The best cave campgrounds near Coarsegold, California

Welcome to Hipcamp, your ultimate guide to camping adventures near Coarsegold, California. Whether you're an avid cave explorer or just looking to try something different, we've got you covered with over 179 unique options specifically tailored to your cave-loving heart. From stunning natural formations to hidden gems, you'll find the perfect cave camping experience for you. Check out top-rated campsites like Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (388 reviews), River Ridge Ranch -722 acres (348 reviews), and Five Fours Camp in Three Rivers (199 reviews). With amenities like campfires, showers, and trash facilities, and activities like paddling, exploring historic sites, and horseback riding, you're in for a memorable camping experience. Book your cave camping adventure today, with prices starting as low as $25 per night.

94% (338)

Top-rated campgrounds near Coarsegold

Welcome to Hipcamp, your ultimate guide to camping adventures near Coarsegold, California. Whether you're an avid cave explorer or just looking to try something different, we've got you covered with over 179 unique options specifically tailored to your cave-loving heart. From stunning natural formations to hidden gems, you'll find the perfect cave camping experience for you. Check out top-rated campsites like Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (388 reviews), River Ridge Ranch -722 acres (348 reviews), and Five Fours Camp in Three Rivers (199 reviews). With amenities like campfires, showers, and trash facilities, and activities like paddling, exploring historic sites, and horseback riding, you're in for a memorable camping experience. Book your cave camping adventure today, with prices starting as low as $25 per night.

94% (338)

Top-rated campgrounds near Coarsegold

1. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

98%

(366)

23mi from Coarsegold · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

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. Camp ikigai Animal Sanctuary 501c3

90%

(83)

48mi from Coarsegold · 112 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Camp ikigai is a 72 acre farm/ranch stay near Sequoia-Kings (SEKI) Canyon Nat'l Parks. Rescued/EOL horses, sheep, chickens, and ducks freely roam the property. The property has a communal clubhouse with a fully stocked kitchen, washer/dryer, firepit, hot/cold showers, compost and pit toilets, and an above ground swimming pool. Our business is committed to inclusivity and respect for people from all backgrounds and a safe inclusive space for solo female travelers. 30 minutes from park entrance, 20 min from nearby lakes, 50 minutes from Fresno. 3 hours from SF, 3.5 from LA. We have running hot/cold water for our outdoor shower but NO flushable toilets. We have pit and compost toilets filled with cedar shavings for now! Our priorities: 1. Wildfire prevention 2. Community building 3. Environmentalism and Sustainability If you're coming July-Mid August, please know it is HOT (95 average/75 night) and wildfires are a consistent threat. With that, wildfire prevention is a high priority. We have a lot of projects we have started and could use all the help we can get! Some of those are: - invasive species management - tiny home building - gardening/greenhouse building - event space building - raising livestock - medicinal plant growing + onsite apothecary (Come volunteer build the food forest and medicinal garden) Come book a cabin, park a bus or RV, bring a tent, bring your cat/dog/turtle/horse etc. To see volunteer positions/project please visit https://Campikigai.com or https://linktr.ee/ikigaiSanctuary or at VolunteerMatch.com

3. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

98%

(604)

90mi from Coarsegold · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee). Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch. We occasionally host small, thoughtful, low impact weddings. Please inquire. There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public. Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you. Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon. Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us. Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.

4. Sequoia National Forest

98%

(270)

905 sites · Ponderosa, California

Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Stanislaus National Forest

93%

(173)

1530 sites · Strawberry, California

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

35mi from Coarsegold · 1 site · Lodging

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.**

Public campgrounds near Coarsegold

Camp 4 Campground

43mi from Coarsegold · 5 sites · in Sequoia National Forest

Green Cabin Flat Campground

43mi from Coarsegold · 8 sites · in Sequoia National Forest

83%

(3)

Sweetwater Campground

43mi from Coarsegold · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stanislaus National Forest

Mill Flat Campground

43mi from Coarsegold · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sequoia National Forest

100%

(8)

Dimond O Campground

43mi from Coarsegold · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stanislaus National Forest

Lost Claim Campground

44mi from Coarsegold · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stanislaus National Forest

South Fork Campground

45mi from Coarsegold · 9 sites · in Stanislaus National Forest

Lumsden Campground

45mi from Coarsegold · 10 sites · in Stanislaus National Forest

Taken about 3/4 the way down the dirt road to the campsite.

