- Waterside Camping
The best waterside camping near Shaver Lake
94% (2.5K) • 2,802 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Shaver Lake
Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake
1. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake
98%
(387)
1.2mi from Shaver Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Musick Creek Falls — Waterfalls, Stargazing and stunning Landscapes Just minutes from Shaver Lake, your wilderness escape begins. Welcome to our 40 acres of quiet forest, sun-warmed granite, and the steady sound of cascading water. Each campsite is private and thoughtfully placed, with a gazebo, access to fresh spring water, and nearby swimming holes carved naturally into the creek. Nestled along the edge of the Sierra National Forest, this hidden retreat blends adventure, comfort, and sustainability. The surrounding area offers no shortage of nearby highlights, including Shaver Lake, the giant sequoias of McKinley Grove, the trails and swimming holes of the Dinky Creek Wilderness, year-round recreation at China Peak, and day trips to Yosemite, Sierra, and Kings Canyon National Parks, home to the General Sherman Tree. Many guests, however, find the waterfalls, forest, and dark skies here more than enough to fill their stay. Spend your days swimming in natural pools, stargazing through our shared telescope, or resting in a hammock beneath towering cedars. Dogs are welcome to roam off-leash under supervision, and the open terrain keeps tails busy. Guests explore private trails, try their hand at gold panning, scramble granite boulders, or borrow a free kayak for nearby Shaver Lake. Rugged yet accessible (4×4 helpful in winter), Musick Creek Falls offers pristine camping, mountain views, and exceptionally clear night skies. Four secluded sites keep a light footprint on the land and include composting toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Our conservation ethos is guided by the original caretakers of this region—the Nüümü, known today as the Mono or Potuck people. Rather than relying on massive machine-cut firebreaks, aerial pesticide spraying, or “pines in lines” replanting, we take a slower, place-based approach. We use controlled burning, hands-on fuel reduction, selective native plant culling, and encourage the land to regenerate naturally. Just as important, we believe sharing the land is essential, because stewardship only lasts when people are connected to it. This is a rugged mountain property. Terrain can be steep, rocks near the creek are often slick, and nights are very dark. Campers should be prepared for off grid camping and up for adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
2. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
98%
(612)
70mi from Shaver Lake · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee).
Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch.
We occasionally host small, thoughtful, low impact weddings. Please inquire.
There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public.
Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you.
Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon.
Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us.
Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Stargazing Dome with Forest Cottage- Lakefront
3. Stargazing Dome with Forest Cottage- Lakefront
20mi from Shaver Lake · 2 sites
An incredible nature experience for nature lovers. See the stars and scenic tree top views at the Forest Cottage and new Nature Hype Dome! Lakefront RV parking available.
Canoe, Paddleboard, or Kayak to island, cove beaches, and nature trails.
This special and sprawling 2 acre property has large private beach area as well as a large privately forested area backed by Sierra National Forest.
Private beachside has sunbeds, pergola, "smokeless" campfire pit, grills, corn hole, bocce ball, dining areas, canoe and paddleboard and stunning lake views.
Bald eagle viewing
Property has spa and a coldpunge
Enjoy the large redwood lounge deck, hammock, and manzanita picnic area
Property Description:
Forest cottage:
* Cedar wood interior
* 2 queen bunkbeds
* A/C and Heating
* Nice deck seating area
* Mini Fridge
* Microwave
* Coffee and tea
* Starlink internet
Stargazing Dome:
* Has balance of panels for privacy while having open panels for nature viewing
* A/C and Heating
* Starlink internet
* Connects to small and secluded Sierra National Forest trail that has large granite rock outcroppings and a view of the lake.
