The best campgrounds near Shaver Lake, California with campfires

On the southwest shore of its namesake lake, the small town of Shaver Lake offers lodging, restaurants, shops, and other services to support visitors to the popular recreational lake. With 20 miles of shoreline and warm surface temperatures in the summer, Shaver Lake is a popular lake for swimming, boating, padding, waterskiing, and water sports. Anglers flock here for the more than 15 species of fish, including Kokanee salmon and rainbow trout. More than 30 miles of trails also surround the lake. Campers have plenty of options, from lakeside campgrounds around Shaver Lake to developed and dispersed campgrounds in the national forest and parks nearby.

Summers are the most popular times at Shaver Lake and both lakeside campgrounds fill up early. Boat ramps and marinas are usually open from April to October. Shaver Lake is open for fishing all year, though fishing in area streams is often limited to between late April and November. Spring and summer are good times for birdwatching. In the winter, enjoy snow play at several area SNO-parks and the China Peak Mountain Resort near Huntington Lake.

Permits are required for backpacking in certain wilderness areas, including Ansel Adams and Dinkey Lakes.
Campfire permits are required outside of developed campsites. Some areas do not permit any fires, even when fire regulations are not in place.
Many forest products, including mushrooms and firewood, require permits.
Be bear aware. Always store scented items outside your tent in a bear-proof container.
Fishing licenses are required for those 16 and older. Special regulations apply to US Wild and Scenic Rivers.

94% (2.1K) • 363 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Shaver Lake

Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

1. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

98%

(374)

1.2mi from Shaver Lake · 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

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from

$64

/ night

Haven Lake

2. Haven Lake

100%

(10)

5.5mi from Shaver Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Up to 75 people Lake with boats kayaks and fishing Unlimited free Showers! 6 foot wood firepit & pizza oven 3 large propane BBQ grills Full kitchen with running water Off grid Solar system - charge phones / laptops - run appliances - Battery runs lights all night! Free to use Cotton Candy machine Free ICE machine - 60lbs per day Immerse yourself in a well-maintained forest, featuring a vast meadow and a serene five-acre lake. Shaded tent areas provide comfort, miles and miles of trails reveal diverse flora and fauna. Bask in the beauty of sunlight filtering through trees, the gentle rustle of leaves, and the tranquility of the reflective lake. Discover nature's harmony in this captivating sanctuary.

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from

$500

/ night

Willow Belle Ranch

3. Willow Belle Ranch

100%

(31)

11mi from Shaver Lake · 2 sites

Hello, we have a very unique and peaceful 20 acre ranch. WBR is a great base camp for those who love adventure and activities. After a full day of your choice of Yosemite adventures, hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, shopping, eating, kayaking and exploring the area….,just the tip of the iceberg, come on back to the ranch and enjoy the peaceful sounds of a crackling fire along with the rest of natures ambiance and rolling water from Willow Creek just outside the property line. We have friendly dogs, cats, horses, pigs and chickens in which our guests may tour the property and enjoy what we have been blessed with.

Toilets

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Potable water

from

$125

/ night

Sierra National Forest

4. Sierra National Forest

92%

(176)

National forest 18mi from Shaver Lake · 1360 sites

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Pine Flat Lake

5. Pine Flat Lake

83%

(6)

Park 16mi from Shaver Lake · 104 sites

Splash in the water or enjoy some time boating on this spacious lake.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

6. Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

96%

(338)

25mi from Shaver Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp. Come and enjoy our beautiful and private micro climate, created by the cascading waterfalls from Nelder and Lewis Creek. Camp by the creekside and fall asleep to the sound of the meandering creek, with absolutely incredible views of the stars overhead. Both creeks feed into the head of the Fresno river next to the campsite. You'll be surrounded by Oaks, Alders, Pine and Cedar trees. Take a day trip to Yosemite, hike/bike in the mountains, or explore the nearby towns of Oakhurst and Bass Lake. The south gate to Yosemite is approx. 20 minutes and Bass Lake is 5 minutes by car.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$72

/ night

Camp SourBerry (near Yosemite)

7. Camp SourBerry (near Yosemite)

96%

(85)

26mi from Shaver Lake · 2 sites

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

Picnic table

from

$39

/ night

Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

8. Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

94%

(1176)

26mi from Shaver Lake · 8 sites

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!

