The La Grange area sits at approximately 300 feet elevation in California's Sierra Nevada foothills, where the Tuolumne River flows nearby. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F between June and September, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Glamping options in this region provide a comfortable basecamp for exploring both local attractions and making day trips to nearby Yosemite National Park.
What to do
River swimming spots: At Lake McSwain Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy swimming in the designated lake area during hot weather. "We went swimming in the lake: what a pleasure," notes a camper at Lake Tulloch RV Campground and Marina.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many glamping sites offer chances to observe local wildlife. At Diamond Gulch, guests mention seeing various animals. "At night, we didn't hear much other than the sounds of nature and the wind... We loved waking up to cows and turkeys, and an incredible sunrise view," one reviewer shared.
Astronomy sessions: Clear night skies make stargazing popular at glamping sites near La Grange. "The stars were so so beautiful, you can see the milky-way," reported a camper at Diamond Gulch. Most glamping accommodations provide outdoor seating areas ideal for nighttime sky viewing.
Fishing access: Multiple glamping locations offer fishing opportunities. One guest at Lake McSwain Recreation Area notes they "love to come and relax, throw a couple of poles in and have a good time."
What campers like
Proximity to natural features: Glamping sites with water views rank highly. "We ended up on the 'outside' of the spots in the trees. But, we did not have anyone in either side of us. Huge spot. It's pretty here," comments a visitor at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Pre-set accommodations: Many glampers appreciate not needing to set up tents. "Having the tent already set up was so incredibly helpful as we had to rent a small car and needed to pack lightly," notes a Diamond Gulch guest.
Hot showers: Unlike primitive camping, many glamping sites offer shower facilities. "The showers are free and usually clean," mentions a visitor at Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging.
Campfire supplies: Several glamping locations provide fire pits and firewood. "The campfire wood was perfect, and just one small example of how we thought the owner, John, put a lot of care and thought into the campground," reports a Diamond Gulch camper.
What you should know
Summer heat considerations: The La Grange area experiences high temperatures in summer months. "Pretty dry in the summertime, lots of foxtails, so be aware if you have fur babies. Flies were a bit of a problem," cautions a Lake McSwain visitor.
Distance to attractions: While glamping sites market themselves as Yosemite-adjacent, travel times can be significant. "Although it is very close to the park boundary, it is still an hour to the valley," explains a camper at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Bathroom quality varies: Glamping facilities offer different levels of bathroom amenities. "Bathrooms could use some upgrades and store hours could be extended as well," notes a visitor at Lake Tulloch RV Campground.
Cell service limitations: Many glamping sites have limited connectivity. "No cell service and the 'pay WIFI' did not work for us...but there is complimentary WiFi at the laundry to check in on things that works just fine," reports a Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for added entertainment options: Campgrounds with additional activities help keep children engaged. "With a pool, petting zoo, a corral where they have a fire and s'mores followed by a movie, this is a great place to camp with the kids," says a visitor at Yosemite Pines.
Consider water recreation access: Swimming areas provide relief from summer heat. "The kids had fun playing at the playground, jet skiing, and making sand castles at the beach," reports a Lake Tulloch camper.
Plan for wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy observing local animals. "We saw some squirrels and dears, they didn't bothered us," mentions a Lake Tulloch visitor.
Check campsite layout before booking: Some glamping sites have better configurations for families than others. "Sites are packed in tight. Def geared for tent camping although I was lucky enough to be here when it was dead empty and picked a good site for my 27' toy hauler," explains a visitor at Tuttletown Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Arrive early for better site selection: Many glamping locations allow site selection upon arrival. "It is First come first serve (after a reservation) so get there early. We lucked out with a pretty big and shaded riverfront spot," advises an RVer at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Verify hookup locations: Some glamping sites have unusual utility arrangements. "Our campsite was set up a little backwards. The picnic table and bbq and hookups were on the opposite side of our trailer door. But only noticed this at our site," notes a Lake McSwain visitor.
Check road conditions: Access to some glamping sites requires driving on challenging roads. "The campground has nice views, but wow, what a scary drive up a curvy mountainous road to get to it," warns a camper about Yosemite Pines.
Confirm site sizes when booking: RV glamping sites vary significantly in size. "Not all spots have shade. There are tent sites, RV sites and cabins so something for everyone," explains a Yosemite Pines visitor.
