Tent camping near Atwater, California offers options at elevations ranging from 150 feet in the Central Valley to nearly 4,000 feet in the Sierra foothills. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with July and August temperatures often exceeding 95°F in lower elevations. Most dispersed sites near Yosemite require campers to bring all supplies including water, as amenities are limited to established fire rings if present.
What to do
River activities: At Railroad Flat Campground, the Merced River provides swimming and fishing opportunities. "The scenery was stunning! It rained on-and-off with sunshine in between, so I rode my bike along and went fishing (didn't catch anything) while the sky was blue," notes camper Meg R.
Wildlife watching: Spring and fall camping offers optimal wildlife viewing. "Lots of wildlife: wildflowers, newts, and river otters. Watch out for rattlesnakes!" warns a camper at Railroad Flat Campground.
Hiking: The old railroad route beyond Railroad Flat Campground offers a scenic 2.5-mile walk to the North Fork Merced River confluence. Multiple trails near Hardin Flat Road accommodate hikers and mountain bikers, though "permit required (bikes)" according to camper DJ M.
Water recreation: At Cole Ranch, complimentary watercraft are available for river activities. "The extra touches made you feel at home. One afternoon we took out one of the facilities canoes on the river and relaxed on the water all afternoon," shares Joyce L.
What campers like
Privacy: Dispersed camping along Hardin Flat Road offers seclusion. "This was a really nice stay close to Yosemite with really spread out spots. Couldn't even see your neighbor and the vicinity to the park made it perfect," notes Bobby J.
Yosemite access: Sites at Dirt Flat are "about 5-10 [minutes] from the entrance into YNP," according to Alicia W., making them convenient basepads for park exploration.
River sounds: Many campsites sit directly alongside flowing water. At Willow Placer Campground, camper Sara S. reports, "So peaceful listening to the river all night."
Campground amenities: Cole Ranch offers unexpected conveniences. "The amenities were above and beyond anything we have seen at other locations. Complimentary watercraft for the river, stocked outdoor kitchen, and hot showers with shampoo/lotion etc.," shares Joyce L.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate seasonally. Railroad Flat and Willow Placer are only open "April 30 to September 5" according to campground information.
Road conditions: Access roads to river campgrounds can be challenging. For Willow Placer Campground, Sara S. warns, "We're towing a 10-ft trailer and barely made the turn for the suspension bridge. It's almost a 90 degree turn on a narrow bridge."
Bug activity: Mosquitoes can be problematic near water. At George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area, camper Lanora G. reported, "I have never camped somewhere, where there were so many mosquitoes! More than average to say the least."
Ticks: Some areas have tick populations. At Hardin Flat Road, camper Leah H. warns, "Lots of ticks! be prepared."
Site availability: Dispersed sites fill quickly during peak season. "Overall solid, but the best spots will be taken early," notes Jeremy P. about Hardin Flat Road.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Sites near water require extra supervision. At Railroad Flat, one camper notes it "gets very busy on the weekends and hot days, so you will have daytime noise from swimming/river activities."
Shared amenities: Cole Ranch provides community resources. "The campsite is well taken care of as well as the kitchen which is communal use. They even provide pots, pans, knives and other cooking utensils you may need," reports Eric A.
Camp host assistance: Some sites have attentive hosts. At Cole Ranch, Eric A. shares, "Barry and his wife were amazing hosts! They made sure that we had everything we needed!"
Pet-friendly options: Several campgrounds welcome dogs. Cole Ranch impressed one visitor whose dog received special attention: "Our dog Rocket lost his floatie frisbee in the water and they took time out of their day to buy him a new one so he can continue to play in the river!"
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Road conditions limit RV size. For Willow Placer Campground, Meg R. advises, "I came with my 16' Airstream in tow, and it fit perfectly. I would not recommend anything larger."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require planning. "It was late in the season, so there were only a few campers at each location. The narrow road winds along the steep canyon wall with occasional pull-outs to allow oncoming cars to pass. I was glad not to meet any vehicles on my way," notes Meg R. about visiting Railroad Flat in November.
Campsite selection: At Eagle Point, RVers appreciate the spaciousness. "Unlike most camp grounds outside of Yosemite, there is a ton of space, peace and quiet, and true wilderness!" reports camper Grunt Proof.
Drive-in access: Not all tent sites accommodate vehicles. At Willow Placer, "There are mostly walk-in sites and 2 drive-in sites," according to Sara S., making advance planning essential for RVers.
