The best campgrounds near Lee Vining, California with swimming

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Lee Vining, California, that offers swimming as your preferred activity? Look no further than Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (388 reviews), Southgate Summit (395 reviews), and Wondernut Farm (354 reviews). These popular campsites offer amenities like pets, potable water, and trash services, as well as activities such as wildlife watching, exploring historic sites, and of course, swimming. Start planning your camping getaway today!

96% (1.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lee Vining

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Lee Vining, California, that offers swimming as your preferred activity? Look no further than Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (388 reviews), Southgate Summit (395 reviews), and Wondernut Farm (354 reviews). These popular campsites offer amenities like pets, potable water, and trash services, as well as activities such as wildlife watching, exploring historic sites, and of course, swimming. Start planning your camping getaway today!

96% (1.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lee Vining

1. Yosemite Colfax Spring

98%

(977)

49mi from Lee Vining · 13 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.

2. Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

96%

(332)

49mi from Lee Vining · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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 Southgate Campground *OYBC

94%

(1176)

50mi from Lee Vining · 8 sites · Tents

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!

4. Inyo National Forest

96%

(453)

2001 sites · Lone Pine, California

Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Yosemite National Park

97%

(1676)

1526 sites · Yosemite Valley, California

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

49mi from Lee Vining · 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.**

7. Golden Pine RV Park

13mi from Lee Vining · 1 site

Discover the unique charm of Golden Pine RV Park, where a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities creates an unforgettable experience for RV enthusiasts. Recently acquired by new ownership, the park continues to offer the familiar comforts you love while introducing exciting enhancements that will elevate your stay. With 25 spacious sites equipped with water, power, and sewer hookups, as well as picnic tables and fire pits, you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing getaway. Our facilities include restrooms, showers, laundry services, and fish cleaning stations, ensuring your comfort throughout your visit. In addition to the amenities you already appreciate, we are committed to providing numerous upgrades that will enhance your vacation in this stunning mountain environment. Our dedicated Camp Hosts are here to assist you with local insights and help curate a variety of outdoor adventures, including water sports, hiking, camping, and mountain biking. We also offer guided tours to the nearby National Park and host community events at the resort, fostering connections among our guests. With an onsite Concierge available to help you plan your daily activities and evening relaxation, Golden Pine RV Park is truly a special place to unwind and rejuvenate amidst nature's splendor. Enjoy easy access to Gull Lake, June Lake, and the charming Village of June Lake, making your stay even more memorable.

8. Indian Flat RV Park

44mi from Lee Vining · 52 sites

Indian Flat RV Park stands out as a unique destination due to its prime location in the picturesque foothills of the Sierra Mountains, making it the closest campground to Yosemite National Park along Highway 140. This strategic positioning allows visitors to easily access the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite while enjoying the comforts of a well-equipped RV park. At Indian Flat RV Park, guests can choose from a variety of camping sites that cater to different preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay. The park features a small gift shop, perfect for picking up souvenirs or essentials during your visit. Additionally, guests can unwind and relax at the outdoor pool, providing a refreshing escape after a day of exploring. When planning your adventure to Yosemite, make Indian Flat RV Park your home base. With its convenient amenities and proximity to the park, it offers an ideal blend of comfort and adventure, making it the perfect choice for your next outdoor getaway.

9. Crowley Lake RV Park

34mi from Lee Vining · 31 sites

Crowley Lake RV Park stands out as a premier destination for RV enthusiasts, offering spacious campsites that cater to big rigs up to 40 feet in length. Nestled near the stunning Crowley Lake in California, this park provides a welcoming atmosphere for both families and pets, ensuring a memorable outdoor experience. Our full 30 amp hookup campsites come equipped with essential amenities, including complimentary WiFi and 24-channel cable TV. Guests can enjoy a variety of onsite features such as the Crowley Lake General Store, picnic tables, fire circles, and grills, making it easy to relax and unwind after a day of adventure. Basic facilities like restrooms with coin-operated hot showers and laundry services are also available for your convenience. During your stay, immerse yourself in a range of outdoor activities, including biking, waterskiing, boating, and fishing. The campground is ideally situated near popular attractions such as the breathtaking Eastern Sierras, the renowned Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort, and the picturesque Pleasant Valley Reservoir. With so much to explore and enjoy, Crowley Lake RV Park is the perfect base for your next outdoor getaway!

10. Devils Postpile National Monument

100%

(7)

21 sites · Mammoth Lakes, California

Experience geological formations, waterfalls, and unspoiled wilderness at this High Sierra park.

