The best mountainous camping near Madera

·
94% (1.4K) 91 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Madera

1. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

98%
(367)
42mi from Madera · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Musick Creek Falls — Waterfalls, Stargazing & Off-Grid Camping Near Shaver Lake Just minutes from Shaver Lake (less than 3 miles away), your wilderness escape begins. Welcome to Musick Creek Falls—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. While the property itself is worth lingering over, guests are also within easy reach of some of the Sierra’s most iconic places, including the giant sequoias of McKinley Grove, the trails and swimming holes of the Dinkey Creek Wilderness, year-round recreation at China Peak, and day trips to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, home to the General Sherman Tree. 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 creekside 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. This is a rugged mountain property. Terrain can be steep, rocks near the creek are often slick, and nights are very dark. At roughly 4,800 feet, the air is thinner, solar exposure is stronger, and temperatures can drop quickly—even in summer. Guests should come prepared and plan for a true off-grid experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$64
 / night

3. Wildhaven Yosemite Glamping

95%
(28)
36mi from Madera · 37 sites · Lodging
Wildhaven Yosemite offers glamping tents and cabins on a beautiful property with mountain views in Mariposa, CA, just outside Yosemite National Park. Our glamping experience provides the comfort, cleanliness, and customer service of a hotel while keeping everything you love about a night outdoors in nature. Our extra-large, safari-style tents feature comfortable beds with linens, electricity, heaters, and all the furnishings needed for a memorable night outdoors. Looking for a little more structure in your night outdoors? Our larger glamping cabins provide a kitchenette, bathroom & shower, AC and heating, improved sound insulation, upgraded views, large windows, and a private patio to get you the fresh air you need. Your stay includes more than just a comfortable place to sleep. Guests are treated to hiking trails, communal spaces to socialize, trip planning help, Wi-Fi, and on-site activities such as yoga, wine tasting, and live music (spring through fall). The 36-acre hillside property is the star attraction, providing sweeping views towards the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas, down onto scenic Mariposa, and across miles of rolling hills.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$119
 / night

5. San Pedro Ranch

84%
(19)
26mi from Madera · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to Nature at Our Private Yosemite-Area Ranch Welcome to your ultimate outdoor retreat! Nestled on 80 private acres of pristine forest, rolling hills, and a flowing river, our ranch offers an unforgettable camping experience just a short drive from Yosemite National Park. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, our secluded paradise is the perfect escape. What We Offer: • Spacious Campsites – Set up your tent or park your RV under towering trees, with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the wilderness. • Breathtaking Views – Wake up to panoramic mountain landscapes, hike through scenic trails, and unwind by the peaceful river. • On-Site Adventures – Explore miles of private hiking trails, go fishing in the river, or rent an ATV or motorcycle for an off-road thrill. • Luxury Glamping (Optional) – Upgrade your stay with a cozy, fully-furnished glamping tent featuring comfortable beds and rustic charm. • Campfire Nights – Enjoy starlit evenings around the firepit, complete with s’mores and storytelling. Why You’ll Love It: ✔ Total Privacy – Unlike crowded campgrounds, this is your own private oasis in nature. ✔ Perfect for Groups & Families – Whether it’s a solo getaway, a romantic retreat, or a group adventure, there’s something for everyone. ✔ Close to Yosemite – Just a short drive to one of the most breathtaking national parks in the world. Disconnect from the noise and reconnect with nature. Book your stay today and experience raw beauty, adventure, and relaxation—all in one place!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night

