The best campgrounds near Chowchilla, California with hiking

In Chowchilla, camping and hiking go hand in hand. With over 850 campsites set up for hikers, you’ll find spots tucked among rolling hills, oak woodlands, and creekside meadows. Expect easy access to local trails, plus options for horseback riding and wildlife-watching if you want to mix it up. Facilities like toilets and showers are common, and many sites welcome pets. Prices average around $75 a night, but you can pitch your tent for as little as $35. Check out top picks like Wondernut Farm (415 reviews), Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC (379 reviews), and Yosemite Westlake Camp (347 reviews). If you want a base for sunrise hikes and starlit evenings, this corner of California delivers.

92% (2.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Chowchilla, camping and hiking go hand in hand. With over 850 campsites set up for hikers, you’ll find spots tucked among rolling hills, oak woodlands, and creekside meadows. Expect easy access to local trails, plus options for horseback riding and wildlife-watching if you want to mix it up. Facilities like toilets and showers are common, and many sites welcome pets. Prices average around $75 a night, but you can pitch your tent for as little as $35. Check out top picks like Wondernut Farm (415 reviews), Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC (379 reviews), and Yosemite Westlake Camp (347 reviews). If you want a base for sunrise hikes and starlit evenings, this corner of California delivers.

92% (2.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

98%

(366)

49mi from Chowchilla · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Shaver Lake, CA

Musick Creek Falls — Waterfalls, Stargazing & Off-Grid Luxury Near Shaver Lake Just minutes from Shaver Lake, your wilderness adventure awaits. Welcome to Musick Creek Falls—40 acres of sunsets, serenity, and the occasional Sasquatch. Each of our four private campsites has a gazebo, fresh spring water, and its own waterfall view. Nestled at the edge of the Sierra National Forest, this hidden retreat blends adventure, comfort, and sustainability. Swim in natural pools, stargaze through our telescope, or nap in a hammock under towering cedars. Bring your pup—our off-leash policy and open terrain make tails wag. Explore private hiking trails, try gold panning, climb granite boulders, or borrow a free kayak for nearby Shaver Lake. As the region’s first carbon-negative campground, we honor the land’s rich history—from the Native Nuumm (Mono) people who gathered here for its medicine to the Musick family’s 1848 gold strike. Today, every stay supports forest restoration and replanting projects that keep this place wild. Rugged but accessible (4×4 helpful in winter), Musick Creek Falls offers creekside camping, mountain views, and crystal-clear skies for the best stargazing in the Sierras. Four secluded sites ensure privacy and a light footprint—complete with composting toilet, fire rings, and picnic tables. Reconnect with nature, your partner, and your inner explorer. 🌲 Book your stay today and discover why even Sasquatch never left. Learn more at MusickCreekFalls.com Activities: 🌌 Stargazing with telescope 🥾 Private hiking trails 🐾 Off-leash dog adventures 💧 Waterfall swimming holes 🧗 Granite rock climbing 🪶 Wildlife & bird watching ⛏️ Gold panning 🚴 Mountain biking 🛶 Free kayaks for Shaver Lake Terrain: Cascading waterfalls weave through cedar and manzanita groves. Rugged granite outcrops, mossy creek beds, and forest clearings create endless photo ops. Expect elevation around 4,500 ft, crisp air, and incredible night skies. Essentials: Four secluded sites with gazebos, composting toilet, and spring water. Fire rings and picnic tables at each site. No hookups—off-grid experience. Cell service limited. 4×4 helpful but not required except after snowstorms. Shaver Lake 6 min away for supplies.

2. Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

96%

(332)

37mi from Chowchilla · 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.

3. Yosemite Westlake Camp

88%

(642)

45mi from Chowchilla · 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.

4. Eastman Lake

100%

(3)

106 sites · Yosemite Lakes, California

This scenic retreat draws nature lovers and oudoor enthusiasts.