11. Sierra National Forest

92%

(176)

1360 sites · Big Creek, California

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. 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

Camper favorites near Lee Vining

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

49mi from Lee Vining · 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.**

Golden Pine RV Park

13mi from Lee Vining · 1 site

Discover the unique charm of Golden Pine RV Park, where a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities creates an unforgettable experience for RV enthusiasts. Recently acquired by new ownership, the park continues to offer the familiar comforts you love while introducing exciting enhancements that will elevate your stay. With 25 spacious sites equipped with water, power, and sewer hookups, as well as picnic tables and fire pits, you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing getaway. Our facilities include restrooms, showers, laundry services, and fish cleaning stations, ensuring your comfort throughout your visit. In addition to the amenities you already appreciate, we are committed to providing numerous upgrades that will enhance your vacation in this stunning mountain environment. Our dedicated Camp Hosts are here to assist you with local insights and help curate a variety of outdoor adventures, including water sports, hiking, camping, and mountain biking. We also offer guided tours to the nearby National Park and host community events at the resort, fostering connections among our guests. With an onsite Concierge available to help you plan your daily activities and evening relaxation, Golden Pine RV Park is truly a special place to unwind and rejuvenate amidst nature's splendor. Enjoy easy access to Gull Lake, June Lake, and the charming Village of June Lake, making your stay even more memorable.

Indian Flat RV Park

44mi from Lee Vining · 52 sites

Indian Flat RV Park stands out as a unique destination due to its prime location in the picturesque foothills of the Sierra Mountains, making it the closest campground to Yosemite National Park along Highway 140. This strategic positioning allows visitors to easily access the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite while enjoying the comforts of a well-equipped RV park. At Indian Flat RV Park, guests can choose from a variety of camping sites that cater to different preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay. The park features a small gift shop, perfect for picking up souvenirs or essentials during your visit. Additionally, guests can unwind and relax at the outdoor pool, providing a refreshing escape after a day of exploring. When planning your adventure to Yosemite, make Indian Flat RV Park your home base. With its convenient amenities and proximity to the park, it offers an ideal blend of comfort and adventure, making it the perfect choice for your next outdoor getaway.

Crowley Lake RV Park

34mi from Lee Vining · 31 sites

Crowley Lake RV Park stands out as a premier destination for RV enthusiasts, offering spacious campsites that cater to big rigs up to 40 feet in length. Nestled near the stunning Crowley Lake in California, this park provides a welcoming atmosphere for both families and pets, ensuring a memorable outdoor experience. Our full 30 amp hookup campsites come equipped with essential amenities, including complimentary WiFi and 24-channel cable TV. Guests can enjoy a variety of onsite features such as the Crowley Lake General Store, picnic tables, fire circles, and grills, making it easy to relax and unwind after a day of adventure. Basic facilities like restrooms with coin-operated hot showers and laundry services are also available for your convenience. During your stay, immerse yourself in a range of outdoor activities, including biking, waterskiing, boating, and fishing. The campground is ideally situated near popular attractions such as the breathtaking Eastern Sierras, the renowned Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort, and the picturesque Pleasant Valley Reservoir. With so much to explore and enjoy, Crowley Lake RV Park is the perfect base for your next outdoor getaway!

Public campgrounds near Lee Vining

90%

(10)

Lower Lee Vining Campground

2.3mi from Lee Vining · 60 sites · in Inyo National Forest

100%

(2)

Aspen Grove Campground

3.1mi from Lee Vining · 56 sites · Tents, RVs · in Inyo National Forest

100%

(1)

Big Bend Campground

3.8mi from Lee Vining · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Inyo National Forest

Ellery Lake Campground

6.1mi from Lee Vining · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Inyo National Forest

100%

(1)

Junction Campground

6.4mi from Lee Vining · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Inyo National Forest

100%

(5)

Tioga Lake Campground

6.9mi from Lee Vining · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Inyo National Forest

100%

(3)

Sawmill Walk-in Campground

7.5mi from Lee Vining · 12 sites · in Inyo National Forest

94%

(9)

Saddlebag Lake Campground

7.5mi from Lee Vining · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Inyo National Forest

Saddlebag Lake Group Campground

7.6mi from Lee Vining · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Inyo National Forest

Aerie Crag Rv Campground

11mi from Lee Vining · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Inyo National Forest

95%

(11)

Oh Ridge Campground

12mi from Lee Vining · 140 sites · Tents, RVs · in Inyo National Forest

100%

(32)

Silver Lake Campground June Lake

12mi from Lee Vining · 63 sites · Tents, RVs · in Inyo National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

G

Gaven

1 week ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

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

S

Sabina

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

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

J

Jamie

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

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

H

Hillary

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

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

E

Eric

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

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

L

Liss

November 2025

24 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

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

C

Cam

November 2025

20 ft campervan

2 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

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

A

Abby

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Had a wonderful stay and would definitely recommend!

