The best beach camping near Madera

·
98% (453) 40 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Madera

Glitter Cove Retreat

1. Glitter Cove Retreat

100%
(38)
27mi from Madera · 1 site
This beautiful property is situated on 55 secluded acres in the lovely foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Your adventure begins when you escape the pavement and experience three miles of beautiful scenery on a maintained dirt road. Swimming, fishing, and hiking await you. SAFE, GATED and perfect for moms who want to take their kids camping, or any one who wants to try out the camping experience but has been hesitant. 1 1/2 hours from Yosemite National Park. Reservations may be required. Experience the abundant wild life and soothing sound of the Fresno River. Put your feet in the sand and just unplug for a few days. Each season is uniquely beautiful. Spring hosts an abundance of green hills, wild flowers and cooler weather. The river is higher, faster and colder. New life pops up everywhere. Baby ducks, geese, quail and beaver frequent the river. Glitter Cove waterfall is in its full glory. The nights can be cool, so come prepared. Summer is the perfect time to swim and lounge in the river. As the days heat up, the river begins to slow and warms up to a comfortable yet refreshing temperature. New beaches emerge, just waiting to be explored. In late summer, early fall, there is a feeling of calm. The river slows significantly but still feels amazing to sit in. You can hear its gentle flow and soothing sound as it trickles over the rocks. This is a great time time to explore the river as it is mostly shallow with some swim holes. Most of the time it is very quiet. There is another camp down stream owned by a wonderful family. They are here a couple times per week, and also rent their camp. You may hear them having fun and engaging in target practice. The river is a shared space but it is rare to see anyone else. Noise travels in the canyon so you may hear occasional barking or other vehicles. Hearing coyotes sing at night is very common. The rarely seen wildlife includes rattle snakes, bob cats, coyotes, fox, mountain lions and bears. Don't worry, our animal friends like to keep their distance. Hope to see you soon! Watch a video! https://youtu.be/QI_YsFr-kh8
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$185
 / night
Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

2. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

98%
(374)
42mi from Madera · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Musick Creek Falls — Waterfalls, Stargazing and stunning Landscapes Just minutes from Shaver Lake, your wilderness escape begins. Welcome to our 40 acres of quiet forest, sun-warmed granite, and the steady sound of cascading water. Each campsite is private and thoughtfully placed, with a gazebo, access to fresh spring water, and nearby swimming holes carved naturally into the creek. Nestled along the edge of the Sierra National Forest, this hidden retreat blends adventure, comfort, and sustainability. The surrounding area offers no shortage of nearby highlights, including Shaver Lake, the giant sequoias of McKinley Grove, the trails and swimming holes of the Dinky Creek Wilderness, year-round recreation at China Peak, and day trips to Yosemite, Sierra, and Kings Canyon National Parks, home to the General Sherman Tree. Many guests, however, find the waterfalls, forest, and dark skies here more than enough to fill their stay. Spend your days swimming in natural pools, stargazing through our shared telescope, or resting in a hammock beneath towering cedars. Dogs are welcome to roam off-leash under supervision, and the open terrain keeps tails busy. Guests explore private trails, try their hand at gold panning, scramble granite boulders, or borrow a free kayak for nearby Shaver Lake. Rugged yet accessible (4×4 helpful in winter), Musick Creek Falls offers pristine camping, mountain views, and exceptionally clear night skies. Four secluded sites keep a light footprint on the land and include composting toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Our conservation ethos is guided by the original caretakers of this region—the Nüümü, known today as the Mono or Potuck people. Rather than relying on massive machine-cut firebreaks, aerial pesticide spraying, or “pines in lines” replanting, we take a slower, place-based approach. We use controlled burning, hands-on fuel reduction, selective native plant culling, and encourage the land to regenerate naturally. Just as important, we believe sharing the land is essential, because stewardship only lasts when people are connected to it. This is a rugged mountain property. Terrain can be steep, rocks near the creek are often slick, and nights are very dark. Campers should be prepared for off grid camping and up for adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$64
 / night
Country Comfortable

