Best Campgrounds near Sonora, CA

Camping near Sonora, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a cozy tent site or a spacious RV spot, there are options that cater to all types of campers.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the many trails in the area. Campers rave about the access to beautiful hikes right from their campsites. One reviewer from Upper Pines Campground said, "Great camp experience with trail heads outside your door."
• Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Wawona Campground mentioned, "The campground's location provides access to various outdoor activities, including wildlife viewing."
• Fishing: Enjoy fishing in nearby lakes and rivers. A camper at Yosemite Lakes RV Resort noted, "The sites were large and the scenery beautiful," making it a perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts.

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Many campers appreciate the breathtaking views. A review from North Pines Campground highlighted, "We were surrounded by the giant granite cliffs. One of my favorite activities was floating down the river."
• Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. A visitor at Tuolumne Meadows Campground shared, "The sites are big and although it is a big campground, it never felt like it."
• Quiet Atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer a peaceful experience. A reviewer at Hodgdon Meadow Campground mentioned, "It was a nice and quiet place and only a 45 min. drive to Yosemite Valley."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain facilities. A camper at Camp 4 pointed out, "The site will be filled with as many parties as it takes to reach 6 individuals at each site."
• Booking Challenges: Reservations can be tough to secure. A visitor at Upper Pines Campground said, "Great place, amazing position with astonishing views, but almost impossible to book."
• Weather Variability: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A camper at Wawona Campground noted, "Campsite didn’t flood like the others when the rain started."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites that offer amenities for kids. A reviewer at Yosemite Pines RV Resort mentioned, "The petting farm was a big hit too with the kids."
• Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Acorn Campground shared, "With my family, I may come here and play games."
• Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A visitor at North Pines Campground advised, "The water was too swift to swim while we were there."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Yosemite Lakes RV Resort noted, "We are in a 45 ft toy hauler and taking 120 up here was an ok drive."
• Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds don’t have electric hookups. A reviewer at Camp 4 mentioned, "There are zero hookups and you can use a generator 3 times per day."
• Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump stations are located. A visitor at Hodgdon Meadow Campground pointed out, "There bathrooms and area to wash dishes."

Camping near Sonora, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful scenery!