Most camping areas near Goshen, California sit below 500 feet elevation in the San Joaquin Valley, with temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F during summer months. The surrounding region offers access to both valley flatlands and nearby Sierra Nevada foothills. Camping options range from riverfront sites with water access to more developed RV parks with full amenities.
What to do
Visit Lake Kaweah: Horse Creek Campground provides access to Lake Kaweah for water recreation. "During the summer months the Rangers put on a Campfire program at the campground every Saturday evening. When the lake is full you can walk right up to the waters edge and actually boat in for camping," notes camper Rob E.
Berry picking: Rancho Notso allows campers to harvest seasonal fruit during their stay. "Depending on the season you can pick your own fruit and enjoy wine from the same fields you're camping at," according to Jake C., making this a unique agricultural camping experience.
River swimming: Many campgrounds offer river access for cooling off during hot valley days. At Three Rivers Hideaway, "there is a ramp down to the river but a small pool to play in for kids or to just relax. During the summer the campground can be very hot (July was pushing 100) but if you plan to spend the day at the river the cold water makes it feel like a perfect 75-80 degrees," shares Rachel M.
What campers like
Proximity to national parks: Sequoia RV Ranch serves as a convenient base for exploring Sequoia National Park. "The greatest part was the proximity to Sequoia/Kings Canyon (8 miles to the entrance). Would definitely stay again should we visit the parks in the future," writes Erin A.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate areas with enough room between sites. At Lindy's Landing and Campground, "It was very green, very shady, and well kept. The host was very nice and friendly. There is a small convenience store with all the last minute essentials. There are a couple of new looking piers out into the river and a very nice beach," according to Scott M.
Star viewing opportunities: The foothills provide excellent nighttime viewing. At Horse Creek Campground, "The stargazing is beautiful. There is some limited light pollution emanating from the other side of the foothills, but because you are surrounded by foothills you get some good, dark surroundings to really appreciate the stars," notes Brittney J.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking. At Lemon Cove Village, one camper noted paying "$117 for Sunday and $107 for Monday" during holiday weekends, adding that "I have NEVER paid that much for an RV spot, and was not happy about it."
Seasonal water conditions: River and lake levels fluctuate dramatically throughout the year. At Kings River RV Resort, William M. observed, "The park is along the King River. Which was dry as a desert when I was here. No water presently but looks like that's not always the case."
Maintenance issues: Facilities may not always be fully operational. At Horse Creek Campground, one reviewer reported, "The central restrooms/showers have been non-operational for over a year based on the maintenance log of the porta potty. While the porta potty was well maintained, there were no hand wash stations or anything to make up for the loss of sinks and showers."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Three Rivers Hideaway offers kid-friendly water areas. "There is a ramp down to the river but a small pool to play in for kids or to just relax," notes Rachel M., making it suitable for younger children.
Playground access: Campground play facilities vary widely. At Visalia-Sequoia National Park KOA, Caryn Z. describes it as "A bit older but quiet. Good for night stay. Not near Sequoia but very convenient to freeway," while another reviewer mentions "The playground is a couple swings and a kiddie slide."
Wildlife viewing: Kids enjoy spotting local creatures. At Sequoia RV Ranch, Amy S. reports, "We had 2 families with 4 kids under 5 years old. They rode bikes, played in the river and ran around until they crashed every night. We ventured out to Sequoia National Park only a few miles away, the views were amazing."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully based on your specific RV needs. At Lemon Cove Village, Tonya C. recommends, "Love the pull thru sites. We have a 34 foot 5th wheel and it was easy to get into these spots. Some spots don't have full hookups so look before you book your spot."
Power reliability: Electric stability varies between campgrounds. RichMichelle M. experienced issues at Sequoia RV Ranch: "We had issues with low voltage from the electric post on site 6 which caused our RV's electrical system to cycle on and off every minute or two. The onsite techs diagnosed an issue with the city-supplied power and mentioned sites 1 through 10 had issues with power, mostly on the weekends."
Pet-friendly considerations: For pet friendly camping near Goshen, California, check for dedicated exercise areas. At Sequoia RV Ranch, Annika C. notes, "There is also a really nice, large, and clean dog park! Will stay here again!"