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5. Hensley Lake

100%

(2)

55 sites · Yosemite Lakes, California

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

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6. Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

44mi from Chowchilla · 1 site · Lodging · Coulterville, CA

Escape into the wilderness at our newly renovated 3-br, 2,700 sq ft Kowana Valley Lodge. Once a Gold Rush era cottage and homestead, the Lodge is perched uphill next to a running creek and features 100% off-grid systems to provide the comforts of home in the middle of the Stanislaus National Forest. Imagine dark skies filled with STARS, a running creek, the stillness of the forest, and the smell of nature. Visit as a stand-alone retreat or as a base camp for excursions into Yosemite National Park. The space Kowana Valley Lodge is a custom-built 2,700 sq ft lodge nestled in the middle of the Stanislaus National Forest. With 3 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms, 2 studies, a chef's kitchen, a fire pit area, and a rec room with a ping pong table, Kowana Valley Lodge is well-equipped to host a large family or group of friends. Guests will also have access to explore the entire 300-acre property (a trail map is provided at the Lodge), along with miles and miles of dirt roads and national forest land that surround us! Guest access The Lodge is equipped with a smart lock allowing you access via a temporary code. The access gate to the property will be left open throughout your stay. There is no cell service in the area. Internet service via Starlink is provided as a Wifi connection. For your safety, please enable Wifi calling on your cell phone and download offline maps via Google Maps, onX, or your preferred navigation mobile app. *You must drive ~4 miles of dirt and gravel road to reach Kowana Valley Lodge. The road is not steep but is narrow at spots and dusty when dry. Access with a 2WD vehicle is not a problem. **The closest medical facility is at least 40 minutes away in Groveland, so be aware and be prepared for those with underlying medical conditions or needs.**

7. Wondernut Farm

97%

(612)

47mi from Chowchilla · 4 sites · Lodging · Big Oak Flat, CA

Wondernut Farm is an upstart, entirely off grid, working farm-stead being built from the ground up. We breed milking goats and sheep, heritage pigs, and are in the process of converting to a grade A dairy and creamery! We use organic practices, management intensive rotational grazing, and dryland pasture management. We sell our animals locally so that others can have their own milking and meat animals. Our 110 year old hay barn and the roof of the former lumber mill were all we had to work with in getting off the ground. Being first and foremost a functional farm, we can't help but offer a somewhat warts-and-all look into everything it takes to be working to our goals. Our hearts are, and always will be, educational and local community focused, and we work closely with farmers and friends alike in better understanding our innovative animal husbandry, power, pasture and water systems. Whenever we have time, we'll afford the same time and opportunities to interested hip-campers. Our location is stunning and historic, and the beauty of the wild, natural landscape is powerful, yet offers easy access to both Yosemite Valley and the San Francisco Bay area. The area features excellent road and mountain biking in the immediate vicinity, vast access to hiking and backpacking trails, a huge variety of rock climbing in the area, the best whitewater rafting in California on the Tuolumne River, with some tasty places to eat or drink coffee in the nearby town of Groveland, just 10 minutes away. Accommodations at the farm are certainly rustic, and private but not secluded, with occasionally heavily project-exploded shared kitchen and living space, showers, and airy flush toilets. Do be advised that animals are pooping, hammers are hammering, sometimes we need to look into a health or animal injury related issue. Sometimes there is blood in an animal birth or slaughter, and our working guardian dogs have been known to be noisy some nights. Water and electricity are both very limited (though we reuse all our water), waste must be carefully sorted into a number of different categories, and there is always evidence of ump-teen projects unfolding at once. The most difficult condition during much of the summer are nuisance flies, which are always gone at night. We have almost no mosquitoes or ticks. Depending on the exact situation and time of year, guests may have the opportunities to snuggle with baby animals and run our herd to or from pasture, and maybe even get their hands dirty picking veggies in the garden.

