RV Camping Near Buck Meadows, CA, US: 12 Best RV Parks 2026

Set up your RV in Buck Meadows and you’ll find over 4,200 places to park, from wide gravel pads to tucked-away forest clearings. Average rates hover around $65 per night, but you can snag a spot for as little as $20. Many camps cater to big rigs and offer electricity and water hookups—no need to rough it. Fishing, swimming, and wildlife-watching are the main draws here, with riverbanks, shady groves, and open sky all within reach. travelers rave about Diamond Gulch (677 reviews) for its open views, Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (566 reviews) for its quirky art installations, and Yosemite Colfax Spring (533 reviews) for easy access to hiking trails. If you’re rolling through in an RV, Buck Meadows has you covered.

95% (5.2K)

Top RV parks

Set up your RV in Buck Meadows and you’ll find over 4,200 places to park, from wide gravel pads to tucked-away forest clearings. Average rates hover around $65 per night, but you can snag a spot for as little as $20. Many camps cater to big rigs and offer electricity and water hookups—no need to rough it. Fishing, swimming, and wildlife-watching are the main draws here, with riverbanks, shady groves, and open sky all within reach. travelers rave about Diamond Gulch (677 reviews) for its open views, Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (566 reviews) for its quirky art installations, and Yosemite Colfax Spring (533 reviews) for easy access to hiking trails. If you’re rolling through in an RV, Buck Meadows has you covered.

95% (5.2K)

Top RV parks

1. Yosemite Colfax Spring

98%

(977)

2.3mi from Buck Meadows · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Groveland, CA

Welcome to Your Basecamp for Yosemite Adventure 🌲⛰ Just 15–20 minutes from the entrance of Yosemite National Park and about an hour from the Yosemite Valley floor, our camp offers the perfect location to recharge after exploring one of the most iconic natural landscapes on Earth. We’re also about 1.5 hours from the high-country beauty of Tuolumne Meadows, making this a great launchpad for day trips in every direction. Perched in the scenic Sierra foothills, our dry camping sites are celebrated for breathtaking panoramic views, open skies, and unforgettable sunrises and starry nights. It’s an ideal place to unwind, reconnect, and experience the outdoors in its raw beauty — without giving up the comfort of flushing toilets and hot, on-demand showers. Most of our sites are best suited for those who plan to explore during the day and return in the evening, as they receive full sun and have limited shade throughout the midday hours (during the summer months). For those looking to hang around camp during the day, we recommend bringing a shade canopy or pop-up to make your stay more comfortable. Whether you’re here for epic hikes, rock climbs, or peaceful views, our camp is a restful and rustic homebase nestled close to the wonders of Yosemite.

2. Yosemite Westlake Camp

88%

(642)

5.5mi from Buck Meadows · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

3. Diamond Gulch

96%

(1160)

10mi from Buck Meadows · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Groveland, CA

Groups of 15 or more use this code for 15% off your stay! ADMXESCZ Check out this sweet YouTube video of the property! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEvKF5nqcUM Early and late check-out available on tent/rv sites, free of charge. Just message me if you need an earlier check in! Free firewood! We are 30 minutes to the main gate of Yosemite National Park. A great place to stay just outside of the park. Be near the park, but feel that complete privacy. These sites are very spaced out from each other and are large. No need to cram together! Explore the mines and hang out on our Groveland, California ranch! We have 824 acres on a beautiful cattle ranch with two small ponds. On our property, you'll find frogs, turtles, oak trees, pine trees and stunning views of Yosemite. We have several campsites to choose from including RV camping, tent camping, and a glamping tent. Pets are welcome. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban. Potable water and toilet are available onsite. There's a golf course less than a mile away. We are also very close to town. In just a few minutes, you can drive to our local grocery store and pizza parlour. We are a 10-minute drive to Pine Mountain Lake. Beautiful Pine Mountain Lake offers golfing, dining, horseback riding, water sports and an airport. When you come to the ranch it feels like you are hundreds of miles away from civilization, but still close to everything you need. It is incredibly peaceful! This is a great place for someone who wants to escape city life and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Much of the ranch is open wilderness for you to explore, and it's not uncommon to see deer, frogs, turtles, quail, turkeys, or other countless species of birds. Diamond Gulch Camp is the perfect place to relax if you’re a photographer, artist, family or a group of friends looking for a place to camp near Yosemite. A small portion of the property was used as a gold mine years ago, and you may find remnants of old home sites if you go exploring. We're not far from Wards Ferry Road, Groveland, Lake Don Pedro and other interesting places.

