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Fish Camp, California serves as a strategic gateway to Yosemite National Park with camping options ranging from established campgrounds to dispersed sites. Located just 2 miles from Yosemite's south entrance, the area includes Summerdale Campground in Sierra National Forest, which offers tent and RV sites with basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Nearby, Goat Meadow provides free dispersed camping with minimal facilities for those seeking a more primitive experience. The Wawona Campground inside Yosemite National Park lies approximately 7 miles north, offering a more developed camping experience with drinking water, flush toilets, and bear boxes, though requiring advance reservations during peak season.
Camping permits and regulations vary significantly between locations in this region. Sierra National Forest dispersed sites typically allow 14-day stays and require campfire permits, which can be obtained online. According to a camper at Wawona, "The river and swimming holes are close by and accessible to all, sites have ample space between each other, there are clean restrooms, and all sites have their own bear box." Wildlife encounters, particularly bears, are common throughout the area, making proper food storage essential. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F, while winter brings snow that may limit access to some sites. Cell service is spotty outside established areas, and many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain.
Visitor experiences highlight the contrasting atmospheres between Yosemite Valley campgrounds and the quieter options near Fish Camp. While valley campgrounds like Upper Pines offer convenience to major attractions, they come with significant crowds. As one camper noted, "Even though you are practically on top of each other at this campground, it's totally worth it just to sleep in Yosemite Valley." The Fish Camp area provides a middle ground, offering reasonable access to park highlights while maintaining a more secluded feel. Seasonal considerations affect availability dramatically, with fall and spring offering better chances for last-minute spots. Most campgrounds in the region provide bear boxes, and rangers actively enforce proper food storage regulations to minimize wildlife encounters.
"Fish Camp is only a couple miles away with its General store. Plenty of relatively level sites, fire rings, easy in and easy out."
"After accidentally driving to this location following the directions of another reviewer for the “Yosemite Boondocks” campground across 41 (which we never found) we were very happy with this location."
"The river and swimming holes are close by and accessible to all, sites have ample space between each other, there are clean restrooms, and all sites have their own bear box."
"I didn’t go swimming but the family next to my site seemed like they were enjoying the river, especially the little ones."
from $36 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Close to Happy Isles and Mirror Lake/Meadow, this campground is convenient for day hikers. it's one of the better spots in Yosemite Valley, somewhat off the beaten path, so to speak."
"FYI, they are not joking about wildlife here, bear lockers are there for a reason and the animals are so comfortable and used to people they get close to camp."
from $36 / night
Check Availability"It’s close to both Yosemite entrances ! Close to town . Love it ."
"He kept in touch with us all throughout our drive there and helped us get set up upon arrival."
"These are walk-in sites for tents only and are on a per person basis ( It fills up really fast ) parking is available adjacent to the campground, you will need a parking permit."
"This iconic campground, situated in the middle of Yosemite Valley, was once home to many of America's early rock climbing pioneers. "
from $60 / night
Check Availability"Nestled amongst trees right on the edge of Yosemite. Was quite busy when I was there but managed to find a quiet spot tucked away & private."
"People kept parking at the entrance of the dirt path."
"The campsite was 39 and it was right next to the bathroom. To leave with a 26’ travel trailer I had to pull out and back down another road just to exit the park."
"Good access to Yosemite. We prefer less neighbors but overall it was nice."
from $13 - $50 / night
Check Availability"So we opted to stay right outside- literally miles away! Nothing to write home about at the campsite- but it was quiet enough. The host was super friendly!"
"Near the South entrance to Yosemite National Park, SUMMERDALE campground is a small, quiet, well maintained campground that requires advanced reservations."
from $47 - $49 / night
Check Availability"There is a shuttle stop right outside the campground. You are also in easy walking distance to the path to Mirror Lake and the ever popular Mist Trail."
"Within walking distance is the edge of the Merced river, from there you have views of Yosemite Falls."
from $48 / night
Check Availability"We booked this last minute over the phone, we were very impressed with the spot, next to the pool, clubhouse, fire pit."
"While we were there, they played movies at sunset next to the pool. Close to Yosemite, the Sugarpine railroad and a decent-sized town. Temps were in the 80's."
ScoutBeen here many times. I particularly like winters when few are around. The sites are spacious and clean. You will have to level. We have seen deer, turkeys, a good size flock of buzzards, osprey, bald eagles, a few big cats. Signs are posted about rattlesnakes.
