B
Butterfly R.
Scout
ScoutFoothill Butterfly
Easy access private nature
Short dirt road leads to a private nature preserve with a seasonal creek under the oaks. Short drive to Mariposa and Yosemite Perfect for low impact van lifers
Camping near Auberry, CA
319 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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The Sierra Nevada foothills surrounding Auberry, California offer campgrounds ranging from developed RV sites with full hookups to primitive tent camping with little more than a fire ring. San Joaquin River Gorge offers tent camping with basic amenities including picnic tables and fire rings, while nearby Shaver Lake hosts the highly-rated Camp Edison with full hookups for RVs and glamping options. Whisky Falls Campground in North Fork provides a more rustic experience with seasonal availability from May through November. The region spans from lower elevation reservoir camping at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area to higher elevation forest settings near Dinkey Creek, where campers find sites among tall pines with access to hiking trails and swimming holes.
Camping permits and regulations vary significantly across the area, with fire restrictions commonly enforced during summer and fall months. Many campsites require advance reservations, particularly at popular destinations like Camp Edison and Dorabelle Campground. Road conditions to more remote sites can be challenging, as one visitor to Whisky Falls noted: "We loved everything from the isolated campgrounds to the off-road trails to test our 4x4 trucks." Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F in lower elevations while remaining more moderate at higher altitudes. Bear activity necessitates proper food storage throughout the region, with bear-resistant containers required at many established campgrounds.
Visitors frequently mention the contrast between developed and primitive sites in the area. Campgrounds near lakes receive consistently positive reviews for their recreational opportunities, with fishing particularly popular at Shaver Lake. Dispersed camping options exist on nearby national forest land, offering more solitude but fewer amenities. One camper at Texas Flats described it as having "that nice wilderness feel" with "plenty of space for super large groups" and comfortable temperatures "due to mass amount of shade provided by the surrounding trees." Seasonal considerations include potential mosquito activity in early summer and wildfire smoke impacts in late summer and fall, which can temporarily affect air quality and visibility.
Best Campgrounds near Auberry (319)
1. Camp Edison
"Great campsite if you want to camp around Shaver Lake in the Sierras of California. Beautify lake, plenty of water sports. The small town has great rustic mountain vibe."
"Easy walk to lakeside and boat ramp. Nice picnic area near lake. Camped with full hookups. Nice store and hospitality center with food, drinks and stock of camp supplies."
from $40 - $105 / night
Check Availability2. Dorabelle Campground
"They all kept saying it was the best camping trip they ever had.. our hosts Frank and Jamie were super sweet and welcoming.. the campgrounds are immaculate and near the water."
"The access to the lake is a little walk but not too far and the cove is perfect for relaxing with kids. Highly recommend!"
from $48 - $99 / night
Check Availability3. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area Campground
"Bathrooms were so-so with regard to cleanliness but most sites had its own access to water which was awesome!"
"Had a fun time with the family, had accesible restroom and showers, had picnic table so we could put our things, shade, place where we could set our tent with our truck next to us, and we were able to"
from $30 - $200 / night
Check Availability4. Dinkey Creek
"It's location had perfect weather, warm during the day and cool, but not cold, at night. You surrounded by gorgeous tall trees and have access to swimming holes about a mile away."
"I grew up going to Dinkey Creek and to the Girl Scout Camp nearby. This campground is remote and secluded there are good swimming holes, fly fishing and really beautiful area."
from $47 - $275 / night
Check Availability5. Spring Cove Campground
"Some of them are secluded and separated from others by distance and foliage (including a few with lake views!)"
"Clean drinking water very close walking distance from any site. Water is very close so you can just walk your paddle board or kayak. Clean bathrooms! With real toilets that actually flush."
from $52 - $54 / night
Check Availability6. Little Yosemite Valley Campground
"Nice bathrooms and right next to a clean blue river perfect for swimming in! Surrounded by granite rocks in one of the most wonderful place Yosemite"
"We hiked the waterfall trail, which is breathtaking, but full of a lot of people! Once you get passed the 2nd huge waterfall, the crowds start to die down and its just you and the mountains."
7. Musick Creek Falls
"Just minutes from shaver lake and less than an hour away from so many iconic trailheads and wilderness areas. 45 mins from Snow at China Peak, 38 mins from the world's largest trees, dinky creek wilderness"
from $65 - $165 / night
Check Availability8. Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
"After accidentally driving to this location following the directions of another reviewer for the “Yosemite Boondocks” campground across 41 (which we never found) we were very happy with this location."
"Great spot about 5 minutes away from Yosemite entrance. Only a few other campers nearby but plenty of space to where they were only seen from a distance."
9. Whisky Falls Campground
"Let me start by saying it was worth driving six and a half hours to get here."
"The lakes are stunning, and there are a LOT of campsites to choose from. I also appreciated the space they provide at campsites to store food that are bear proof."
10. Yosemite RV Resort
"RV spaces have many different location styles, secluded, views, groups etc.
