RV camping near Badger, California offers year-round access to Sierra National Forest at elevations between 3,000-7,000 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer days often reach 90°F. The area's main camping season runs May through October, with snow sometimes affecting access to higher-elevation campgrounds during winter months.
What to do
Fishing access: At Kings River RV Resort, campers can enjoy fishing opportunities even during seasonal water fluctuations. "From the information on their website, the King River that runs adjacent to the CG is pretty much dried up this time of year (January) but fills for the summer season," notes reviewer MickandKarla W.
Sequoia viewing: Drive approximately 40 minutes from Shaver Lake to access giant sequoias near Wishon Village RV Resort. "On the way you will pass a grove of Giant Sequoia trees with a pull out to walk or picnic among them," reports Tom D. The nearby elevation reaches 6,800 feet, creating cool summer camping conditions.
National Park exploration: Camping sites near Badger provide strategic bases for exploring nearby national parks. "Lots of room to get around. Grassy large spots with full hook ups. Close to King Canyon and other attractions," writes Rick L. about Sequoia RV Park. Plan a minimum 30-minute drive from most campgrounds to reach park entrances.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds near Badger offer generously sized camping spots. At Sequoia RV Ranch, "We had site 6 for the first night (water and electric only) and site 54 (a river site with full hookups) for the second night. The campground is small but clean and the staff is helpful," explains RichMichelle M.
Pet amenities: Several RV parks offer dedicated pet areas. "There is a fenced dog park on-site, a nice touch," mentions RichMichelle M. about Sequoia RV Ranch. Another reviewer at Sequoia RV Ranch notes, "There is also a really nice, large, and clean dog park!"
Water features: When water levels permit, campgrounds with river or creek access provide natural swimming opportunities. "There was a really nice swimming hole that we did not test out in March. Easy and quick to Sequoia and a coffee shop and brewery just down the road!" shares Jennifer O. about her stay at Sequoia RV Ranch.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Water features at campgrounds may vary dramatically by season. "The river along the backside of the campground was dried up, due to drought conditions," notes RichMichelle M. about Sequoia RV Ranch. Check with campgrounds directly about current water conditions before arrival.
Hookup quality: Electrical service can be inconsistent at some locations. "We had issues with low voltage from the electric post on site 6 which caused our RV's electrical system to cycle on and off every minute or two. The onsite techs diagnosed an issue with the city-supplied power and mentioned sites 1 through 10 had issues with power, mostly on the weekends," reports one camper at Riverbend RV Park.
Wi-Fi variability: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds. "Supposedly, they have Wifi, as indicated by the multiple repeaters around the park, but we received no instructions/password and didn't see a guest network to try and log in," reports MickandKarla W. about Kings River RV Resort. Several campgrounds offer paid Wi-Fi packages for approximately $15 for three days.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Riverbend RV Park provides numerous recreational options for children. "FHU with large pull through spots. Quiet place that was nice to spend a few days at while exploring Sequoia and Kings Canyon. Place has grass, dog park, lots of kids play areas, adults game areas, fishing pond, creek and river next to property is very pretty," writes Lauren M.
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy spotting local wildlife at campgrounds near Badger. "Saw deer in and around the campground almost daily," reports Duane R. about Nelson Falls RV Park. Keep food securely stored as raccoons and squirrels actively search for food at many campgrounds.
Swimming options: When water is flowing, natural swimming areas provide cooling relief during hot summer months. "Great spot to get away. We had 2 families with 4 kids under 5 years old. They rode bikes, played in the river and ran around until they crashed every night," shares Amy S. about her family's experience at Sequoia RV Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully based on hookup needs and rig size. At Lemon Cove Village, "Some spots don't have full hookups so look before you book your spot. All these pictures I took are in full hook up areas," advises Tonya C. Campgrounds typically provide site specifications online.
Driving considerations: Mountain roads require careful navigation. "The drive to Wishon starts with a long climb to Shaver Lake. Past Shaver Lake the road becomes windy for the remainder of the drive. Expect at least a 40+ minute drive from the Shaver lake turn off," warns Tom D. about accessing Wishon Village RV Resort.
Leveling requirements: Prepare with adequate leveling equipment for uneven sites. At Lemon Cove Village, one camper notes, "Extremely unlevel sites. You will need to use every leveling block you own." Bring additional blocks if your RV has limited built-in leveling capacity.