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic table

from

$66

/ night

Camp ikigai Animal Sanctuary 501c3

9. Camp ikigai Animal Sanctuary 501c3

90%

(84)

28mi from Shaver Lake · 125 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Camp ikigai is a 72-acre off-grid farm and ranch stay near Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Rescued and end-of-life horses, sheep, chickens, and geese roam freely across the land, creating a peaceful, living sanctuary environment. Guests have access to a communal clubhouse featuring: • Fully stocked shared kitchen • Washer and dryer (paid use) • Large social fire pit • Hot and cold outdoor showers • Composting facilities (located near the tiny cabins) • Outhouse restroom (Upper Sundance Grounds) • Seasonal above-ground swimming pool (shared, not heated) We are committed to inclusivity, respect, and safety, and we proudly provide a welcoming space for people of all backgrounds, including solo female travelers. Location • ~30 minutes to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (Foothills area) • ~90 minutes to Yosemite National Park • ~30 minutes to nearby lakes and rivers • ~50 minutes to Fresno • ~3 hours from San Francisco • ~3.5 hours from Los Angeles (Yosemite access varies by season and route) Our Priorities 1. Wildfire prevention and land stewardship 2. Community building 3. Environmental sustainability Wildfire season typically runs from May through October. During this time, we actively maintain defensible space, vegetation management, and safety protocols to protect guests, animals, and land. Volunteer Opportunities (Optional) For guests interested in hands-on participation, we offer an optional volunteer program. Current projects include: • Invasive species management • Tiny home and infrastructure building • Gardening and greenhouse construction • Event space development • Livestock care • Medicinal plant cultivation and onsite apothecary development Stay Your Way Book a cabin, bring a tent, park a van or RV — and yes, pets are welcome. We embrace respectful travelers with animals of all kinds. To explore volunteer opportunities or learn more: • https://campikigai.com • https://linktr.ee/ikigaiSanctuary

Pets

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from

$49

/ night

Sequoia National Forest

10. Sequoia National Forest

98%

(271)

National forest 86mi from Shaver Lake · 905 sites

Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.

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Hensley Lake

11. Hensley Lake

100%

(2)

Park 30mi from Shaver Lake · 55 sites

Discover the scenic beauty of Hensley Lake, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Kings Canyon National Park

12. Kings Canyon National Park

97%

(178)

National park 45mi from Shaver Lake · 647 sites

This spot is home to the country's deepest canyon and its largest grove of sequoia trees.

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

Eastman Lake

13. Eastman Lake

100%

(3)

Park 36mi from Shaver Lake · 106 sites

This scenic retreat draws nature lovers and oudoor enthusiasts.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Dunlap Canyon Retreat

14. Dunlap Canyon Retreat

99%

(193)

28mi from Shaver Lake · 36 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

22 acres of camp sites and another 40 acres nextdoor to a hang gliders and paragliders landing. We have restrooms with showers attached to a geodesic dome on property. BBQ , water at sites. A seasonal 2 acre pond. We are about 25mi from sequoia and Kings Canyon right off the Highway 180 and a close drive from restaurants, stores. Beautiful views. We strive to make sure you have an amazing experience in the outdoors. We are still working on making the campground 100% so sorry in advance but what we are lacking we will make up for it with making your experience memorable hope to meet everyone soon P.S I got 6 things ask you to do while you are here 1.Enjoy your time here 2. If you need anything or have concerns say something ( I will try to accommodate the best I can) 3.Have fun 4. Only TP in toilets please 5. Make memories 6. Be respectful to your neighbors ( Get to know them. I don’t really have quite hours just keep in mind some ppl might be waking up early to hike in the park)

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from

$40

/ night

Camp Hye Sierra

15. Camp Hye Sierra

96%

(89)

