Lakeshore, California sits at elevations between 3,500-7,000 feet in the Sierra National Forest, offering camping options that accommodate both RV and tent camping needs. Temperatures typically range from 40-85°F during peak camping season (May-September), with significantly cooler nights at higher elevations. Most RV campgrounds near Lakeshore provide access to nearby recreational activities, though winter snowfall often limits accessibility to lower elevation sites.
What to do
Fishing access: 15-minute hike to Bass Lake from Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort, where anglers can catch various fish species. "We spent the weekend in site 126 it was a level site with limited shade and full hookups. Bingo night was awesome and the staff was very friendly. Would highly recommend," noted one visitor who appreciated the campground's proximity to fishing spots.
Mountain biking trails: 5-mile network accessible from Mammoth Mountain RV Park. "Loved all the bike trails. Easy to catch a bus into town or take a quick 5 min drive. Loved the indoor pool. Nice clean campground," reported a camper who enjoyed the extensive trail system.
Swimming options: seasonal pond access at Riverbend RV Park with designated swimming areas for children. "The park is clean and has a lot of space and things to do. Will definitely be coming back!" shared a visitor who appreciated the water recreation options beyond just the typical fishing opportunities.
What campers like
Full hookup options: 30/50 amp service available at most RV parks with varying site layouts. "We are in spot 116 a bit unlevel but we managed. Check in was quick and easy. Hook ups were easy. Kinda tight we are a Odyssey 26D with a jeep gladiator. Verizon is three bars and WiFi works great," reported a visitor to Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort.
Recreational facilities: pools, game rooms, playgrounds at several RV campgrounds near Lakeshore. "Has a pool, game room very run down, bathrooms and showers decent, sites a bit to close together for our liking but being close to the lake and Yosemite was a bonus," noted one camper at Bass Lake.
River proximity: waterfront sites at Creekside RV Park with natural creek sounds and cooling effects. "Beautiful waterfront spots adjacent to Bishop creek, toilets, showers, fish cleaning station and these days most importantly WIFi especially if going with teenagers. Everything you need to have an enjoyable experience, even with teenagers," shared a satisfied visitor.
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: spotty service in higher elevation campgrounds. "AT&T service is poor and WiFi is sketchy except in the clubhouse and office areas," mentioned a camper at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort about connectivity challenges.
Site spacing challenges: compact layouts at many rv campgrounds around Lakeshore. "The tent sites have are honestly 20x20 I would say. Therefore, there is no privacy. I understand from a business perspective the concept but to make it more appealing campsite I would suggest changing the layout and cutting the tent sites into half so that each campsite has more room," observed one visitor at High Sierra RV Park.
Seasonal facilities: reduced amenities during shoulder seasons at Highlands RV Park. "Due to Covid the facilities are closed, i.e. rek room, bathrooms, showers, however their onsite laundry was still available," noted a camper, highlighting how amenities can vary based on season and circumstances.
Wildlife awareness: bear activity reported at multiple campgrounds. "Make sure to use the bear box as we had a bear come into our camp the last night," warned a visitor at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: multiple play areas for different age groups at Outdoorsy Yosemite. "This park is absolutely wonderful! They have cabins, places to rent camp, laundry on site, a pool, 30/50 hookups. Pull throughs and water and sewer. The park is about 30 mins from the entrance to Yosemite and if you don't want to do that... There's always Bass Lake...which is 2 miles down the hill!" shared an enthusiastic visitor.
Entertainment options: scheduled activities during peak season. "While we were there, they played movies at sunset next to the pool. Close to Yosemite, the Sugarpine railroad and a decent-sized town," noted a camper at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort about family-friendly programming.
Swimming safety: variable water conditions at riverside campgrounds. "The creek is lovely and rushes by with the nice sounds of a creek. Be aware that the water is fast and cold. There are not a lot of spots for kids to play so unless they're older (and maybe even then) you'd want to watch them," cautioned a visitor at Creekside RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: bring blocks for many sites in the area. "The sewer connection was almost level with our dump pipe, so it made dumping a challenge," reported a camper at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort about technical considerations.
Dump station congestion: plan departure times to avoid waiting. "Upon leaving, the access road is totally blocked by vehicles lined up for the dump station. If you want to avoid this, leave early," advised a visitor at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground.
Site selection strategy: request specific areas based on rig size. "We didn't know that the '20 miles from Yosemite' just meant the entrance, we still had to drive about 30 miles to get into the valley. The site we pulled into was really tight with a hill and drop off on either side so our picnic table had to be in front of the airstream," warned a visitor about site challenges at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort.
