The best forest camping near Lee Vining

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience! With over 180 available options near Lee Vining, California, specifically in forest terrain, you're sure to find the ideal spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the scene, our top-rated campsites have got you covered. Check out Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (500 reviews), Southgate Summit (500 reviews), and Wondernut Farm (500 reviews) for highly recommended stays. With popular amenities like toilets, pets allowed, and showers, you won't have to rough it too much. And if you're looking to add some excitement to your trip, take advantage of activities such as horseback riding, fishing, and even surfing. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the beauty of the forest near Lee Vining, California. Prices start as low as $10 per night, with an average price of $50 per night. Happy camping!

90% (907)

Top-rated campgrounds

Nolla A-Frames Near Yosemite

1. Nolla A-Frames Near Yosemite

97%
(128)
49mi from Lee Vining · 5 sites · Lodging · Colfax Springs, CA
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. 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$135
 / night
Bass Lake marina is a short 8 minute walk from Outdoorsy Yosemite

3. Outdoorsy Yosemite Campground

91%
(54)
49mi from Lee Vining · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$47
 / night
Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

4. Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

49mi from Lee Vining · 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.**
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$507
 / night
El Captain’s View 4X4 ONLY Yosemite

6. El Captain’s View 4X4 ONLY Yosemite

71%
(17)
47mi from Lee Vining · 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!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Whiskey Flats RV Park

7. Whiskey Flats RV Park

100%
(8)
48mi from Lee Vining · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Hawthorne, NV
Whether you're traveling to a far-off destination or coming here where all the excitement is, we are your all-inclusive one-stop stay at Whiskey Flats RV Park! Come enjoy the quiet desert scenery unparalleled in the West with our majestic Mount Grant looming above or the wonderful Walker Lake shores just miles from our property. We also have side by side rentals so you can view the area. There is offroad racing, exploring and ancient mysteries everywhere in Mineral County. A short drive over the Wassuk Mountains leads to great fishing at the newest Nevada State Park of Walker River, full of fishing and hiking locations spread along countless miles of changing desert and high mountain terrain A new and extensive county airport is right across the street. Petroglyphs, ghost towns like Rawhide, Bodie, Aurora are a short drive away. WIld animals, hunting, rock collecting, sightseeing and photography is unparalleled and if you crave stars- you will see them all here at night. Our neighbors is Dotty's Casino and Bourbon Street adult sports and southern themed bar and games with food or we have Pepper's Place 50's drive-up burgers and other conveniences right along the block from us.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$52
 / night
Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

8. Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

94%
(1176)
50mi from Lee Vining · 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!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$66
 / night
Indian Flat Campground

9. Indian Flat Campground

78%
(18)
44mi from Lee Vining · 62 sites · Lodging · El Portal, CA
Welcome to Indian Flat RV and Campground, the closest campsite to Yosemite National Park, situated just 8 miles from the Arch Rock entrance. Here, you'll find your ultimate destination for experiencing the great outdoors! Exclusively on Hipcamp, we proudly offer our new Jupe Tents, featuring 12-foot high ceilings, a comfortable queen-size bed, spacious windows and ventilation, electrical outlets, and dimmable LED lighting. Campground Amenities include: Washrooms Hot Showers Access to outdoor pool (located at neighboring Yosemite Cedar Lodge) Communal fire pits Wifi available (though we encourage guests to embrace the opportunity to disconnect digitally and fully immerse themselves in the beauty of our surroundings. If needed, WiFi is available for purchase upon check-in.) Pets welcome (additional $25 fee)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$210
 / night

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience! With over 180 available options near Lee Vining, California, specifically in forest terrain, you're sure to find the ideal spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the scene, our top-rated campsites have got you covered. Check out Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (500 reviews), Southgate Summit (500 reviews), and Wondernut Farm (500 reviews) for highly recommended stays. With popular amenities like toilets, pets allowed, and showers, you won't have to rough it too much. And if you're looking to add some excitement to your trip, take advantage of activities such as horseback riding, fishing, and even surfing. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the beauty of the forest near Lee Vining, California. Prices start as low as $10 per night, with an average price of $50 per night. Happy camping!

90% (907)

Top-rated campgrounds

Nolla A-Frames Near Yosemite

1. Nolla A-Frames Near Yosemite

97%
(128)
49mi from Lee Vining · 5 sites · Lodging · Colfax Springs, CA
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. 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$135
 / night
Bass Lake marina is a short 8 minute walk from Outdoorsy Yosemite

3. Outdoorsy Yosemite Campground

91%
(54)
49mi from Lee Vining · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$47
 / night
Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

4. Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

49mi from Lee Vining · 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.**
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$507
 / night
El Captain’s View 4X4 ONLY Yosemite

6. El Captain’s View 4X4 ONLY Yosemite

71%
(17)
47mi from Lee Vining · 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!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Whiskey Flats RV Park

7. Whiskey Flats RV Park

100%
(8)
48mi from Lee Vining · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Hawthorne, NV
Whether you're traveling to a far-off destination or coming here where all the excitement is, we are your all-inclusive one-stop stay at Whiskey Flats RV Park! Come enjoy the quiet desert scenery unparalleled in the West with our majestic Mount Grant looming above or the wonderful Walker Lake shores just miles from our property. We also have side by side rentals so you can view the area. There is offroad racing, exploring and ancient mysteries everywhere in Mineral County. A short drive over the Wassuk Mountains leads to great fishing at the newest Nevada State Park of Walker River, full of fishing and hiking locations spread along countless miles of changing desert and high mountain terrain A new and extensive county airport is right across the street. Petroglyphs, ghost towns like Rawhide, Bodie, Aurora are a short drive away. WIld animals, hunting, rock collecting, sightseeing and photography is unparalleled and if you crave stars- you will see them all here at night. Our neighbors is Dotty's Casino and Bourbon Street adult sports and southern themed bar and games with food or we have Pepper's Place 50's drive-up burgers and other conveniences right along the block from us.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$52
 / night
Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

8. Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

94%
(1176)
50mi from Lee Vining · 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!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$66
 / night
Indian Flat Campground

9. Indian Flat Campground

78%
(18)
44mi from Lee Vining · 62 sites · Lodging · El Portal, CA
Welcome to Indian Flat RV and Campground, the closest campsite to Yosemite National Park, situated just 8 miles from the Arch Rock entrance. Here, you'll find your ultimate destination for experiencing the great outdoors! Exclusively on Hipcamp, we proudly offer our new Jupe Tents, featuring 12-foot high ceilings, a comfortable queen-size bed, spacious windows and ventilation, electrical outlets, and dimmable LED lighting. Campground Amenities include: Washrooms Hot Showers Access to outdoor pool (located at neighboring Yosemite Cedar Lodge) Communal fire pits Wifi available (though we encourage guests to embrace the opportunity to disconnect digitally and fully immerse themselves in the beauty of our surroundings. If needed, WiFi is available for purchase upon check-in.) Pets welcome (additional $25 fee)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$210
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field