The best camping in Yosemite with climbing

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Yosemite is a magnet for climbers, and you’ll find over 5,200 camping options here that put you close to the action. Expect everything from granite domes to boulder fields, with campsites tucked near trailheads and climbing routes. Average nightly prices hover around $76, but you can snag a spot for as little as $27 if you plan ahead. Top picks include Bridgeport Reservoir Campground (545 reviews), Yosemite Colfax Spring (533 reviews), and Paradise Shores Camp (447 reviews). Many sites allow campfires, have hot showers, and welcome pets. In between climbs, cool off with a swim or set out on a hike—the trails here don’t disappoint.

91% (4.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Yosemite

2. Yosemite Colfax Spring

98%
(977)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$81
 / night

6. Apple Valley Cabin

1 site · Lodging · Phoenix Lake, CA
Welcome to our serene log cabin nestled in the tranquil Apple Valley area of Sonora! Embrace the peaceful ambiance as you stroll to the nearby Indigeny Reserve, home to a delightful cider works and distillery. Conveniently located just 5 miles from historic downtown Sonora, our cabin serves as ideal base for exploration. Discover the rich history of Columbia State Historic Park(15 mi), enjoy the charm of Twain Harte(20mi), Dodge Ridge ski resort(35mi), for nature lovers, 60 miles to Yosemite. Our cozy cabin offers modern amenities, including a microwave, Keurig coffee maker, and a gas BBQ on the front porch. While there's no stove , ** we provide a side burner on BBQ along with pots and pans for your cooking needs**. Relax in comfort with a Queen bed, 2- twin beds in the loft (accessible via a library ladder), flat -screen Smart TV with Cable, and WiFi. An air conditioner is provided both upstairs and downstairs. Please note, the loft access via a library ladder may not be suitable for children under 10. While there isn't a full kitchen, we provide a mini fridge and a kitchen sink for your convenience. Enjoy the ambiance of the floor-to-ceiling River-rock Fireplace with Duraflame logs (provided) during non-restricted months (November - May). Kindly refrain from using the fireplace during extreme fire hazard periods ( May - October) as per regulations. Embark on scenic short hikes and bike rides right from our property, immersing yourself in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. We look forward to hosting you in our charming cabin, providing a serene retreat amidst the splendor of nature. Any questions about the local area or anything else don’t hesitate to ask we are always available to help.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$132
 / night

7. Wondernut Farm

97%
(612)
4 sites · Lodging · Big Oak Flat, CA
Wondernut Farm is an upstart, entirely off grid, working farm-stead being built from the ground up. We breed milking goats and sheep, heritage pigs, and are in the process of converting to a grade A dairy and creamery! We use organic practices, management intensive rotational grazing, and dryland pasture management. We sell our animals locally so that others can have their own milking and meat animals. Our 110 year old hay barn and the roof of the former lumber mill were all we had to work with in getting off the ground. Being first and foremost a functional farm, we can't help but offer a somewhat warts-and-all look into everything it takes to be working to our goals. Our hearts are, and always will be, educational and local community focused, and we work closely with farmers and friends alike in better understanding our innovative animal husbandry, power, pasture and water systems. Whenever we have time, we'll afford the same time and opportunities to interested hip-campers. Our location is stunning and historic, and the beauty of the wild, natural landscape is powerful, yet offers easy access to both Yosemite Valley and the San Francisco Bay area. The area features excellent road and mountain biking in the immediate vicinity, vast access to hiking and backpacking trails, a huge variety of rock climbing in the area, the best whitewater rafting in California on the Tuolumne River, with some tasty places to eat or drink coffee in the nearby town of Groveland, just 10 minutes away. Accommodations at the farm are certainly rustic, and private but not secluded, with occasionally heavily project-exploded shared kitchen and living space, showers, and airy flush toilets. Do be advised that animals are pooping, hammers are hammering, sometimes we need to look into a health or animal injury related issue. Sometimes there is blood in an animal birth or slaughter, and our working guardian dogs have been known to be noisy some nights. Water and electricity are both very limited (though we reuse all our water), waste must be carefully sorted into a number of different categories, and there is always evidence of ump-teen projects unfolding at once. The most difficult condition during much of the summer are nuisance flies, which are always gone at night. We have almost no mosquitoes or ticks. Depending on the exact situation and time of year, guests may have the opportunities to snuggle with baby animals and run our herd to or from pasture, and maybe even get their hands dirty picking veggies in the garden.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$77
 / night

