Best Campgrounds near El Portal, CA

El Portal is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. El Portal is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Discover great camping spots near El Portal, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near El Portal, California (353)

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Recent Reviews near El Portal, CA

1474 Reviews of 353 El Portal Campgrounds



Guide to El Portal

Camping near El Portal, California, offers a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Yosemite National Park. With several campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, relax, and create lasting memories.

What to do:

  • Explore Yosemite National Park: The park is just a stone's throw away, making it easy to hike, rock climb, or simply take in the stunning views. One camper mentioned, "We camped here late February to capture the firefall. Mission accomplished!" at Upper Pines Campground.
  • Visit Mariposa Grove: Home to giant sequoias, this area is perfect for a family hike. A reviewer at Wawona Campground said, "The campground's location provides access to various outdoor activities."
  • Enjoy the Merced River: Many campgrounds, like Lower Pines Campground, are right by the river, making it great for swimming or tubing. One visitor noted, "We had a great view of Half Dome, especially at sunset."

What campers like:

  • Scenic views: Campers rave about the breathtaking landscapes. A review from North Pines Campground highlights, "We were surrounded by giant granite cliffs. One of my favorite activities was floating down the river."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds, such as Camp 4, offer a peaceful experience. A camper shared, "It was very quiet and peaceful. You wouldn’t really notice other people were there unless you looked around."
  • Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds like Yosemite Pines RV Resort have facilities that cater to families. One reviewer said, "The petting farm was a big hit with the kids."

What you should know:

  • Reservations are a must: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Upper Pines Campground mentioned, "Almost impossible to book. At the last moment, I got a reservation."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wawona Campground, lack showers and electric hookups. A visitor noted, "There are no electrical or water connections at individual campsites."
  • Wildlife precautions: Be aware of bears and other wildlife. A review from Camp 4 warned, "All scented items must be placed inside the bear lockers at your site when not in use."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like North Pines Campground, where one family found, "The site was actually really large. We didn't set up tents but it would've fit several."
  • Plan for activities: Bring along games or river tubes for fun. A camper at Wawona Campground said, "We brought some river tubes and walked upstream a bit to tube through the mini streams."
  • Pack for all weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. A visitor at Lower Pines Campground noted, "It was very cold all through the day thanks to its position in the valley."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes mentioned, "The sites were large and the scenery beautiful."
  • Be ready for limited services: Some campgrounds may have poor cell service. A camper at Yosemite Pines RV Resort said, "Cell service was non-existent - but such is life in the mountains."
  • Look for amenities: Choose campgrounds with full hookups if needed. A visitor at Yosemite Lakes RV Resort noted, "It was the first full hookup campground outside the park, so pretty convenient."

Camping near El Portal, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and experience the wonders of Yosemite National Park. Whether you're with family or friends, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near El Portal, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, El Portal, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 353 campgrounds and RV parks near El Portal, CA and 42 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near El Portal, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near El Portal, CA is Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 60 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near El Portal, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 42 free dispersed camping spots near El Portal, CA.

  • What parks are near El Portal, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near El Portal, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.