ScoutNeeeded a spot for a last minute sleep and this spot saved us. It has clean bathrooms, fire ring own picnic table and even includes bear storage. I loved this spot.
ScoutNice clean campground. The mountain blocks the sun in the evening and the temp drops .
TravelerExcellent spot 7 min from the Yosemite South Wawona Entrance. Im staying at a dispersed camping spot in late July and there is level, paved parking with tent camping spots. Thankful they had porti-pottys (due to an event, not normal) and bear-proof trash receptacles as bears did visit while camping here! No water access, however you can fill up bottles from the drinking fountains at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Center right past the park entrance. ENJOY!
ScoutWe enjoyed the beautiful views, friendly animals, and cooler weather from typical Central Valley CA heat!
TravelerLoved camping here with my family. It was a great opportunity to introduce my family to dispersed camping and it was a success! Jason is incredibly helpful and kind and so are all the cute creatures around the property. The road up is bumpy but doable if you take it slow. Definitely can’t recommend this place enough and we will be back.
GuideI camped here in 2024 and it was a good location, apart from several off-road vehicles driving nearby especially on weekends. However this summer it's blocked off, with signs saying there's logging in process. Last tried to camp there 11 July and still no access.
GuideMost of the sites offer some level of privacy and separation from others via groves of Aspen. The sound of adjacent Mill Creek is hypnotizing. Great hikes begin at the end of Lundy Lake just up the road. Some spectacular waterfalls and wildflowers surrounded by steep canyon walls. Makes you feel small… Would definitely return.
TravelerWe tried to camp here but after getting set up the bees descended upon us. They didn't seem aggressive but were bothersome enough that we decided to go to another spot off highway 120 a few miles west. Spots were flat, spacious, and well spaced. Nice view of the lake through the pines. There are two roads from 120 to this site. The eastern road is 4WD only, soft sand and gravel surface. The western road is drivable by pretty much anything.
Dispersed camping near Fish Camp, California provides alternative options for those unable to secure reservations at established campgrounds. Located at 5,000 feet elevation in the Sierra National Forest, this area serves as a budget-friendly base camp for Yosemite adventures. During summer weekends, dispersed sites fill quickly with temperatures ranging from 45-85°F, while winter months often see snow accumulation that can limit access to high-clearance vehicles.
Hike to waterfalls near camp: Big Sandy Campground offers access to waterfall spots that require about a 2-mile uphill hike. "There are some beautiful waterfall spots about 2 miles of hill climb from campground, well worth the hike. Water can be very cold though," notes Rosina A. from Big Sandy Campground.
Explore Mariposa Grove trails: The Goat Meadow dispersed camping area provides convenient access to Mariposa Grove's giant sequoias. "You can also hike to Mariposa Grove from the goat meadow parking lot. Or you can drive about 3 miles from parking lot to a gate that is about a 1.5 mile walk to the Mariposa Grove hiking park," explains Manny R.
Swim in local waterways: Many campgrounds feature creek access perfect for cooling off. At High Sierra RV Park, one camper found unique water features: "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."
Visit pioneer history sites: The Wawona area contains historical exhibits within walking distance of camping areas. "Jump in the creek for a swim or walk across the road and check out the covered bridge and barn around the pioneer history center. Swimming holes all up and down those creeks," recommends Kelly M.
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies at dispersed camping areas provide exceptional night viewing. At Big Sandy Campground, "The stars at night are incredible," according to Rosina A., who appreciated the natural setting despite the rough access road.
Interacting with farm animals: Unique camping experiences exist just outside the park. At Shooting Star Sanctuary, visitors get uncommon animal encounters: "After we talked for a little he opened up the gate to release several mini pigs, mini goats, ducks, and chickens! My girlfriend and I were smiling cheek to cheek," shares Marco V.
Creek-side camping spots: Many campers appreciate water-adjacent sites. "Has a very nice stream that runs right down the middle of campground that basically every site is next to the water," mentions Leon G. about Big Sandy Campground, reflecting a common attraction at several area campgrounds.
Less crowded alternatives to valley camping: Wawona offers a quieter experience than Yosemite Valley. "The sites are large, well-spaced, and idyllic. Many of them are situated along the South Fork of the Merced River. It's quiet there - and peaceful," writes K B. about Summerdale Campground.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to dispersed camping often requires navigating rough forest roads. For Goat Meadow dispersed camping, one visitor noted: "The road getting there has tons of potholes and the road in the site is super super bumpy."