8. Red Dragonfly Ranch

98%

(208)

48mi from Chowchilla · 20 sites · Tents · Groveland, CA

Red Dragonfly Ranch – Your Yosemite Basecamp in Groveland, CA Discover Red Dragonfly Ranch, a tranquil camping retreat nestled in a beautiful valley along the seasonal Cobb Creek—just 10 minutes from historic downtown Groveland and only 29 miles from Yosemite National Park’s Big Oak Flat entrance. Set in the heart of California’s Gold Country, our ranch offers the perfect balance of quiet seclusion and easy access to adventure. Spend your days hiking Yosemite’s breathtaking trails, exploring Groveland’s charming shops and saloons, or uncovering the rich history of the Sierra Nevada. After a day of exploration, unwind at your private campsite, relax by the fire, and gaze at a brilliant canopy of stars. Ideal for tent campers, vanlifers, and outdoor enthusiasts, Red Dragonfly Ranch provides a peaceful escape surrounded by nature while keeping you close to Yosemite’s wonders. 📍 Location Highlights: • 10 minutes to Groveland’s Main Street dining, drinks & live music • 29 miles to Yosemite National Park (Big Oak Flat entrance) • Convenient to hiking trails, scenic drives & Sierra Nevada adventures Follow us on Instagram @red_dragonfly_ranch for updates and Sierra sunset views! Come for the adventure, stay for the stars—Red Dragonfly Ranch is your perfect gateway to Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada.

9. Little Piece of Yosemite

94%

(98)

32mi from Chowchilla · 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.

10. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

80%

(9)

140 sites · Friant, California

Play in the water or boat on the lake created by the Friant Dam.

11. McConnell State Recreation Area

100%

(3)

21 sites · Livingston, California

On the banks of Merced River lies an oasis for fishing and beating the heat.

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12. 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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13. San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

90%

(17)

18 sites · Santa Nella, California

Welcome to the largest offstream reservoir in the United States.

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14. RandCher Vineyards

99%

(108)

45mi from Chowchilla · 4 sites · RVs · Caruthers, CA

Our families heritage in the San Joaquin Valley is over 100 years, we are California grown! The land was purchased from the railroad in 1919 by Grandpa Coen when he immigrated to the USA after his service to the British Empire during WW1. Grandpa established and maintained the vineyards during his life in California's Central Valley which he left to his daughter, Irene. She kept the farming tradition going with her husband, Al, and they expanded by purchasing surrounding land and planting more vines. Today their daughter, Cheryl, and son-in-law Randy, continues the family farming tradition for the next century. Please note! Caruthers Fair is September 24-27th. Fun Country Fair with homemade food and a parade on Saturday morning. You can take a video tour of our vineyards watching Mike Brewer's "World of Cars", Season 1, Episode 11 - A Pint in the Hand https://youtu.be/HAZiHdQVjcI?si=f41sKOIxBn0knodX LONG TERM POSSIBLE - CALL THE HOST FOR DETAILS

15. Mercey Hot Springs Resort

95%

(10)

45mi from Chowchilla · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · Firebaugh, CA

Mercey hot springs is an off grid natural hot springs oasis located in the Diablo range of Central California, 13 miles west of I-5. With 20 individual outdoor tubs, stunning natural surroundings, Mercey is a magical place for you to unwind, relax, heal and enjoy nature. You can hike and mountain bike in our quiet 144 acre property or just chill, observe the wildlife and birds that call Mercey home. Experience Tranquility at its best!

16. El Captain’s View 4X4 ONLY Yosemite

71%

(17)

41mi from Chowchilla · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · El Portal, CA

80 majestic acres of mountain top with a bird's eye view of El Capitan in Yosemite! No frills, no extras, just you and nature. 4x4 access only. Surrounded by over 500,000 acres of land owned by the U.S. Forest Service, there are no houses or stores (45 Minute drive). Far below in elevation is the Merced River and its many swimming and fishing holes (45 Minute drive). Look to the west to see the coastal mountains. Gaze across the Yosemite Valley to the East at iconic El Capitan in the distance. Take a drive into the Yosemite National Park (1 hour drive). Escape the hustle and bustle and federal laws of Yosemite at night (420 friendly). Inclusive. Views in every direction. Breathtaking sunsets. Incredible wildlife. Freedom. America the Beautiful!