28mi from Shaver Lake · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Camp Hye Sierra is a 160-acre property located about 35 miles east of Fresno, California (within five miles of the the entrance to Kings Canyon National Park).Our property offers a unique rental opportunity and serene retreat setting perfect for reflection and fellowship.Learn more about this land:Camp Hye Sierra is a 160-acre property located about 35 miles east of Fresno, California (within five miles of the the entrance to Kings Canyon National Park).Our property offers a unique rental opportunity and serene retreat setting perfect for reflection and fellowshipSPORTS COURTLocated at the center of camp, our all-weather, outdoor, lighted basketball court provides a great experience for basketball, tennis, and a host of other court friendly games. At night, the sport court provides us with an excellent place to take the entire camp for some spectacular stargazing!CAMPFIREOur campfire is also located next to beautiful Ketchoyan Lake. It features a stage, amphitheater, and outdoor lighting. The campfire location is a great venue for daytime classes and an area where campers have a chance to perform skits, sing songs, and roast marshmallows at evening campfires.ARBOROur arbor is a gorgeous open air structure adjacent to the sparkling water of Ketchoyan Lake. It is the perfect venue for an evening dance in the cool mountain air, daytime classes, talent shows, and a host of other activities. LAKESOur property has 2 fully stocked lakes where you can enjoy catch and release fishing, swimming and sunbathing.

Pets

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from

$70

/ night

A & M Ranch Central Cal

16. A & M Ranch Central Cal

92%

(58)

29mi from Shaver Lake · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

Park your RV on 40 peaceful acres in the Central California countryside — just 10 minutes north of Fresno and an easy drive to Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks. Experience wide-open skies, fresh country air, and the simple beauty of nature at our family-friendly camping retreat. Located in the heart of Central California, our property offers the perfect blend of convenience and quiet escape — close to the city, yet worlds away from the noise. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a family adventure, or a small-group retreat, you'll find space to connect and unwind. Guests love meeting our friendly mini donkey, two Nigerian dwarf goats, dogs, and cats — a special treat for children and animal lovers alike. Board games and outdoor games are available. Evenings are perfect for gathering under the stars, sharing stories, and enjoying the peaceful rhythm of the countryside. We’re ideally situated for day trips to: Yosemite National Park Sequoia National Park Kings Canyon National Park After a day of exploring, return to quiet open land and country comfort. Be sure to check out our website to discover the fun activities and special experiences we offer families throughout the year. Simple. Spacious. Memorable. Come camp, connect, and create lasting memories. *** 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 in advance. Since we also travel, sometimes we have unexpected family visits.

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from

$45

/ night

Kings Canyon Campground

17. Kings Canyon Campground

92%

(745)

31mi from Shaver Lake · 21 sites · Tents, RVs

This rustic campground is located in Kings Canyon on hwy 180, 16 miles past the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Park entrance. Ten Mile Creek running thru the property. Magnificent views of Kings Canyon from the property. Google plus code for maps R497+877 Hume Station, California Campground sites with picnic tables. Flushing toilets on site. Water and sewer hookups available at some sites. 6 miles to the mighty Kings River, 12 miles to Grant Grove and the Giant Sequoia’s, 16 miles to Cedar Grove, 22 miles to “Roads End” and trail head for the endless backcountry trails including the Pacific Crest trail. Easy access to General’s Hwy for Sequoia National Park access

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Water hookup

from

$22

/ night

Thistledew Ranch

18. Thistledew Ranch

93%

(59)

32mi from Shaver Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV

Secluded, private, semi-dry camping at 4000 ft. with an RV accessible pull thru. Located 15 minutes from Sequoia National Park entrance. The view to the east is the western edge of the Sequoia National Forest. This campsite is the only one on the property. Typical weather is sunny with low humidity and moderate temperatures.

Pets

Potable water

from

$53

/ night

The Mountain Chapel Campground

19. The Mountain Chapel Campground

92%

(125)

35mi from Shaver Lake · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

While on a family backpacking excursion through Sequoia King’s Canyon National Park, and the surrounding area, we came across this charming campground. A long-forgotten chapel in the mountains that was formerly a summer camp. From here, a short 15-minute drive will take you directly to the main entrance of Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park for access to the Giant Sequoias at Grant Grove and the Grant Grove Village. For those who prefer to travel off the beaten path, a short 30-minute hike will take you to the National Forest. We are excited to invite you to camp at this hidden gem, while we undertake to restore the campground to its original splendor. Easy drive to available parking, with easy access and pull through drive for any vehicle, even with trailers. For campers bringing their own tents, we provide beautiful and well- shaded sites with level ground, soft grass, tucked underneath the many old-growth trees.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$35

/ night

Little Piece of Yosemite

20. Little Piece of Yosemite

95%

(100)

