments of refuge and leisure in the beauty of rugged foothills.   Learn more about this land:Yosemite foothills. Pines. Oaks. Granite Slabs. Seasonal Creeks. Long Vistas. Grinding Rocks harken to peoples well before our time. The beautiful rolling foothills will provide a scenic and secluded camping retreat, nestled in the depths of country quaint, down at the very end of the dirt road. Here, you can wander the dells, soaking in the verdant lush of winter and spring, or scrambling rocks while gazing into long sun kissed horizons of summer and fall. this is DIY country living. Fit for self sufficient, hardy adventurers seeking a more unique, personal, dusty old country getaway. Pack it in, pack it out. you're 15 minutes from wading in the Fresno river, east on Rd 600 or an hour and a half from the South Gate of Yosemite in Mariposa.
from 
$40
 / night
94%
(1141)

Southgate Summit-closed for winter

8 sites ¡ Tents20 acres ¡ Oakhurst, CA
Hey Campers! We are temporarily closed for the winter.... but back open April 1st! See you then! This area was once inhabited by local native American Tribes. In the 1840's prospectors arrived in search of gold but none was found in the immediate area. Old Yosemite Base camp was along the route into Yosemite National Park prior to the construction of Highway 41. Horse and Carriage traveled along Old Yosemite Road from Mariposa and the entire golden state. Visitors from the world now pass through Oakhurst to Yosemite National Park along this route. Don't for to check out Bass Lake and its full service amenities. ALL CAMP SITES REQUIRE 4 WHEEL DRIVE or All-Wheel drive- NO Exceptions. Hipcampers, come pitch your tent at one of five Old Yosemite Base Camp drive in and walk in sites. OYBC offers over six acres of pine, oak, and bay trees, sprinkled around large granite features that remind you that Half Dome is not far away! Each unique site is equipped with a stone fire ring with cook top and a picnic table accommodating four person dining. Old Yosemite Base Camp is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset and stargaze next to a campfire after an adventurous day in the southern Yosemite region. Yosemite tent camping without all the crowds and tour buses is what you can expect. Backing up to the Sierra National Forest OYBC is conveniently located near HWY 41 just 14 miles from Yosemite’s south gate entrance. The region also offers a large amount of hiking trails where you can find swim holes, waterfalls giant sequoias, lakes, and rivers. Take 15-minute drive to Bass Lake and enjoy water sports and lake view dining. OYBC offers five camp sites and all wheel drive is required to get to the top of camp. OYBC sites 1, 2, 3, are drive up sites and 4 & 5 are walk in sites that have a separate parking area. All wheel drive is still needed to get to this lot. Have a large group? Old Yosemite Base Camp offers discounts for larger parties of up to 25 campers. Message OYBC to reserve the whole mountainside to yourselves!
from 
$66
 / night

The best camping near Hensley Lake guide

Overview

About

Fifty miles north of Fresno in the Central California foothills, Hensley Lake has become a popular vacay spot for families. It contains 20 miles of shoreline and is enveloped by the oak woodlands of the Sierra Nevada foothills (hooray shade!).

This park is outdoor fun galore. Visitors enjoy camping, boating, water skiing and fishing with black bass, bluegill, catfish and crappie on the reel. Rainbow trout are stocked in the lake each winter. Kris-Krossing to the other side of the lake will make you wanna jump with hiking, biking, disc golf, swimming and equestrian trails. Oh and remember, this park is just an easy drive to Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park, plus the Sierra National Forest.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Hensley Lake is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer brings warmth perfect for water activities, though it can be quite hot. Winters are cooler and quieter, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the bustle.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Be aware of any seasonal closures or special alerts by visiting the official Hensley Lake website.
  • Life jackets are a must for all water activities – safety first!
  • Pack out what you pack in to keep the park pristine for all visitors.
  • Accessible facilities are available, but it's best to confirm ahead for specific needs.

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