The best waterfall campgrounds near Yosemite Valley, California

Welcome to Hipcamp, your guide to camping near Yosemite Valley, California! With over 498 options specifically tailored to your preference for camping near waterfalls, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking for a serene retreat or an action-packed getaway, our top campsites have got you covered. Check out the highly rated Finnon Lake Recreation Area with 780 reviews, Camp Nauvoo with 546 reviews, or the scenic Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden with 388 reviews. With popular amenities like toilets, cooking equipment, and campfires, and activities such as biking, swimming, and wildlife watching, you're in for an unforgettable camping experience. So pack your gear and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature!

95% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your guide to camping near Yosemite Valley, California! With over 498 options specifically tailored to your preference for camping near waterfalls, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking for a serene retreat or an action-packed getaway, our top campsites have got you covered. Check out the highly rated Finnon Lake Recreation Area with 780 reviews, Camp Nauvoo with 546 reviews, or the scenic Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden with 388 reviews. With popular amenities like toilets, cooking equipment, and campfires, and activities such as biking, swimming, and wildlife watching, you're in for an unforgettable camping experience. So pack your gear and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature!

95% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

98%

(363)

47mi from Yosemite Valley · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Shaver Lake, CA

Musick Creek Falls — Waterfalls, Stargazing & Off-Grid Luxury Near Shaver Lake Just minutes from Shaver Lake, your wilderness adventure awaits. Welcome to Musick Creek Falls—40 acres of sunsets, serenity, and the occasional Sasquatch. Each of our four private campsites has a gazebo, fresh spring water, and its own waterfall view. Nestled at the edge of the Sierra National Forest, this hidden retreat blends adventure, comfort, and sustainability. Swim in natural pools, stargaze through our telescope, or nap in a hammock under towering cedars. Bring your pup—our off-leash policy and open terrain make tails wag. Explore private hiking trails, try gold panning, climb granite boulders, or borrow a free kayak for nearby Shaver Lake. As the region’s first carbon-negative campground, we honor the land’s rich history—from the Native Nuumm (Mono) people who gathered here for its medicine to the Musick family’s 1848 gold strike. Today, every stay supports forest restoration and replanting projects that keep this place wild. Rugged but accessible (4×4 helpful in winter), Musick Creek Falls offers creekside camping, mountain views, and crystal-clear skies for the best stargazing in the Sierras. Four secluded sites ensure privacy and a light footprint—complete with composting toilet, fire rings, and picnic tables. Reconnect with nature, your partner, and your inner explorer. 🌲 Book your stay today and discover why even Sasquatch never left. Learn more at MusickCreekFalls.com Activities: 🌌 Stargazing with telescope 🥾 Private hiking trails 🐾 Off-leash dog adventures 💧 Waterfall swimming holes 🧗 Granite rock climbing 🪶 Wildlife & bird watching ⛏️ Gold panning 🚴 Mountain biking 🛶 Free kayaks for Shaver Lake Terrain: Cascading waterfalls weave through cedar and manzanita groves. Rugged granite outcrops, mossy creek beds, and forest clearings create endless photo ops. Expect elevation around 4,500 ft, crisp air, and incredible night skies. Essentials: Four secluded sites with gazebos, composting toilet, and spring water. Fire rings and picnic tables at each site. No hookups—off-grid experience. Cell service limited. 4×4 helpful but not required except after snowstorms. Shaver Lake 6 min away for supplies.

2. Yosemite Colfax Spring

98%

(976)

25mi from Yosemite Valley · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Groveland, CA

Welcome to Your Basecamp for Yosemite Adventure 🌲⛰ Just 15–20 minutes from the entrance of Yosemite National Park and about an hour from the Yosemite Valley floor, our camp offers the perfect location to recharge after exploring one of the most iconic natural landscapes on Earth. We’re also about 1.5 hours from the high-country beauty of Tuolumne Meadows, making this a great launchpad for day trips in every direction. Perched in the scenic Sierra foothills, our dry camping sites are celebrated for breathtaking panoramic views, open skies, and unforgettable sunrises and starry nights. It’s an ideal place to unwind, reconnect, and experience the outdoors in its raw beauty — without giving up the comfort of flushing toilets and hot, on-demand showers. Most of our sites are best suited for those who plan to explore during the day and return in the evening, as they receive full sun and have limited shade throughout the midday hours (during the summer months). For those looking to hang around camp during the day, we recommend bringing a shade canopy or pop-up to make your stay more comfortable. Whether you’re here for epic hikes, rock climbs, or peaceful views, our camp is a restful and rustic homebase nestled close to the wonders of Yosemite.

3. Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

96%

(328)

26mi from Yosemite Valley · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Oakhurst, CA

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.

4. Yosemite National Park

97%

(1675)

1526 sites · Yosemite Valley, California

Pros know Yosemite camping is either a feat of advanced planning or a willingness to wing it.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Sierra National Forest

92%

(176)

1360 sites · Big Creek, California

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Shangrilog Near Yosemite

92%

(25)

42mi from Yosemite Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV · Twain Harte, CA

Welcome to Shangrilog – a hidden gem tucked away on two wooded acres just outside Twain Harte, California. Surrounded by towering trees and the gentle murmur of a year-round creek, this peaceful retreat offers a perfect blend of nature, nostalgia, and adventure. At the heart of the property is a handcrafted, three-level treehouse - ideal for solo reflection or gatherings with friends and family. Camp beside it in your own RV or tent. While we don’t have toilets on-site yet, we’re working on it and always happy to answer questions or offer tips to make your stay more comfortable. The site sits just 30 yards off a quiet mountain road and includes views of three century-old log cabins, once part of the Stanislaus Forest. Whether you’re unwinding by the fire under the stars, exploring the creek, or venturing to nearby spots like Sonora Pass, Pinecrest Lake, Dodge Ridge, or even Yosemite, Shangrilog is your gateway to the simple joys of mountain life. This is more than just a campsite - it’s our home. And we love sharing it with fellow nature lovers and kindred spirits.

7. Little Piece of Yosemite

94%

(98)

25mi from Yosemite Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mariposa, CA

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.

8. BaseCampByBo!

95%

(342)

33mi from Yosemite Valley · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Groveland, CA

If you are looking for man made and leveled campsites, then this is not your basecamp. This land is a gorgeous 20 acres that means a lot to us. It's space to find your peace of mind and pitch a tent or hammock, as you would when hiking the backcountry. Aside from complimentary ice water, potty, shower, soaps, sanitizer, sunscreen, first aid, communal fire pit, wood stove and dishwashing area) this is not "glamping". If you are a person who appreciates nature and making due with what the land has provided, then we are a great fit. Guests have 20 acres to find a secluded, or socially distanced spot to pitch camp. This is for people that know how to camp in the backcountry - Without a trash can, who don’t leave cigarette butts, respect the land and would rather not be sectioned off. Flat areas are all over if you explore, and use your feet to brush aside rocks and twigs, to lay down a tent base, as we do every time we camp in the backcountry. The geography of these mountains is just that, hills and mountains. The vista at the top of the property is gorgeous and easily camps 5 tents spaced out. The property does offer many other great camping areas, and I’m more than happy to point them out. Yosemite is 30 minutes away, Don Pedro lake is 30 minutes, Cherry Lake is 30 minutes, Preston falls and Carlon falls are both 30 min away. Downtown Groveland Is 7 minutes away, and other historic towns are not too far. Close to many swimming holes. Rainbow pools is 15 minutes away. 10 min from the local grocery store and other local shops. Base Camp is just off of highway 120. Sonora has a great farmers market on Sunday and is a beautiful 40 min drive away. Thank you for taking time to read this, we look forward to hosting you! -Best Jarrett & Bo

9. Yosemite & Bass Lake Rustic Cabin

88%

(24)

28mi from Yosemite Valley · 1 site · Lodging · Oakhurst, CA

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

10. Stanislaus National Forest

93%

(173)

1530 sites · Strawberry, California

An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Inyo National Forest

96%

(453)

2001 sites · Lone Pine, California

Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

92%

(69)

868 sites · Mono City, California

Explore the largest national forest in the lower 48 with trails, fishing spots and hot springs.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Camper favorites near Yosemite Valley

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Shangrilog Near Yosemite

92%

(25)

42mi from Yosemite Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV · Twain Harte, CA

Welcome to Shangrilog – a hidden gem tucked away on two wooded acres just outside Twain Harte, California. Surrounded by towering trees and the gentle murmur of a year-round creek, this peaceful retreat offers a perfect blend of nature, nostalgia, and adventure. At the heart of the property is a handcrafted, three-level treehouse - ideal for solo reflection or gatherings with friends and family. Camp beside it in your own RV or tent. While we don’t have toilets on-site yet, we’re working on it and always happy to answer questions or offer tips to make your stay more comfortable. The site sits just 30 yards off a quiet mountain road and includes views of three century-old log cabins, once part of the Stanislaus Forest. Whether you’re unwinding by the fire under the stars, exploring the creek, or venturing to nearby spots like Sonora Pass, Pinecrest Lake, Dodge Ridge, or even Yosemite, Shangrilog is your gateway to the simple joys of mountain life. This is more than just a campsite - it’s our home. And we love sharing it with fellow nature lovers and kindred spirits.