4. Stanislaus National Forest

93%

(173)

1530 sites · Strawberry, California

An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.

Electrical Hookup

Sewage Hookup

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5. Yosemite National Park

97%

(1676)

1526 sites · Yosemite Valley, California

Pros know Yosemite camping is either a feat of advanced planning or a willingness to wing it.

Sewage Hookup

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6. Sunset Serenity

37mi from Buck Meadows · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mountain Ranch, CA

Off-grid ten-acre ranch with views to the west. Quiet, private, and serene, with hiking trails along the creek bed and abundant wildlife. Enjoy an outdoor shower, clean outhouse, fire pit, picnic tables, camp tent sites, and a darling tiny cottage. Enjoy culinary delights by snipping fresh organic herbs on site, to add to your campfire meal. Stargazing here at night is incredible, with no city lights to dim the view. Rich in 1850s Gold Rush history, the area was once a tent town of 6,000 gold miners.

7. Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

96%

(332)

39mi from Buck Meadows · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Oakhurst, CA

Welcome to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp. Come and enjoy our beautiful and private micro climate, created by the cascading waterfalls from Nelder and Lewis Creek. Camp by the creekside and fall asleep to the sound of the meandering creek, with absolutely incredible views of the stars overhead. Both creeks feed into the head of the Fresno river next to the campsite. You'll be surrounded by Oaks, Alders, Pine and Cedar trees. Take a day trip to Yosemite, hike/bike in the mountains, or explore the nearby towns of Oakhurst and Bass Lake. The south gate to Yosemite is approx. 20 minutes and Bass Lake is 5 minutes by car.

8. The Painted Lake

97%

(132)

30mi from Buck Meadows · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Angels Camp, CA

9. Camp Electra in Mokelumne Hill

95%

(22)

48mi from Buck Meadows · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mokelumne Hill, CA

Meander through Historic Mokelumne Hill also known as Moke Hill to locals. Listen to music and have a drink on weekends at the Renegade Winery. Explore the Mokelumne river up Electra road. Plenty to see and experience all within walking distance. Mokelumne Hill is a quant town with lots of charm in the heart of the Gold Country. Bring your own tent or your small RV and campout at our rig site or "glamp" in our vintage VW "Choncho".

10. Sierra National Forest

92%

(176)

1360 sites · Big Creek, California

“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.

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11. Turlock Lake State Recreation Area

83%

(7)

111 sites · Hickman, California

Park with both lake and river offers camping and water recreation in the San Joaquin Valley.

Pets

12. Calaveras Big Trees State Park

99%

(41)

178 sites · Dorrington, California

Get ready to be amazed, because "Big Trees" is an understatement.

Pets

13. Eastman Lake

100%

(3)

106 sites · Yosemite Lakes, California

This scenic retreat draws nature lovers and oudoor enthusiasts.