Pine-wood Bathroom:
* Large shower area
* Stone sink
* Blowdryer
* Composting toilet
Manzanita Picnic area:
* Picnic Table
* BBQ grill
* Umbrella
* Hammock
Redwood deck:
* Large lounge area
* Umbrella
* String lights for evening ambiance
Spa area:
* Spa( fits 6) + cold plunge
Beach area:
* Sun loungers
* Outdoor seating
* Lakefront pergola
* Wood dining table
* BBQ grill
* Weber propane grill
* Corn hole and Bocce ball
* Smokeless brick campfire pit
* Canoe , Paddle Board, and Kayaks
* Solar lights for evening ambiance
Pets
Toilets
Showers
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
Inyo National Forest
5. Inyo National Forest
96%
(454)
National forest 69mi from Shaver Lake · 1976 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
94% (2.5K) • 2,802 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Shaver Lake
Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake
1. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake
98%
(387)
1.2mi from Shaver Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Musick Creek Falls — Waterfalls, Stargazing and stunning Landscapes Just minutes from Shaver Lake, your wilderness escape begins. Welcome to our 40 acres of quiet forest, sun-warmed granite, and the steady sound of cascading water. Each campsite is private and thoughtfully placed, with a gazebo, access to fresh spring water, and nearby swimming holes carved naturally into the creek. Nestled along the edge of the Sierra National Forest, this hidden retreat blends adventure, comfort, and sustainability. The surrounding area offers no shortage of nearby highlights, including Shaver Lake, the giant sequoias of McKinley Grove, the trails and swimming holes of the Dinky Creek Wilderness, year-round recreation at China Peak, and day trips to Yosemite, Sierra, and Kings Canyon National Parks, home to the General Sherman Tree. Many guests, however, find the waterfalls, forest, and dark skies here more than enough to fill their stay. Spend your days swimming in natural pools, stargazing through our shared telescope, or resting in a hammock beneath towering cedars. Dogs are welcome to roam off-leash under supervision, and the open terrain keeps tails busy. Guests explore private trails, try their hand at gold panning, scramble granite boulders, or borrow a free kayak for nearby Shaver Lake. Rugged yet accessible (4×4 helpful in winter), Musick Creek Falls offers pristine camping, mountain views, and exceptionally clear night skies. Four secluded sites keep a light footprint on the land and include composting toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Our conservation ethos is guided by the original caretakers of this region—the Nüümü, known today as the Mono or Potuck people. Rather than relying on massive machine-cut firebreaks, aerial pesticide spraying, or “pines in lines” replanting, we take a slower, place-based approach. We use controlled burning, hands-on fuel reduction, selective native plant culling, and encourage the land to regenerate naturally. Just as important, we believe sharing the land is essential, because stewardship only lasts when people are connected to it. This is a rugged mountain property. Terrain can be steep, rocks near the creek are often slick, and nights are very dark. Campers should be prepared for off grid camping and up for adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
2. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents
98%
(612)
70mi from Shaver Lake · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee).
Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch.
We occasionally host small, thoughtful, low impact weddings. Please inquire.
There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public.
Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you.
Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon.
Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us.
Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Stargazing Dome with Forest Cottage- Lakefront
3. Stargazing Dome with Forest Cottage- Lakefront
20mi from Shaver Lake · 2 sites
An incredible nature experience for nature lovers. See the stars and scenic tree top views at the Forest Cottage and new Nature Hype Dome! Lakefront RV parking available.
Canoe, Paddleboard, or Kayak to island, cove beaches, and nature trails.
This special and sprawling 2 acre property has large private beach area as well as a large privately forested area backed by Sierra National Forest.
Private beachside has sunbeds, pergola, "smokeless" campfire pit, grills, corn hole, bocce ball, dining areas, canoe and paddleboard and stunning lake views.
Bald eagle viewing
Property has spa and a coldpunge
Enjoy the large redwood lounge deck, hammock, and manzanita picnic area
Property Description:
Forest cottage:
* Cedar wood interior
* 2 queen bunkbeds
* A/C and Heating
* Nice deck seating area
* Mini Fridge
* Microwave
* Coffee and tea
* Starlink internet
Stargazing Dome:
* Has balance of panels for privacy while having open panels for nature viewing
* A/C and Heating
* Starlink internet
* Connects to small and secluded Sierra National Forest trail that has large granite rock outcroppings and a view of the lake.
Pine-wood Bathroom:
* Large shower area
* Stone sink
* Blowdryer
* Composting toilet
Manzanita Picnic area:
* Picnic Table
* BBQ grill
* Umbrella
* Hammock
Redwood deck:
* Large lounge area
* Umbrella
* String lights for evening ambiance
Spa area:
* Spa( fits 6) + cold plunge
Beach area:
* Sun loungers
* Outdoor seating
* Lakefront pergola
* Wood dining table
* BBQ grill
* Weber propane grill
* Corn hole and Bocce ball
* Smokeless brick campfire pit
* Canoe , Paddle Board, and Kayaks
* Solar lights for evening ambiance
Pets
Toilets
Showers
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
Inyo National Forest
5. Inyo National Forest
96%
(454)
National forest 69mi from Shaver Lake · 1976 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
Michael
2 weeks ago
Tent
Shandie is amazing. The place is beautiful. Definitely going to be our go to spot. Thank you!
See moreJ
Juan pablo
3 weeks ago
Tent
Amazing safe and breathing location! Was perfect for our very first time using the app!
See moreA
Armando
March 2026
13 ft pop-up camper
With pets
This spot near Shaver Lake was an absolute vibe. The sound of the waterfall nearby made the whole place feel peaceful and secluded, and it’s the kind of campsite where you can really disconnect and just enjoy nature. The area was clean, easy to access, and had great scenery all around.
I stayed during cooler weather, but I can already tell this place would be incredible in the summertime when everything is greener and the water is flowing strong. It feels like the perfect spot to relax, explore, and spend time outdoors.
Definitely a place I’d return to again. Huge thanks to the host for sharing such a beautiful location.
See moreM
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!!
See more
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.
See more
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 !!
See more
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.
See more
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.
See more
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.
See moreA
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🥰
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!!
See more
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!
See more
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!
See more
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!
See more
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 moreShaver Lake camping 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.