17. Camp SourBerry (near Yosemite)

96%

(85)

35mi from Chowchilla · 2 sites · Tents · Oakhurst, CA

Welcome to Camp SourBerry! Here, you can pitch your tent 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 pets off-leash. 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.

18. Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

94%

(1176)

36mi from Chowchilla · 8 sites · Tents · Oakhurst, CA

Welcome HipCampers! 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 (OYBC) 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!

19. Madera,CA Countryside Ranch Camping

92%

(58)

25mi from Chowchilla · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Bonadelle Ranchos Madera Ranchos, CA

Camp in the country with beautiful sunsets, sunrises, and night sky. A & M Ranch (40 acres) is located 10 min north of Fresno and near Hwy 41 which leads to the mountains. Many travelers stop here on their way to the national parks (Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Sequoia). We are also close to hiking trails, lakes, Sierra mountains, wineries, farmers' markets, and casinos. When you arrive, you will see our four alpacas in their pen, a mini donkey, two Nigerian dwarf goats, and maybe a few cats. We have designated spots for Tent camping, although if you'd like another spot let us know. Each site is listed separately. We are listed on other platforms, so there may be other guests here. Marta also has a shop if you are interested in refurbished items or alpaca products. We are not a day camp, so if you stay a few nights, we expect you to be out most of the day. You may hear coyotes at night, and see lots of squirrels and wild bunnies. Be careful of squirrel holes. *** If we do not respond right away and give approval, it is because sometimes our schedule changes. We usually respond WITHIN the week of your stay. We generally do not accept reservations more than 3 months ahead of time. Since we also travel, sometime we have unexpected family visits.

20. BaseCampByBo!

95%

(342)

50mi from Chowchilla · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Groveland, CA

If you are looking for man made and leveled campsites, then this is not your basecamp. This land is a gorgeous 20 acres that means a lot to us.  It's space to find your peace of mind and pitch a tent or hammock, as you would when hiking the backcountry.  Aside from complimentary ice water, potty, shower, soaps, sanitizer, sunscreen, first aid, communal fire pit, wood stove and dishwashing area) this is not "glamping".  If you are  a person who appreciates nature and making due with what the land has provided, then we are a great fit. Guests have 20 acres to find a secluded, or socially distanced spot to pitch camp. This is for people that know how to camp in the backcountry -  Without a trash can, who don’t leave cigarette butts, respect the land and would rather not be sectioned off. Flat areas are all over if you explore, and use your feet to brush aside rocks and twigs, to lay down a tent base, as we do every time we camp in the backcountry. The geography of these mountains is just that, hills and mountains. The vista at the top of the property is gorgeous and easily camps 5 tents spaced out. The property does offer many other great camping areas, and I’m more than happy to point them out. Yosemite is 30 minutes away, Don Pedro lake is 30 minutes, Cherry Lake is 30 minutes, Preston falls and Carlon falls are both 30 min away.  Downtown Groveland Is 7 minutes away, and other historic towns are not too far.  Close to many swimming holes. Rainbow pools is 15 minutes away. 10 min from the local grocery store and other local shops. Base Camp is just off of highway 120. Sonora has a great farmers market on Sunday and is a beautiful 40 min drive away. Thank you for taking time to read this, we look forward to hosting you!  -Best    Jarrett & Bo

Camper favorites near Chowchilla

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Madera,CA Countryside Ranch Camping

92%

(58)

25mi from Chowchilla · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Bonadelle Ranchos Madera Ranchos, CA