8. Squirrel Rock RV Campground

100%
(172)
2 sites · RVs · Columbia, CA
Private gated RV campground in the Gold Country. Located in the historic townsite of Columbia known as the "Gem of the Southern Mines". There is 1 site so you'll have the campground to yourselves. There are 2 electrical panels so you can bring your family or friends if you like. If there are 2 RV's you can reserve the campground as a double site. WE ONLY ACCEPT FULLY SELF CONTAINED RV'S ONLY. NO TENTS NO LONG TERM STAYS. Campsite has 2 electric pedestals 50/30/110. Water hookups at each site. NO SEWER. NO DUMP NO RESTROOMS AVAILABLE. Includes picnic table, camp fire ring, Weber BBQ, doggie station, horseshoe pit, corn hole, walking trails, and garbage/recycle bins. Winter camping dates subject to weather conditions. Located 0.6 mile to Columbia State Historic Park, parking and entrance is free and open year around. It is about a 15 minute walk. Close to Murphys, New Melones lake and Tuttletown recreation area, Moaning Caverns, Downtown Sonora, Mother Lode Escape Rooms, Columbia Airport, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, Black Oak Casino, Chicken Ranch Casino, Indigeny Reserve, Inner Sanctum Cellars Basecamp with other wineries and breweries nearby. About a 50 minute drive to Big Trees State Park and Pinecrest Lake. Yosemite National Park is about 1-1/2 hour drive to the Yosemite valley floor. Check for YARTS for transportation from downtown Sonora to Yosemite valley. There are several rafting outfitters in the area. Restaurants in the immediate vicinity include Mandy's Breakfast-Lunch, Columbia Frosty, El Jardin, St. Charles Saloon Pizza. Gas, diesel mini mart, market store nearby.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$65
 / night

9. Red Dragonfly Ranch

98%
(208)
20 sites · Tents · Groveland, CA
Red Dragonfly Ranch – Your Yosemite Basecamp in Groveland, CA Discover Red Dragonfly Ranch, a tranquil camping retreat nestled in a beautiful valley along the seasonal Cobb Creek—just 10 minutes from historic downtown Groveland and only 29 miles from Yosemite National Park’s Big Oak Flat entrance. Set in the heart of California’s Gold Country, our ranch offers the perfect balance of quiet seclusion and easy access to adventure. Spend your days hiking Yosemite’s breathtaking trails, exploring Groveland’s charming shops and saloons, or uncovering the rich history of the Sierra Nevada. After a day of exploration, unwind at your private campsite, relax by the fire, and gaze at a brilliant canopy of stars. Ideal for tent campers, vanlifers, and outdoor enthusiasts, Red Dragonfly Ranch provides a peaceful escape surrounded by nature while keeping you close to Yosemite’s wonders. 📍 Location Highlights: • 10 minutes to Groveland’s Main Street dining, drinks & live music • 29 miles to Yosemite National Park (Big Oak Flat entrance) • Convenient to hiking trails, scenic drives & Sierra Nevada adventures Follow us on Instagram @red_dragonfly_ranch for updates and Sierra sunset views! Come for the adventure, stay for the stars—Red Dragonfly Ranch is your perfect gateway to Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