Large clean pool with a shallow lounging section. Playground. Bathrooms/showers were freshly renovated and clean.""You’re 25 miles from the park entrance, on a straight path. The sites were a great space and the pool and playground was a lot of fun of the kids. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful."
Drive Time
- 38 min from Fresno, CA
- 1 hr 11 min from Visalia, CA
- 1 hr 14 min from Hanford, CA
- 1 hr 15 min from Merced, CA
Recent Camping Photos near Auberry, CA
507 Photos of 319 Auberry Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews near Auberry, CA
1325 Reviews of 319 Auberry Campgrounds
Hans V.
RangerAzalea Campground — Kings Canyon National Park
Restrooms too far
We had a spot on the farthest loop, which was beautiful on a ridge but set us about 600 yards/steps from the nearest restroom, which means going to the loo, brushing your teeth or doing the dishes (there are signs not to do these things at the water taps that are closer) all set you back at least 10 minutes if you're not self-contained. Also note the campground has no showers.
- AAshley S.
GuideDeer creek campground
Waterfront Heaven
My first camping experience here was truly remarkable. Similar to my previous trips to the eastern Sierras, this campground offered a convenient location near amenities and right on the lakefront. The campsites were beautifully designed, with ample space between them, ensuring a comfortable and spacious stay. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at this campground.
- Hans V.Ranger
Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
Too busy
A piece of forest overrun by campers. Spots are close together. The air is cloudy with the smoke from all campfires. Many wasps ruin the joy of eating. Woke up too early from car panic button. The nearby Curry Village tents add to the total overflow of people.
Yosemite is beautiful of course but too many people (of which we were of course part) cause it to suffer from its beauty. We enjoyed the Tuolomne campground way more, different but also beautiful scenery.
- Hans V.Ranger
Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
Close to Yosemite
Many spots on a very dusty and bumpy patch of forest just taking a right before the snowplay area. Many other boondockers, including one with a generator. Our spot had previously been used by horses evidenced by the pile of dung next to a tree. Smelled a bit funny. But as it is free, shouldn't complain of course - perfectly fine as a stop before or after Yosemite.
- DDan M.Guide
Lost Lake Campground
Great Stop but….
Quiet, clean, level paved pads. Restrooms are locked, Porta Potties instead. Dump station locked up. Great for dry stop.
Ashlyn H.GuideScenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside
Lots of Spots! 2WD accessible
So many spots! The road just keeps going back! Lots are pretty far off the road, so very quiet and dark.
Kitty W.ScoutRoad to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot
A little dusty with gorgeous sunsets
The ground is very compacted. Getting ANY stakes down is a mission. The sunsets and starry nights make it worth it
- CChris D.Guide
Sierra National Forest Rancheria Campground
Quiet lakeside weekend, come unplugged
Spent a weekend at Rancheria and it delivered exactly what we wanted— a quiet, low-key few days at Huntington Lake with nothing much to do but be there.
Site Selection Tips: We were in the 110's section and I'd steer people there. It feels noticeably less crowded than the other loops, with good spacing and shade. If you want a quieter stay, aim for the higher-numbered sites rather than the ones packed in closer to the middle of the campground.
Lake Access: The lake is a short, easy walk— convenient if you want to get in the water. Getting into the water is the harder part. The shoreline near the campground is thick with downed logs and trees right up to the edge, so finding a clean entry point takes some scouting. Doable, just not a walk-in sandy beach.
Amenities: Potable water and restrooms were easy to get to and clean the whole time we were there. Standard fire ring, table, and bear box at the site. No showers.
Camp Host: Very diligent and visibly present. He was on top of keeping the grounds in good shape, which showed.
Cell Service: Essentially nonexistent at the campground. I'm told you may pick something up over near the marina on the far side of the lake, but plan on being out of contact for the weekend. Bring satellite if you need to stay reachable.
Activities: There's plenty out there, but nearly all of it requires getting in the car. We drove out to Mono Hot Springs— about 75 minutes each way through the mountains on a one-lane road. Worth doing, but go in knowing it's a real drive, not a quick errand. Same goes for most of what's in the area: the lake is what's at your doorstep, everything else is a trip.
Noise& Ambience: The campground itself is quiet. There happened to be a concert across the lake on Sunday— we went over for it, and coming back to camp afterward with the music still carrying faintly over the water made for a nice festive ambience. A pleasant bonus rather than a disturbance.
Overall: Recommend it if the intent is a low-profile weekend. There isn't much within walking distance beyond the lake itself, which is the appeal. Come for the quiet, and plan a drive if you want more.
Guide to Auberry
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Auberry, CA?
What camping is available near Auberry, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Auberry, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 319 campgrounds and RV parks near Auberry, CA and 47 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Auberry, CA?
Which is the most popular campground near Auberry, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Auberry, CA is Camp Edison with a 4.7-star rating from 26 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Auberry, CA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Auberry, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 47 free dispersed camping spots near Auberry, CA.
What parks are near Auberry, CA?
What parks are near Auberry, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Auberry, CA that allow camping, notably Pine Flat Lake and Sierra National Forest.
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