Little Piece of Yosemite

94%

(98)

25mi from Yosemite Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mariposa, CA

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.

BaseCampByBo!

95%

(342)

33mi from Yosemite Valley · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Groveland, CA

If you are looking for man made and leveled campsites, then this is not your basecamp. This land is a gorgeous 20 acres that means a lot to us. It's space to find your peace of mind and pitch a tent or hammock, as you would when hiking the backcountry. Aside from complimentary ice water, potty, shower, soaps, sanitizer, sunscreen, first aid, communal fire pit, wood stove and dishwashing area) this is not "glamping". If you are a person who appreciates nature and making due with what the land has provided, then we are a great fit. Guests have 20 acres to find a secluded, or socially distanced spot to pitch camp. This is for people that know how to camp in the backcountry - Without a trash can, who don’t leave cigarette butts, respect the land and would rather not be sectioned off. Flat areas are all over if you explore, and use your feet to brush aside rocks and twigs, to lay down a tent base, as we do every time we camp in the backcountry. The geography of these mountains is just that, hills and mountains. The vista at the top of the property is gorgeous and easily camps 5 tents spaced out. The property does offer many other great camping areas, and I’m more than happy to point them out. Yosemite is 30 minutes away, Don Pedro lake is 30 minutes, Cherry Lake is 30 minutes, Preston falls and Carlon falls are both 30 min away. Downtown Groveland Is 7 minutes away, and other historic towns are not too far. Close to many swimming holes. Rainbow pools is 15 minutes away. 10 min from the local grocery store and other local shops. Base Camp is just off of highway 120. Sonora has a great farmers market on Sunday and is a beautiful 40 min drive away. Thank you for taking time to read this, we look forward to hosting you! -Best Jarrett & Bo

Yosemite & Bass Lake Rustic Cabin

88%

(24)

28mi from Yosemite Valley · 1 site · Lodging · Oakhurst, CA

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

Public campgrounds near Yosemite Valley

96%

(75)

Lower Pines Campground

0.6mi from Yosemite Valley · 75 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

99%

(34)

North Pines Campground

0.6mi from Yosemite Valley · 81 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

97%

(577)

Upper Pines Campground

0.9mi from Yosemite Valley · 240 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

97%

(33)

Camp 4 Campground

1.4mi from Yosemite Valley · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

Dog Lake - nice hike near Porcupine Flat

90%

(34)

Porcupine Flat Campground

4.6mi from Yosemite Valley · 104 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

Great place to camp. High elevation so be prepared for it to be colder!

100%

(18)

Bridalveil Creek Group and Horse Campground

6mi from Yosemite Valley · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

99%

(47)

Yosemite Creek Campground

6.1mi from Yosemite Valley · 75 sites · in Yosemite National Park

100%

(14)

Tamarack Flat Campground

8.6mi from Yosemite Valley · 104 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

100%

(30)

White Wolf Campground

9.7mi from Yosemite Valley · 148 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

95%

(53)

Crane Flat Campground

12mi from Yosemite Valley · 161 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

Park your car right in front of your area. Flat ground, easily fit a van.

97%

(403)

Wawona Campground

15mi from Yosemite Valley · 94 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yosemite National Park

90%

(5)

Dry Gulch Campground

15mi from Yosemite Valley · 4 sites · in Sierra National Forest

Stories from the community

S

Sabina

1 week ago

Tent

2 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

My husband and I had an amazing stay at this campsite! The bathrooms were extremely clean and well-maintained, with two separate restrooms each equipped with a sink. The showers had reliably hot water. The campsite itself came with a picnic table and benches, a fire ring (with propane available to rent for an additional fee), and a nicely leveled area perfect for setting up tents. There were convenient small water stations nearby. The views were beautiful, and the site was very easy to find thanks to the clear and detailed instructions from Leeza and Tom. They were incredibly responsive and diligent hosts, making the entire process—from locating the site to settling in—smooth and stress-free. The location is also excellent: just about 40–50 minutes from the Yosemite entrance, making it a convenient and affordable option for exploring the park. For our first time camping in a car and visiting Yosemite, this was the ideal spot. We really enjoyed our stay and are already planning to return. Perfect for a one-night weekend getaway from the city. Highly recommended! 🌲✨

A

Alex

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Great host, even with poor weather it was beautiful and enjoyable

J

Jay

2 weeks ago

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Amazing campsites all along a fantastic creek and falls !!