15. Paradise Shores Camp

98%
(938)
46 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bridgeport, CA
We're a family owned RV Park & Campground located on the shores of Bridgeport Reservoir. Together with our crew, we're excited to welcome you into our newly adopted home. We believe in campfires, starry nights, good laughs, exploration, a deep sleep and an early rise. The mountains are a place to get back to basics, a place to explore, to breathe. So turn off your phone and turn on your senses. It’s important to us that our guests don’t feel they are renting a tent/RV site or a camper as much as they’re immersing themselves into the outdoor experience. You may just want to sit outside and read for days, enjoy campfires and eat s'mores. For more adventurous, there's a full slate of self-guided recreational activities, such as hiking, kayaking, fishing, ATVing, rock climbing, biking, natural water slides, stand up paddle boards, bird watching, available in the area. We do have modern conveniences such as wifi internet; however, we encourage our guests to “unplug” and immerse in the slow paced life instead. At Paradise Shores, we believe in protecting people, animals and the planet. We make sure that the majority of products we use at our camp is recycled, composted, or re-used. We prefer to use products that are produced in a sustainable way and avoid those that aren't. We are continuously reducing the amount of waste we generate and actively promote recycling of aluminum, plastic, glass, and cardboard. We pack our own recycling and haul it to the nearest recycling facility which is an hour away. We co-opt the drive with other activities to reduce waste. We don’t use individually packaged toiletries or one-use products. We use plant and planet friendly detergent. We're based in a desert. We share our precious water with the entire planet. With only 326 million cubic miles of water on the earth, the decreasing amounts of access to quality fresh water is alarming to us. We monitor how we use water in our day-to-day activities and are constantly working on ways to reduce our consumption of fresh-water resources. We hope you can help us maintain this greener camping! We hope Paradise Shores Camp becomes your home as it is ours. It’s located in one of the most spectacular areas in the world. We’re surrounded on three sides by the high Sierra Nevada Mountains. Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne Meadows, Mono Lake, June Lake, Virginia Lakes, and Twin Lakes, as well as the historic gold-mining town of Bodie, CA are all within a short drive from our place. We're proud to know this area intimately and are excited to share the secret spots with you. The excellent hiking/running trails including the Pacific Crest Trail, thousands of miles of ATV, dirt bike and mountain bike trails are accessible right from our camp or within a short drive from here. The surrounding terrain offers endless activities and unbelievable scenery in remote wilderness settings. Pet Policy All our RV & Tent sites are pet friendly and we allow up to two dogs per reservation for a small fee. We can also accommodate up to two four-legged campers in our pet-friendly Baja or Tatra trailers for a small fee, we ask that they stay off the furniture (beds, sofas etc.) and are not left in the rental unattended. We love dogs, but sadly won’t be able to accommodate heavily shedding pets that aren’t house trained. Additionally, our insurance will not allow "aggressive breeds" that include any mix of: Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Doberman, German Sheppard. Please pick up after your pup and use a leash when at the camp. Thank you in advance for your consideration and help in keeping our camp a mellow and enjoyable place for everyone.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$34
 / night

17. Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

94%
(1176)
8 sites · Tents · Oakhurst, CA
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!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$66
 / night

18. El Captain’s View 4X4 ONLY Yosemite

71%
(17)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · El Portal, CA
80 majestic acres of mountain top with a bird's eye view of El Capitan in Yosemite! No frills, no extras, just you and nature. 4x4 access only. Surrounded by over 500,000 acres of land owned by the U.S. Forest Service, there are no houses or stores (45 Minute drive). Far below in elevation is the Merced River and its many swimming and fishing holes (45 Minute drive). Look to the west to see the coastal mountains. Gaze across the Yosemite Valley to the East at iconic El Capitan in the distance. Take a drive into the Yosemite National Park (1 hour drive). Escape the hustle and bustle and federal laws of Yosemite at night (420 friendly). Inclusive. Views in every direction. Breathtaking sunsets. Incredible wildlife. Freedom. America the Beautiful!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

19. Bridgeport Reservoir Campground

90%
(1209)
36 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · CA
Bridgeport Reservoir is a lake at the lower end of Bridgeport Valley in Mono County, California. Its earth-filled dam was constructed in 1923 by the Walker River Irrigation District, along the East Walker River. The campground and marina was built I-don't-know-how-long ago, but it sure is nice! About Us: Welcome to Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground. Join us for the classic camping and fishing experience with unique views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Within the Toiyabe National Forest, Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground is conveniently located near two distinct hot spring areas. A true angler's paradise, the Reservoir has excellent trout fishing from spring through fall and is close by to multiple rivers for incredible fly fishing. A 35 minute drive on highway 120 will take you to the Tioga Pass Gate of Yosemite National Park. This gate is a great start to several different areas inside of the park that you may want to visit beyond that gate. Off-road enthusiasts would not have enough time in one visit to explore all of the 4x4 trails, abandoned mines, and sites in the area as well as the famous trail that brings you right to the Bodie Ghost Town. Climate and Ecosystem: At 6,400 feet (1,950 meters), this high desert climate has little to moderate tree coverage and gets hot during the days and cool at night. The conditions are much like Joshua Tree National Park or Alabama Hills camping area. During your visit, you will notice many flying insects that resemble mosquitos. These Chironomid are harmless and do not bite. On the contrary, the mosquito presence is very minimal. Swimming in the lake is possible usually between April to July.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$25
 / night