Electrical Hookup

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14. Cole Ranch

100%

(399)

39mi from Buck Meadows · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Waterford, CA

"I firmly believe that Nature brings solace in all troubles." -Anne Frank- Serene, quiet acreage on the Tuolumne River, with views of the snow capped Sierra Nevadas on a clear day. Scores of wildlife sightings, including river otters, eagles, wild turkeys, beavers, and many more. Perfect for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or just relaxing. Like to fish? Fishing at Cole Ranch is a Love/Hate thing. If you Love to Fish, you will Hate to leave. Gateway to Yosemite National Park, the Mother Lode region, hiking trails, and spelunking opportunities, Cole Ranch has just about everything a camper would look for. All sites have access to our community outdoor kitchen, which has a refrigerator, coffee bar, sink, BBQ's, and stoves. Also available are our bathrooms, quite possibly the cleanest campground bathrooms in the 13 western states, which include flushable toilets, two sinks, and warm showers. Book your visit now. (Group bookings must be approved by host. Group bookings that have not been pre-approved may be cancelled.) ** Ever see a meteor shower? Cole Ranch is a perfect place to view one. Following is a list of Meteor Showers in 2025. (Dates indicate best night to see meteors) Lyrids. - April 22 Eta Aquarids. - May 4 Delta Aquarids - July 30 Perseids - Aug 12 Orionids. - Oct 22 Leonids. - Nov 17 Geminids - Dec 13 (Cole Ranch is a working ranch, surrounded by walnut and almond orchards. Harvest for these orchards occur mid-August thru September, and can create dust and noise. Occasional noise from common ranching activities may be heard. Landscaping activities like mowing, watering, etc. generally occur Mondays-Wednesdays) Check back here periodically for advisories on river conditions. ** RIVER ADVISORY UDATE - 4/21/25 ** The river rose unexpectedly yesterday, about a foot so far. According to those in control of the fluctuations, it is supposed to be back to normal level by Friday, 4/25/25. Feel free to text or call Barry at (209) 484-3675 if you have any questions.

15. Outdoorsy Yosemite Campground

91%

(54)

44mi from Buck Meadows · 150 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bass Lake, CA

Outdoorsy Yosemite – Nature, Comfort & Adventure at Your Doorstep Welcome to Outdoorsy Yosemite, your gateway to unforgettable outdoor experiences just minutes from Yosemite National Park. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, our boutique campground offers a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, perfect for RV travelers, glampers, and nature lovers alike. Choose from spacious RV sites with full hookups or relax in our stylish glamping tents, complete with cozy beds, electricity, and private decks. Whether you're hiking Half Dome, exploring Bass Lake, or stargazing by the fire, Outdoorsy Yosemite is your ideal basecamp. What You’ll Love: Easy access to Yosemite National Park, Bass Lake, and Oakhurst Full hookup RV sites (Standard, Superior & Premium options) Comfortable glamping tents for couples or families Pet-friendly, family-friendly, and surrounded by towering pines Modern amenities: clean bathhouses, Wi-Fi zones, and picnic areas Fire pits, walking trails, and curated local experiences Come for the fresh air, stay for the moments. Whether you're escaping for a weekend or planning a longer adventure, Outdoorsy Yosemite delivers the perfect mix of nature and comfort.

16. Squirrel Rock RV Campground

100%

(171)

24mi from Buck Meadows · 2 sites · RVs · Columbia, CA

Private gated RV campground in the Gold Country. Located in the historic townsite of Columbia known as the "Gem of the Southern Mines". There is 1 site so you'll have the campground to yourselves. There are 2 electrical panels so you can bring your family or friends if you like. If there are 2 RV's you can reserve the campground as a double site. WE ONLY ACCEPT FULLY SELF CONTAINED RV'S ONLY. NO TENTS NO LONG TERM STAYS. Campsite has 2 electric pedestals 50/30/110. Water hookups at each site. NO SEWER. NO DUMP NO RESTROOMS AVAILABLE. Includes picnic table, camp fire ring, Weber BBQ, doggie station, horseshoe pit, corn hole, walking trails, and garbage/recycle bins. Winter camping dates subject to weather conditions. Located 0.6 mile to Columbia State Historic Park, parking and entrance is free and open year around. It is about a 15 minute walk. Close to Murphys, New Melones lake and Tuttletown recreation area, Moaning Caverns, Downtown Sonora, Mother Lode Escape Rooms, Columbia Airport, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, Black Oak Casino, Chicken Ranch Casino, Indigeny Reserve, Inner Sanctum Cellars Basecamp with other wineries and breweries nearby. About a 50 minute drive to Big Trees State Park and Pinecrest Lake. Yosemite National Park is about 1-1/2 hour drive to the Yosemite valley floor. Check for YARTS for transportation from downtown Sonora to Yosemite valley. There are several rafting outfitters in the area. Restaurants in the immediate vicinity include Mandy's Breakfast-Lunch, Columbia Frosty, El Jardin, St. Charles Saloon Pizza. Gas, diesel mini mart, market store nearby.