6. Canyon Crest Private Camping and RV

88%
(37)
41mi from Madera · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Canyon Crest Campground and RV: Your Quiet Yosemite Getaway Are you looking for a rustic, off-grid, peaceful camping spot near Yosemite? Check out Canyon Crest Campground and RV in Mariposa! What it is: * 100-acre property with rustic RV/tent sites, vintage campers, and cabins for rent. * Perfect for escaping the city and enjoying nature. * Rich in Gold Rush history! Where it is: * Near Yosemite National Park (33 miles to the entrance: approx. an hour drive). * In the historic Whitlock Mining district. * Close to the Merced River Recreation Area and 12 miles to the Historic town of Mariposa. What you can do: * Explore Yosemite. * Hike and enjoy the scenery. * Relax and watch for wildlife (deer, turkeys, hawks, maybe even a bear!). Where you can stay: * 2 Tent Sites: No hookups or water, but you'll have a fire pit, privacy, and plenty of space. * Cozy Camper: Sleeps 4, has hot water, A/C, stove, fridge, toilet, and shower. * Hummingbird Camper: Sleeps 2, has hot water, A/C, stove, toilet, and shower. This site is not kid-friendly. * Cabins on the Hilltop: 2 cabins each furnished with a queen bed, electricity, and A/C. * Dry Camp Pull-Through RV: 1 RV site, no hook-ups. Beautiful, serene view, the road is easy. Pull through or back in. Fire pit. This site is set apart from the others. Important things to know: * The road to the Pull-In Dry Camp RV is gravel and easy to navigate. * The road to the remaining sites is unpaved, rocky, mountainous, and very rough. This terrain can be difficult to navigate so AWD or 4WD vehicles are recommended. Low-profile vehicles are not advised. Optional parking may be available for the hike-in. * Creeks are full in the wet season but dry up in summer. Good to know: * People who have stayed there like how quiet it is and how close it is to Yosemite. * There are other camping options nearby if Canyon Crest is booked. Want a quiet, historical, and nature-filled Yosemite experience? Canyon Crest Campground and RV might be the place!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$36
 / night

7. El Captain’s View 4X4 ONLY Yosemite

71%
(17)
47mi from Madera · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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

8. Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

94%
(1176)
36mi from Madera · 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!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$66
 / night

10. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

98%
(605)
90mi from Madera · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee). Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch. We occasionally host small, thoughtful, low impact weddings. Please inquire. There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public. Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you. Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon. Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us. Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

12. Camp SourBerry (near Yosemite)

96%
(85)
35mi from Madera · 2 sites · Tents
Welcome to Camp SourBerry! Here, you can pitch your tent with a view. You can enjoy the feeling of rural seclusion while within walking distance (~1 mile) from shops and restaurants in Oakhurst. The South Gate to Yosemite National Park is less than a 30-minute drive (~75 minutes drive-time to the Valley floor), and Bass Lake's shores are only 15 minutes away. Local wildlife is abundant. Wild turkeys are a common sighting, especially in the spring and fall, as are squirrels, bears, deer, coyotes, and bobcats, plus all kinds of native birds (hawks, quail, jays, woodpeckers, ravens, vultures, and eagles). We have a small homestead-style farm and so do the neighbors, so you can hear the distant sounds of chickens, turkeys, sheep, goats, and cows. Because the safety of our animals (and yours) is paramount, we do not allow pets off-leash. Whether you want to stay put and enjoy the natural setting or have a base from which to explore world-class attractions, we would love to host your next vacation.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$39
 / night

13. Madera,CA Countryside Ranch Camping

92%
(58)
14mi from Madera · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp in the country with beautiful sunsets, sunrises, and night sky. A & M Ranch (40 acres) is located 10 min north of Fresno and near Hwy 41 which leads to the mountains. Many travelers stop here on their way to the national parks (Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Sequoia). We are also close to hiking trails, lakes, Sierra mountains, wineries, farmers' markets, and casinos. When you arrive, you will see our four alpacas in their pen, a mini donkey, two Nigerian dwarf goats, and maybe a few cats. We have designated spots for Tent camping, although if you'd like another spot let us know. Each site is listed separately. We are listed on other platforms, so there may be other guests here. Marta also has a shop if you are interested in refurbished items or alpaca products. We are not a day camp, so if you stay a few nights, we expect you to be out most of the day. You may hear coyotes at night, and see lots of squirrels and wild bunnies. Be careful of squirrel holes. *** If we do not respond right away and give approval, it is because sometimes our schedule changes. We usually respond WITHIN the week of your stay. We generally do not accept reservations more than 3 months ahead of time. Since we also travel, sometime we have unexpected family visits.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
$40
 / night

14. Yosemite & Bass Lake Rustic Cabin

88%
(24)
37mi from Madera · 1 site · Lodging
Indoor sleeping accommodation for two, outdoor/indoor lighting, electrical outlets, good cell phone coverage, camping area, picnic table, drinkable well water, propane grill, propane provided for the grill, outdoor sun shower and portable restroom are provided. The is a WiFi network available but coverage is weak. Deer and turkey sightings occur frequently, and hiking trails are located on this 10-acre wooded property. Two seasonal creeks also located on the property which are typically flowing until early June. There is also an Airbnb cabin located on this wooded property about 100 yards uphill from the camp. The site is centrally located about between Oakhurst and Bass Lake about 10 to 15 minutes away from either location. The south entrance of Yosemite National Park is about 25 minutes away.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$44
 / night

