Near Friant, California, RV camping options span from lower-elevation valley sites to mountain parks at elevations reaching 3,500 feet. Temperature variations between Fresno County valley campgrounds and mountain destinations like Bass Lake can exceed 15°F during summer months. Cellular coverage diminishes significantly above 3,000 feet elevation with most mountain campgrounds reporting limited data capabilities.
What to do
River access activities: McCabe Flat Campground sits along the Merced River providing opportunities for fishing and swimming when water conditions permit. "I managed to catch a 12" rainbow almost right away, just feet from the campsite. Later on hooked another one but lost it," reports a camper at McCabe Flat Campground.
Pool facilities: Many parks provide swimming alternatives to natural water bodies. At Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort, one camper noted, "This place was awesome. Only a 15 min hike to the lake and a 30 min drive into Yosemite. We spent the weekend in site 126 it was a level site with limited shade and full hookups."
Golf access: Some RV parks integrate with golf courses. The Lakes RV & Golf Resort in Chowchilla includes "a high fence surrounding the property and it is secured by electronic hand held devices that you receive when you check in. You can walk through a gate to the golf course and a nice little restaurant."
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer access to fishing waters. At Kings River RV Resort, visitors appreciate proximity to seasonal fishing spots, though water levels fluctuate: "According to the front of the office, they sell sundries and souvenirs, but they never opened the office during our stay even though should have according to the hours on the door. From the information on their website, the King River that runs adjacent to the CG is pretty much dried up this time of year(January) but fills for the summer season."
Clean facilities: Riverbend RV Park maintains well-kept grounds with several amenities. "FHU with large pull through spots. Quiet place that was nice to spend a few days at while exploring Sequoia and Kings Canyon. Place has grass, dog park, lots of kids play areas, adults game areas, fishing pond, creek and river next to property is very pretty."
National Park proximity: Many campgrounds serve as bases for exploring nearby national parks. Sequoia RV Park provides "Lots of room to get around. Grassy large spots with full hook ups. Close to King Canyon and other attractions."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. At High Sierra RV Park, guests report: "Our spot was also very hard to try and level our trailer. We never did quite get it leveled the way we would've liked. The bathrooms aren't very clean and the 'beach' is over grown and i wouldn't really even let my dog in the stagnant water."
Road conditions: Access to mountain parks requires navigating challenging roads. One camper advised about approaching Sequoia RV Park: "There are many ways to arrive here, but the most direct and easiest is on California State Highway 180."
Reservation requirements: Summer months demand advance planning. A reviewer at Yosemite RV Resort observed, "We had a blast here. You're 25 miles from the park entrance, on a straight path. The sites were a great space and the pool and playground was a lot of fun of the kids."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Yosemite RV Resort offers family-friendly amenities. "Many options to stay! Rv, bring your own tent, yurts, safari tents, cabins. RV spaces have many different location styles, secluded, views, groups etc. Large clean pool with a shallow lounging section. Playground."
Swimming options: Families appreciate parks with swimming facilities during hot weather. At The Lakes RV & Golf Resort, "The pool is gorgeous. The sites are meticulously maintained. Wonderful place to spend the night or even longer."
Pet accommodations: Many parks accommodate family pets with designated areas. Yosemite RV Resort provides "Great place and experience. Bathroom are the best I've seen by far. Large dog run which was amazing."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Blackstone North RV Park, "Sites are large and level but no screening between rigs. Good overnight spot!"
Power requirements: Different parks offer varying electrical service levels. Riverbend RV Park "has grass, dog park, lots of kids play areas, adults game areas, fishing pond, creek and river next to property is very pretty. We really enjoyed it."
Pull-through availability: Larger rigs benefit from appropriate site selection. At Sequoia RV Park, the spaces provide "Lots of room to get around. Grassy large spots with full hook ups."
RV size limitations: Bridge crossings and narrow roads create access issues for larger rigs. At McCabe Flat Campground, "There is a narrow bridge before the campgrounds that limits vehicle size. It is not advisable for trailers over 18 feet in length."