17. Shangrilog Near Yosemite

92%

(25)

19mi from Buck Meadows · 1 site · Tent, RV · Twain Harte, CA

Welcome to Shangrilog – a hidden gem tucked away on two wooded acres just outside Twain Harte, California. Surrounded by towering trees and the gentle murmur of a year-round creek, this peaceful retreat offers a perfect blend of nature, nostalgia, and adventure. At the heart of the property is a handcrafted, three-level treehouse - ideal for solo reflection or gatherings with friends and family. Camp beside it in your own RV or tent. While we don’t have toilets on-site yet, we’re working on it and always happy to answer questions or offer tips to make your stay more comfortable. The site sits just 30 yards off a quiet mountain road and includes views of three century-old log cabins, once part of the Stanislaus Forest. Whether you’re unwinding by the fire under the stars, exploring the creek, or venturing to nearby spots like Sonora Pass, Pinecrest Lake, Dodge Ridge, or even Yosemite, Shangrilog is your gateway to the simple joys of mountain life. This is more than just a campsite - it’s our home. And we love sharing it with fellow nature lovers and kindred spirits.

18. Mighty Farm & Camp

95%

(58)

33mi from Buck Meadows · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Forest Meadows, CA

We have 155 acres of the Sierra foothills just ~12 minutes from downtown Murphys. This is a working farm where we specialize in cut flowers and also grow a little food. When available we offer bouquets/eggs/veggies as an add-on. There are a few different listings, so make sure to read the details on your specific listing! -End of The Driveway -1 Pine -2 Pine The End of The Driveway is one big site for buses/RVs/big vans next to the Soup Kitchen. 1 Pine and 2 Pine are up a separate driveway on the ridge. The driveway spot is down the driveway a couple hundred yards from where we usually are so you’ll more or less be on your own, depending on if we have work to do down there or if there are other campers. We are happy to chat or leave you be, just let us know what your needs are. If you’re looking for a more isolated spot, see the listings for 1 Pine or 2 Pine. The 2nd area is “1 Pine” accessed by our second driveway that is 100 yards down the road from the farm. The driveway is kind of rough but definitely manageable with a truck, SUV or sedan if you’re willing to go for it. The drive goes up a couple hundred yards to the hilltop where there is a clearing and, you guessed it, 1 pine tree. From the back of the clearing there is a trail that leads you to 2 Pine, which is a walk that takes just a few minutes. 2 Pine is walk-in only but has great views of the sunset and is totally secluded and private and would be a good spot to either bring some friends for a little sunset party or for someone who wants to seriously unplug. There are plenty of flat spots to pitch a tent. **if you are a teacher or Pacific Crest Trail hiker let us know! We are happy to offer a discount :)

19. Mommapeggs Getaway in the seirra

97%

(174)

19mi from Buck Meadows · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · Chinese Camp, CA

The property is surrounded by many mines that have Claims in place to this day .The peaceful country views are a welcomed treat for most that that are able to visit Tuolumne county.Come by and Sit A BIT here in the Sierra foothills via your way to many adventurous spots here via Yosemite, Redwoods in Arnold, or even a day trip over the passes to Nevada s ghost town Bodie. Visit our local wineries ,and historical parks nearby.Occasionally our Chicken Ranch Casino is offering DRIVE IN movie nights.Info available upon request, Tuolumne Visitor Bureau member.

