Most campgrounds near Eastman Lake sit at elevations between 1,500-3,500 feet, providing cooler summer temperatures than the Central Valley floor. Seasonal water levels affect access to some sites, particularly in late summer when reservoir levels drop. Camping options range from developed rv campgrounds near Eastman Lake to basic BLM sites along the Merced River corridor.
What to do
Swimming holes and rope swings: At High Sierra RV Park, visitors access the Fresno River for water recreation. "The creek, waterfalls & rope swing over the swimming hole was unbelievable!! The kids enjoyed the rope swing while the mom enjoyed the walk back to the falls & thru the shallow waters," notes one camper.
Fishing opportunities: The Merced River at Railroad Flat Campground offers good fishing spots. "I managed to catch a 12" rainbow almost right away, just feet from the campsite. Later on hooked another one but lost it," reports a visitor. Anglers should bring their own gear as rental options are limited.
Hiking old railroad routes: Past the campground at Railroad Flat, visitors can walk the historic rail line. "There is a nice walk just beyond the campground that continues to follow the old rail road (a gate keeps cars from continuing). Approx 2.5 miles is the confluence with the N Fork Merced River," explains a camper who enjoyed spotting "wildflowers, newts, and river otters."
What campers like
Year-round accessibility: Indian Flat RV Park remains open during winter months when many other campgrounds close. "The park was nice & shaded, with fire pits at each site. We enjoyed our stay - it was quiet being the off-season," reports a winter visitor, though they noted "the showers did not have hot water this time of year."
Proximity to attractions: Many campsites serve as bases for visiting multiple destinations. "It's about 45 minutes to drive to the valley or Hetch Hetchy in Yosemite but the drive is beautiful. Plus a short drive to Rainbow Pool and Cherry Lake if you want to avoid park crowds," shares a guest at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Campground amenities: For families seeking more activities, certain rv parks near Eastman Lake offer extra facilities. "The resort has a nice pool and playground for the kids. We stayed here 3 nights not could've stayed here a week easy," mentions a visitor to Yosemite RV Resort. Another reports "Large clean pool with a shallow lounging section. Playground. Bathrooms/showers were freshly renovated and clean."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Communication connectivity varies widely by location. One Thousand Trails guest explains, "There is no cell service and the 'pay WIFI' did not work for us...but there is complimentary WiFi at the laundry to check in on things that works just fine."
Campground layouts: Site arrangements affect privacy levels. "The tent sites were right on top of each other and there was nowhere to park. You had to climb a steep hill to get to them with your car and again to the actual spot," explains one camper about Yosemite Pines tent sites. At McCabe Flat, "the sites are very close together so get ready to be nice to your neighbors."
Seasonal conditions: River campgrounds experience significant seasonal changes. A visitor to McCabe Flat Campground in spring noted: "The river right next to the campground which is very pretty and very cold. As of us being here, it's roaring and unsafe to do anything in, but apparently when it calms down it's good for tubing and other river sports."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife watching opportunities: Children often enjoy the animal encounters around campgrounds. "Lots of wildlife: wildflowers, newts, and river otters. Watch out for rattlesnakes!" warns a camper at Railroad Flat Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some parks offer specific features for children. "With a pool, petting zoo, a corral where they have a fire and s'mores followed by a movie, this is a great place to camp with the kids," shares a visitor to Yosemite Pines RV Resort.
Food storage requirements: Proper storage prevents wildlife issues. "All food goes into the containers, don't leave anything smelly in your car incase a bear tries to break in," advises a McCabe Flat camper who noticed "the squirrels are a little too friendly, clearly they rely on the humans in the area for food, so try not to drop food on the ground & don't feed them. They'll walk right up to you already."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort, one camper advises, "We are in spot 116 a bit unlevel but we managed. Kinda tight we are a Odessey 26D with a jeep gladiator." Another adds, "The sewer connection was almost level with our dump pipe, so it made dumping a challenge."
Bridge limitations: Access to some campgrounds requires crossing narrow bridges. At McCabe Flat Campground, an RVer warns: "There is a narrow bridge before the campgrounds that limits vehicle size. It is not advisable for trailers over 18 feet in length."
Seasonal planning: Weather variations affect camping comfort significantly. "At approximately 3500 ft elevation. Cool summer nights near Bass Lake Recreational area so fishing and boating are a main attraction," notes an RVer, adding that some parks have "Pads are gravel and almost level. FHU's with good water pressure."
