The best cave camping near Mariposa

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Looking to camp near Mariposa, California and explore caves? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 177 options specifically tailored to your preference for caves in the Mariposa area, you'll find the perfect spot to satisfy your adventurous spirit. And with an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $25, you can camp on any budget. Check out top campsites like Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (388 reviews), Five Fours Camp in Three Rivers (199 reviews), and Sequoia Mountain Farms (205 reviews) for tried and true experiences. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and campfires. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable cave camping adventure in Mariposa, California!

95% (1.1K) 21 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mariposa

Diamond Gulch

1. Diamond Gulch

96%
(1171)
30mi from Mariposa · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Groups of 15 or more use this code for 15% off your stay! ADMXESCZ Check out this sweet YouTube video of the property! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEvKF5nqcUM Early and late check-out available on tent/rv sites, free of charge. Just message me if you need an earlier check in! Free firewood! We are 30 minutes to the main gate of Yosemite National Park. A great place to stay just outside of the park. Be near the park, but feel that complete privacy. These sites are very spaced out from each other and are large. No need to cram together! Explore the mines and hang out on our Groveland, California ranch! We have 824 acres on a beautiful cattle ranch with two small ponds. On our property, you'll find frogs, turtles, oak trees, pine trees and stunning views of Yosemite. We have several campsites to choose from including RV camping, tent camping, and a glamping tent. Pets are welcome. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban. Potable water and toilet are available onsite. There's a golf course less than a mile away. We are also very close to town. In just a few minutes, you can drive to our local grocery store and pizza parlour. We are a 10-minute drive to Pine Mountain Lake. Beautiful Pine Mountain Lake offers golfing, dining, horseback riding, water sports and an airport. When you come to the ranch it feels like you are hundreds of miles away from civilization, but still close to everything you need. It is incredibly peaceful! This is a great place for someone who wants to escape city life and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Much of the ranch is open wilderness for you to explore, and it's not uncommon to see deer, frogs, turtles, quail, turkeys, or other countless species of birds. Diamond Gulch Camp is the perfect place to relax if you’re a photographer, artist, family or a group of friends looking for a place to camp near Yosemite. A small portion of the property was used as a gold mine years ago, and you may find remnants of old home sites if you go exploring. We're not far from Wards Ferry Road, Groveland, Lake Don Pedro and other interesting places.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night
Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

2. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

98%
(374)
44mi from Mariposa · 5 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
Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

3. Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

15mi from Mariposa · 1 site
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
Toilets
Showers
from 
$507
 / night
Stanislaus National Forest

4. Stanislaus National Forest

93%
(173)
National forest 52mi from Mariposa · 1530 sites
An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Starry Views on Anahata Lake

5. Starry Views on Anahata Lake

88%
(53)
49mi from Mariposa · 2 sites
Anahata Lake has 2 peaceful dark campsites with outstanding views of the stars. A pond that is swimmable when full, but lately is low due to drought. Hang out in the shade of the oak trees. Our hill at the back of the property has a hike with a gorgeous view on clear days of the mountains and hills both up the Sierra and down to the central valley. There are also several high Sierra lakes and streams to explore and swim in, and many high country hikes you can do if you are more adventurous. The nearby town of Murphys has groceries, a large variety of restaurants, and several wine tasting rooms. Note that summer temperatures often are between 90-105 degrees in our region. We recommend checking the Angels Camp forecast for the days you want to visit. Our garden often produces delicious produce which is for sale. Ask us if you are interested.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from 
$45
 / night

Looking to camp near Mariposa, California and explore caves? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 177 options specifically tailored to your preference for caves in the Mariposa area, you'll find the perfect spot to satisfy your adventurous spirit. And with an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $25, you can camp on any budget. Check out top campsites like Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (388 reviews), Five Fours Camp in Three Rivers (199 reviews), and Sequoia Mountain Farms (205 reviews) for tried and true experiences. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and campfires. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable cave camping adventure in Mariposa, California!

95% (1.1K) 21 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mariposa

Diamond Gulch

1. Diamond Gulch

96%
(1171)
30mi from Mariposa · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Groups of 15 or more use this code for 15% off your stay! ADMXESCZ Check out this sweet YouTube video of the property! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEvKF5nqcUM Early and late check-out available on tent/rv sites, free of charge. Just message me if you need an earlier check in! Free firewood! We are 30 minutes to the main gate of Yosemite National Park. A great place to stay just outside of the park. Be near the park, but feel that complete privacy. These sites are very spaced out from each other and are large. No need to cram together! Explore the mines and hang out on our Groveland, California ranch! We have 824 acres on a beautiful cattle ranch with two small ponds. On our property, you'll find frogs, turtles, oak trees, pine trees and stunning views of Yosemite. We have several campsites to choose from including RV camping, tent camping, and a glamping tent. Pets are welcome. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban. Potable water and toilet are available onsite. There's a golf course less than a mile away. We are also very close to town. In just a few minutes, you can drive to our local grocery store and pizza parlour. We are a 10-minute drive to Pine Mountain Lake. Beautiful Pine Mountain Lake offers golfing, dining, horseback riding, water sports and an airport. When you come to the ranch it feels like you are hundreds of miles away from civilization, but still close to everything you need. It is incredibly peaceful! This is a great place for someone who wants to escape city life and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Much of the ranch is open wilderness for you to explore, and it's not uncommon to see deer, frogs, turtles, quail, turkeys, or other countless species of birds. Diamond Gulch Camp is the perfect place to relax if you’re a photographer, artist, family or a group of friends looking for a place to camp near Yosemite. A small portion of the property was used as a gold mine years ago, and you may find remnants of old home sites if you go exploring. We're not far from Wards Ferry Road, Groveland, Lake Don Pedro and other interesting places.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night
Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

2. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

98%
(374)
44mi from Mariposa · 5 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
Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

3. Luxury in the Wilderness, CA

15mi from Mariposa · 1 site
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
Toilets
Showers
from 
$507
 / night
Stanislaus National Forest

4. Stanislaus National Forest

93%
(173)
National forest 52mi from Mariposa · 1530 sites
An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Starry Views on Anahata Lake

5. Starry Views on Anahata Lake

88%
(53)
49mi from Mariposa · 2 sites
Anahata Lake has 2 peaceful dark campsites with outstanding views of the stars. A pond that is swimmable when full, but lately is low due to drought. Hang out in the shade of the oak trees. Our hill at the back of the property has a hike with a gorgeous view on clear days of the mountains and hills both up the Sierra and down to the central valley. There are also several high Sierra lakes and streams to explore and swim in, and many high country hikes you can do if you are more adventurous. The nearby town of Murphys has groceries, a large variety of restaurants, and several wine tasting rooms. Note that summer temperatures often are between 90-105 degrees in our region. We recommend checking the Angels Camp forecast for the days you want to visit. Our garden often produces delicious produce which is for sale. Ask us if you are interested.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from 
$45
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field