Holiday crowds impact experience: Popular free camping areas become extremely congested during peak weekends. "Stayed about a week which also crossed over Memorial Day weekend. Arrived the Tuesday before. This place gets CROWDED. At 5:30 it's like everyone got off work and headed home, it's nuts," warns Katelin M. about Goat Meadow.
Wildlife encounters require preparation: Bears and coyotes actively visit campsites. "Coyotes and bears are active in the area—coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" shares Alexander Mark C., emphasizing the importance of proper food storage.
Yosemite entrance wait times: During holidays, park entry can create significant delays. "If it's a holiday weekend and you leave camp headed into town be prepared for at least an hour in traffic due to backup from the park entrance," explains a Goat Meadow camper.
Choose camp spots with natural entertainment: Creeks provide built-in activities for children. At Big Sandy Campground, "Has a very nice stream that runs right down the middle of campground that basically every site is next to the water. One of my favorite grounds to go and will continue our tradition," writes Leon G.
Consider drive time to attractions: When planning day trips with kids, factor in travel time to park highlights. For Wawona Campground, "Love the site we had, close to water and surrounded by trees. Close to amenities and a local store for supplies. Prepare for a 45-60 min drive to the Yosemite Park and the valley," advises Kerrie R.
Research tent site spacing: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. Regarding North Pines in Yosemite Valley: "The sites are not well defined. You have a place to park and besides that, it is a little of a free-for-all with the adjacent sites as to where you set up your gear," notes one reviewer.
Check for family-friendly amenities: Some private campgrounds offer unique features for children. At Shooting Star Sanctuary, "The surroundings are beautiful and peaceful. The animals are a great bonus. Perfectly family friendly with plenty of room to hang out by the fire," shares Melinda J.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Many campgrounds near Fish Camp have tight spacing or difficult access. At High Sierra RV Park, "We have 29 foot travel trailer and we reserved a premium pull through spot. Although we could pull through the spaces were very tight and we just happen to get lucky that nobody was across from us."
Road clearance requirements: Access roads to dispersed camping often require high-clearance vehicles. "The 6 mile road to get into it is rough. With high rain season, you have to cross the creek and it may require a lifted type vehicle like a truck," explains Rosina A. about Big Sandy Campground.
RV size limitations: Verify campground capabilities before arrival. Shooting Star Sanctuary warns about access: "The road in is bumpy, but we pulled a 40 foot 5th wheel up no problem," sharing one visitor's experience, which contrasts with challenges at other nearby campgrounds.
Electrical availability: Most camping options near Fish Camp lack hookups. While North Pines Campground in Yosemite Valley allows generators during limited hours, dispersed sites have no power options, requiring self-sufficiency for RV campers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Fish Camp campground?
Fish Camp area campgrounds typically offer basic amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Summerdale Campground - Sierra National Forest near Fish Camp provides reservable sites with toilet facilities. For those seeking more facilities, nearby Crane Flat Campground — Yosemite National Park offers potable water, flush toilets, fire rings, and food storage lockers. Amenities vary by season, with most full services available during summer months. Some campgrounds in the area are primitive with minimal facilities, while others provide more comfort. Always check current availability and amenities before your trip, as seasonal variations affect services.
Can I bring an RV to Fish Camp?
Yes, RVs are welcome in the Fish Camp area, but site options vary by campground. High Sierra RV Park accommodates travel trailers and RVs, though some sites may require maneuvering skills due to the layout. For those wanting to camp near Fish Camp with more room for larger rigs, Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site offers big-rig-friendly dispersed camping. When reserving a site, always check the specific length restrictions for your campground of choice. Some sites have limited space for turning around larger vehicles, so it's best to research the exact campsite before arrival, especially if you have a longer RV or trailer.
Where is Fish Camp campground located in relation to Yosemite National Park?
Fish Camp is ideally located just 2 miles from the southern entrance to Yosemite National Park, making it one of the closest communities to the park. This strategic location offers easier access to Yosemite compared to staying in more distant towns. For those looking to experience Yosemite Valley itself, Lower Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park is about an hour's drive from Fish Camp and puts you right in the heart of the valley's attractions. Alternatively, Yosemite "Boondock National" Dispersed Camping offers free camping options along the journey between Fish Camp and the park. The Fish Camp area serves as an excellent base for exploring both Yosemite and the surrounding Sierra National Forest.
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