Tent camping near Clovis, California offers diverse experiences from 300 feet elevation at San Joaquin River Gorge to over 7,000 feet in Sierra National Forest camping areas. Summer temperatures range from highs of 95°F at lower elevations to 75°F at higher elevations with overnight lows sometimes dropping below 40°F even in summer months. Most tent sites require campers to arrive before sunset as many forest roads lack lighting and signage can be difficult to spot after dark.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: San Joaquin River Gorge provides expansive trail systems suitable for equestrians looking for Sierra foothill terrain exploration. "It's a nice place real nice open large camp area pretty cool nice trail to a bridge overlooking the San Joaquin River gorge I really enjoyed it it's much more fun if you have horses to ride," explains Aaron M. about the San Joaquin River Gorge.
Early morning Half Dome hiking: Backpackers camping at Little Yosemite Valley Campground can position themselves for sunrise summit experiences. "If you are attempting Half Dome you could exhaust yourself and hike up from base, or you could extend the trip and hike here first, stay a night, wake up early, and be the first on the Dome to watch the sunrise - that's what we did!" advises Kate W. about Little Yosemite Valley Campground.
Canoeing on property ponds: Some private campgrounds offer water activities without leaving camp. "Found this campground for Memorial Day weekend. What a score. Just 25 minute drive to the entrance of National Park. But did enjoy staying in campground with nice walking trails around the property and peaceful pond to canoe," notes Lisa A. about Dunlap Canyon Retreat.
What campers like
Shaded creek-side campsites: Finding spots near water provides natural cooling during hot Central Valley summers. "Good supply of wood clean restrooms clean creek water, definitely going back," shares Jack W. about Bretz Mill Campground. Many campers seek these creek spots first when temperatures climb above 90°F.
Group camping with lake access: Family gatherings benefit from designated group areas with water proximity. "These are group sites, but they are the best sites on the whole lake in my opinion. My family has been camping here for 78 years and it's part of all my family memories. There is great beachfront access on the lake," explains Amy E. about Recreation Point Group Campground.
Uncrowded tent camping: Some tent campers specifically value the quieter camping experiences outside major parks. "If you are an RV'r/vanlife this place isn't the best. Although it's a beautiful area, camping here in is a parking lot. Several sites with picnic tables and fire rings but all are walk in sites for tenters. Fee is 10$/night," notes Aliza N. about Ya-gub-weh-tuh Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions to remote sites: Access to some tent camping areas near Clovis requires preparation and appropriate vehicles. "The road to get to campsite can get rough. It's a good 8 mile dirt road. Some parts are collapse. And others parts get muddy so make sure you got a good car," warns Miguel M. about Bretz Mill Campground.
Limited services at BLM sites: Bureau of Land Management camping areas often lack amenities common at developed campgrounds. "Didn't camp here just visited. The view is amazing if you like looking up at mountains. I noticed two campgrounds in the area. Both fee areas," reports Manny R. about San Joaquin River Gorge.
Bear precautions required: Wildlife safety protocols must be followed, particularly at higher elevations. "Watch for bears ... they are common here. Otherwise, hang up your hammock and relax!" advises Esther Y. about Little Yosemite Valley Campground, where bear-proof food storage is mandatory.
Tips for camping with families
Consider lakes with facilities: Bass Lake offers family-friendly tent camping with necessary amenities. "Don't let anyone tell you that you can't camp with an infant. It's actually one of the best activities that you can do with them, and it's a great break for the parents. Bass lake is the perfect campground for young family camping. There are plenty of facilities and even a restaurant," recommends Warren K. about Bass Lake Recreation Area.
Book group sites months ahead: Larger family gatherings require significant advance planning. "It's still our favorite spot on the lake for my weekends and the hosts are wonderful. These are group sites, and honestly, I think they're the best on the entire lake. You get easy beachfront access," shares Lauren H. about Recreation Point Group Campground.
Pack for temperature swings: Sierra foothill camping with children requires preparation for day-to-night temperature variations of 30-40 degrees. Families camping at higher elevations should bring layered clothing as temperatures can drop below 50°F even in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Private campground alternatives: Some smaller privately-run campgrounds offer RV sites with hookups near national parks. "We stayed at lower main camp with 30 ft RV, and had plenty of room. Spencer was very accommodating and made sure we had everything we need- he even offered getting stuff for us in town! The sites have water and sewer hookups," explains Courtney F. about Dunlap Canyon Retreat.
Early arrival recommended: Limited RV spaces at tent-focused campgrounds fill quickly. "When we arrived at night in our RV both the main office and campground host/space were all closed up for the night with just a sign that said, basically, if you don't have a reservation go away, so you'll definitely want to book a space online as early as possible," cautions Corinna B. about Bass Lake Recreation Area.
Prepare for tree removal impacts: Drought and beetle kill have changed many campgrounds in recent years. "The campgrounds at Bass Lake are now exposed with very few trees. Please plan for very little shade at the campgrounds," notes Corinna B., suggesting RVers bring additional shade structures when camping near Clovis.