20. River Ranch Campgrounds

93%
(131)
28 sites · Tents, RVs · Twain Harte, CA
We are open for the 2025 Camping Season. Please prepare for a camping in nature experience which includes bugs, pests, rustic restrooms, heated showers, gorgeous, minimally managed watersheds and the most beautiful starry skies! At River Ranch Campgrounds, Tuolumne, CA we offer a range of activities to make your stay enjoyable. Take a hike on one of the many trails winding through the Stanislaus National Forest at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, or cast a line in the North Fork of the Tuolumne River or Basin Creek for some great native fishing. After a long day of exploration, come back to the campgrounds and relax by the firepit or enjoy a picnic in one of our many picnic areas. Activities in the campground include horseshoes, sand volleyball, sandbox for the kiddos and frisbee golf for all. We pride ourselves on blending nature and family camping in a safe, serene environment. We have one bathhouse with flushing toilets and heated showers; additional portables and vault toilets are located throughout the campground for convenience. Important notes: We are off-grid. There is no electricity in the campground with exception of a small solar powered system to operate our entry gate, guest Wi-Fi and intercom. Outlets are not available for guest use. All water is labeled non-potable. Guests may purify/filter at their discretion. Our campground is home to wildlife. You can minimize unwanted encounters by properly storing food and garbage. We have one central bathhouse with 3 flushing toilets. Sites vary in distance from a short walk to a short drive. The bathhouse has 4 shower stalls in the rear of the building. The bathhouse is closed from 10pm to 8am. The bathhouse does not have electricity or interior lighting. Our Hacienda section ("H" Sites) has vault toilets. Portables are located throughout the campground for your convenience. There is minimal privacy from other campers due to the placement of the sites and the way our trees and vegetation is trimmed for fire resistance. All guests and vehicles must be registered upon arrival.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

Yosemite is a magnet for climbers, and you’ll find over 5,200 camping options here that put you close to the action. Expect everything from granite domes to boulder fields, with campsites tucked near trailheads and climbing routes. Average nightly prices hover around $76, but you can snag a spot for as little as $27 if you plan ahead. Top picks include Bridgeport Reservoir Campground (545 reviews), Yosemite Colfax Spring (533 reviews), and Paradise Shores Camp (447 reviews). Many sites allow campfires, have hot showers, and welcome pets. In between climbs, cool off with a swim or set out on a hike—the trails here don’t disappoint.

91% (4.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Yosemite

2. Yosemite Colfax Spring

98%
(977)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$81
 / night

6. Apple Valley Cabin

1 site · Lodging · Phoenix Lake, CA
Welcome to our serene log cabin nestled in the tranquil Apple Valley area of Sonora! Embrace the peaceful ambiance as you stroll to the nearby Indigeny Reserve, home to a delightful cider works and distillery. Conveniently located just 5 miles from historic downtown Sonora, our cabin serves as ideal base for exploration. Discover the rich history of Columbia State Historic Park(15 mi), enjoy the charm of Twain Harte(20mi), Dodge Ridge ski resort(35mi), for nature lovers, 60 miles to Yosemite. Our cozy cabin offers modern amenities, including a microwave, Keurig coffee maker, and a gas BBQ on the front porch. While there's no stove , ** we provide a side burner on BBQ along with pots and pans for your cooking needs**. Relax in comfort with a Queen bed, 2- twin beds in the loft (accessible via a library ladder), flat -screen Smart TV with Cable, and WiFi. An air conditioner is provided both upstairs and downstairs. Please note, the loft access via a library ladder may not be suitable for children under 10. While there isn't a full kitchen, we provide a mini fridge and a kitchen sink for your convenience. Enjoy the ambiance of the floor-to-ceiling River-rock Fireplace with Duraflame logs (provided) during non-restricted months (November - May). Kindly refrain from using the fireplace during extreme fire hazard periods ( May - October) as per regulations. Embark on scenic short hikes and bike rides right from our property, immersing yourself in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. We look forward to hosting you in our charming cabin, providing a serene retreat amidst the splendor of nature. Any questions about the local area or anything else don’t hesitate to ask we are always available to help.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$132
 / night

