96% (6.6K) • 4,555 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Lake Don Pedro
Diamond Gulch
1. Diamond Gulch
96%
(1194)
Groveland, CA · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Campfires
Yosemite Colfax Spring
2. Yosemite Colfax Spring
98%
(1018)
Groveland, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Yosemite Westlake Camp
3. Yosemite Westlake Camp
88%
(662)
Coulterville, CA · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Stanislaus National Forest
4. Stanislaus National Forest
93%
(173)
National forest in California · 1529 sites
An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Yosemite National Park
5. Yosemite National Park
97%
(1712)
National park in California · 1526 sites
Pros know Yosemite camping is either a feat of advanced planning or a willingness to wing it.
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Campfires
Granite Ridge RV Park and Hostel
6. Granite Ridge RV Park and Hostel
Oakhurst, CA · 7 sites
Granite Peak RV Park and Hostel has a 7 unit hostel and 13 RV spots. It is 13 miles from the South Gate of Yosemite and minutes from Bass Lake and the town of Oakhurst.
The RV spots have water and power, but no septic as of now, so please plan accordingly. The rooms in the hostel share 3 common bathrooms.
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Toilets
Showers
Red Tail Ranch at Yosemite
7. Red Tail Ranch at Yosemite
97%
(299)
Groveland, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Only 25 minutes from Yosemite's entrance gate, come stay at stunning Red Tail Ranch and avoid the overcrowded big campgrounds. With fast wifi, abundant hot water for showers, clean/flush toilets and inside space for cooking with a commercial sink for dishes, all the necessities for a comfortable stay are on site. Use Red Tail Ranch as an ideal launching off point for Yosemite or stay on the property and enjoy all that it has to offer.
Red Tail Ranch is a beautiful 90 acre property in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Among the oak woodlands, meadows and coniferous forest, there are numerous trails to explore the property and direct riding access to a developed mountain biking area nearby. Great birding, botanizing and wildlife watching opportunities abound.
We have two RV sites with hookups, a five site drive-in campground, one walk-in campsite- all with clean, flush toilet bathrooms, hot outdoor showers, indoor camp kitchen and gathering space. The Barn Room is the newest addition to the campground- a climate controlled bedroom with its own bathroom/kitchette. Whether you're pitching a tent, parking a campervan, adventure rig/rv, or looking for a comfortable room, there are opportunities for everyone.
For large events, workshops or reunions, Red Tail Ranch can be rented out in its entirety- please reach out with any questions or how to do this. There is also a discount for stays longer than a week.
Amenities in the campground include hammocks, basketball, cornhole, darts and a ring toss game for all to enjoy.
We are 10 minutes from the small town of Groveland with a market and restaurants and just down the road from the put in for rafting on the Tuolumne river.
Our pricing is a little higher than other places nearby and this is due to the property's great locations, incredible beauty, and all of the amenities added for a great experience.
If wanting more information about Yosemite or the surroundings, host Robb Hirsch is a biologist and professional nature photographer with 25 years of experience in the area and has published two books on the park. He also is connected with all the local guides for any outdoor adventure referrals.
Important note for foreign travelers: we can help navigate the extra cost for foreign travelers visiting Yosemite.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Nolla A-Frames Near Yosemite
8. Nolla A-Frames Near Yosemite
97%
(150)
Colfax Springs, CA · 4 sites
Off-Grid A-Frame Glamping Near Yosemite 🌄🛖
Tucked just 15 miles east of Groveland and about 20 minutes from the Yosemite National Park entrance, our modern A-frame cabins offer a unique, off-grid experience for those who want a little more comfort than a tent — without giving up the adventure.
Designed by the Finnish group Nolla, these minimalist and cozy cabins are built to help you unplug and unwind. Each cabin is well insulated, includes fresh linens, and Rumpl blankets to keep you warm.
Perfect for couples, small families, or close-knit friends, the cabin can be arranged as either two twin beds or a king-sized bed to accommodate up to four people. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway under the stars or a no-frills glamping basecamp for Yosemite exploration, these cabins offer a mix of simplicity and comfort.