H

Hamid

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Pretty epic spot and peaceful. Randy is supper helpful!

Jasmine

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

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.

E

Eric

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Great amount of space and beautiful surroundings ! Be warned , narrow windings roads but most cars and trucks should handle it, RVs and trailers may have trouble

L

Liss

3 weeks ago

24 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

The Hipcamp was perfect for our RV, we just pulled right up to the deck. No worries about rocks or stickers! Morning view with coffee was peaceful and the starry night was beyond words. The water fill station was convenient and the bathrooms were clean and comfortable. We came out to enjoy Yosemite and we were so close to the gate we lounged in the morning and got to the park so early we had the best parking space for our 24ft. Lastly, there are beautiful river spots on the way to Yosemite. Hope the review was helpful!

C

Cam

November 2025

20 ft campervan

2 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

Knowledgeable, well prepared and communicative. Hot showers and clean bathrooms and the views are STUNNING.

A

Abby

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Had a wonderful stay and would definitely recommend!

Vuthy

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

We had an amazing stay here; the peaceful sound of the waterfall and the privacy made this spot feel like a hidden oasis. Only an hour from Yosemite and just a few minutes from town, it was the perfect balance of nature and convenience. This was the first camping trip for a couple members of our group, and the bar might be set way too high now, what a great introduction to the outdoors. The host was incredibly friendly, welcoming, and helpful throughout our stay. The flushable toilet and shower were clean and worked great, though they’re a short walk from the site, totally worth it for the comfort they provide. Highly recommend this site to anyone looking for a quiet, tucked-away spot to relax and enjoy nature. We’ll definitely be back!

S

Sarah

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Shandie’s campsites were amazing! She was very hospitable and communicative. We were able to message back-and-forth on the app. The site was very clean and it was easy to unload and pitch our tent. The bathroom is conveniently located and very well organized. The views were outstanding and we will definitely be back. Thank you Shandie!

Max

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Shandie was a great host and the site was beautiful and romantic, hoping to return again!

A

Anthony

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

An amazing view and sleeping there is a dream with the waterfall running all night. Shandie was such an amazing host, my dog ended up getting lost and she did what she could to help me find him even extending my stay another night free of charge. We will 100% be returning.

H

Heather

October 2025

With pets

4 nights at Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

Cabin and property are exactly as described. Very close to great hiking trails and Yosemite. The waterfall was beautiful and it was a lovely sound to fall asleep to.

M

Millie

October 2025

18 ft Class C

1 night at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

Thanks so much, we loved musick creek camping! We only wish we stayed longer than 1 night.

Asha

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Musick Creek Falls by Shaver Lake

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.

Kathy

October 2025

3 nights at Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp

We had a great time at Wendy & Hudson’s cabin. The view of the waterfall from the deck was one of our favorite parts. In close second were the sunset views over the boulder. I had been looking for something that was secluded and private, and we got just that!! Parking down the driveway can be a bit tricky and getting down to the shower/bathroom is a bit aways, but all in all it was absolutely worth it! We came near the new moon and got to enjoy the stars each night, which was quite a treat. It’s about 1.5 hour drive from the center of Yosemite, but there are also lots of nature spots to checkout nearby too. I’d definitely recommend Wild Fig in Coarsegold for brunch or lunch and Clouds Rest Coffee in Oakhurst. A special shoutout to Wendy who was an incredible host and just an all around lovely person. We’d definitely come back here and I’d love to camp at the second site on their property!

P

Prem

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

As usual, the site was very clean and bathrooms were kept well. We booked site 8, a bit higher up with views of the waterfall. Sleeping with the sound of gushing water is something you don't do everyday :)

P

Polina

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

Everything was just wonderful! Very close to the park entrance. The shower, toilet, and the fact that there’s hot water — total game changer!!! Such a beautiful and awesome campground. We’ll definitely come back again! ⛺️✨