36mi from Shaver Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land: River status: Swimmable but stopped flowing as of 6/28 Camp on our small piece of paradise located near Yosemite. We are a family of 5 (me, my husband, our two toddlers and our dog, River) living on 5 acres of mountain land in the foothills of the Sierras complete with an outdoor shower and bath and also flowing (seasonal) stream that you can swim in. Feel free to wander around the property on a few of our trails or just chill by the water and enjoy the magic of the mountains. Our property is about a 55 min drive to the Yosemite entrance. PLUS another 15 mins to the main attractions. Dogs are more than welcome as long as they are ok with our dog wandering around. He’s super sweet loves everybody.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Showers

from

$64

/ night

On the southwest shore of its namesake lake, the small town of Shaver Lake offers lodging, restaurants, shops, and other services to support visitors to the popular recreational lake. With 20 miles of shoreline and warm surface temperatures in the summer, Shaver Lake is a popular lake for swimming, boating, padding, waterskiing, and water sports. Anglers flock here for the more than 15 species of fish, including Kokanee salmon and rainbow trout. More than 30 miles of trails also surround the lake. Campers have plenty of options, from lakeside campgrounds around Shaver Lake to developed and dispersed campgrounds in the national forest and parks nearby.

Summers are the most popular times at Shaver Lake and both lakeside campgrounds fill up early. Boat ramps and marinas are usually open from April to October. Shaver Lake is open for fishing all year, though fishing in area streams is often limited to between late April and November. Spring and summer are good times for birdwatching. In the winter, enjoy snow play at several area SNO-parks and the China Peak Mountain Resort near Huntington Lake.

Permits are required for backpacking in certain wilderness areas, including Ansel Adams and Dinkey Lakes.
Campfire permits are required outside of developed campsites. Some areas do not permit any fires, even when fire regulations are not in place.
Many forest products, including mushrooms and firewood, require permits.
Be bear aware. Always store scented items outside your tent in a bear-proof container.
Fishing licenses are required for those 16 and older. Special regulations apply to US Wild and Scenic Rivers.

5. Pine Flat Lake

83%

(6)

Park 16mi from Shaver Lake · 104 sites

Splash in the water or enjoy some time boating on this spacious lake.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

6. Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

96%

(338)

25mi from Shaver Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp. Come and enjoy our beautiful and private micro climate, created by the cascading waterfalls from Nelder and Lewis Creek. Camp by the creekside and fall asleep to the sound of the meandering creek, with absolutely incredible views of the stars overhead. Both creeks feed into the head of the Fresno river next to the campsite. You'll be surrounded by Oaks, Alders, Pine and Cedar trees. Take a day trip to Yosemite, hike/bike in the mountains, or explore the nearby towns of Oakhurst and Bass Lake. The south gate to Yosemite is approx. 20 minutes and Bass Lake is 5 minutes by car.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$72

/ night

Camp SourBerry (near Yosemite)

98%

(271)

National forest 86mi from Shaver Lake · 905 sites

Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Hensley Lake

11. Hensley Lake

100%

(2)

Park 30mi from Shaver Lake · 55 sites

Discover the scenic beauty of Hensley Lake, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Kings Canyon National Park

12. Kings Canyon National Park

97%

(178)

National park 45mi from Shaver Lake · 647 sites

This spot is home to the country's deepest canyon and its largest grove of sequoia trees.

Pets

Toilets

93%

(59)

32mi from Shaver Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV

Secluded, private, semi-dry camping at 4000 ft. with an RV accessible pull thru. Located 15 minutes from Sequoia National Park entrance. The view to the east is the western edge of the Sequoia National Forest. This campsite is the only one on the property. Typical weather is sunny with low humidity and moderate temperatures.