3. Country Comfortable

96%
(152)
43mi from Madera · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
13 acres in a very secluded location away from city noise. But still just minutes from Hanford where you can find anything you need to shop for. Great camping area on SEASONAL Kings River. No other houses in view since we are located between 20 acres of almond trees and 30 acres of walnut trees. Very safe location with security in place.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$55
 / night
Hensley Lake

4. Hensley Lake

100%
(2)
Park 16mi from Madera · 55 sites
Discover the scenic beauty of Hensley Lake, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

5. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

80%
(9)
State park 23mi from Madera · 140 sites
Play in the water or boat on the lake created by the Friant Dam.
Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

6. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

98%
(609)
90mi from Madera · 11 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Camp Edison

7. Camp Edison

44mi from Madera
Camp Edison stands out as a unique camping destination due to its stunning location along the serene banks of Shaver Lake, surrounded by the majestic Sierra Mountains. Established in 1963, this picturesque campground features 252 campsites, each equipped with essential amenities such as a BBQ, fire ring, picnic table, and food box, ensuring a comfortable outdoor experience. Nestled in a lush pine forest on the western shores of Shaver Lake, Camp Edison has been a beloved vacation spot for generations, welcoming visitors year-round. To enhance public safety and promote forest health, Camp Edison has been actively removing insect-infested trees. As a result, some campsites may offer more sun exposure than previously indicated in site descriptions. With electricity available at all sites, campers can enjoy the perfect blend of nature and convenience. In addition to its beautiful surroundings, Camp Edison provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, hiking, and fishing. Nearby attractions, such as local restaurants and shops, further enrich the camping experience, making it an ideal getaway for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Sierra National Forest

8. Sierra National Forest

92%
(176)
National forest 54mi from Madera · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

9. San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

90%
(17)
State park 56mi from Madera · 18 sites
Welcome to the largest offstream reservoir in the United States.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
98% (453) 40 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Madera

Glitter Cove Retreat

1. Glitter Cove Retreat

100%
(38)
27mi from Madera · 1 site
This beautiful property is situated on 55 secluded acres in the lovely foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Your adventure begins when you escape the pavement and experience three miles of beautiful scenery on a maintained dirt road. Swimming, fishing, and hiking await you. SAFE, GATED and perfect for moms who want to take their kids camping, or any one who wants to try out the camping experience but has been hesitant. 1 1/2 hours from Yosemite National Park. Reservations may be required. Experience the abundant wild life and soothing sound of the Fresno River. Put your feet in the sand and just unplug for a few days. Each season is uniquely beautiful. Spring hosts an abundance of green hills, wild flowers and cooler weather. The river is higher, faster and colder. New life pops up everywhere. Baby ducks, geese, quail and beaver frequent the river. Glitter Cove waterfall is in its full glory. The nights can be cool, so come prepared. Summer is the perfect time to swim and lounge in the river. As the days heat up, the river begins to slow and warms up to a comfortable yet refreshing temperature. New beaches emerge, just waiting to be explored. In late summer, early fall, there is a feeling of calm. The river slows significantly but still feels amazing to sit in. You can hear its gentle flow and soothing sound as it trickles over the rocks. This is a great time time to explore the river as it is mostly shallow with some swim holes. Most of the time it is very quiet. There is another camp down stream owned by a wonderful family. They are here a couple times per week, and also rent their camp. You may hear them having fun and engaging in target practice. The river is a shared space but it is rare to see anyone else. Noise travels in the canyon so you may hear occasional barking or other vehicles. Hearing coyotes sing at night is very common. The rarely seen wildlife includes rattle snakes, bob cats, coyotes, fox, mountain lions and bears. Don't worry, our animal friends like to keep their distance. Hope to see you soon! Watch a video! https://youtu.be/QI_YsFr-kh8
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$185
 / night
Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

2. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

98%
(374)
42mi from Madera · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Musick Creek Falls — Waterfalls, Stargazing and stunning Landscapes Just minutes from Shaver Lake, your wilderness escape begins. Welcome to our 40 acres of quiet forest, sun-warmed granite, and the steady sound of cascading water. Each campsite is private and thoughtfully placed, with a gazebo, access to fresh spring water, and nearby swimming holes carved naturally into the creek. Nestled along the edge of the Sierra National Forest, this hidden retreat blends adventure, comfort, and sustainability. The surrounding area offers no shortage of nearby highlights, including Shaver Lake, the giant sequoias of McKinley Grove, the trails and swimming holes of the Dinky Creek Wilderness, year-round recreation at China Peak, and day trips to Yosemite, Sierra, and Kings Canyon National Parks, home to the General Sherman Tree. Many guests, however, find the waterfalls, forest, and dark skies here more than enough to fill their stay. Spend your days swimming in natural pools, stargazing through our shared telescope, or resting in a hammock beneath towering cedars. Dogs are welcome to roam off-leash under supervision, and the open terrain keeps tails busy. Guests explore private trails, try their hand at gold panning, scramble granite boulders, or borrow a free kayak for nearby Shaver Lake. Rugged yet accessible (4×4 helpful in winter), Musick Creek Falls offers pristine camping, mountain views, and exceptionally clear night skies. Four secluded sites keep a light footprint on the land and include composting toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Our conservation ethos is guided by the original caretakers of this region—the Nüümü, known today as the Mono or Potuck people. Rather than relying on massive machine-cut firebreaks, aerial pesticide spraying, or “pines in lines” replanting, we take a slower, place-based approach. We use controlled burning, hands-on fuel reduction, selective native plant culling, and encourage the land to regenerate naturally. Just as important, we believe sharing the land is essential, because stewardship only lasts when people are connected to it. This is a rugged mountain property. Terrain can be steep, rocks near the creek are often slick, and nights are very dark. Campers should be prepared for off grid camping and up for adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$64
 / night
Country Comfortable

3. Country Comfortable

96%
(152)
43mi from Madera · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
13 acres in a very secluded location away from city noise. But still just minutes from Hanford where you can find anything you need to shop for. Great camping area on SEASONAL Kings River. No other houses in view since we are located between 20 acres of almond trees and 30 acres of walnut trees. Very safe location with security in place.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$55
 / night
Hensley Lake

4. Hensley Lake

100%
(2)
Park 16mi from Madera · 55 sites
Discover the scenic beauty of Hensley Lake, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

5. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

80%
(9)
State park 23mi from Madera · 140 sites
Play in the water or boat on the lake created by the Friant Dam.
Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

6. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

98%
(609)
90mi from Madera · 11 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Camp Edison

7. Camp Edison

44mi from Madera
Camp Edison stands out as a unique camping destination due to its stunning location along the serene banks of Shaver Lake, surrounded by the majestic Sierra Mountains. Established in 1963, this picturesque campground features 252 campsites, each equipped with essential amenities such as a BBQ, fire ring, picnic table, and food box, ensuring a comfortable outdoor experience. Nestled in a lush pine forest on the western shores of Shaver Lake, Camp Edison has been a beloved vacation spot for generations, welcoming visitors year-round. To enhance public safety and promote forest health, Camp Edison has been actively removing insect-infested trees. As a result, some campsites may offer more sun exposure than previously indicated in site descriptions. With electricity available at all sites, campers can enjoy the perfect blend of nature and convenience. In addition to its beautiful surroundings, Camp Edison provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, hiking, and fishing. Nearby attractions, such as local restaurants and shops, further enrich the camping experience, making it an ideal getaway for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Sierra National Forest

8. Sierra National Forest

92%
(176)
National forest 54mi from Madera · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

9. San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

90%
(17)
State park 56mi from Madera · 18 sites
Welcome to the largest offstream reservoir in the United States.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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