Each A-frame is equipped with solar power for small device charging, a portable fan, and access to an odorless composting toilet (cabin 2,3) or a pottery (cabin 1) near the cabin. The cabins also have access to hot showers and flushing toilets across the highway at our sister property. It’s a true step off the beaten path and into a more immersive experience.
• Cabin 1: Easily accessible for most vehicles.
• Cabins 2 & 3: A bit more adventurous — AWD or 4x4 recommended during rain or wet conditions.
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure while getting a solid night’s sleep with some great views, this might be your spot.
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Rocksteady Adventures
9. Rocksteady Adventures
93%
(196)
Copperopolis, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Off-grid campground adjacent to 1000 acre private reservoir perfect for fishing, kayaking & paddle boarding. 70 acres in Sierra Nevada Foothills with Valley Oaks, Gray Pines & Manzanita. Best birding in Calaveras County with over 188 species including Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles, Osprey & waterfowl.
Reservoir is a no-wake waterbody created for irrigation of the surrounding private rangeland. Jet Skiing and WaterSkiing is not allowed. Boats of all sizes are welcome for the purposes of fishing. Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding and canoeing with all of those available for rent on site.
Please note we host events throughout the year. Upcoming we have:
June 22-23 - APBA Boat Racing - no boats or swimming on water
July 4-6th - Rocksteady Campout for Celebrate Americana so expect full campground with a laser show on the 4th and live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Sept 20-21 - Rocksteady Campout with Goonies & Pirates so expect full campground with live music on Friday and Saturday night
Oct 4-5 - Rocksteady Campout TBD so expect full campground with live music on Friday and Saturday night.
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Campfires
Calaveras Big Trees State Park
10. Calaveras Big Trees State Park
99%
(41)
State park in California · 178 sites
Get ready to be amazed, because "Big Trees" is an understatement.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sierra National Forest
11. Sierra National Forest
92%
(176)
National forest in California · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Eastman Lake
12. Eastman Lake
100%
(3)
Park in California · 106 sites
This scenic retreat draws nature lovers and oudoor enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
McConnell State Recreation Area
13. McConnell State Recreation Area
100%
(3)
State park in California · 21 sites
On the banks of Merced River lies an oasis for fishing and beating the heat.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC
14. Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC
94%
(1176)
Oakhurst, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Cole Ranch
15. Cole Ranch
100%
(422)
Waterford, CA · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
"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.)
Recent Cancellations: Several sites are now available for July 4 weekend!!!
** RIVER ADVISORY UDATE - 5/20/26 **
River is at normal flow, and only minor fluctuations are expected in the coming weeks.
(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.
Feel free to text Barry at (209) 484-3675 if you have any questions.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Walden Ranch
16. Walden Ranch
99%
(961)
Linden, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Walden Ranch began with the purchase of a neighboring 20 acres. Couple that with the inspiration of Thoreau's lines and life at the real Walden Pond, the ranch has grown to nearly 300 acres and the small ranch pond has grown to a 5-acre lake with a 3-acre forest and home. Scouts, family and church groups use the site for gatherings. Available are canoes, bonfire, and exploring the ranch's 300-head cattle, llamas, poultry and wildlife.
Fires always allowed at fire ring. You are welcome to bring your own wood.
Pitch your tent in a forest setting alongside a lake on a working cattle ranch. Watch wildlife or hike to smaller lakes on the ranch. Other animals include dogs, llamas, geese, chickens, and horses.
The ranch is within a 20 minute drive to either Stockton or Lodi, CA and is surrounded by vineyards, orchards and pastures.
Outdoor flush toilets, sink, tables and fire ring available. Forested area is set amidst grazing lands.
This "Walden" even has willow trees slipped from a tree near Thoreau's cabin
near Walden Pond, MA.
Owner looks forward to sharing this peaceful, special spot!
