Fall River Lake sits at approximately 3,100 feet elevation in the Sierra Nevada foothills of California, offering recreational vehicle camping options year-round with seasonal weather variations. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with cooler evenings, while winter brings occasional snow at higher elevations. Most campgrounds in this region feature gravel or dirt RV pads rather than the concrete sites found at premium resorts.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rainbow Pools near Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes provides a popular swimming and fishing spot within a short drive. "Plus a short drive to Rainbow Pool and Cherry Lake if you want to avoid park crowds," mentions one camper who enjoyed their stay.
Wine tasting tours: Multiple vineyards operate within 30 minutes of the Plymouth area campgrounds. "This is not our usual type of camping experience, but since we met friends at a nearby winery, this worked for us since we did not want to drive far," notes a visitor to the region.
Gold panning lessons: Historic mining areas offer opportunities to try traditional gold panning techniques. At 49er RV Ranch, visitors can participate in "free gold-panning lessons on the site" according to a reviewer who appreciated the mining theme throughout the campground.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Several campgrounds feature sites adjacent to moving water. "Beautiful river running through the campground" was highlighted by a camper at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes, providing natural white noise and recreational options.
Pet-friendly amenities: Designated pet areas with lighting for nighttime walks exist at multiple facilities. One camper at Jackson Rancheria RV Park specifically mentioned that "our dogs love the dog park" among their favorite features.
Family activities: On-site recreation options keep children entertained. "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," notes a visitor to Yosemite Pines RV Resort.
What you should know
Cellular connectivity: Many campgrounds in mountain areas have limited or no cell service. A camper at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes reported "no cell service" and noted that "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."
Mountain driving conditions: Access routes often require navigating steep, winding roads. One reviewer at Yosemite Pines mentioned that getting to some parks required "driving up a curvy mountainous road."
Site spacing variations: Site density differs significantly between campgrounds. At 49er Village RV Resort, a visitor observed that "the back-in sites in the center back up to each other with no divider between them. I saw several large RVs look almost like they were touching!"
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to water features: Children typically prefer campgrounds with swimming options during hot summer months. One family noted their children "loved the stocked fishing ponds, and even better was the immaculate 2 swimming pools and playground!"
Bathroom facilities: When camping with children, clean restrooms become essential. "The bathrooms and showers are clean" reported a visitor to Flag City RV Resort, though they added that many guests rely on their RV facilities.
Noise considerations: Weekend camping often brings louder neighbors. "The only annoyance was loud music past curfew, but it was only on the weekend. I think you'll get inconsiderate campers like that anywhere," noted a family staying at 49er Village RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Sewer connection positioning: Some rv sites near Fall River Lake require equipment for proper drainage. At Monument RV Park, a camper advised that "the sewer hookup is elevated so you will probably want sewer hose supports to lift your hose."
RV site selection: Ask about sun exposure when checking in, especially during summer months. "We were advised on our arrival that the site I picked was in full sun, and we were moved to 'Shady Lane', site 18," reported an appreciative RVer.
Reservation timing: Secure spots well in advance during peak seasons. One long-term camper at 49er Village RV Resort mentioned they "called a day ahead to see if there was room and on a weekday in early May, there was plenty of availability" - suggesting flexibility outside summer months.
