Best Campgrounds near Visalia, CA

Camping near Visalia, California sits at a strategic gateway to some of California's most impressive natural landscapes, including Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The area features a mix of private RV parks, developed campgrounds, and cabin accommodations. Visalia-Sequoia National Park KOA provides year-round camping with full amenities, while more rustic options can be found at Three Rivers Hideaway and Sequoia RV Ranch as you travel east toward the national parks. These locations serve as convenient baselines for exploring the giant sequoias, with Lodgepole Campground inside Sequoia National Park offering a more immersive experience among the ancient trees. According to reviews, the famous General Sherman Tree, the world's largest tree by volume, is "an incredible experience to see up close."

Weather conditions vary dramatically by season and elevation. Valley locations like Visalia experience hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while higher elevation sites in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains offer cooler conditions. Fire restrictions are common during summer months, particularly in national park campgrounds and surrounding forest areas. Winter camping is available at lower elevations, but mountain roads may require chains or close entirely during snow events. Bear-proof food storage is mandatory in and around the national parks, with food lockers provided at most established sites. Cell service becomes increasingly limited as you travel east from Visalia into the mountains.

Camping styles vary significantly between the valley floor and mountain areas. RV parks near Visalia and along Highway 198 typically offer full hookups, level sites, and amenities like swimming pools to combat summer heat. As you ascend into the foothills, campgrounds like Horse Creek and Lemon Cove Village provide a transition zone with more natural settings while maintaining basic amenities. National park campgrounds require advance reservations during peak season (April through October), with some campers reporting the need to book "6 months in advance" for popular locations like Lodgepole. Group camping options exist throughout the region, and several campgrounds feature riverside locations with swimming access during warmer months.

Best Camping Sites Near Visalia, California (153)

    1. Visalia-Sequoia National Park KOA

    17 Reviews
    Goshen, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 651-0544

    "They all have the events close to the park entrance. Three Rivers is about 5 miles away, i was blown away with this lake by the foothills but it really feels like a lake on a mountaintop!"

    "I’ll start with the negatives: you can hear traffic all night because it is located in an industrial area and the showers are not hot."

    2. Lindy's Landing and Campground

    9 Reviews
    Goshen, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 897-2885

    $35 - $65 / night

    "The spot had a huge concrete barrier so people wouldn't drive up on the sand area. If that wasn't there it would have been easier to get into the spot bit we couldn't go forward anymore."

    3. Kings River RV Resort

    7 Reviews
    Reedley, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 897-0351

    $60 / night

    4. Lemon Cove Village

    9 Reviews
    Lemon Cove, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 370-4152

    "Nice drive thru RV’s sites. Friendly Staff and good staff especially Jennifer. Very nice dog park, not a lot grass but good running area for dogs."

    5. Three Rivers Hideaway

    19 Reviews
    Three Rivers, CA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 561-4413

    "No real walking trails in the area but were able to go down to the river and there was a swimming hole,$40 for holiday weekend."

    "The campground is behind a RV and up against the river. Its a flat dirt lot with bathrooms and showers available. Market is near buy as well as gas stations in case ice or other supplies is needed."

    6. Horse Creek Campground

    10 Reviews
    Three Rivers, CA
    24 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "The tap outside the building didn't work and neither did the water fountain.

    The host was not there for check-in."

    "Two well located bathrooms with good showers at no additional cost. During the summer months the Rangers put on a Campfire program at the campground every Saturday evening."

    7. Sequoia RV Ranch

    13 Reviews
    Kaweah, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 561-4333

    $120 / night

    "As others have noted, this campground is close to the entrance of Sequoia NP and close to the town of Three Rivers which has a few restaurants and markets. "

    "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."

    8. Horse Creek

    7 Reviews
    Lemon Cove, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 597-2301

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Some of the sites (75, 76 etc..) look out on Lake Kaweah. It’s clean and well organized. Some highway noise."

    9. Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park

    45 Reviews
    Hartland, CA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 565-3341

    $32 / night

    "If you’re looking to camp in California, Sequoia National Park should be one of your top destinations. They have cabin and tent camping. I have stayed in both."

    "Amazing views all around the campgrounds. If you want to get of away from the city this is the place to be...Love it."

    10. Riverland RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    Reedley, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 897-5166
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Showing results 1-10 of 153 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Visalia, CA

611 Reviews of 153 Visalia Campgrounds



Guide to Visalia

Camping near Visalia, CA, offers a fantastic escape into nature with a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails in Sequoia National Park. One camper mentioned, "It’s a stunning area of the park with the Topokah falls trail right inside the campground" at Lodgepole Campground.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at nearby lakes. A visitor at Camp Edison said, "We stayed in a camp pop out and loved it," highlighting the lake's beauty.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. One happy camper at Azalea Campground shared, "Deer pass by your camper in the morning."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Hume Lake Campground noted, "Watching the Sun rise over the lake was unforgettable."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate well-maintained restrooms and campsites. A visitor at Dorabelle Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms were clean, and the campgrounds are immaculate."
  • Convenient Locations: Campgrounds like Potwisha Campground are close to attractions, making it easy to explore the area.

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some sites can get busy, especially during peak season. A camper at Lodgepole Campground noted, "Some of the sites are a bit close together and it does get very crowded."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds offer showers or electric hookups. A review for Azalea Campground pointed out, "No showers, but plenty of spots to choose from."
  • Wildlife Precautions: Bears are known to roam in the area. A camper at Hume Lake Campground advised, "Make sure you store ALL food and coolers in the bear box."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits. A family at Camp Edison said, "The entire camp site is huge, well maintained and just wonderful."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear for family fun. One camper at Dorabelle Campground mentioned, "We invited our family and friends... they all kept saying it was the best camping trip they ever had."
  • Stay Safe: Keep an eye on kids near water and wildlife. A visitor at Potwisha Campground noted, "The creek is very pretty," but safety is key.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Lodgepole Campground recommended spot 198 for RVs, saying it’s "the closest spot to the river."
  • Use Dump Stations: Take advantage of dump stations for convenience. A review for Azalea Campground mentioned, "The dump station is very nice and free to use."
  • Stay Cool: Be prepared for hot weather, especially in summer. A visitor at Almond Tree Oasis RV Park said, "In the summer this place is very hot," so plan accordingly.

Camping near Visalia, CA, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Visalia, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Visalia, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 153 campgrounds and RV parks near Visalia, CA and 28 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Visalia, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Visalia, CA is Visalia-Sequoia National Park KOA with a 2.9-star rating from 17 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Visalia, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 28 free dispersed camping spots near Visalia, CA.

What parks are near Visalia, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 parks near Visalia, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.