- Waterside Camping
The best waterside camping near Mariposa
95% (4.4K) • 70 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Mariposa
Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake
1. 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
San Pedro Ranch
2. San Pedro Ranch
84%
(19)
20mi from Mariposa · 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
Luxury By The Lake, Groveland CA
3. Luxury By The Lake, Groveland CA
28mi from Mariposa · 1 site
Experience Groveland's premier luxury Lake House at the Pine Mountain Lake gated community.
The Peninsula Lake House was professionally designed and furnished by a prominent Bay Area developer. The wide frontage to the main lake offers panoramic views and easy water access with a private dock. Included are 2 canoes and 2 SUPs with life jackets. A large game room with a pool table, arcade-grade air hockey table, Sonos sound system, and a vintage upright piano provides indoor entertainment.
The space
The Peninsula Lake House was professionally designed and furnished by a prominent Bay Area developer.
Guest access
smart lock access by code
***Please note that a $50 per car entry fee is not included in the listing fees and must be paid at your initial entry into the Pine Mountain Lake community. You will receive a Guest Pass to hang on your car for the duration of your stay. Proceeds of this fee are used to maintain facilities and operations of the PML community amenities shared with our guests.
Other things to note
Located at the quiet end of the Lake away from the Marina, the property features:
- Private dock access into Pine Mountain Lake
- Canoes (x2), Standup Paddle boards (x2), and life jackets (all sizes)
- Ping Pong
- Pool Table
- Air hockey
- BBQ grill/Griddle
- piano
- Sonos sound system
The wide frontage to the main lake offers panoramic views and easy water access with a private dock.
The two large wraparound redwood decks offer prime views of the lake, outdoor dining and BBQ areas, and Adirondack lounge chairs to relax in and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$713
/ night
Sierra National Forest
4. Sierra National Forest
92%
(176)
National forest 42mi from Mariposa · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Stanislaus National Forest
5. 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
Private lakeside resort, Groveland
6. Private lakeside resort, Groveland
28mi from Mariposa · 1 site
Lakeside + Amenities + Sleeps 12 = WIN for an unforgettable family getaway! PRIVATE, lakeside recreation area with beach entry, kayaks, SUPs, ping pong, bocce ball, tree swing, hammock, corn hole, and BBQ ALL ON SITE! Ideal for 2-3 families or 1 larger family traveling together!
Within a 5-minute drive are the Pine Mountain Lake amenities available to all of our renters: swimming pool, beaches, pickle ball, golf, tennis, children's playground, hiking, horseback riding, archery...
The space
a King-sized bed in the Master bedroom with an ensuite bath, Queen-sized beds in the other bedrooms with an adjacent bath, and a bunk room with an adjacent bath. A total of 3 bedrooms, 1 bunk room, and 3 full baths to accommodate groups as large as 12 persons.
Guest access
Self-check-in is available with door access granted by entry code via a Schlage smart lock.
***Please note that a $50 per car entry fee is not included in the listing fees and must be paid at your initial entry into the Pine Mountain Lake community. You will receive a Guest Pass to hang on your car for the duration of your stay. Proceeds of this fee are used to maintain facilities and operations of the PML community amenities shared with our guests.
Other things to note
Memory foam mattresses, 100% down pillows and comforters, and 100% cotton sheets.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$644
/ night
Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
7. Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
83%
(7)
State park 35mi from Mariposa · 111 sites
Park with both lake and river offers camping and water recreation in the San Joaquin Valley.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Inyo National Forest
8. Inyo National Forest
96%
(453)
National forest 113mi from Mariposa · 2001 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
95% (4.4K) • 70 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Mariposa
Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake
1. 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
San Pedro Ranch
2. San Pedro Ranch
84%
(19)
20mi from Mariposa · 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
Luxury By The Lake, Groveland CA
3. Luxury By The Lake, Groveland CA
28mi from Mariposa · 1 site
Experience Groveland's premier luxury Lake House at the Pine Mountain Lake gated community.
The Peninsula Lake House was professionally designed and furnished by a prominent Bay Area developer. The wide frontage to the main lake offers panoramic views and easy water access with a private dock. Included are 2 canoes and 2 SUPs with life jackets. A large game room with a pool table, arcade-grade air hockey table, Sonos sound system, and a vintage upright piano provides indoor entertainment.
The space
The Peninsula Lake House was professionally designed and furnished by a prominent Bay Area developer.
Guest access
smart lock access by code
***Please note that a $50 per car entry fee is not included in the listing fees and must be paid at your initial entry into the Pine Mountain Lake community. You will receive a Guest Pass to hang on your car for the duration of your stay. Proceeds of this fee are used to maintain facilities and operations of the PML community amenities shared with our guests.