Pets
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Campfires
Camping At Yosemite's Doorstep
17. Camping At Yosemite's Doorstep
96%
(97)
Groveland, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Painted Lake
18. The Painted Lake
97%
(162)
Angels Camp, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
AWD recommended and is required in wet rainy season. Kayaks and ample eggs provided when the chickens are laying . Heat and a/c in cabins make it cozy. Explore BLM and Reclamation land along the shores of New Melones reservoir near Angels Camp. Horses, goats, sheep , and chickens await you on every fence line you come to. Kayak on the waters below as you camp on our fully vineyard-fenced 20 acre private acreage. Our land is surrounded by 100’s of acres of lake front - public Federal lands surrounded by our private acreage and great neighbors you’ll never see. Portable rented toilets on site at parking areas. Propane available on site. Gas fire pits available at request .
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Little Piece of Yosemite
19. Little Piece of Yosemite
95%
(105)
Mariposa, CA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:
River Status:
Swimmable and lush green fresh crisp, beautiful, amazing!
Camp on our small piece of paradise located near Yosemite. We are a family of 4 (Me and three kids) 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 ling as they are friendly.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
Robinson Mine Basecamp
20. Robinson Mine Basecamp
98%
(134)
Groveland, CA · 6 sites
Come enjoy the peaceful outdoors in a rustic mountain setting ! But still have all the amenities of town only a couple miles away; grocery store, restaurants, a craft brewery and one of the oldest saloons in California! There’s even a park for the kiddos, a Library and Museum for all ages! The stars are something to see, as you feel like you can just reach up and touch them! We are just getting started so each time you come visit us, you will see and enjoy something new! We are so close to Yosemite @ the big old flat entrance or maybe you would like to see Hetch Hetchy! There is river rafting, mountain biking, swimming and fishing all close by! Lots to do in our area it will be hard to choose! When you’re on the property keep your eye out for shiny rocks, as we are located on an old gold mine who knows you may “GET LUCKY“
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
JackieTom
4 days ago
allie
6 days ago
Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake
Clean this up
We have a peaceful stay at the super view cabin. There are horses , goats, sheep and chickens hanging out on the property. Lots of room to hike and explore. It’s backed up on blm . We kayaked, cooked eggs frszh from the coop and hung out on the deck of the cabin watching the stunning view. Wish we stayed more than one night! We will be back.
Jeremy and Michelle are super cool , accommodating and responsive.
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M
Milou
6 days ago
9 ft rooftop tent
Group trip
We loved this campground. Showers and restrooms were very clean. The campground is beautiful and spacious. The barn and kitchen were also great. Robb is super kind and helped us with recommendations for Yosemite too! Will definitely come back
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A
Alexander
6 days ago
Tent
My wife and I loved Leo’s camping spot. It was a great spot to camp and would definitely recommend.
See moreA
Adam
1 week ago
2 nights at Nolla A-Frames Near Yosemite
We really enjoyed our stay! The view of the night sky is unparalleled and the cabin is the perfect place to unwind after a full day of hiking. We would stay again.
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L
Lucas
1 week ago
Tent
Group trip
I loved camping here! The view was absolutely stunning and it was easy to find and set up camp once my group and I arrived, plus it’s not too far from Yosemite and close to a grocery store for anything we were missing while there.
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L
Lacy
1 week ago
3 nights at Nolla A-Frames Near Yosemite
Quiet and peaceful location with amazing views. Thoughtful touches including chargers, warm blankets, a picnic table and drinking water. Have access to showers on the sister property was a huge bonus! Nothing like a hot shower after a long day of hiking. I would highly recommend this glamp site.
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Anna
1 week ago
15 ft campervan
This is a really amazing place to camp! It's close to Yosemite and the perfect home base for exploring. It's beautiful, peaceful, and has all the amenities you need! I highly recommend staying here, and will definitely be back.
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Frank
2 weeks ago
Tent
The hosts were fantastic and had wonderful hospitality. They responded quickly every time I had a question.
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M
Maddie
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
Such a pretty sight! Liza and Tom were quick to respond and provided really comprehensive instructions! Restrooms were perfectly clean and super accessible. Definitely want to camp here again!
