Glamping options near Auberry, California offer convenient access to the Sierra National Forest at elevations between 3,000-7,000 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with cool evenings dropping to 45-55°F. Winter camping remains available at some locations when snow levels permit, though many campgrounds close seasonally from November through May.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Fish Creek Campground provides access to trout fishing in the creek, though visitors should note the area was affected by the Creek Fire. "I went here with my two kids and they loved playing in the creek. It doesn't have many amenities, but the space is nice with a fire pit and pick of table," reports one Fish Creek visitor.
Boat rentals and water recreation: Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort offers water activities from late spring through early fall. "We are in spot 116 a bit unlevel but we managed. Check in was quick and easy. Hook ups were easy. Kinda tight we are a Odessey 26D with a jeep gladiator. Verizon is three bars and WiFi works great," notes a recent Bass Lake camper.
Off-roading and backcountry exploration: Whisky Falls Campground serves as a base for 4x4 adventures on nearby forest service roads. A visitor explains, "Let me start by saying it was worth driving six and a half hours to get here. We loved everything from the isolated campgrounds, the off road trails to test our 4x4 trucks and how our dogs were free to explore with us. There is plenty of wood for your fires, shaded hiking when the sun was out."
What campers like
Natural swimming holes: Dinkey Creek Campground features swimming areas in the creek that provide relief during hot summer days. A camper shares, "Great place to relax and enjoy the water. Pretty cold in the off season, and pretty swift for littles. Hot and isolated, bring water or a filter. No cell service, so check in on your needs around Pine Flat lake."
Spacious, wooded campsites: Camp Edison provides large sites with mature trees and good spacing. "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, and several have a nice view of the lake," reports a regular visitor.
Limited cell service: Many visitors appreciate the disconnected experience at most campgrounds. Dinkey Creek campers report "No cell service" while Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort notes "Verizon is three bars and WiFi works great," making it an option for those needing connectivity.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most high-elevation campgrounds operate May through September or October. "Dinkey Creek is perhaps my new favorite place to camp. It is not too far from where I live and is majestic. Being amongst the Sierras and embracing the waters as we did was absolutely empowering," shares one Dinkey Creek visitor.
Fire restrictions: Check current fire regulations before your trip as they change seasonally and with conditions. At Pine Flat Campground, "Restrooms are available, some sites have water, and trash dump is available. There's no place on premise to purchase wood but park rangers operate entry at a booth during business hours for more information during your stay, if needed."
Insect concerns: Yellow jackets can be problematic in late summer. One camper reports: "The other thing I have to mention - the yellow jackets. The hosts said it was quite unusual so I tried not to let it color the overall review, but damn! You would be sitting down trying to read and a few would fly around your head or land on your hands."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with child-friendly amenities: Yosemite RV Resort includes family facilities. "This place was awesome. Only a 15 min hike to the lake and a 30 min drive into Yosemite. We spent the weekend in site 126 it was a level site with limited shade and full hookups. Bingo night was awesome and the staff was very friendly. Would highly recommend," shares a family at Yosemite RV Resort.
Check water conditions for safety: Creek levels vary seasonally. A Dinkey Creek visitor advises: "Pretty swift for littles. Hot and isolated, bring water or a filter."
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Sierra nights get cold even in summer. "The first time I camped here was the first week of October in 2016. It was a whole lot colder than I had thought, but luckily we just put some stones around our fire and wrapped it up in wool to keep at our feet and around our bodies when we did go to bed. It definitely kept us toasty."
Tips from RVers
Research site levelness: Many campgrounds have uneven sites. "The site wasn't level but was manageable. Bathrooms are outdated but clean, and they charge you an extra $5 to use the showers. During the time I was there, it was a 2 night minimum, which h sucked cause I was just passing through," reports one High Sierra RV Park visitor.
Reserve pull-through sites when possible: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. "To leave with a 26' travel trailer I had to pull out and back down another road just to exit the park. The showers had two each but you have zero privacy when drying yourself."
Check hookup availability: Full hookups are limited to certain campgrounds. "Some sites have full hook ups, but most have just electricity and cable TV, with water faucets nearby to fill your RV or use as needed if dry camping. There is a dump station on site and also a 'honey wagon' that will come to your site and pump out your waste water, if you desire."
