Fresno camping areas range from valley floor locations at 300 feet elevation to mountain settings exceeding 4,000 feet in the surrounding Sierra foothills. Temperatures vary significantly by season, with summer highs regularly reaching 100°F in valley RV parks while higher-elevation campsites maintain more moderate temperatures. Cell coverage varies by location but remains strong near main highways and populated areas.
What to do
Swimming access: At Riverbend RV Park, campers can enjoy creek and river recreation during summer months. "The creek and river next to property is very pretty. We really enjoyed it," notes Lauren M. Be aware that water temperature remains cold even during summer.
Golfing opportunities: The Lakes RV & Golf Resort provides direct access to adjacent golf course through a dedicated gate. "You can walk through a gate to the golf course and a nice little restaurant," reports Bill B. Golf rates vary seasonally.
Day trips to national parks: Several campgrounds serve as basecamp for Yosemite visits, typically requiring 30-45 minutes drive time. "It's close enough to Yosemite National Park for a day trip, which we did and enjoyed so much," writes Linda D. from Outdoorsy Yosemite. Note that driving time to Yosemite Valley extends beyond park entrance by approximately 30 additional miles.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Multiple RV parks maintain high standards for bathrooms and common areas. "Bathrooms were impeccably clean & well-maintained. Pool looked to be spotless as well," reports April N. about Almond Tree Oasis RV Park.
Pool amenities: Many campgrounds offer swimming pools as relief from summer heat. "Warm pool, riverfront and a gorgeous beach! Will be back with out family of five and two doggos!" writes Gina P. about Kings River RV Resort.
Pet accommodations: Dedicated pet areas exist at several locations. "Nothing but helpful, pleasant staff along with friendly full time occupants. Sometimes it takes a village for this full time newbie and they were supportive. This location was helpful when trying to take care of ordinary business matters. The park is well maintained and provided a nice area to walk with my pup," shares Lu G. about Blackstone North RV Park.
What you should know
Site spacing considerations: Many RV parks feature close quarters between camping spots. "Spaces are large and level but no screening between rigs," observes Michael G. at High Sierra RV Park.
Reservation requirements: Last-minute availability varies significantly by season. "It was so easy to book online and we did it less than a week before our stay," reports Sean R. about Outdoorsy Yosemite. Summer months typically require booking several weeks in advance.
Water level fluctuations: Rivers and lakes experience significant seasonal changes. "The river was full, water was ice cold which made it very humid and the mosquitoes were horrible," notes Cathaleen E. about summer conditions at Riverbend RV Park. Fall and winter visitors often find reduced or nonexistent water levels in the same locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Sequoia RV Park offers family-focused facilities near Kings Canyon. "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," reports Emily L., though she notes "the rope swing does not belong to the High Sierra Campground, swing at your own risk."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "We've had a wonderful stay, the staff was super sweet and helpful. The park is clean and has a lot of space and things to do," shares Sandy J. about Riverbend RV Park.
Activities beyond camping: Look for campgrounds with organized events. "This park is absolutely wonderful! They have cabins, places to rent camp, laundry on site, a pool, 30/50 hookups," notes Kim O. about Outdoorsy Yosemite, adding that if you don't want to visit Yosemite, "there's always Bass Lake...which is 2 miles down the hill!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV parks with full hookups often have variable site quality. "Sites are wide and clean. Our spot had some shade. The spots on either side of us had a bit more," reports Jeanne D. about Kings River RV Resort. Request specific site details when booking.
Navigation challenges: GPS directions may prove unreliable to certain campgrounds. "We arrived after carefully following the website and emailed instructions, as our RV GPS and Waze would not have gotten us here," warns MickandKarla W. Verify directions with campground directly before arrival.
Dump station access: Limited dump facilities at some locations create morning delays during busy checkout periods. "Just passing thru and needed a spot. Very accommodating! Sites are large and level," notes David B. Larger facilities typically offer multiple dump station access points.
