Dispersed camping near Auberry, California offers diverse terrain options from 1,000 feet elevation in foothill settings to over 7,000 feet in alpine environments. During summer months, campers experience temperature variations of 20-30°F between lower and higher elevation sites. Texas Flats serves as a popular dispersed camping location for groups seeking shade under mature ponderosa pines.
What to do
Swimming in natural pools: At Dinkey Creek, visitors find multiple swimming opportunities in the creek. "There are good swimming holes about a mile away. It had nice flushing restrooms and a small country store," notes Michal S. The area extends to higher elevation locations as well.
Off-road exploration: Whisky Falls Campground provides access to numerous off-road trails. "There is plenty of wood for your fires, shaded hiking when the sun was out and did I mention the whiskey falls? Beautiful!! Hike past it for an even more beautiful sight to behold," writes Jack W. The campground sits within Sierra National Forest.
Fishing opportunities: Millerton Lake State Recreation Area offers productive fishing conditions, particularly in spring months. "Outstanding fishing in the spring," reports Jim B. The reservoir has multiple shoreline access points where bank fishing proves effective for bass and crappie.
What campers like
Diverse campsite layouts: Camp Edison at Shaver Lake provides various site configurations. "We have been coming to Camp Edison annually for the past 15 years and have never been disappointed. Each site has plenty of room and includes a picnic table and fire pit. It's a short walk to Shaver Lake from virtually any of the sites," shares Angela D.
Privacy between sites: Dorabelle Campground offers more secluded camping experiences. "My campsite was large, clean, with sunny and shade spots and separated from other sites by trees," says Margo A. The campground maintains a quieter atmosphere than some nearby alternatives.
Seasonal water features: Musick Creek Falls provides a unique setting with flowing water through camp. "Three stunning waterfalls come crashing right through your camp," explains Jesse H. This smaller campground has limited sites available, requiring advance planning during peak seasons.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote sites often requires high-clearance vehicles. At Whisky Falls, visitor Kelli L. advises, "The only bad thing is that here lately more people have discovered it and you've got to get up there early to get a site."
Wildlife concerns: Millerton Lake State Recreation Area Campground has ground squirrel management issues. "We would not stay here again until the park gets control of the ground squirrels. We heard stories of cars and RV's being towed out because they chewed through wiring," warns Tom D.
Fire restrictions: Most campgrounds implement strict fire regulations during summer and fall. Rangers actively patrol and enforce regulations, with penalties for violations. Campers must check current restrictions before arrival and never leave fires unattended.
Tips for camping with families
Campground amenities: Spring Cove Campground provides family-friendly facilities. "The cove is perfect for relaxing with kids. Highly recommend!" says Brittany. Sites near Bass Lake offer easy water access for children.
Swimming locations: Look for designated swimming areas with gradual entry points. "The camp ground is quite expansive, comprised of several sections. We were set up in Spring Cove. It was clean with great bathrooms," notes Rich A.
Planning for weather changes: Temperature fluctuations of 30°F between day and night are common at higher elevations, even in summer. Pack layers for children, as evenings can drop below 50°F at sites above 5,000 feet elevation, even when daytime temperatures exceed 80°F.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort offers varied site types. "Our site (#162) was large enough, although not very level. The sewer connection was almost level with our dump pipe, so it made dumping a challenge," advises Michael C.
Elevation changes: When traveling between Auberry and higher elevation campgrounds, RVers should note 3,000-5,000 foot elevation gains that affect vehicle performance. Consider fuel consumption on steep grades, particularly when towing.
Electrical service: Many campgrounds offer limited electrical service. "Sites 120-144 offer full hookups. However, the sites are arranged on a parking lot. We were able to get our 43' Blue Bird completely onto site 138," shares Tom D., providing insight into larger RV accommodation options.
