Camping near Fort Jones, California, offers a mix of stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
What to do:
- Hiking: There are numerous trails around Fort Jones, perfect for all skill levels. Campers have enjoyed the peaceful hikes, with one reviewer noting, "We went mid-March and the park was empty and peaceful."
- Fishing: Many lakes and rivers in the area provide great fishing spots. One camper mentioned, "The lake is a 5 min walk away, not to mention near the start of many hiking trails."
- Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. A visitor shared, "We had a bear visit our campsite, so it’s crucial to store your food in the provided bear boxes."
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park are praised for their breathtaking views. A camper said, "We could see Half Dome directly from our picnic tables."
- Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review stated, "The restrooms did have running water, flushing toilets, a potable water/dishwashing station."
- Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. A visitor noted, "The park managers are very professional, courteous, and pleasant."
What you should know:
- Booking: Reservations can be tough to secure, especially during peak seasons. One camper remarked, "Great place, amazing position with astonishing views, but almost impossible to book."
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A reviewer pointed out, "There are zero hookups, and you can use a generator three times per day."
- Bear Safety: Campers need to be cautious about food storage due to wildlife. A visitor warned, "The rangers are very serious about bear/wildlife safety in Yosemite."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. One camper mentioned, "This is a great spot if you have kids. Lots of stuff to do just at the resort."
- Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and layers, especially for cooler nights. A camper shared, "Had a great weekend going to Yosemite national park, either way if the temperature was low."
- Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of family-friendly activities. A visitor noted, "We camped here late February to capture the firefall."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Ensure your RV fits the site before booking. One camper said, "Our Ram 2500 did not fit in the site with us, so a few of us booked an extra spot to park our vehicles."
- Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds don’t offer full hookups. A reviewer mentioned, "The sites were large and the scenery beautiful. It was the first full hookup campground outside the park."
- Use Generators Wisely: Be mindful of generator use times. A camper pointed out, "I heard one running way past the allowed time."
Camping near Fort Jones, California, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot for families and RVers alike.