from

$40

/ night

20. Little Piece of Yosemite

94%

(98)

29mi from Buck Meadows · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mariposa, CA

Learn more about this land: River status: Swimmable but stopped flowing as of 6/28 Camp on our small piece of paradise located near Yosemite. We are a family of 5 (me, my husband, our two toddlers and our dog, River) living on 5 acres of mountain land in the foothills of the Sierras complete with an outdoor shower and bath and also flowing (seasonal) stream that you can swim in. Feel free to wander around the property on a few of our trails or just chill by the water and enjoy the magic of the mountains. Our property is about a 55 min drive to the Yosemite entrance. PLUS another 15 mins to the main attractions. Dogs are more than welcome as long as they are ok with our dog wandering around. He’s super sweet loves everybody.

Camper favorites near Buck Meadows

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Mommapeggs Getaway in the seirra

97%

(174)

19mi from Buck Meadows · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · Chinese Camp, CA

The property is surrounded by many mines that have Claims in place to this day .The peaceful country views are a welcomed treat for most that that are able to visit Tuolumne county.Come by and Sit A BIT here in the Sierra foothills via your way to many adventurous spots here via Yosemite, Redwoods in Arnold, or even a day trip over the passes to Nevada s ghost town Bodie. Visit our local wineries ,and historical parks nearby.Occasionally our Chicken Ranch Casino is offering DRIVE IN movie nights.Info available upon request, Tuolumne Visitor Bureau member.

from

$40

/ night

Little Piece of Yosemite

94%

(98)

29mi from Buck Meadows · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mariposa, CA

Learn more about this land: River status: Swimmable but stopped flowing as of 6/28 Camp on our small piece of paradise located near Yosemite. We are a family of 5 (me, my husband, our two toddlers and our dog, River) living on 5 acres of mountain land in the foothills of the Sierras complete with an outdoor shower and bath and also flowing (seasonal) stream that you can swim in. Feel free to wander around the property on a few of our trails or just chill by the water and enjoy the magic of the mountains. Our property is about a 55 min drive to the Yosemite entrance. PLUS another 15 mins to the main attractions. Dogs are more than welcome as long as they are ok with our dog wandering around. He’s super sweet loves everybody.

Canyon Crest Private Camping and RV

88%

(37)

18mi from Buck Meadows · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Mariposa, CA

Canyon Crest Campground and RV: Your Quiet Yosemite Getaway Are you looking for a rustic, off-grid, peaceful camping spot near Yosemite? Check out Canyon Crest Campground and RV in Mariposa! What it is: * 100-acre property with rustic RV/tent sites, vintage campers, and cabins for rent. * Perfect for escaping the city and enjoying nature. * Rich in Gold Rush history! Where it is: * Near Yosemite National Park (33 miles to the entrance: approx. an hour drive). * In the historic Whitlock Mining district. * Close to the Merced River Recreation Area and 12 miles to the Historic town of Mariposa. What you can do: * Explore Yosemite. * Hike and enjoy the scenery. * Relax and watch for wildlife (deer, turkeys, hawks, maybe even a bear!). Where you can stay: * 2 Tent Sites: No hookups or water, but you'll have a fire pit, privacy, and plenty of space. * Cozy Camper: Sleeps 4, has hot water, A/C, stove, fridge, toilet, and shower. * Hummingbird Camper: Sleeps 2, has hot water, A/C, stove, toilet, and shower. This site is not kid-friendly. * Cabins on the Hilltop: 2 cabins each furnished with a queen bed, electricity, and A/C. * Dry Camp Pull-Through RV: 1 RV site, no hook-ups. Beautiful, serene view, the road is easy. Pull through or back in. Fire pit. This site is set apart from the others. Important things to know: * The road to the Pull-In Dry Camp RV is gravel and easy to navigate. * The road to the remaining sites is unpaved, rocky, mountainous, and very rough. This terrain can be difficult to navigate so AWD or 4WD vehicles are recommended. Low-profile vehicles are not advised. Optional parking may be available for the hike-in. * Creeks are full in the wet season but dry up in summer. Good to know: * People who have stayed there like how quiet it is and how close it is to Yosemite. * There are other camping options nearby if Canyon Crest is booked. Want a quiet, historical, and nature-filled Yosemite experience? Canyon Crest Campground and RV might be the place!