Vuthy

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

We had an amazing stay here; the peaceful sound of the waterfall and the privacy made this spot feel like a hidden oasis. Only an hour from Yosemite and just a few minutes from town, it was the perfect balance of nature and convenience. This was the first camping trip for a couple members of our group, and the bar might be set way too high now, what a great introduction to the outdoors. The host was incredibly friendly, welcoming, and helpful throughout our stay. The flushable toilet and shower were clean and worked great, though they’re a short walk from the site, totally worth it for the comfort they provide. Highly recommend this site to anyone looking for a quiet, tucked-away spot to relax and enjoy nature. We’ll definitely be back!

H

Heather

October 2025

With pets

4 nights at Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Cabin and property are exactly as described. Very close to great hiking trails and Yosemite. The waterfall was beautiful and it was a lovely sound to fall asleep to.

Kathy

October 2025

3 nights at Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

We had a great time at Wendy & Hudson’s cabin. The view of the waterfall from the deck was one of our favorite parts. In close second were the sunset views over the boulder. I had been looking for something that was secluded and private, and we got just that!! Parking down the driveway can be a bit tricky and getting down to the shower/bathroom is a bit aways, but all in all it was absolutely worth it! We came near the new moon and got to enjoy the stars each night, which was quite a treat. It’s about 1.5 hour drive from the center of Yosemite, but there are also lots of nature spots to checkout nearby too. I’d definitely recommend Wild Fig in Coarsegold for brunch or lunch and Clouds Rest Coffee in Oakhurst. A special shoutout to Wendy who was an incredible host and just an all around lovely person. We’d definitely come back here and I’d love to camp at the second site on their property!

P

Prem

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

As usual, the site was very clean and bathrooms were kept well. We booked site 8, a bit higher up with views of the waterfall. Sleeping with the sound of gushing water is something you don't do everyday :)

P

Polina

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

Everything was just wonderful! Very close to the park entrance. The shower, toilet, and the fact that there’s hot water — total game changer!!! Such a beautiful and awesome campground. We’ll definitely come back again! ⛺️✨

M

Monica

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

It was honestly the perfect spot. Beautiful views, warm and very clean showers and bathrooms. Close to the park and or a nice quiet weekend in groveland. Would definitely book with them again! Super responsive and kind!

Whitney

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

This campsite is so beautiful! It really is right next to the creek and a short easy walk to a waterfall. We tent camped and brought our 3 little dogs and it was perfect. The sound of the creek was so peaceful. It's completely under tree cover so always nice and shady. The switchbacks on the way there are really tight, I wouldn't recommend trying to drive a trailer down there. Attached to the owner's house there is a bathroom and shower, as well as trash and recycling cans. However, it is quite a trek uphill to get there, or you could drive back up the hill to get there. At the site there is a shed with a camp toilet, which worked fine for us. They also have a fire pit, hose for water, and an extension cord for electric but it's not true hookups. The owners also provided firewood for a reasonable fee and had it waiting for us when we arrived at the site and offered more if we needed it. The only real negative for us (which wasn't really that bad) is there is a very visible driveway and car park down the road which has a light on at all hours and people driving down to turn around. Overall, I would definitely recommend this gorgeous site!

a

adelia

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

Great space! Spot #1 has the greatest view of the sunset! We had the opportunity to see lots of wildlife which was incredible! This spot also had a sweet fire pit and about 3 tables which definitely came in handy!

c

cédric

October 2025

24 ft Class C

3 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

We loved the stay! The view was great, the shower and toilet and drinking station super clean and very helpfull hosts - highly recommended!

M

Marc

October 2025

25 ft campervan

5 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

This is a great location for all your Yosemite adventures!

C

Connie

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Love, love, loved our stay! It was raining but we car camped so it was ok! The host was kind and welcoming. The site was beautiful!! Right next to a little river and waterfall! The restroom and shower are next to the host’s garage which is quite a hike but there is a little shed with one of those bucket potty’s. We ended up using our own portable camp shower and potty the first night, but the second night we showered in their restroom after coming back from our trip to Yosemite before driving all the way back down to the camp site. The restroom was clean and well kept with a flushing toilet and warm water! The hosts had wood available for sale if you forget to pick some up. The wood pieces were huge and worth the price in my opinion. Kept us warm and cozy all night. I would 100% come back to camp here again!

J

Jordan

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

The views were beautiful, and the campsite was very clean. Would definitely stay again.