Camp in the country with beautiful sunsets, sunrises, and night sky. A & M Ranch (40 acres) is located 10 min north of Fresno and near Hwy 41 which leads to the mountains. Many travelers stop here on their way to the national parks (Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Sequoia). We are also close to hiking trails, lakes, Sierra mountains, wineries, farmers' markets, and casinos. When you arrive, you will see our four alpacas in their pen, a mini donkey, two Nigerian dwarf goats, and maybe a few cats. We have designated spots for Tent camping, although if you'd like another spot let us know. Each site is listed separately. We are listed on other platforms, so there may be other guests here. Marta also has a shop if you are interested in refurbished items or alpaca products. We are not a day camp, so if you stay a few nights, we expect you to be out most of the day. You may hear coyotes at night, and see lots of squirrels and wild bunnies. Be careful of squirrel holes. *** If we do not respond right away and give approval, it is because sometimes our schedule changes. We usually respond WITHIN the week of your stay. We generally do not accept reservations more than 3 months ahead of time. Since we also travel, sometime we have unexpected family visits.

BaseCampByBo!

95%

(342)

50mi from Chowchilla · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Groveland, CA

If you are looking for man made and leveled campsites, then this is not your basecamp. This land is a gorgeous 20 acres that means a lot to us.  It's space to find your peace of mind and pitch a tent or hammock, as you would when hiking the backcountry.  Aside from complimentary ice water, potty, shower, soaps, sanitizer, sunscreen, first aid, communal fire pit, wood stove and dishwashing area) this is not "glamping".  If you are  a person who appreciates nature and making due with what the land has provided, then we are a great fit. Guests have 20 acres to find a secluded, or socially distanced spot to pitch camp. This is for people that know how to camp in the backcountry -  Without a trash can, who don’t leave cigarette butts, respect the land and would rather not be sectioned off. Flat areas are all over if you explore, and use your feet to brush aside rocks and twigs, to lay down a tent base, as we do every time we camp in the backcountry. The geography of these mountains is just that, hills and mountains. The vista at the top of the property is gorgeous and easily camps 5 tents spaced out. The property does offer many other great camping areas, and I’m more than happy to point them out. Yosemite is 30 minutes away, Don Pedro lake is 30 minutes, Cherry Lake is 30 minutes, Preston falls and Carlon falls are both 30 min away.  Downtown Groveland Is 7 minutes away, and other historic towns are not too far.  Close to many swimming holes. Rainbow pools is 15 minutes away. 10 min from the local grocery store and other local shops. Base Camp is just off of highway 120. Sonora has a great farmers market on Sunday and is a beautiful 40 min drive away. Thank you for taking time to read this, we look forward to hosting you!  -Best    Jarrett & Bo

Willow Belle Ranch

100%

(31)

41mi from Chowchilla · 2 sites · Lodging · North Fork, CA

Hello, we have a very unique and peaceful 20 acre ranch. WBR is a great base camp for those who love adventure and activities. After a full day of your choice of Yosemite adventures, hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, shopping, eating, kayaking and exploring the area….,just the tip of the iceberg, come on back to the ranch and enjoy the peaceful sounds of a crackling fire along with the rest of natures ambiance and rolling water from Willow Creek just outside the property line. We have friendly dogs, cats, horses, pigs and chickens in which our guests may tour the property and enjoy what we have been blessed with.

Yosemite & Bass Lake Rustic Cabin

88%

(24)

38mi from Chowchilla · 1 site · Lodging · Oakhurst, CA

Indoor sleeping accommodation for two, outdoor/indoor lighting, electrical outlets, good cell phone coverage, camping area, picnic table, drinkable well water, propane grill, propane provided for the grill, outdoor sun shower and portable restroom are provided. The is a WiFi network available but coverage is weak. Deer and turkey sightings occur frequently, and hiking trails are located on this 10-acre wooded property. Two seasonal creeks also located on the property which are typically flowing until early June. There is also an Airbnb cabin located on this wooded property about 100 yards uphill from the camp. The site is centrally located about between Oakhurst and Bass Lake about 10 to 15 minutes away from either location. The south entrance of Yosemite National Park is about 25 minutes away.