Private Reservoir

96%

(47)

48mi from Buck Meadows · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Valley Springs, CA

Private property on a private reservoir. Enjoy some quiet time on the water, swimming, fishing, camping or just sitting and enjoying this hidden gem. Conveniently located a couple minutes from town to get some groceries or even fast food and gas. Also minutes from the large lake of New Hogan if your brining a jet ski or boat. Come relax on this 10 acres of private water access. Fish till your heart is content. Please catch and release. We have a variety of fish: Bass, Blue Gill, Cat fish and even some big Carp. Use our canoe or paddle boat or bring your own kayak, SUP, canoe etc. Newly added large floating dock, sand beach and large swing set/ hammock polls. Come play and have fun and listen to the sounds of frogs at night and the birds in the morning.

Angels Hideaway

100%

(4)

40mi from Buck Meadows · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Angels Camp, CA

Hilltop Yurt and RV Parking Enjoy a large deck with an outdoor shower and scenic views. The front half of the property features sloping oaks, open space, and a seasonal pond, while the backside is wooded with a path leading down to the creek bed at the base of the hill. Make a campfire, BBQ, pan for gold, and soak up the fresh air. A swing for kids hangs from an oak near the yurt, and other trees onsite are perfect for a hammock. The solar panel powers basic amenities in the 24 ft yurt (2 beds), including the on-demand water heater for the shower. The bathroom is an outhouse. There’s ample space to pitch tents or dry camp in an RV. Please note: The driveway is a bit steep, so 4-wheel drive is preferred.

Historical Columbia Campground

97%

(18)

25mi from Buck Meadows · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Columbia, CA

Tucked-Away Camping Retreat Near Historic Columbia Escape to this peaceful, tucked-away slice of land just minutes from the heart of Columbia. Nestled just outside town, the land offers wide, flat space ideal for tent camping or RV parking (no hookups, just how the wild likes it). Enjoy the simplicity of the outdoors with picnic tables, a convenient wash station, and a classic outhouse as your restroom option — true rustic camping charm. Wander along the on-site ¼-mile nature trail or sit back and listen to the sounds of bluejays, woodpeckers, and doves. If you're lucky, you might catch sight of a wild turkey or a deer passing through. Spring and summer evenings bring stunning sunsets you won’t want to miss. Nearby Attractions: Just a 15–20 minute walk (or under a mile drive) to Historic Downtown Columbia 6 miles to the scenic Natural Bridges 6 miles to downtown Sonora — great for shopping, dining, and local brews 13 miles to Murphys, home to charming shops and renowned local wineries 15 miles to Ironstone Vineyard 10miles to the awe-inspiring Moaning Caverns Within 30 miles: five beautiful lakes — New Melones, Don Pedro, Lake Tulloch, Lake Hogan, and Wood Lakes - Perfect for Fishing & Kayaking Independently owned and operated, no other affiliations.

Camping At Yosemite's Doorstep

96%

(96)

6.7mi from Buck Meadows · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Groveland, CA

Reserve your tent site on 15 exclusive, wooded-acres only 10 minutes from the entrance to Yosemite National Park. Once you've set up camp, you can explore the walking trails on the property and if you make it to the top, why not enjoy a lovely picnic with beautiful mountain views? Conveniently located across the highway from a gas station and a general store, you never have to worry about running out of ice or forgetting to bring the bug spray. If our base package isn't enough, as an "extra" we can have a tent set up and ready for you when you arrive. Whatever you're looking for, Yosemite's Doorstep is ready to provide the ideal camping experience to suit your needs.