19. Camp with Critters

100%
(28)
36mi from Madera · 1 site · Tent, RV
Sharing my life and property with rescued animals has become a full time job full of joy and lessons learned. What great teachers they are. I began to share the experiences with my animals by offering a unique farm tour called coffee with Critters and I find that I really enjoy sharing this lifestyle with like minded folk. If you love animals and want to camp near them please join me. Learn more about this land: Your campsite will be nestled among animal enclosures, listen to the munching of hay or the snorting of the horse. Your stay will include a modified animal tour and you can engage with horse, goats, rabbits, chickens, ducks and more... dogs and cats of course ;). I have a couple of spots but I would be flexible regarding campsite. My toilet is a compost toilet.  The outside shower has been upgraded with privacy curtains etc following suggetions from previous campers ;) I have a million $$ view and a modest house. My house is about 45 minutes from the Yosemite park entrance and it's an easy commute back/forth. Flowering vines cover my outdoor porches where we have big dinners when Wwoofers or Couchsurfers are in residence. The property is home to many animals, horse, goats, pigs, chickens, peacocks, rabbits, guinea pigs - dogs & cats - of course! :-) . The roosters wake us up pretty early so fair warning about that - but I love living with them and it makes the property so much more friendly with all the critters. My house is pet friendly and yours are welcome if they are 1. Fixed, 2. Are social and friendly with my pets, 3. Will not chase the cats and chickens. I can babysit your pups if you go to the park - provided they are compliant with rules above. I work from home. There are loads of trails nearby and 2 pretty ponds and plenty of wildlife, deer, turkeys and more. The property is rolling hills however there are plenty of flat areas for tents. NO FIRES PERMITTED ANYWHERE ON MY PROPERTY APRIL-OCTOBER - non negotiable.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$75
 / night
94% (1.4K) 91 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Madera

1. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

98%
(367)
42mi from Madera · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Musick Creek Falls — Waterfalls, Stargazing & Off-Grid Camping Near Shaver Lake Just minutes from Shaver Lake (less than 3 miles away), your wilderness escape begins. Welcome to Musick Creek Falls—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. While the property itself is worth lingering over, guests are also within easy reach of some of the Sierra’s most iconic places, including the giant sequoias of McKinley Grove, the trails and swimming holes of the Dinkey Creek Wilderness, year-round recreation at China Peak, and day trips to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, home to the General Sherman Tree. 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 creekside 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. This is a rugged mountain property. Terrain can be steep, rocks near the creek are often slick, and nights are very dark. At roughly 4,800 feet, the air is thinner, solar exposure is stronger, and temperatures can drop quickly—even in summer. Guests should come prepared and plan for a true off-grid experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$64
 / night

3. Wildhaven Yosemite Glamping

95%
(28)
36mi from Madera · 37 sites · Lodging
Wildhaven Yosemite offers glamping tents and cabins on a beautiful property with mountain views in Mariposa, CA, just outside Yosemite National Park. Our glamping experience provides the comfort, cleanliness, and customer service of a hotel while keeping everything you love about a night outdoors in nature. Our extra-large, safari-style tents feature comfortable beds with linens, electricity, heaters, and all the furnishings needed for a memorable night outdoors. Looking for a little more structure in your night outdoors? Our larger glamping cabins provide a kitchenette, bathroom & shower, AC and heating, improved sound insulation, upgraded views, large windows, and a private patio to get you the fresh air you need. Your stay includes more than just a comfortable place to sleep. Guests are treated to hiking trails, communal spaces to socialize, trip planning help, Wi-Fi, and on-site activities such as yoga, wine tasting, and live music (spring through fall). The 36-acre hillside property is the star attraction, providing sweeping views towards the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas, down onto scenic Mariposa, and across miles of rolling hills.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$119
 / night