7. Wondernut Farm

97%
(612)
4 sites · Lodging · Big Oak Flat, CA
Wondernut Farm is an upstart, entirely off grid, working farm-stead being built from the ground up. We breed milking goats and sheep, heritage pigs, and are in the process of converting to a grade A dairy and creamery! We use organic practices, management intensive rotational grazing, and dryland pasture management. We sell our animals locally so that others can have their own milking and meat animals. Our 110 year old hay barn and the roof of the former lumber mill were all we had to work with in getting off the ground. Being first and foremost a functional farm, we can't help but offer a somewhat warts-and-all look into everything it takes to be working to our goals. Our hearts are, and always will be, educational and local community focused, and we work closely with farmers and friends alike in better understanding our innovative animal husbandry, power, pasture and water systems. Whenever we have time, we'll afford the same time and opportunities to interested hip-campers. Our location is stunning and historic, and the beauty of the wild, natural landscape is powerful, yet offers easy access to both Yosemite Valley and the San Francisco Bay area. The area features excellent road and mountain biking in the immediate vicinity, vast access to hiking and backpacking trails, a huge variety of rock climbing in the area, the best whitewater rafting in California on the Tuolumne River, with some tasty places to eat or drink coffee in the nearby town of Groveland, just 10 minutes away. Accommodations at the farm are certainly rustic, and private but not secluded, with occasionally heavily project-exploded shared kitchen and living space, showers, and airy flush toilets. Do be advised that animals are pooping, hammers are hammering, sometimes we need to look into a health or animal injury related issue. Sometimes there is blood in an animal birth or slaughter, and our working guardian dogs have been known to be noisy some nights. Water and electricity are both very limited (though we reuse all our water), waste must be carefully sorted into a number of different categories, and there is always evidence of ump-teen projects unfolding at once. The most difficult condition during much of the summer are nuisance flies, which are always gone at night. We have almost no mosquitoes or ticks. Depending on the exact situation and time of year, guests may have the opportunities to snuggle with baby animals and run our herd to or from pasture, and maybe even get their hands dirty picking veggies in the garden.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$77
 / night

8. Squirrel Rock RV Campground

100%
(172)
2 sites · RVs · Columbia, CA
Private gated RV campground in the Gold Country. Located in the historic townsite of Columbia known as the "Gem of the Southern Mines". There is 1 site so you'll have the campground to yourselves. There are 2 electrical panels so you can bring your family or friends if you like. If there are 2 RV's you can reserve the campground as a double site. WE ONLY ACCEPT FULLY SELF CONTAINED RV'S ONLY. NO TENTS NO LONG TERM STAYS. Campsite has 2 electric pedestals 50/30/110. Water hookups at each site. NO SEWER. NO DUMP NO RESTROOMS AVAILABLE. Includes picnic table, camp fire ring, Weber BBQ, doggie station, horseshoe pit, corn hole, walking trails, and garbage/recycle bins. Winter camping dates subject to weather conditions. Located 0.6 mile to Columbia State Historic Park, parking and entrance is free and open year around. It is about a 15 minute walk. Close to Murphys, New Melones lake and Tuttletown recreation area, Moaning Caverns, Downtown Sonora, Mother Lode Escape Rooms, Columbia Airport, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, Black Oak Casino, Chicken Ranch Casino, Indigeny Reserve, Inner Sanctum Cellars Basecamp with other wineries and breweries nearby. About a 50 minute drive to Big Trees State Park and Pinecrest Lake. Yosemite National Park is about 1-1/2 hour drive to the Yosemite valley floor. Check for YARTS for transportation from downtown Sonora to Yosemite valley. There are several rafting outfitters in the area. Restaurants in the immediate vicinity include Mandy's Breakfast-Lunch, Columbia Frosty, El Jardin, St. Charles Saloon Pizza. Gas, diesel mini mart, market store nearby.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$65
 / night