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C
Chris
2 weeks ago
2 nights at The Painted Lake
This place was kinda magical. I woke up and collected fresh eggs for breakfast, laid in a bunch of hammocks with gorgeous views and sat on the deck looking at the lake. It’s a good cross between rustic camping and glamping. The couch is great to have to relax and be comfortable at night, but you still get the minimalism of camping with the kitchen and shower outside. The kitchen actually had a nice gas griddle/bbq which made it easy to cook.
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Jude
2 weeks ago
31 ft Class B
Great location. Easy to get to the points of interest in the region. Beautiful property. Kind, nice folks, easy to reach. Perfect retreat. Groveland is also very cute. We had a great time. Saw Hetch Hetchy, strolled Sonora, the Mark Twain cabin :D and caught El Capitan, falls, Yosemite village and tunnel view on an epically beautiful day. Wonderful time of year to visit.
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J
James
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
Alan's a very warm and friendly host. I had the campground to myself. Except for the farm animals and the friendly dog pack, I enjoyed my seclusion. Grassy campground, little dust. Beautiful.
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D
Dorian
2 weeks ago
22 ft campervan
With pets
Paradise! The property is breathtaking and very well-equipped. We spent a lovely evening watching the parade of wildlife enjoying the lake on Barry's property. Highly recommend!
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Tim
2 weeks ago
21 ft travel trailer
Beautiful campsites. Lot of amenities. Right on the river. Birdlife is fantastic. Zero road noise.
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L
Lorin
2 weeks ago
Tent
Quiet, spacious campground in a nice setting. Fun to watch the cows and birds nearby! Would stay there again.
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J
Jose
2 weeks ago
12 ft truck camper
It was super easy to find and get around! Really like the location! Waking up and seeing cows grazing was really cool! Would definitely book again!
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B
Baibhav
2 weeks ago
Tent
I had a great experience staying here. Tom and Debbie were incredibly warm, welcoming, and helpful throughout my visit. They made the stay feel easy and comfortable.
The location is very convenient, about a mile off the main road. It feels quiet and somewhat secluded while still being close to everything you might need. You can occasionally hear cars passing, but overall it is peaceful. There are several restaurants and a gas station just a few minutes away, which is a big plus.
A couple of tips: be prepared for mosquitoes and bring your own drinking water. There is also a small portable toilet available on-site, which is helpful.
Overall, I really enjoyed my stay and would definitely come back again.
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shaye
2 weeks ago
Tent
What a great site! Caley was super chill and helpful. Big property offering lots of beauty and privacy. We had so much fun exploring the creek. 10/10 would visit again🫶🏽
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a
ari
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Great spot so peaceful and fun to relax at.
Had a short but pleasant interaction with the hosts and enjoyed the property a lot!
The reservoir is so tranquil and wonderful. We sat at the top of the levee for hours.
See moreLake Don Pedro camping guide
Where to go
River and Creek Arms
The very northern park of Lake Don Pedro is split between the Tuolumne River Arm and the Woods Creek Arm. The developed Moccasin Point Campground is on the eastern end, near highways 120 and 49, and offers tent and RV sites with full hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and BBQ grills. Dispersed shoreline camping can be found along both the Woods Creek Arm and Tuolumne River Arms, especially toward the extreme ends of the lake.
Upper Bay, Middle Bay, and East Bay
The Upper Bay, East Bay, and Middle Bay make up the central portion of Lake Don Pedro. The Wreck-Bay Boat-in Camp Area sits at the western end of the Upper Bay offering fire rings and vault toilets, while the Graveyard Creek Boat-in Camp Area is near Rock Island in the Middle Bay. Dispersed camping is also available at most of the shoreline in this region.
South Bay and West Bay
The southern end of Don Pedro Reservoir offers the most amenities for campers. At the western end, find tent and RV sites with electricity and water hookups at Blue Oaks Campground, also home to BBQ grills, restrooms, showers, a store, and a dump station. A nearby group campground has space for up to 200 people, and the Fleming Meadows Campground, near the visitor center and dam, also offers campsites with full amenities. Dispersed camping is available in certain actions of the southern and western shorelines.
