Best Campgrounds near Columbia, CA

Camping near Columbia, CA, offers a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors while soaking in the beauty of nature. With several campgrounds nearby, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

What to do:

• Explore Yosemite National Park: Just a short drive away, Yosemite is a must-see. One camper mentioned, "We camped here late February to capture the firefall. Mission accomplished!" This park is known for its stunning views and hiking trails.
• Visit the Mariposa Grove: Home to giant sequoias, this area is perfect for a family hike. A reviewer noted, "The campground's location provides access to various outdoor activities, including hiking trails and scenic drives."
• Enjoy water activities: Many campgrounds are near rivers and lakes. One camper shared, "We brought some river tubes and had a blast tubing through the mini streams."

What campers like:

• Scenic views: Campers rave about the breathtaking landscapes. A review stated, "We stayed in spot 91 with our 32’ Imagine travel trailer. Beautiful views and we could see Half Dome directly from our picnic tables."
• Quiet and peaceful atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer a serene environment. One camper said, "We went mid-March and the park was empty and peaceful."
• Access to amenities: Campgrounds like Wawona Campground provide basic amenities like restrooms and drinking water. A reviewer mentioned, "The sites are relatively spacious and provide a mix of shade and sun."

What you should know:

• Booking can be tricky: Reservations fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. One camper noted, "Great place, amazing position with astonishing views, but almost impossible to book."
• Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Upper Pines Campground, lack showers and electric hookups. A reviewer pointed out, "There are zero hookups, and you can use a generator three times per day."
• Wildlife safety: Be cautious about food storage. A camper warned, "The rangers are very serious about bear/wildlife safety in Yosemite. All scented items must be placed inside the bear lockers."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for sites that offer spacious areas for kids to play. One family shared, "We had a very large 10-person tent that fit well, separated from neighboring sites by trees."
• Plan activities: Bring games or outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A reviewer mentioned, "With my family, I may come here and play games."
• Stay close to amenities: Opt for campgrounds with nearby restrooms and water access. One camper appreciated, "I was very happy to be able to book spots within two weeks of the date."

Tips from RVers:

• Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer noted, "Our Ram 2500 did not fit in the site with us, so we booked an extra spot to park our vehicles."
• Be prepared for limited hookups: Many campgrounds, like North Pines Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A camper mentioned, "There was no potable water at the closest facility on our first day."
• Plan for generator use: If you rely on a generator, be aware of the allowed hours. One camper said, "The park is strict about using the food lockers, but apparently not strict about the generator use hours."

Camping near Columbia, CA, is a great way to connect with nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're hiking in Yosemite or relaxing by the river, there's something for everyone.