5. San Pedro Ranch

84%
(19)
26mi from Madera · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to Nature at Our Private Yosemite-Area Ranch Welcome to your ultimate outdoor retreat! Nestled on 80 private acres of pristine forest, rolling hills, and a flowing river, our ranch offers an unforgettable camping experience just a short drive from Yosemite National Park. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, our secluded paradise is the perfect escape. What We Offer: • Spacious Campsites – Set up your tent or park your RV under towering trees, with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the wilderness. • Breathtaking Views – Wake up to panoramic mountain landscapes, hike through scenic trails, and unwind by the peaceful river. • On-Site Adventures – Explore miles of private hiking trails, go fishing in the river, or rent an ATV or motorcycle for an off-road thrill. • Luxury Glamping (Optional) – Upgrade your stay with a cozy, fully-furnished glamping tent featuring comfortable beds and rustic charm. • Campfire Nights – Enjoy starlit evenings around the firepit, complete with s’mores and storytelling. Why You’ll Love It: ✔ Total Privacy – Unlike crowded campgrounds, this is your own private oasis in nature. ✔ Perfect for Groups & Families – Whether it’s a solo getaway, a romantic retreat, or a group adventure, there’s something for everyone. ✔ Close to Yosemite – Just a short drive to one of the most breathtaking national parks in the world. Disconnect from the noise and reconnect with nature. Book your stay today and experience raw beauty, adventure, and relaxation—all in one place!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night

6. Canyon Crest Private Camping and RV

88%
(37)
41mi from Madera · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Canyon Crest Campground and RV: Your Quiet Yosemite Getaway Are you looking for a rustic, off-grid, peaceful camping spot near Yosemite? Check out Canyon Crest Campground and RV in Mariposa! What it is: * 100-acre property with rustic RV/tent sites, vintage campers, and cabins for rent. * Perfect for escaping the city and enjoying nature. * Rich in Gold Rush history! Where it is: * Near Yosemite National Park (33 miles to the entrance: approx. an hour drive). * In the historic Whitlock Mining district. * Close to the Merced River Recreation Area and 12 miles to the Historic town of Mariposa. What you can do: * Explore Yosemite. * Hike and enjoy the scenery. * Relax and watch for wildlife (deer, turkeys, hawks, maybe even a bear!). Where you can stay: * 2 Tent Sites: No hookups or water, but you'll have a fire pit, privacy, and plenty of space. * Cozy Camper: Sleeps 4, has hot water, A/C, stove, fridge, toilet, and shower. * Hummingbird Camper: Sleeps 2, has hot water, A/C, stove, toilet, and shower. This site is not kid-friendly. * Cabins on the Hilltop: 2 cabins each furnished with a queen bed, electricity, and A/C. * Dry Camp Pull-Through RV: 1 RV site, no hook-ups. Beautiful, serene view, the road is easy. Pull through or back in. Fire pit. This site is set apart from the others. Important things to know: * The road to the Pull-In Dry Camp RV is gravel and easy to navigate. * The road to the remaining sites is unpaved, rocky, mountainous, and very rough. This terrain can be difficult to navigate so AWD or 4WD vehicles are recommended. Low-profile vehicles are not advised. Optional parking may be available for the hike-in. * Creeks are full in the wet season but dry up in summer. Good to know: * People who have stayed there like how quiet it is and how close it is to Yosemite. * There are other camping options nearby if Canyon Crest is booked. Want a quiet, historical, and nature-filled Yosemite experience? Canyon Crest Campground and RV might be the place!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$36
 / night

7. El Captain’s View 4X4 ONLY Yosemite

71%
(17)
47mi from Madera · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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

8. Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

94%
(1176)
36mi from Madera · 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!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$66
 / night

10. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

98%
(605)
90mi from Madera · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee). Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch. We occasionally host small, thoughtful, low impact weddings. Please inquire. There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public. Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you. Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon. Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us. Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

