Camping options near Long Barn, California range in elevation from 3,000 to 8,000 feet across the Stanislaus National Forest. The camping season typically extends from late April through October, with most forest service campgrounds closed during winter months due to snow accumulation. Road access varies significantly, with some campgrounds requiring travel on unpaved forest roads that may be impassable for larger vehicles.
What to do
Swimming access: 20-minute drive to Rainbow Pools from Yosemite Lakes RV Resort, which offers tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts. "We lucked out with a pretty big and shaded riverfront spot (site 73) and could not have been happier. Full hook up, VERY well maintained facilities and again the staff are over and above helpful," notes one camper.
Fishing opportunities: Rainbow trout available at multiple locations near Pinecrest Campground. "We used a size ten Tribble hook with about a foot leader and pinch weights with rainbow powerbait for those that want to catch fish for lunch," reports one visitor who rented a boat through the early bird special at half price.
Hiking trails: 2-3 hour loop around Pinecrest Lake accessible from nearby campgrounds. "The hike around the lake was beautiful too, roughly 2-3 hr hike with some great views," notes one camper. Several campgrounds provide trailhead access to forest service routes of varying difficulty.
What campers like
Proximity to water features: Fraser Flat Campground receives consistent praise for its riverside location. "Very nice, loved camping right next to the river. Bathrooms were very clean," mentions one reviewer. This first-come, first-served campground maintains vault toilets that campers note are regularly serviced.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds report regular wildlife sightings. "Bear came through our camp one night hit the Bear box and walked off. Rangers were friendly and very informative about the area," reports a camper at North Grove Campground. Bear boxes are provided at most developed sites in the region.
Evening activities: Multiple campgrounds offer night programming during summer months. "The kids really love the Amphitheatre where they play pretty good family friendly movies," writes a visitor about Pinecrest Campground. Some locations maintain community fire areas with organized activities for children.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Don't let the fact that this campsite has over 300 sites fool you - it books fast! We managed to secure one of the last spots one weekend," notes a Pinecrest visitor.
Road conditions: Access to remote sites requires preparation. The drive to Sand Bar Flat Campground involves "about 14 miles of dirt road to get to this campground and there were no signs last time I was here," according to one camper, who adds: "A basic truck or SUV would have an easy time driving down."
Bathroom facilities: Standards vary significantly between campgrounds. "Bathrooms are mediocre - there was no lights in them at night so you need a headlamp," reports a camper at Pinecrest. Many locations maintain vault toilets without running water, while others provide flush toilets with cold water taps.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Yosemite Pines RV Resort provides multiple family amenities. "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," writes one visitor, noting that showers are free and usually clean.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds offer wheelchair-friendly facilities. "Easy wheelchair access is nice. The trail around the camp ground is excellent if un even isn't for you.the trail it winds up at an improved fishing deck, wheelchair accessible," reports a Fraser Flat camper.
Campsite selection: For families seeking more space, certain areas offer advantages. "The sites are great because they are quite big. The terrain varies where you stay and if you are in D or E loop you are closer to the lake," explains a Pinecrest visitor, who adds that tree coverage varies significantly between sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most forest service campgrounds lack hookups. "There is no hookups which we always prefer. The lake is beautiful though and the kids really love the Amphitheatre where they play pretty good family friendly movies," reports an RV camper at Pinecrest.
Site access: Meadowview provides more accommodating sites for larger vehicles. "Clean campsites close to Pinecrest Lake. Sites don't feel as close together as Pinecrest CG. Flush toilets and sinks, bear boxes, potable water," notes one visitor about this first-come, first-served option near Long Barn.
Connectivity challenges: Cell service remains limited at most campgrounds. "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 Yosemite Lakes RV visitor, explaining that this allows guests to stay connected when necessary.