Pets

Potable water

from

$53

/ night

The Mountain Chapel Campground

19. The Mountain Chapel Campground

92%

(125)

35mi from Shaver Lake · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

While on a family backpacking excursion through Sequoia King’s Canyon National Park, and the surrounding area, we came across this charming campground. A long-forgotten chapel in the mountains that was formerly a summer camp. From here, a short 15-minute drive will take you directly to the main entrance of Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park for access to the Giant Sequoias at Grant Grove and the Grant Grove Village. For those who prefer to travel off the beaten path, a short 30-minute hike will take you to the National Forest. We are excited to invite you to camp at this hidden gem, while we undertake to restore the campground to its original splendor. Easy drive to available parking, with easy access and pull through drive for any vehicle, even with trailers. For campers bringing their own tents, we provide beautiful and well- shaded sites with level ground, soft grass, tucked underneath the many old-growth trees.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$35

/ night

Little Piece of Yosemite

20. Little Piece of Yosemite

95%

(100)

36mi from Shaver Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land: River status: Swimmable but stopped flowing as of 6/28 Camp on our small piece of paradise located near Yosemite. We are a family of 5 (me, my husband, our two toddlers and our dog, River) living on 5 acres of mountain land in the foothills of the Sierras complete with an outdoor shower and bath and also flowing (seasonal) stream that you can swim in. Feel free to wander around the property on a few of our trails or just chill by the water and enjoy the magic of the mountains. Our property is about a 55 min drive to the Yosemite entrance. PLUS another 15 mins to the main attractions. Dogs are more than welcome as long as they are ok with our dog wandering around. He’s super sweet loves everybody.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Showers

from

$64

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

O

Olivia

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to 3R Ranch Retreat w/ Wifi

Samir was a great host— the rv was perfectly stocked with heat, a clean kitchen, warm linens and towels. It was a close location to the park and a great stay for a weekend. I did not recognize that the water heater was controlled by the gas and you must turn it on/off outside as well as inside. So pro tip!

K

Kiefer

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Thistledew Ranch

This spot was easy to find, quiet, with a great view. The potable water was an added perk and the views were great!

W

William

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Amazing place. Thanks again for all the hospitality

P

Phillip

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Very beautiful piece of property, perfect for an overnighter or multiple days. The directions are very self explanatory. We arrived at night in pitch black and still found it easy. Wood was provided even though we did not purchase it, which we very much appreciated! The site is right on the creek. Very beautiful. There is power via extension cord and a good house for dishes etc. As well a bathroom shower. Host and neighbors are very nice. Definitely will be bad. My daughter, wife and I loved it here.

N

Nicole

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

We had such an incredible experience staying here. The property is absolutely beautiful — peaceful, scenic, and truly the perfect place to disconnect and relax. The views alone made the stay unforgettable, and you can really feel how special and well-cared-for the space is. Shandie was an amazing host from start to finish. She was kind, welcoming, and genuinely thoughtful, even checking in and offering help if anyone needed anything. Her generosity and hospitality made us feel comfortable and appreciated, and it meant so much to be able to stay somewhere so serene and inviting. This was exactly the kind of peaceful escape we were hoping for, and we’re so grateful for the opportunity to experience it. I would absolutely recommend this spot to anyone looking for a beautiful, quiet place to relax and recharge. We would love to come back again someday. Thank you again for everything — it was truly a wonderful experience.

G

Gabriel

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Hudson and Wendy’s location is perfect. It’s close enough to the town in case you forget supplies, southern entrance, and next a remarkable waterfall/river that will sooth you to sleep. I’d stay and plan to again!

M

Max

January 2026

Tent

1 night at Thistledew Ranch

Was exactly as described, easy to find. Was clean and exactly what I needed for a night! Would definitely come back

J

Joseph

January 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

This was such a beautiful spot to camp near Yosemite! About 30 minutes away from Mariposa Grove and the southern entrance of the park. Sounds of the river with the fire pit made the stay super relaxing.

C

Christine

January 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Thistledew Ranch

I absolutely loved Michael's camping spot! The drive up through the valley was super easy, beautiful, and very much enjoyable. The lot itself had tons of places to put down your tent, and a great spot for a fire. I loved walking around the property and looking at the different trees nearby. Will definitely be returning for a weekend getaway.

Liam

January 2026

Tent

3 nights at Little Piece of Yosemite

Sleeping in my tent on a deck built into a granite boulder overlooking a babbling creek - the ultimate sound machine for zzz’s - was every bit the experience I imagined it would be! And the outside tub was clutch at the end of a long day exploring Yosemite in its winter majesty. The hottest water (and plenty more when you need to heat it back up.. you won’t want to get out, ha!) felt amazing under the stars! So special. Definitely coming back.. Besutful property, otherwise, as well. Tucked back in an obviously upper class neighborhood, so I felt very safe, and truthfully lucky to have what I did so close to the park!