Big Table Ranch

100%

(3)

43mi from Chowchilla · 1 site · Lodging · Coulterville, CA

In Sierra Foothills, 45 mins to Yosemite. near McClure Lake and Don Pedro. Super great for dogs and kids!! Base price is for 6 guests, $250-350(winter/summer) nightly, $35 extra per night per person in addition. 3 dogs (and cats) are included. Chat us up if you have more. 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath. Speak with us for larger groups. 2200' elevation. 4WD not needed. Summer- 85-100 degrees. Winter 35-55. Private use - 5 acres. Larger groups welcome. People relocating from fires with more pets welcome! Guest House with well stocked kitchen (2 fridges, stove/double oven, dishwasher, back deck bbq, sundries), smart tv, fireplace (we have tons of wood), air conditioning and free wifi (works perfectly 99% of the time). Home is one floor with front and back porches. Our unique property is an old working ranch with 35 acres of meadows, an old cabin, barn, natural springs, an inground pool, hot tub and swimming cistern. Our guest house is near the road and easily accessible but still very private. Roads are flat and parking easy. You have full and private access to the house, hot tub and pool areas. Near the pools: outdoor shower, sink, lounge chairs, covered and sunny areas. Our pools are not heated (and do not have the ability to be heated) and are covered in the winter months (November to April). Extra large living and dining room. 2 couches, 2 large dining room tables, smart tv, bluetooth speaker, games, pub table. Bedroom 1: 1 queen with private bathroom(shower) Bedroom 2: 1 queen and 1 twin bunkbed Bedroom 3: 1 queen and 1 twin bunkbed Bathrooms 1&2: sink, shower and toilet Bathroom 3: sink and toilet We provide all bedding, towels, kitchen basics and paper goods. The ranch is solar-powered (not off-grid) with an artesian well and septic system. Please use biodegradable products for your showers and washing. Our property is great for dogs. Up to 3 at no extra costs. If you want to bring more chat us up. The 5 acres around the guest house are fenced but in front and at the driveway it's open. We have horses, deer, turkeys, barn cats... roaming around and we have farm dogs enclosed at our house. Our base price is for 6 guests, $35 extra per night per person in addition. When writing us, Let us know that you have read the full description of our space. Thanks

Jackass Hostel

98%

(24)

41mi from Chowchilla · 1 site · Tent · North Fork, CA

Located 23 miles (45 min drive) to the southern entrance of Yosemite, minutes from Bass Lake and a short walk to the sleepy town of North Fork where you'll find food, coffee and grocery stores, Jackass Hostel offers comfortable backyard style camping on .3 acres with a communal fire pit and views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Bring your tent and throw down in our backyard. This is a great location if you are looking for a rest between adventures where you can shower, use a kitchen and rest. Please note that this is backyard style camping. If you are looking for a remote campground in the woods, this isn’t it. Outdoor adventurists, backpackers and campers welcome! Our hostel is 18+ due to insurance, safety, and liability requirements. Additionally, the space isn’t childproofed and is designed with adult travelers in mind.

Golden Foothills

100%

(1)

27mi from Chowchilla · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Yosemite Ridge Basecamp

76%

(131)

