Best Campgrounds near Bass Lake, CA
Dispersed camping near Bass Lake, California encompasses a range of options from established campgrounds to free backcountry sites. The area includes Goat Meadow Dispersed Camp Site in Sierra National Forest, which permits both tent and RV camping with no hookups or facilities. Yosemite National Park's Wawona Campground lies approximately 7 miles north, while developed options include Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort and High Sierra RV Park in nearby Oakhurst, both offering cabins and full hookups. Several campgrounds directly on Bass Lake provide varying levels of amenities, with some sites featuring lakefront access and others tucked into forested areas.
Camping season typically runs May through September at most Bass Lake campgrounds, though some facilities remain open year-round. Flush toilets and drinking water are available at developed sites like Spring Cove and Forks Campground, while dispersed areas require self-sufficiency. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays between Memorial Day and Labor Day, as lakeside sites fill quickly. Many campgrounds near the water feature multiple loops with varying site sizes and privacy levels. Several visitors have noted challenges with campground navigation. One camper described: "The campground is big with multiple loops but no maps or explanation. We chose a site on a deserted loop, set up camp, and waited around."
Campers report high satisfaction with waterfront access and proximity to recreational activities. The lake serves as the central attraction, with boat rentals available nearby and swimming access from several campgrounds. Bathroom cleanliness varies, with flush toilets in most developed areas but limited facilities in dispersed zones. Sierra National Forest campgrounds tend to have more shade, while some lakeside areas have lost tree cover over time. A review from a long-time visitor noted: "My family has been camping here for 78 years. There is great beachfront access on the lake and being at the beginning of the lake, making a trip to Oakhurst doesn't feel so daunting. Like most of the lake, the majority of the pine trees have been removed, so the shade situation isn't as great as it used to be." Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, with Verizon coverage described as inconsistent in many campground reviews.
