Crane Flat Campground
Crane Flat
Clean bathrooms, close to sequoia hikes, 1/2 hr from the valley
187 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping options around La Grange, California range from developed recreation areas to lakeside sites with varying amenities. The region includes several water-focused campgrounds including Fleming Meadows and Blue Oaks at Don Pedro Recreation Area, where both tent and RV camping are supported. Barrett Cove Recreation Area and Turlock Lake State Recreation Area provide additional camping areas within short driving distance of La Grange. Most campgrounds in this region feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to water recreation, with several offering electric hookups for RVs.
Reservations are strongly recommended for most established campgrounds, particularly during summer months when water recreation is popular. Many campgrounds in the area maintain year-round operations, though facilities and water levels can vary seasonally. Lake and reservoir levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting shoreline camping and boat launch accessibility. Campers should check current conditions before arrival, especially during drought periods when water levels may be substantially lower than normal. Cell service varies throughout the region, with limited coverage in some recreation areas. A camper noted, "The lake has receded quite a bit that one of the docks is about 100 yards from the actual lake now (California drought). The campsite was well maintained."
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers visiting the La Grange area, with several campgrounds offering direct lake or reservoir access. Don Pedro Recreation Area receives positive reviews for its boating facilities and spacious campsites. Lake McSwain Recreation Area maintains a 4.3-star rating and offers cabin options alongside traditional camping. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the region's campgrounds. "The wildlife was 'people friendly' to say the least. I had a family of deer pretty much monitoring my whole trip," one visitor reported. Campgrounds closer to Yosemite National Park, such as Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging in Groveland, provide convenient basecamp options for park visitors while offering more amenities than primitive sites. Most campgrounds in the region provide clean restroom facilities, though not all offer showers.
"Only 5 minutes away from a small town for groceries. It is quite a drive to get to the actual locations in the Yosemite park from the campground."
"If you plan to go into Yosemite NP, it's a long drive so plan accordingly. Our family really enjoys Rainbow Pools and Yosemite Pine's proximity to Rainbow Pools is part of why we stay here."
from $24 - $439 / night
Check Availability"These spots were NOT good for little ones learning to walk. It was very uneven and rocky but spacious with trees and a view of the lake. We stayed Thursday to Sunday."
"Near by store for any items you forgot to bring. Take my boys here a few time a year. Fishing is always good and the water is perfect just to go boating."
"My family and I stayed at Lake McSwain Campgrounds for a weekend during a mountain bike race at Exchequer."
"Full hookups, close to the lake"
from $30 - $40 / night
Check Availability"McSwain (near the ranger station entrance) has dump station, some sites w sewer, part keeping model cabins, store, cafe and boat rentals."
"It takes 20 minutes to drive from the entrance to the site. The nearest store is half an hour away by car, so you need to be well prepared before entering."
"The campgrounds are nicely positioned with plenty of space for individuals or families. Adequate parking and tent area."
from $36 / night
Check Availability"The positives:
The natural setting is beautiful — right by the water with lots of ducks, and the campsite layout is quite nice.""Price has gone up compare to past years but I like it due to it location. Certain time of the year it get pretty busy but we always camp on the far end of the campground where there is less people."
from $40 - $60 / night
Check Availability"bathrooms and on lake!"
"They do have a ton of open space but lack shade and their website needs some updates since they don't represent the campsites very good. the lake was nice and warm and very refreshing."
"Perhaps also for fishing and other activities, but that's outside my scope of interest. On my first return visit I went to the same spot as the first visit."
"A friend and I went in March of 2021 to ride the mountain bike trails. I reserved our spots on-line with no knowledge of the layout aside from the PDF map."
from $30 - $40 / night
Check Availability"We were lucky to have a spot at the dead center of the top of the mountain looking out at the lake (site 13) with a big shade tree."
"There are sites on the lake with shade provided over the tables. It was mid week and was not crowded at all. The lake is gorgeous and at night there were several deer walking thru the site."
"Blue oaks is on the top of a bluff with gorgeous views of both Don Pedro Lake to the east and the beautiful rolling hills to the west."











Clean bathrooms, close to sequoia hikes, 1/2 hr from the valley
I had a great time! I definately went on an off time as I think there were only a few other people at the campground. Some sites would be really close together if it was full.
It was a great retreat out in nature! Many bathrooms and they were all clean. No cell service however a five minute drive down the hill can have you at full bars if needed. There was lots of shade as every campsite was absolutely surrounded by trees.