9. Red Dragonfly Ranch

98%
(208)
20 sites · Tents · Groveland, CA
Red Dragonfly Ranch – Your Yosemite Basecamp in Groveland, CA Discover Red Dragonfly Ranch, a tranquil camping retreat nestled in a beautiful valley along the seasonal Cobb Creek—just 10 minutes from historic downtown Groveland and only 29 miles from Yosemite National Park’s Big Oak Flat entrance. Set in the heart of California’s Gold Country, our ranch offers the perfect balance of quiet seclusion and easy access to adventure. Spend your days hiking Yosemite’s breathtaking trails, exploring Groveland’s charming shops and saloons, or uncovering the rich history of the Sierra Nevada. After a day of exploration, unwind at your private campsite, relax by the fire, and gaze at a brilliant canopy of stars. Ideal for tent campers, vanlifers, and outdoor enthusiasts, Red Dragonfly Ranch provides a peaceful escape surrounded by nature while keeping you close to Yosemite’s wonders. 📍 Location Highlights: • 10 minutes to Groveland’s Main Street dining, drinks & live music • 29 miles to Yosemite National Park (Big Oak Flat entrance) • Convenient to hiking trails, scenic drives & Sierra Nevada adventures Follow us on Instagram @red_dragonfly_ranch for updates and Sierra sunset views! Come for the adventure, stay for the stars—Red Dragonfly Ranch is your perfect gateway to Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

15. Paradise Shores Camp

98%
(938)
46 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bridgeport, CA
We're a family owned RV Park & Campground located on the shores of Bridgeport Reservoir. Together with our crew, we're excited to welcome you into our newly adopted home. We believe in campfires, starry nights, good laughs, exploration, a deep sleep and an early rise. The mountains are a place to get back to basics, a place to explore, to breathe. So turn off your phone and turn on your senses. It’s important to us that our guests don’t feel they are renting a tent/RV site or a camper as much as they’re immersing themselves into the outdoor experience. You may just want to sit outside and read for days, enjoy campfires and eat s'mores. For more adventurous, there's a full slate of self-guided recreational activities, such as hiking, kayaking, fishing, ATVing, rock climbing, biking, natural water slides, stand up paddle boards, bird watching, available in the area. We do have modern conveniences such as wifi internet; however, we encourage our guests to “unplug” and immerse in the slow paced life instead. At Paradise Shores, we believe in protecting people, animals and the planet. We make sure that the majority of products we use at our camp is recycled, composted, or re-used. We prefer to use products that are produced in a sustainable way and avoid those that aren't. We are continuously reducing the amount of waste we generate and actively promote recycling of aluminum, plastic, glass, and cardboard. We pack our own recycling and haul it to the nearest recycling facility which is an hour away. We co-opt the drive with other activities to reduce waste. We don’t use individually packaged toiletries or one-use products. We use plant and planet friendly detergent. We're based in a desert. We share our precious water with the entire planet. With only 326 million cubic miles of water on the earth, the decreasing amounts of access to quality fresh water is alarming to us. We monitor how we use water in our day-to-day activities and are constantly working on ways to reduce our consumption of fresh-water resources. We hope you can help us maintain this greener camping! We hope Paradise Shores Camp becomes your home as it is ours. It’s located in one of the most spectacular areas in the world. We’re surrounded on three sides by the high Sierra Nevada Mountains. Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne Meadows, Mono Lake, June Lake, Virginia Lakes, and Twin Lakes, as well as the historic gold-mining town of Bodie, CA are all within a short drive from our place. We're proud to know this area intimately and are excited to share the secret spots with you. The excellent hiking/running trails including the Pacific Crest Trail, thousands of miles of ATV, dirt bike and mountain bike trails are accessible right from our camp or within a short drive from here. The surrounding terrain offers endless activities and unbelievable scenery in remote wilderness settings. Pet Policy All our RV & Tent sites are pet friendly and we allow up to two dogs per reservation for a small fee. We can also accommodate up to two four-legged campers in our pet-friendly Baja or Tatra trailers for a small fee, we ask that they stay off the furniture (beds, sofas etc.) and are not left in the rental unattended. We love dogs, but sadly won’t be able to accommodate heavily shedding pets that aren’t house trained. Additionally, our insurance will not allow "aggressive breeds" that include any mix of: Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Doberman, German Sheppard. Please pick up after your pup and use a leash when at the camp. Thank you in advance for your consideration and help in keeping our camp a mellow and enjoyable place for everyone.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$34
 / night

17. Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

94%
(1176)
8 sites · Tents · Oakhurst, CA
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!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$66
 / night

18. El Captain’s View 4X4 ONLY Yosemite

71%
(17)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · El Portal, CA
80 majestic acres of mountain top with a bird's eye view of El Capitan in Yosemite! No frills, no extras, just you and nature. 4x4 access only. Surrounded by over 500,000 acres of land owned by the U.S. Forest Service, there are no houses or stores (45 Minute drive). Far below in elevation is the Merced River and its many swimming and fishing holes (45 Minute drive). Look to the west to see the coastal mountains. Gaze across the Yosemite Valley to the East at iconic El Capitan in the distance. Take a drive into the Yosemite National Park (1 hour drive). Escape the hustle and bustle and federal laws of Yosemite at night (420 friendly). Inclusive. Views in every direction. Breathtaking sunsets. Incredible wildlife. Freedom. America the Beautiful!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

19. Bridgeport Reservoir Campground

90%
(1209)
36 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · CA
Bridgeport Reservoir is a lake at the lower end of Bridgeport Valley in Mono County, California. Its earth-filled dam was constructed in 1923 by the Walker River Irrigation District, along the East Walker River. The campground and marina was built I-don't-know-how-long ago, but it sure is nice! About Us: Welcome to Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground. Join us for the classic camping and fishing experience with unique views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Within the Toiyabe National Forest, Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground is conveniently located near two distinct hot spring areas. A true angler's paradise, the Reservoir has excellent trout fishing from spring through fall and is close by to multiple rivers for incredible fly fishing. A 35 minute drive on highway 120 will take you to the Tioga Pass Gate of Yosemite National Park. This gate is a great start to several different areas inside of the park that you may want to visit beyond that gate. Off-road enthusiasts would not have enough time in one visit to explore all of the 4x4 trails, abandoned mines, and sites in the area as well as the famous trail that brings you right to the Bodie Ghost Town. Climate and Ecosystem: At 6,400 feet (1,950 meters), this high desert climate has little to moderate tree coverage and gets hot during the days and cool at night. The conditions are much like Joshua Tree National Park or Alabama Hills camping area. During your visit, you will notice many flying insects that resemble mosquitos. These Chironomid are harmless and do not bite. On the contrary, the mosquito presence is very minimal. Swimming in the lake is possible usually between April to July.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$25
 / night

20. River Ranch Campgrounds

93%
(131)
28 sites · Tents, RVs · Twain Harte, CA
We are open for the 2025 Camping Season. Please prepare for a camping in nature experience which includes bugs, pests, rustic restrooms, heated showers, gorgeous, minimally managed watersheds and the most beautiful starry skies! At River Ranch Campgrounds, Tuolumne, CA we offer a range of activities to make your stay enjoyable. Take a hike on one of the many trails winding through the Stanislaus National Forest at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, or cast a line in the North Fork of the Tuolumne River or Basin Creek for some great native fishing. After a long day of exploration, come back to the campgrounds and relax by the firepit or enjoy a picnic in one of our many picnic areas. Activities in the campground include horseshoes, sand volleyball, sandbox for the kiddos and frisbee golf for all. We pride ourselves on blending nature and family camping in a safe, serene environment. We have one bathhouse with flushing toilets and heated showers; additional portables and vault toilets are located throughout the campground for convenience. Important notes: We are off-grid. There is no electricity in the campground with exception of a small solar powered system to operate our entry gate, guest Wi-Fi and intercom. Outlets are not available for guest use. All water is labeled non-potable. Guests may purify/filter at their discretion. Our campground is home to wildlife. You can minimize unwanted encounters by properly storing food and garbage. We have one central bathhouse with 3 flushing toilets. Sites vary in distance from a short walk to a short drive. The bathhouse has 4 shower stalls in the rear of the building. The bathhouse is closed from 10pm to 8am. The bathhouse does not have electricity or interior lighting. Our Hacienda section ("H" Sites) has vault toilets. Portables are located throughout the campground for your convenience. There is minimal privacy from other campers due to the placement of the sites and the way our trees and vegetation is trimmed for fire resistance. All guests and vehicles must be registered upon arrival.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

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