Leards L-3 Ranch

100%

(179)

39mi from Buck Meadows · 1 site · Tent, RV · Oakdale, CA

The L3 Ranch was founded in 1974 when my grandfather bought the property for his show cows.  In 1978, someone gave him a racehorse to pay off a debt. From then on, the property was known for its Quarter horse race horses, with some of the best in the state being born right here. In 2013 he found our he had cancer and handed the ranch down to me, Travis.  While he survived the cancer, he's happy in retirement playing cards with his buddies every week and hanging out with his dog.Now the ranch is known for its horse boarding, cattle, and goats. We even hold weddings and events at the lake sometime.  My main goal is to bring the ranch in a more in line with sustainable ranching. Its a process, but I love what I am doing, and where the ranch is going.

Public campgrounds near Buck Meadows

Lost Claim Campground

0.9mi from Buck Meadows · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stanislaus National Forest

83%

(3)

Sweetwater Campground

3.4mi from Buck Meadows · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stanislaus National Forest

94%

(128)

Hodgdon Meadow Campground

10mi from Buck Meadows · 104 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

100%

(8)

Dimond O Campground

11mi from Buck Meadows · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stanislaus National Forest

Railroad Flat Campground

14mi from Buck Meadows · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sierra National Forest

There is a large BBQ kitchen area that we enjoyed very much

83%

(3)

River Ranch Campground

14mi from Buck Meadows · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stanislaus National Forest

the photo that Hipcamp posted as representing Cherry Valley campground is not correct. That is not a photo of Cherry Lake, which is next to Cherry Valley Campground. I've included a photo of Cherry Lake, taken from the Dam road.

67%

(6)

Cherry Valley Campground

14mi from Buck Meadows · 45 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stanislaus National Forest

100%

(1)

Willow Placer Campground

14mi from Buck Meadows · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sierra National Forest

95%

(53)

Crane Flat Campground

15mi from Buck Meadows · 161 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

McCabe Flat Campground

15mi from Buck Meadows · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sierra National Forest

100%

(14)

Tamarack Flat Campground

19mi from Buck Meadows · 104 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

100%

(2)

Hull Creek Campground

19mi from Buck Meadows · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stanislaus National Forest

Stories from the community

G

Gaven

6 days ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

The campground has amazing views of the canyon and waterfalls. The bathrooms and campsites were very clean and the area felt very safe, definitely would recommend to come camp.

R

Robert

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Diamond Gulch

Great place. The host was warm and welcoming. Loads of signs to find your way. The cows roam but can be close sometimes which was fun. I stayed at the top of the hill in a sense and woke up to a great sunrise. Clean porta potty and overall clean site. Loads of places to discard trash. Great place and close enough to Yosemite.

M

Michael

2 weeks ago

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Squirrel Rock RV Campground

Our stay at Squirrel Rock was absolutely fantastic. Julie was super nice and gave us the perfect balance of attention and privacy. The campground is beautiful and so well maintained plus there are lots of things to see in the Columbia area. We will definitely be coming back and recommend Squirrel Rock to everyone else looking for a quiet getaway in the gold country.

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Gwendal

2 weeks ago

25 ft Class C

With kids

Weekend Trip to Squirrel Rock RV Campground

Beautiful camp, extremely well maintained. Our 2 families had a great time and the kids loved climbing the rocks! Walking distance to Columbia state park as well! Highly recommend

M

Madison

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Diamond Gulch

we’ve stayed at John’s farm 3 times now, once in spring and twice in late November. every time it has been so amazing! the property is gorgeous and there’s so much open grassy areas to wander and sit on a blanket and just enjoy being in nature and not hearing any sounds but cows mooing! the porta potty is always clean and the camping spaces are large and well equipped with fire pits and wood! i would highly recommend John’s land to anyone. thank you again for sharing your property, John!