100%

(1)

Lumsden Bridge Campground

45mi from Coarsegold · 9 sites · in Stanislaus National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Dennis

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp ikigai Animal Sanctuary 501c3

Easy to understand instructions to enter the site and very friendly dog and cat who greeted us in the entrance i would definitely go back there just to see them again :)

A

Amanda

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Camp ikigai Animal Sanctuary 501c3

Cutest dog and hosts were really welcoming. Nicely decorated with lights.

J

Justin

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

This was an exceptional experience. This location stands out as the most picturesque I have encountered for camping. The hosts are remarkably supportive and dedicated to ensuring a comfortable stay for our family. I anticipate returning for another adventure.

A

Alex

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

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

J

Jay

November 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Amazing campsites all along a fantastic creek and falls !!

H

Hamid

November 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Pretty epic spot and peaceful. Randy is supper helpful!

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.

S

Serena

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Camp ikigai Animal Sanctuary 501c3

i really loved this campsite :) great amenities, beautiful and spacious site, helpful and responsive hosts, and very adorable dog!

Max

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Shandie was a great host and the site was beautiful and romantic, hoping to return again!

A

Anthony

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

An amazing view and sleeping there is a dream with the waterfall running all night. Shandie was such an amazing host, my dog ended up getting lost and she did what she could to help me find him even extending my stay another night free of charge. We will 100% be returning.

Asha

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

I did camping on Sunday night at Music Creek Falls, and it turned out to be one of the best experiences ever! The place was beautifully maintained — surrounded by nature, peaceful, and had the perfect waterfall right next to my tent spot, which felt so private and special. Even though it was quite cold, my dog and I couldn’t resist playing in the crystal-clear water. The night sky was breathtaking for stargazing — something I’ll never forget. But what truly made this trip special was Shandie, the host. Since we were two females camping, she went above and beyond to make sure we were safe and comfortable. She personally carried firewood for us, provided hot chocolate, offered sleeping bags, and made sure we had everything we needed for a cozy night. I’ve done many camping trips before, but I’ve never felt this safe and cared for. Shandie’s kindness and attention made this camping experience unforgettable.

C

Chad

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Camp ikigai Animal Sanctuary 501c3

Awesome hosts! They were very accommodating and even brought out their small excavator to build us a bigger fire pit. It was awesome and so much fun. There were also horses and sheep roaming around and Timber (their dog) was a wonderful guide around the property.

P

Pam

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

3 nights at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

I loved the campsite! 🏕️ the waterfalls were amazing…also allowing the dogs to be off leash was great.

J

Jessie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Such a beautiful, secluded, slice of magic. Shandie was an amazing host. Our dog loved it just as much as we did. We will be back!

N

Natalia

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Camp ikigai Animal Sanctuary 501c3

A wonderful place to leave the city and soak up life on a sanctuary. Matt appreciates those campers who want to share the space kindly and enjoy the outdoors with intention. This space also provides so much to both novice and lifelong campers and is great for animal-loving children too. Don’t just visit to sleep and hike, make sure you spend time in community too!

K

Kavi

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Camp ikigai Animal Sanctuary 501c3

This place is magical. It's not fancy by any means but has all the elements to make a person (me) dipping their toe into camping feel at once rugged yet comfortable. You can camp in the wilderness, yet are not too far from a potable water source, grills, shower, and even a fridge where you can store perishables. Matt, the owner is so friendly and kind and it felt like we had been long time friends. I camped here for two nights with my 5 year old and he absolutely loved running around and exploring the grounds. Camp Ikigai is a true labor of love and I can wait to come back.

B

Brandon

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp ikigai Animal Sanctuary 501c3

Host was communicative and the land was as advertized. We had 3 to 5 year olds and the animals were gentle with them. It is a good location so near the national park. Strongly recommend this campsite.

K

Katy

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

It is definitely a magical place. It was quite a drive from San Jose for one night. But it worth it! Immersed in nature in a spot you can’t stop admiring. The hosts were amazing and made sure I find the spot. We connected immediately and I got help parking. I would come again any time. Thank you for providing these camping spots for us.its really incredible. The sierra is a totally different world and this is a little piece on heaven you found there are care for.

A

Amanda

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Absolutely amazing! The pictures are exactly what it looks like if not better. Myself my husband and our two boys came to spend one night and by the first night by the fire knew we needed another one. Shandie and everyone is super chill and kind. Nothing negative I have to say! We would love to go back🥰

R

Ryan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

We had a nice time camping at the upper falls. Our kids loves exploring the pools in the streams, climbing on the rocks, and enjoying the beautiful scenery.