Friant, California sits at approximately 400 feet elevation in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, serving as a gateway to multiple recreational areas including Millerton Lake and Pine Flat Lake. The camping season typically extends from April through October, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F while spring and fall offer milder conditions between 65-80°F.
What to do
Water recreation at Millerton Lake: Visitors staying at Hidden View Campground can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in nearby lakes. One camper noted, "Clean Campground and site. The site we stayed at had a nice fire ring, was flat, had a picnic table and it was close to running water."
Hiking trails near Bass Lake: Several moderate to difficult trails are accessible within 20 minutes of Whisky Falls Campground. A visitor explained, "The waterfall is a short hike away, and there are plenty of trails to hike during the day, as well as dirt roads to explore. Even if the campground is full there are a couple of 'overflow' sites nearby."
Off-roading opportunities: 4x4 enthusiasts find numerous trails through Sierra National Forest. A camper at Whisky Falls shared, "We loved everything from the isolated campgrounds, the off road trails to test our 4x4 trucks and how our dogs were free to explore with us."
Swimming holes exploration: Natural pools provide refreshing alternatives to crowded lakes. According to one Dinkey Creek visitor, "You surrounded by gorgeous tall trees and have access to swimming holes about a mile away. It had nice flushing restrooms and a small country store."
What campers like
Quieter alternatives to Yosemite: Campers appreciate the less crowded experience at Friant area campgrounds compared to Yosemite National Park. At COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground, one visitor shared, "There are few gems along the Hwy 99 route between Sacramento and Bakersfield but this is definitely one of them! Located a short 20 miles east of 99, just north of Fresno, this Army Corps of Engineers campground is stunning."
Yurt camping near Friant: Canvas accommodation options provide comfort without sacrificing outdoor experience. A visitor to Camp Edison noted, "Camp Edison is extremely beautiful! I love camping here either every year or every other year. The first time I camped here was the first week of October in 2016."
Lakeside sites with views: Premium spots directly overlooking water provide scenic camping experiences. According to one Lupine/Cedar Bluff camper, "We stayed in Lupine CG for 10 days, and loved it. We had no trouble checking in, and found the host very helpful. We had plenty of shade at our site, and felt relatively isolated (site 87)."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers despite remote locations. A visitor mentioned about High Sierra RV Park, "Ver clean, quiet and overall relaxing. The lady at the front desk is nice and helpful."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Late summer brings yellow jacket activity at some sites. One Dinkey Creek camper warned, "The other thing I have to mention - the yellow jackets. The hosts said it was quite unusual so I tried not to let it color the overall review, but damn! You would be sitting down trying to read and a few would fly around your head or land on your hands."
Wildlife awareness: Bears frequent certain camping areas around Friant, requiring proper food storage. A Lupine/Cedar Bluff visitor observed, "We had a beautiful cinnamon colored bear wander into our site a couple of times. While we were very careful to follow food storage protocols, not all campers were."
Variable water levels: Lake levels fluctuate significantly by season, particularly during drought years. A Pine Flat visitor noted, "Rangers were very nice, it was clean and they have pretty good showers. Water was really low but still had a blast on my kayak and with my dogs and trying to catch fish."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak summer months. A camper at Hidden View mentioned, "Plenty of sites, we arrived after 8 pm and were able to find a spot and book it on Recreation.gov easily."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated play areas: Children benefit from designated recreation spaces. At High Sierra RV Park, one visitor mentioned, "Nice camp, clean toilets and restrooms. They rent a small spot and therefore there is little privacy between each RV."
Consider accessibility to swimming options: Some sites require hiking to reach water features. A Codorniz camper explained, "These are the closest sites to the water in the campground, but unfortunately water access is pretty limited. We drove to a beach area found about a mile up the road."
Plan for foxtail management: Brush areas can create challenges for pets and children. According to a camper, "There is quite a bit of brush around the campsites so be aware if you bring dogs. They are supposed to be kept on leash at all times, but our lab just brushed by some of the weeds and was littered with foxtails."
Bring mosquito protection: Evening insects can be problematic during certain seasons. A visitor advised, "It was a bit crowded but not too bad. The sites are too close together and we had a nosy neighbor that seemed to take pleasure in watching our every move."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges at some sites: Many campgrounds feature uneven pads requiring additional equipment. A visitor to Codorniz reported, "Sites are asphalt. Many sites may take some time to level. Back in and pull through are available. A nice dump station is available within the COE park."
Limited maneuverability in some parks: Larger rigs require careful navigation. One High Sierra RV camper warned, "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 as there is only one way in and one way out."
Full hookup availability varies: Yurt camping near Friant, California often provides more amenities than traditional sites. At Yosemite RV Resort, a visitor shared, "Large clean pool with a shallow lounging section. Playground. Bathrooms/showers were freshly renovated and clean. Laundry on site. Clubhouse and small provisions."
Connectivity considerations: Cell service and WiFi vary dramatically between campgrounds. A Bass Lake at Yosemite visitor noted, "Check in was quick and easy. Hook ups were easy. Kinda tight we are a Odessey 26D with a jeep gladiator. Verizon is three bars and WiFi works great."