12. Camp SourBerry (near Yosemite)

96%
(85)
35mi from Madera · 2 sites · Tents
Welcome to Camp SourBerry! Here, you can pitch your tent with a view. You can enjoy the feeling of rural seclusion while within walking distance (~1 mile) from shops and restaurants in Oakhurst. The South Gate to Yosemite National Park is less than a 30-minute drive (~75 minutes drive-time to the Valley floor), and Bass Lake's shores are only 15 minutes away. Local wildlife is abundant. Wild turkeys are a common sighting, especially in the spring and fall, as are squirrels, bears, deer, coyotes, and bobcats, plus all kinds of native birds (hawks, quail, jays, woodpeckers, ravens, vultures, and eagles). We have a small homestead-style farm and so do the neighbors, so you can hear the distant sounds of chickens, turkeys, sheep, goats, and cows. Because the safety of our animals (and yours) is paramount, we do not allow pets off-leash. Whether you want to stay put and enjoy the natural setting or have a base from which to explore world-class attractions, we would love to host your next vacation.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$39
 / night

13. Madera,CA Countryside Ranch Camping

92%
(58)
14mi from Madera · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp in the country with beautiful sunsets, sunrises, and night sky. A & M Ranch (40 acres) is located 10 min north of Fresno and near Hwy 41 which leads to the mountains. Many travelers stop here on their way to the national parks (Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Sequoia). We are also close to hiking trails, lakes, Sierra mountains, wineries, farmers' markets, and casinos. When you arrive, you will see our four alpacas in their pen, a mini donkey, two Nigerian dwarf goats, and maybe a few cats. We have designated spots for Tent camping, although if you'd like another spot let us know. Each site is listed separately. We are listed on other platforms, so there may be other guests here. Marta also has a shop if you are interested in refurbished items or alpaca products. We are not a day camp, so if you stay a few nights, we expect you to be out most of the day. You may hear coyotes at night, and see lots of squirrels and wild bunnies. Be careful of squirrel holes. *** If we do not respond right away and give approval, it is because sometimes our schedule changes. We usually respond WITHIN the week of your stay. We generally do not accept reservations more than 3 months ahead of time. Since we also travel, sometime we have unexpected family visits.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
$40
 / night

14. Yosemite & Bass Lake Rustic Cabin

88%
(24)
37mi from Madera · 1 site · Lodging
Indoor sleeping accommodation for two, outdoor/indoor lighting, electrical outlets, good cell phone coverage, camping area, picnic table, drinkable well water, propane grill, propane provided for the grill, outdoor sun shower and portable restroom are provided. The is a WiFi network available but coverage is weak. Deer and turkey sightings occur frequently, and hiking trails are located on this 10-acre wooded property. Two seasonal creeks also located on the property which are typically flowing until early June. There is also an Airbnb cabin located on this wooded property about 100 yards uphill from the camp. The site is centrally located about between Oakhurst and Bass Lake about 10 to 15 minutes away from either location. The south entrance of Yosemite National Park is about 25 minutes away.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$44
 / night

19. Camp with Critters

100%
(28)
36mi from Madera · 1 site · Tent, RV
Sharing my life and property with rescued animals has become a full time job full of joy and lessons learned. What great teachers they are. I began to share the experiences with my animals by offering a unique farm tour called coffee with Critters and I find that I really enjoy sharing this lifestyle with like minded folk. If you love animals and want to camp near them please join me. Learn more about this land: Your campsite will be nestled among animal enclosures, listen to the munching of hay or the snorting of the horse. Your stay will include a modified animal tour and you can engage with horse, goats, rabbits, chickens, ducks and more... dogs and cats of course ;). I have a couple of spots but I would be flexible regarding campsite. My toilet is a compost toilet.  The outside shower has been upgraded with privacy curtains etc following suggetions from previous campers ;) I have a million $$ view and a modest house. My house is about 45 minutes from the Yosemite park entrance and it's an easy commute back/forth. Flowering vines cover my outdoor porches where we have big dinners when Wwoofers or Couchsurfers are in residence. The property is home to many animals, horse, goats, pigs, chickens, peacocks, rabbits, guinea pigs - dogs & cats - of course! :-) . The roosters wake us up pretty early so fair warning about that - but I love living with them and it makes the property so much more friendly with all the critters. My house is pet friendly and yours are welcome if they are 1. Fixed, 2. Are social and friendly with my pets, 3. Will not chase the cats and chickens. I can babysit your pups if you go to the park - provided they are compliant with rules above. I work from home. There are loads of trails nearby and 2 pretty ponds and plenty of wildlife, deer, turkeys and more. The property is rolling hills however there are plenty of flat areas for tents. NO FIRES PERMITTED ANYWHERE ON MY PROPERTY APRIL-OCTOBER - non negotiable.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$75
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
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