Bass Lake sits at 3,400 feet elevation in the Sierra National Forest, with temperatures ranging from the 30s in winter to upper 80s during summer months. The lake covers 1,165 acres with 14 miles of shoreline, providing access to primitive and developed campsites within a 30-minute drive of Yosemite's southern entrance. Water levels fluctuate seasonally due to the lake's use as a hydroelectric reservoir.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Several campgrounds near Bass Lake offer access to waterfall hikes. At Whisky Falls Campground, visitors can enjoy the nearby falls with a short hike. One camper notes, "The waterfall is a short hike away, and there are plenty of trails to hike during the day, as well as dirt roads to explore."
Natural swimming spots: The creeks around Bass Lake create natural swimming opportunities beyond the main lake. Soquel Campground offers creek-side camping with natural pools. According to a visitor, "The creek is cold, but the rock formations create natural pools great for swimming."
Evening entertainment: Many campgrounds organize nighttime activities during summer months. At Yosemite RV Resort, "While we were there, they played movies at sunset next to the pool," making for family-friendly evenings after days spent exploring.
Fishing access: The lake provides multiple fishing spots for anglers seeking trout, bass, or kokanee salmon. Consider access points near campgrounds for shore fishing or boat launches for deeper water fishing. Fishing is typically best during early mornings and evenings.
What campers like
Proximity to multiple recreation areas: The Bass Lake region allows visitors to split their time between lake activities and national park exploration. As noted by one camper at High Sierra RV Park, "It's about a 30 minute drive to the South Yosemite National Park entrance," allowing for day trips to the national park.
Established amenities: Campgrounds around Bass Lake offer varying levels of facilities. One visitor at Yosemite RV Resort appreciated that "Bathrooms/showers were freshly renovated and clean. Laundry on site. Clubhouse and small provisions."
Free dispersed camping options: For budget-conscious campers seeking more primitive experiences, dispersed camping provides alternatives to developed campgrounds. A visitor to Yosemite "Boondock National" Dispersed Camping shared, "What a brilliant place! Nestled amongst trees right on the edge of Yosemite. Was quite busy when I was there but managed to find a quiet spot tucked away & private."
Wildlife sightings: The natural setting offers opportunities for wildlife observation. Campers frequently report seeing deer, and occasionally bears visit the campgrounds, requiring proper food storage precautions.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most developed campgrounds near Bass Lake require advance bookings, especially during summer months. Weekends fill quickly from May through September, with holiday weekends booking up to six months in advance.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire restrictions often apply throughout the Sierra National Forest, particularly during late summer and fall. Always check current fire regulations before arrival as complete bans may be implemented during high fire danger periods.
Bear precautions: Food storage is critical when camping near Bass Lake. As one camper at Lupine/Cedar Bluff Campground noted, "We had a beautiful cinnamon colored bear wander into our site a couple of times. While we were very careful to follow food storage protocols, not all campers were."
Campsite spacing varies: Site privacy differs significantly between campgrounds. At High Sierra RV Park, a reviewer mentioned, "Sites are very crowded. You gotta love your neighbor. Lots of amenities. Very friendly staff. So helpful and accommodating."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access considerations: When choosing family-friendly glamping near Bass Lake, California, evaluate swimming options. At Camp Edison, one parent shared, "We try to get a campsite next to the water. We also reserve a boat so we can explore the lake."
Recreation alternatives: Look for campgrounds with built-in activities for children. A visitor to Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort noted, "Downtown area, which is the center of the campground, has spots for members only, but they're very close together. Maybe good for group get-togethers where you are 10' from your neighbor."
Child-friendly facilities: Select campgrounds with dedicated areas for younger visitors. At Camp Edison, "The park maintains guided educational nature walks, both day and evening, as well as kids' movies in the amphitheater."
Advance scheduling: For family trips during summer, book campsites 4-6 months ahead, particularly for weekend stays. Holiday weekends may require reservations up to a year in advance at popular campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds around Bass Lake have uneven sites requiring leveling equipment. One RVer at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort reported, "Our site was also very hard to try and level our trailer. We never did quite get it leveled the way we would've liked."
Size limitations: Confirm campground can accommodate your specific RV length before booking. A visitor with a 29-foot travel trailer cautioned, "Had it been full we would have had a heck of a time getting out. One family came in last night and their spot was at the very end and they had to back all the way out of the park."
Hookup availability: Full-hookup sites are limited in some campgrounds. When available at Bass Lake campgrounds, they typically cost $10-15 more per night than partial hookup sites. Water and electric-only sites are more commonly available.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dump stations. Some visitors recommend using dump stations at larger facilities like High Sierra RV Park if staying at smaller campgrounds without this service.