S

Sabina

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

My husband and I had an amazing stay at this campsite! The bathrooms were extremely clean and well-maintained, with two separate restrooms each equipped with a sink. The showers had reliably hot water. The campsite itself came with a picnic table and benches, a fire ring (with propane available to rent for an additional fee), and a nicely leveled area perfect for setting up tents. There were convenient small water stations nearby. The views were beautiful, and the site was very easy to find thanks to the clear and detailed instructions from Leeza and Tom. They were incredibly responsive and diligent hosts, making the entire process—from locating the site to settling in—smooth and stress-free. The location is also excellent: just about 40–50 minutes from the Yosemite entrance, making it a convenient and affordable option for exploring the park. For our first time camping in a car and visiting Yosemite, this was the ideal spot. We really enjoyed our stay and are already planning to return. Perfect for a one-night weekend getaway from the city. Highly recommended! 🌲✨

D

Deverie

3 weeks ago

22 ft travel trailer

1 night at Leards L-3 Ranch

Cool Cowboy Vibe!! Surrounded by Pond, Trees & Vineyards, Lots of Amazing Creatures, Private & Peaceful. Sitting around the Fire Pit listening to all the birds.

J

Jamie

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

What an incredible and private space. Wendy and Hudson were fantastic host and we cannot wait to come back again.

H

Hillary

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

Beautiful area and views, very peaceful. Our plan for a heat source didn’t cut it and the hosts were super helpful and responsive anytime we messaged!

C

Clayton

3 weeks ago

21 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Canyon Crest Private Camping and RV

Very pretty spot! great views. Deer sightings! Nice flat and level.

RV/Van Site with full hookups at Camp Electra

Jhonathan

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Camp Electra in Mokelumne Hill

Ryan was a great host and very gracious. We purchased firewood from him and he brought us kindling twice when we were having trouble, teaching us about making fires along the way. We have an RV, but there is an outhouse with toilet and hot shower, and a sink to do dishes on the other side. Great view of the stars with minimal light pollution. Would recommend.

M

Mia

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake

Amazing and attentive hosts, Jeremy is awesome! Super friendly animals on the property and great views of the lake. Highly recommend, hosted our large group with ease. Will be returning!!

R

Ruth

November 2025

29 ft Class C

With kids

1 night at Diamond Gulch

Very quiet, basic campsite. We loved it! The road to the campsite is narrow and a bit bumpy, but we made it with our 28ft motorhome.

R

Rosalina

November 2025

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Diamond Gulch

It was such a peaceful place. It's super clean and we just loved the beautiful nights with endless firewood! Thank you for such a great experience!

K

Kryss

November 2025

25 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cole Ranch

We've camped at Cole Ranch twice now and had a great time both times. Barry is a great host. I love the amenities there.

G

Garrett

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Historical Columbia Campground

Very peaceful and close to everything there is to do, if you want to go for a hike natural bridges is 15 minutes away

E

Eric

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Great amount of space and beautiful surroundings ! Be warned , narrow windings roads but most cars and trucks should handle it, RVs and trailers may have trouble

L

Liss

November 2025

24 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

The Hipcamp was perfect for our RV, we just pulled right up to the deck. No worries about rocks or stickers! Morning view with coffee was peaceful and the starry night was beyond words. The water fill station was convenient and the bathrooms were clean and comfortable. We came out to enjoy Yosemite and we were so close to the gate we lounged in the morning and got to the park so early we had the best parking space for our 24ft. Lastly, there are beautiful river spots on the way to Yosemite. Hope the review was helpful!

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Cam

November 2025

20 ft campervan

2 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

Knowledgeable, well prepared and communicative. Hot showers and clean bathrooms and the views are STUNNING.

D

Dennis

November 2025

25 ft travel trailer