50mi from Chowchilla · 21 sites · Lodging · Groveland, CA

Come hang at our awesome Park located just 11 miles outside of Yosemite National Park. We have plenty of space for you. *** Please read the entire listing before booking*** ***All guests must check-in inside the general store upon arrival.*** ***Please choose the right site for your needs. *** The store is open from 11am - 7pm. If you are arriving after 7pm you must call or message us to setup your arrival. Late check-ins are subject to a $25 fee to pay staff. Absolutely No arrivals past 8pm, you will be asked to leave. Setup is not allowed during quiet hours. The ridge campsites are for 4x4 camper vans or pickup campers only. Rigs must be fully self sufficient with toilets onboard. There is no restroom on the ridge sites. You will not be allowed to camp on the ridge without 4x4 and an onboard toilet. The tent and RV campground is available for all guests. ***Please respect the land and leave no trace. Water is available at tent sites but electricity or sewer are not. Bathrooms, showers, and laundry are located about 300ft away. Bathrooms are BYOTP Bring your own Toilet Paper.*** Cellular service is extremely limited. AT&T and Verizon work in certain random spots. Wifi only works in the main area of the park. It does not work at the tent sites. Wifi passes are $5 and available as an add-on or inside the general store. It is good enough to make calls, text, receive email and get directions. It is not for streaming. Quiet hours are 9pm to 7am. If you are we receive repeated complaints you will be asked to leave. Campfires, charcoal bbqs, etc are prohibited due to high fire danger. Only gas / propane stoves are allowed. We are very close to rainbow pools, which is a beautiful water fall and swimming pool. We are 11 miles from the city of Groveland, CA. We are 11 miles to the entrance to Yosemite National Park

Public campgrounds near Chowchilla

Wildcat Campground

16mi from Chowchilla · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eastman Lake

Had a great time chilling with the family! loved the pictures over the water1

100%

(3)

Codorniz Recreation Area and Campground

16mi from Chowchilla · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eastman Lake

Exciting place to visit! Love how much there is to do and the atmosphere.

100%

(2)

Hidden View Campground

19mi from Chowchilla · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hensley Lake

80%

(9)

Millerton Lake Campground

31mi from Chowchilla · 135 sites · Tents, RVs · in Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(3)

McConnell Campground

34mi from Chowchilla · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in McConnell State Recreation Area

McCabe Flat Campground

36mi from Chowchilla · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sierra National Forest

100%

(1)

Willow Placer Campground

37mi from Chowchilla · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sierra National Forest

Railroad Flat Campground

37mi from Chowchilla · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sierra National Forest

Jerseydale Campground

37mi from Chowchilla · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sierra National Forest

75%

(3)

Forks Campground

39mi from Chowchilla · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sierra National Forest

88%

(10)

Los Banos Creek Campground

40mi from Chowchilla · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

Smalley Cove Campground

40mi from Chowchilla · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sierra National Forest

Stories from the community

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Nastashia

2 weeks ago

1 night at Wondernut Farm

We were only able to stay one night and just wish we could have stayed longer! The cabin was nice and cosy, the super moon was bright and the dogs were so welcoming! 💓 I really wish we could have spent more time at the farm but grateful for our stay!

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Mike

2 weeks ago

22 ft Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Communication was great. She helped us get situated late at night. Site was a short walk to stream water. Had plenty of firewood too. Great trip

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kevin

3 weeks ago

18 ft Class B

With kids

4 nights at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

We loved camping here. We took our RV and Popo-Up camper. The hikes were fun and we did great at fishing Huntington Lake. Shaver Lake town is awesome and close.

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Jack

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Westlake Camp

Great site with amenities and very friendly host. Would go back for sure

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Jenna

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Wondernut Farm

Matt + Eve and their amazing staff were beyond warm and welcoming during my stay, making me feel right at home. Everyone was respectful of leaving space for solitude while also being friendly and fun/easy to converse with. The cabin itself is super cute, but partly open-air making it pretty cold this time of year, esp when the sun isn’t on it. I would recommend bringing tons of warm base layers to sleep in or consider booking one of the other cabins with a heat source if you’re feeling unsure! Overall I had an amazing time and would happily return.

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Tori

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Yosemite Westlake Camp

We had a great experience tent camping! There are bathrooms with hot water and showers, and a little camp sink with tons of pots/pans/utensils! The fireplace was great, and gas grills were available too. Easy drive in to Yosemite. Mac and John were friendly and very helpful! We would definitely stay again for a Yosemite visit.

