Best Campgrounds near Ahwahnee, CA

Camping near Ahwahnee, California, offers a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains. With several campgrounds nearby, you can enjoy stunning views, outdoor activities, and a chance to connect with nature.

What to do:

• Hiking: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. For example, at Upper Pines Campground, one camper mentioned, "We camped here late February to capture the firefall," highlighting the great hiking opportunities nearby.
• Wildlife Viewing: Many campers enjoy spotting wildlife. One review from Wawona Campground noted, "You wouldn’t really notice other people were there unless you looked around," indicating a peaceful environment to observe nature.
• Fishing: If you’re into fishing, Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes is a great spot. A visitor shared, "We ended up moving spots to have more space and better Starlink reception," suggesting that the area is popular for fishing and relaxing by the water.

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. A review for North Pines Campground said, "We were surrounded amongst the giant granite cliffs," showcasing the stunning backdrop.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the tranquility of the campgrounds. One camper at Camp 4 mentioned, "You wouldn’t really notice other people were there unless you looked around," emphasizing the peacefulness of the area.
• Access to Amenities: Campers enjoy the convenience of nearby facilities. A review for Hodgdon Meadow Campground noted, "The bathrooms were clear and okay," indicating that basic amenities are well-maintained.

What you should know:

• Booking Challenges: Reservations can be tough to secure. A camper at Upper Pines Campground said, "Great place, amazing position with astonishing views, but almost impossible to book."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain facilities. A review for Wawona Campground mentioned, "It does not offer showers or hookups for RVs," so be prepared for basic camping conditions.
• Mosquitoes: Be ready for bugs, especially in warmer months. One camper at Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site warned, "The mosquitoes will suck every last drop of blood out of you!"

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with spacious sites. A review for Azalea Campground noted, "Larger vehicles welcome," making it a good choice for families with RVs.
• Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. One family at Wawona Campground mentioned, "I can come here and play games with my family," highlighting the fun you can have together.
• Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A camper at North Pines Campground shared, "The water was too swift to swim while we were there," reminding families to prioritize safety.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes mentioned, "We have about a 25-foot trailer... and my husband's F250 hooked up still pretty much fit in the spot."
• Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds don’t have full hookups. A camper at Camp 4 noted, "There are no electrical or water connections at individual campsites."
• Plan for Generators: If you need power, check generator rules. A review for Hodgdon Meadow Campground mentioned, "Generators going quite late," indicating that noise can be an issue.

Camping near Ahwahnee, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s essential to plan ahead and know what to expect. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just soaking in the views, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.