I was in site 21. It’s a great spot furthest away from other spots but you will have to park at the top of a small hill, old say about 15’ or so high. There are makeshift dirt stairs up the hill. Otherwise there is a small parking lot and a low sloping gravel ramp switchback that is a bit bumpy but a wheelchair could get down it for sure. There are only port-a-johns at this site but honestly the cleanest port-a-john I’ve ever seen and stocked with plenty to toilet paper. The sound of the creek and tiny waterfalls can be heard from the tent and is what I fell asleep to each night! (8/2026)
Found a beautiful spot down. Hard and flat Road right by a little stream where we could park our 22-ft van with a bike trailer. Our dog could run around free. We enjoyed a quiet evening. Even though it's thickly wooded, we seem to have decent starlink service.
We timed our visit in the middle of the week after school had started so we were alone which made this an incredible spot. Great spot if you have a big group. We only we to the large open spot at the top with what looks like two actual sites. It’s right in the OHV area so we could see how it could get really busy and noisy.
Overall VERY happy with this campground and would come back. We are thousand trails members and sometimes it’s not the best spots but the staff were so friendly and helpful and when we were having power issues they were able to move us to a better location (on the river) and have just really been accommodating. It’s essential to be down in the tree area at minimum for August. Under the solar panels is incredibly hot because the heat just traps underneath. The grounds of the campground do have a significant amount of trash…. That’s the only big downside. And that’s on the campers! Pick up your trash people….
Tons of sites, some more secluded than others, with rings for fires. The location is great as it’s a 6 minute drive from the Mariposa South Entrance to Yosemite. Love being surrounded by pine trees! If you plan accordingly you can snag a secluded spot which makes the experience even better!
Beware of camp 212 it’s very isolated and out on the edge, we had a bear encounter and there are no bear boxes so it makes it very dangerous, not only that the host that night of 8/1/26 was useless and pretty much an a-hole he did nothing and just yelled at us in the morning that we couldn’t have two cars parked in our reservation when it specifically states that we can. The maintenance is terrible the bathrooms had no functioning lights, would not recommend especially if you have kids
Beware of camp 212 it’s very isolated and out on the edge, we had a bear encounter, but not only that the host that night of 8/1 was useless and pretty much an a-hole he did nothing and just yelled at us in the morning that we couldn’t have two cars parked in our reservation when it specifically states that we can.
Campgrounds near La Grange, California cluster around several scenic reservoirs including Don Pedro, Lake McSwain, and Turlock Lake. The area features a mix of established campgrounds with full hookup sites for RVs and more primitive tent camping areas. Fleming Meadows and Blue Oaks at Don Pedro Recreation Area provide waterfront camping options with boat access, while Barrett Cove Recreation Area offers cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping. Most campgrounds in the region maintain facilities including showers, restrooms, and electric hookups, with several sites featuring water and sewer connections for extended stays.
Seasonal temperatures significantly affect camping comfort, with summer highs regularly exceeding 100°F at lower elevations. Advance reservations are essential, particularly for weekend camping during peak summer months when boating and water recreation draw large crowds. Most developed campgrounds require payment of day use or camping fees, with prices varying by location and amenity level. The terrain throughout the region consists of rolling hills with oak woodlands providing intermittent shade. One camper noted, "Blue Oaks is on the top of a bluff with gorgeous views of both Don Pedro Lake to the east and the beautiful rolling hills to the west. Plenty of space to spread out."
Several visitors highlight water access as the primary attraction for camping in this area. The reservoirs provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming, with some campgrounds featuring designated swimming areas or lagoons. Campsite quality varies considerably across the region, with some offering level, shaded spots while others present challenges for larger vehicles. "The campgrounds are nicely positioned with plenty of space for individuals or families. Best feature are the sites that run along the river," shared one visitor about Turlock Lake. Noise levels can be problematic during peak times, especially at campgrounds popular with boaters. Campers seeking quieter experiences may prefer sites on higher ground away from boat launches and main recreation areas, though these often lack shade and can become extremely hot during summer months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near La Grange, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, La Grange, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 187 campgrounds and RV parks near La Grange, CA and 12 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near La Grange, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near La Grange, CA is Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging with a 3.8-star rating from 26 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near La Grange, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near La Grange, CA.
What parks are near La Grange, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near La Grange, CA that allow camping, notably Fall River Lake and New Melones Lake.
Keep Exploring