Camping near Ahwahnee, California places visitors at the southern gateway to Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada foothills, with elevations ranging from 2,000-3,500 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional snow, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Most dispersed camping locations require vehicles with adequate clearance for unpaved forest roads.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 2-mile trail at Big Sandy Campground with steep elevation gain leads to swimming holes. "There are some beautiful waterfall spots about 2 miles of hill climb from campground, well worth the hike. Water can be very cold though," notes Rosina A.
Creek exploration: Whisky Falls offers multiple swimming areas beyond the main cascade. "Hike past it for an even more beautiful sight to behold. Bass lake is close by as well so you can take a dip to rinse off all the dust you kick up," recommends Alex L. from Whisky Falls Campground.
No-reservation camping: South entrance dispersed sites provide last-minute options when park campgrounds are full. "We asked if there was dispersed camping nearby and they directed us to a street less than a mile south of the southern entrance to Yosemite. The street was Mount Raymond. There were plenty of spots to pull off and camp out and lots of space between other campers," shares Mandy from Yosemite "Boondock National" Dispersed Camping.
Yurt camping: Multiple options for those seeking this alternative accommodation. Sites at Yosemite RV Resort feature yurts among their lodging choices. "Many options to stay! RV, bring your own tent, yurts, safari tents, cabins," notes a visitor.
What campers like
Private sites along water: Soquel Campground offers creekside camping with natural swimming areas. "Nice little site by a creek. Vault toilets, no water. Last 5 mins of drive is dirt road and pretty twisty turny mountain roads," reports Mary K. from Soquel Campground.
Clean facilities: High Sierra RV Park maintains well-kept bathrooms despite heavy use. "We stayed in the premium sites at this camp ground. Loved the hosts. They were wonderful to work with and very accommodating. The premium sites include full hook-ups — water, electric and sewer," shares Bonnie C.
Bear sightings: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the area campgrounds. "We had a beautiful cinnamon colored bear wander into our site a couple of times. While we were very careful to follow food storage protocols, not all campers were," observes Kelly H. from Lupine/Cedar Bluff Campground.
Shaded sites: Tree coverage provides relief during hot summer months. "Spots are a little confusing as there's no direct road through the sites, but you'll find a spot. Been here a few nights on a holiday weekend and wasn't busy at all," says Dylan B.
What you should know
Proximity to park entrance: Variable distances affect drive times to Yosemite attractions. "We didn't know that the '20 miles from Yosemite' just meant the entrance, we still had to drive about 30 miles to get into the valley," cautions Kim from Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort.
Tight camping spaces: Many commercial campgrounds pack sites closely together. "The sites were a bit tight with a hill and drop off on either side so our picnic table had to be in front of the airstream," reports Kim.
Off-road access required: Some dispersed sites need vehicles with clearance. "The 6 mile road to get into it is rough. With high rain season, you have to cross the creek and it may require a lifted type vehicle like a truck," advises Rosina A.
Reservation requirements: Yurt camping near Ahwahnee, California often requires advance booking. "Not worth the drive - but stayed here because I didn't plan ahead during COVID and national park restrictions," shares Jared T.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Yosemite RV Resort offers kid-friendly amenities. "Kids loved pool and clubhouse. Shopping nearby," reports Tamara P. from Yosemite RV Resort.
Rope swing activities: Creek recreation spots provide natural entertainment. "The creek, waterfalls & rope swing over the swimming hole was unbelievable!! The kids enjoyed the rope swing while the mom enjoyed the walk back to the falls & thru the shallow waters," shares Emily L.
Multigenerational appeal: Established camping traditions at certain sites. "This is a fantastic little campground my family has been coming to for years. We're working on our third generation of Whisky kids!" says Kelli L.
Check bug conditions: Seasonal insect activity varies by location. "Only negative was the biting bugs which were everywhere & hungry but didn't spoil the evening, just wish I'd taken bug spray or a citronella candle!" advises Helen F.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort requires careful spot selection. "We have 29 foot travel trailer and we reserved a premium pull through spot. Although we could pull through the spaces were very tight and we just happen to get lucky that nobody was across from us as there is only in one way in and one way out," warns Whiffaroni M. from High Sierra RV Park.
Leveling challenges: Uneven sites at some campgrounds require additional equipment. "Our spot was also very hard to try and level our trailer. We never did quite get it leveled the way we would've liked," adds Whiffaroni M.
Size restrictions: Upper Pines Campground limits RV lengths. "Sites are tight would not recommend a rig over 30. Good access to shuttle system," notes Rick L.
Dump station access: Some campgrounds provide this service seasonally. "There is a spot to RV dump and fill water. This was free when I was there (FEB) but it was clearly being renovated so might be pay in future," advises Christine W.