B

Bernardo

January 2026

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Awesome spot, Pretty private and a beautiful falls righ next to your camp. 10/10 spot Would have stayed longer if I had the days off. 🌲

M

Matthew

January 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Great host and beautiful area. Worth every penny for sure

M

Marjorie

January 2026

16 ft car

2 nights at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

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!!

K

Katrina

January 2026

3 nights at 3R Ranch Retreat w/ Wifi

Staying at Samir's RV was super simple & easy! The beds were comfy, shower & kitchen were adequate, and the fireplace was a really cool addition. I especially appreciated being close to the Sequoia National Park entrance! There wasn't very stable wifi/service in the RV, but that was absolutely fine with me. I enjoyed being relatively off the grid for a couple days. Check-in & check-out for my stay were contactless so we never actually met, but Samir was awesomely accommodating & refunded my unused sauna session add-ons after check-out. Thanks!

Kimberly

January 2026

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Thistledew Ranch

Beautiful, private spot. As a solo, female camper I felt very safe throughout my 4 day stay. My dog and I hiked everyday. Even in the rain, it was still beautiful and very peaceful. I will definitely be back!

C

Camila

January 2026

With pets

2 nights at Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Such a beautiful spot to stay in and very nice and welcoming hosts! The view of the waterfall is amazing and the area was very quiet and relaxing. We will be staying again one day!

J

James

December 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Thistledew Ranch

Lovely little spot, easy for an RV or trailer. Electric and water better than most comparable spots. 20 minute drive to Kings Canyon. Friendly host. Good trees for hanging a camping hammock

A

Apirak

December 2025

Tent

4 nights at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

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.

K

Kezia

December 2025

With pets

3 nights at 3R Ranch Retreat w/ Wifi

The RV was so comfortable and have everything we needed. Samir was so hospitable and accommodating in our stay. We enjoy our stay and will be coming back in the near future.

M

Meg

December 2025

1 night at 3R Ranch Retreat w/ Wifi

Loved spending the night here with a couple friends! It’s a perfect, cozy spot to spend a night or two while exploring the national parks and local mountains. If you’re looking for something easier than camping or setting up your own campsite, but still has the feel of being outdoors, this is it! The heater works great, water gets hot (wifi does not reach the trailer however, and cell reception ranges from decent to absolutely nonexistent- but if you really need to use a phone, the wifi works great closer to the house). The coffee was such a perk in the morning! Thanks so much!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Shaver Lake with campfires guide

Where to go

Shaver Lake

Situated on Shaver Lake’s shores are a handful of campgrounds, some with hundreds of campsites and plentiful amenities including wifi, marinas, boat ramps, and horseback riding facilities. On the lake’s southwest shore, the US Forest Service Dorabelle Campground offers 67 campsites with limited amenities but drinking water and vault toilets. Two miles south of the lake, the primitive Swanson Meadow Campground features eight campsites.

Sierra National Forest

The Sierra National Forest surrounds Shaver Lake. Spanning more than a million acres, the landscape varies from rolling foothills to alpine peaks, and more than 60 developed campgrounds. Bass Lake, Huntington Lake, and Mammoth Pool Reservoir are all a short drive away, and offer more than a dozen campgrounds among them. To enjoy natural hot springs, head to the Mono Hot Springs area. Several campgrounds also offer easy access to the Dinkey Lakes and Ansel Adams wilderness areas.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

To the southeast of Shaver Lake, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is home to numerous groves of giant sequoias, the tallest trees in the world, and one of the country’s deepest canyons, along with glacial valleys, massive caverns, and waterfalls. The two parks together offer more than 20 developed campgrounds. Tent cabins are also available for those looking for more luxury. Popular options include the Sunset, Crystal Springs, Azalea, Hume Lake, and Princess campgrounds.

Yosemite National Park

One of the country’s most popular national parks, Yosemite National Park is known for its granite monoliths, grand vista points, waterfalls, epic rock climbing, and hundreds of miles of trails. The park offers more than a dozen developed campgrounds, with the Wawona Campground the closest to Shaver Lake. The campgrounds in Yosemite Valley offer easy access to many highlights, while several high sierra camps offer the best of backpacking, without having to carry everything.