Will

3 weeks ago

With kids

1 night at Wondernut Farm

Wondernut Farm is fantastic. The lookout was gorgeous, calm and super cozy. Despite an overnight 41 degree F temp, we were warm and the amenities were fantastic. The farm is gorgeous as well, we got to see pigs, goats and sheep, and may daughter had the time of her life. Matt and Eve were super welcoming, and everyone was kind. Can't say enough good things.

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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.

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Caroline

3 weeks ago

1 night at Wondernut Farm

We loved this little cabin and the entire stay at Wondernut Farm! Eve met us on arrival around a roaring wood stove in the hand-built glass communal living room. We met all the sweet dogs and then she showed us around the expansive shared kitchen before walking us up the hill to our adorable cabin. The huge window has a great view of the hillside, and we laid in bed watching shooting stars. The bed was SO comfortable, with a thick foam topper and nice sheets and pillows. The next morning, we got to meet the goats, sheep, and pigs as well as learn a little bit about the cheese making process. Highly highly recommend — we hope to go back!

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Scott

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Willow Belle Ranch

What a lovely, quiet, serene piece of the world! You feel the nature around you. I recommend taking a walk down to the creek. Britany was very kind and welcoming, the camper is simple and clean (just what I was going for). Plenty of firewood and friendly animals to greet you. And the stars (lucky it was clear) were absolutely incredible. Highly recommended!

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Alex

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Great host, even with poor weather it was beautiful and enjoyable

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Jay

November 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Amazing campsites all along a fantastic creek and falls !!

j

jan owen

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Yosemite Westlake Camp

I was great. It's a family friendly. The property owner Mac was very accommodating. There's even a gas station just 5mins away.

Covered camping space 20ft wide X 30ft deep

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Micki

November 2025

22 ft campervan

1 night at RandCher Vineyards

We stayed there as a halfway stop on our way to Joshua Tree. I’m originally from the Caruthers area, so i wanted to see the area after a 55 year absence. Cheryl was a responsive and welcoming host. She sent us the gate code and let us find our way. Clear directions and easy to find. Beautiful setting. It was a rainy night, so being under cover was nice.

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Nicholas

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Westlake Camp

Mac was super welcoming and gave us great insight on the area. Shared some great conversations and enjoyed staying at the campground. We stayed off season but we had a great time using the facilities and enjoying Yosemite!

Jasmine

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

This land is so very well loved by Shandie. It really is a hidden world from everything else. Not only was Shandie a wonderful host but her land is truly a gift to the heart. The road to the property is mostly paved and ends with gravel with some larger humps and bumps. But was plenty doable with my boat of a sedan with its questionable clearance. Just take it slow for the more nervous of drivers. Musick Cove is smack dab right next to the falls, and even in the late fall, is roaring with life. It's perfectly intimate for two. It's tucked away with plenty of trees and brush for privacy. If you do wander a bit you can see the other sites, one above the falls and Midway Lookout but like I said the brush and trees provide plenty of privacy. It had a charcoal grill and a fire pit for use. I can see maybe two tents fitting in the area but I would say it comfortably fits one much better. Outhouse is not too far from the site and is clean and cared after frequently. Go explore the land! Of course safely and respectfully but so many things to discover just by walking around. So happy to see the lands returning after the Creek Fire. Could not recommend this enough. Will be returning when the snow melts and brings more life to the already beautiful world Shandie and her crew take so much care for.

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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

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Emily

November 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to RandCher Vineyards

We had an awesome night’s sleep at RandCher. The space was perfectly clean and easy to park in. We were the only campers the night we stayed, and it was a treat to have so private a setting. The coyotes and birds were fun to listen to, and after they went to sleep (?) it was SO QUIET at the vineyard. Very peaceful. Highly recommend1

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Abby

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Had a wonderful stay and would definitely recommend!

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Umut

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Yosemite Westlake Camp

Loved the camp site and the host (Mac) was incredible and shared lots of stories, recommendations, and tips on Yosemite even gave us some tomato’s from his garden! I’d definitely would come back, the camp site has everything you need.