Other things to note
Located at the quiet end of the Lake away from the Marina, the property features:
- Private dock access into Pine Mountain Lake
- Canoes (x2), Standup Paddle boards (x2), and life jackets (all sizes)
- Ping Pong
- Pool Table
- Air hockey
- BBQ grill/Griddle
- piano
- Sonos sound system
The wide frontage to the main lake offers panoramic views and easy water access with a private dock.
The two large wraparound redwood decks offer prime views of the lake, outdoor dining and BBQ areas, and Adirondack lounge chairs to relax in and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$713
/ night
Sierra National Forest
4. Sierra National Forest
92%
(176)
National forest 42mi from Mariposa · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Stanislaus National Forest
5. 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
Private lakeside resort, Groveland
6. Private lakeside resort, Groveland
28mi from Mariposa · 1 site
Lakeside + Amenities + Sleeps 12 = WIN for an unforgettable family getaway! PRIVATE, lakeside recreation area with beach entry, kayaks, SUPs, ping pong, bocce ball, tree swing, hammock, corn hole, and BBQ ALL ON SITE! Ideal for 2-3 families or 1 larger family traveling together!
Within a 5-minute drive are the Pine Mountain Lake amenities available to all of our renters: swimming pool, beaches, pickle ball, golf, tennis, children's playground, hiking, horseback riding, archery...
The space
a King-sized bed in the Master bedroom with an ensuite bath, Queen-sized beds in the other bedrooms with an adjacent bath, and a bunk room with an adjacent bath. A total of 3 bedrooms, 1 bunk room, and 3 full baths to accommodate groups as large as 12 persons.
Guest access
Self-check-in is available with door access granted by entry code via a Schlage smart lock.
***Please note that a $50 per car entry fee is not included in the listing fees and must be paid at your initial entry into the Pine Mountain Lake community. You will receive a Guest Pass to hang on your car for the duration of your stay. Proceeds of this fee are used to maintain facilities and operations of the PML community amenities shared with our guests.
Other things to note
Memory foam mattresses, 100% down pillows and comforters, and 100% cotton sheets.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$644
/ night
Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
7. Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
83%
(7)
State park 35mi from Mariposa · 111 sites
Park with both lake and river offers camping and water recreation in the San Joaquin Valley.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Inyo National Forest
8. Inyo National Forest
96%
(453)
National forest 113mi from Mariposa · 2001 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Marjorie
January 2026
16 ft car
This was a magical place to spend the weekend. We went in the cold and had the place all to ourselves! The property is amazing with all the waterfalls. So peaceful and the owners were so sweet and in good communication the whole trip! We are definitely coming back!!
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A
Apirak
December 2025
Tent
I love the place the serenity, the quietness, the stars, the sky, the vibe and the water fall. If you’re looking for a place to relax this is a place for you. And the host is excellent.
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A
Alex
November 2025
Tent
Great host, even with poor weather it was beautiful and enjoyable
See moreJ
Jay
November 2025
15 ft campervan
Amazing campsites all along a fantastic creek and falls !!
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Jasmine
November 2025
Tent
This land is so very well loved by Shandie. It really is a hidden world from everything else. Not only was Shandie a wonderful host but her land is truly a gift to the heart.
The road to the property is mostly paved and ends with gravel with some larger humps and bumps. But was plenty doable with my boat of a sedan with its questionable clearance. Just take it slow for the more nervous of drivers. Musick Cove is smack dab right next to the falls, and even in the late fall, is roaring with life. It's perfectly intimate for two. It's tucked away with plenty of trees and brush for privacy. If you do wander a bit you can see the other sites, one above the falls and Midway Lookout but like I said the brush and trees provide plenty of privacy. It had a charcoal grill and a fire pit for use. I can see maybe two tents fitting in the area but I would say it comfortably fits one much better. Outhouse is not too far from the site and is clean and cared after frequently.
Go explore the land! Of course safely and respectfully but so many things to discover just by walking around. So happy to see the lands returning after the Creek Fire.
Could not recommend this enough. Will be returning when the snow melts and brings more life to the already beautiful world Shandie and her crew take so much care for.
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Max
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Shandie was a great host and the site was beautiful and romantic, hoping to return again!
See more
Asha
October 2025
Tent
With pets
I did camping on Sunday night at Music Creek Falls, and it turned out to be one of the best experiences ever! The place was beautifully maintained — surrounded by nature, peaceful, and had the perfect waterfall right next to my tent spot, which felt so private and special.
Even though it was quite cold, my dog and I couldn’t resist playing in the crystal-clear water. The night sky was breathtaking for stargazing — something I’ll never forget.
But what truly made this trip special was Shandie, the host. Since we were two females camping, she went above and beyond to make sure we were safe and comfortable. She personally carried firewood for us, provided hot chocolate, offered sleeping bags, and made sure we had everything we needed for a cozy night.
I’ve done many camping trips before, but I’ve never felt this safe and cared for. Shandie’s kindness and attention made this camping experience unforgettable.
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P
Pam
October 2025
16 ft car
With pets
I loved the campsite! 🏕️ the waterfalls were amazing…also allowing the dogs to be off leash was great.
See moreJ
Jessie
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Such a beautiful, secluded, slice of magic. Shandie was an amazing host. Our dog loved it just as much as we did. We will be back!
See more
K
Katy
October 2025
Tent
With kids
It is definitely a magical place. It was quite a drive from San Jose for one night. But it worth it! Immersed in nature in a spot you can’t stop admiring. The hosts were amazing and made sure I find the spot. We connected immediately and I got help parking. I would come again any time. Thank you for providing these camping spots for us.its really incredible. The sierra is a totally different world and this is a little piece on heaven you found there are care for.
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A
Amanda
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Absolutely amazing! The pictures are exactly what it looks like if not better. Myself my husband and our two boys came to spend one night and by the first night by the fire knew we needed another one. Shandie and everyone is super chill and kind. Nothing negative I have to say! We would love to go back🥰
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S
Sylvia
September 2025
Tent
With pets
We thoroughly enjoyed camping at the riverbank site. It was a delightful experience to use the canoe. Exel, a friendly and attentive host, ensured our comfort during our stay. While the potable water is a bit of a walk (about 5 minutes), the restroom is conveniently located just two minutes away. As long as you’re comfortable with this slight inconvenience, this is an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in a beautiful natural setting.
See moreS
Steven
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
We had an exceptional time staying here! It started off a little rocky when our generator wouldn’t start, we would’ve literally been sleeping on the cold ground if not for our hosts coming to the rescue letting us use their generator and fix ours. The rest of the trip was a breeze. We had so much fun cooling off in the water by the waterfall. And making a trip to the nearby lake!! Falling asleep, listening to the water was a wonderful experience! We Will definitely be back for another visit! This truly is a special hidden gem of a site!!
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J
Jesse
August 2025
Tent
A little off the beaten path but not too far. Shaver Lake is about 20 minutes away. Limited number of sites means lots of privacy. Sites were spaced out far enough you don’t even notice the other campers, which is nice if you’ve ever been to one where you’re all on top of each other and can hear everything going on next door.
Visited mid-August and the waterfall was flowing steadily but not too crazy. Pools are shallow but some are wide enough to drop into and float in
Spring water is available for drinking and the outhouse is very clean.
Great hosts and I definitely plan to be back! Thank you Shandie and Jesse!
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A
Alexis
August 2025
Tent
With pets
We loved our stay at the Musick Cove site! The waterfall and pools were beautiful and perfect for wading. There was room for 1 large or 2 small tents at the site itself, but we found a flat-ish surface not too far away for our second larger tent. The gravel road in was no problem for my small AWD car. Definitely check out Shaver Lake (~20 minute drive) while you are there!
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D
David
August 2025
Tent
Shandie and Jesse are so nice and helpful! They are very responsive on any help or questions we had. We actually wanted to stay an extra night but the site was booked, they had offered to help move and set up at another open site to help accommodate which was amazing (although I decided not to stay). Musick Cove itself is a magical place my dog had a blast it is super off leash pet friendly within reason. The wet rocks can be very slippery especially the algae covered ones so you will need to be mindful. There's so much to explore and so many clear pools and hidden gems all around, definitely worth exploring. We didn't have any ticks/fleas issue although we did come prepared just a few mosquitoes at dusk and dawn which is expeected but it was barely any at the time we went. Waking up next to the waterfall is something you need to experience in person, there's a LED light set up at night for you to enjoy as well.
See moreS
Sarah
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Most amazing place to camp. My dog and I spent two nights there and had the best time. She was off leash and running around the water, happy as can be. Our campsite was directly next to the waterfall, which was the most incredible part! There was a picnic bench, fire pit, and sun canopies. I can’t wait to return!
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C
Colleen
August 2025
Tent
With kids
Beautiful location! I was shocked and pleasantly surprised that there were no mosquitoes. Host was attentive and responsive. Thanks for having us!
See moreK
Keehne
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
Everything is majestic in my opinion! If I can spend the whole week or month or year, I would! As an avid camper/overlander, this hidden gem is an oasis for me. A++++ and Top 5 of my favorite places to camp!
Thanks Shandie for having me/us!
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K
Kelly
July 2025
Tent
With pets
It’s true! This place is nothing short of spectacular! Such good camp vibes! Pack your car and your dogs and book it. Mother Nature is at its finest here and Shandie is an
absolute gem.
Take a trip to shaver lake for the day. Watch an epic sunset at the upper falls site. Soak in the healing waters of Musick cove.
It’s truly California’s gold.
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The best waterside camping near Mariposa guide
Nearby attractions
Experience the tranquility of riverside camping near the Merced River. With its clear waters, abundant fishing opportunities, and scenic surroundings, the Merced River camping experience blends adventure and relaxation in California's serene wilderness.