Cabins near Long Barn, California offer year-round access at 5,000-6,000 feet elevation in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The area receives significant snowfall from December through March, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F during the day. Most cabins in this region require advanced reservations, especially during peak summer and winter weekends.
What to do
Lake activities at Pinecrest Lake: Pinecrest Campground provides access to Pinecrest Lake where fishing is productive using specific techniques. "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," shares Ian G. The lake also offers boat rentals and swimming.
Hiking opportunities: The area surrounding Pinecrest Campground features well-maintained trails. "There is a great hike around the lake close by, as well as swimming in the lake a marina and a convenience store," notes Warren K. The lake loop trail takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete.
Wildlife watching: Calaveras Big Trees State Park offers opportunities to view local wildlife, including bears. "Bear came through our camp one night hit the Bear box and walked off. Rangers were friendly and very informative about the area," reports Cassidy Y. The park features numerous trails through giant sequoia groves.
What campers like
Natural swimming holes: Rainbow Pools is a popular swimming location near Yosemite Lakes RV Resort. "Plus a short drive to Rainbow Pool and Cherry Lake if you want to avoid park crowds," recommends Erin A. Visitors should arrive early during summer months as these areas become crowded.
Family entertainment: Many campgrounds provide organized activities for children. "The campground also has a pet wash we wanted to use, but it wasn't working. There is also a random petting zoo," notes Sarah L. from Yosemite Pines. Other campgrounds feature outdoor movie nights during summer.
Quiet camping environments: Three Links Camp offers a peaceful setting with recreational facilities. "The campground was beautiful and my kids had a blast walking around all the buildings (hall, chapel, cabins/dorms) and on baseball field, disc golf course, and basketball court," writes Heather D. The camp has WiFi for those who need to stay connected.
What you should know
Variable water availability: Some campgrounds experience water restrictions. At Cherry Valley Campground, "There was no water at the campground when we were there (it seems like it might be a long term issue) - we were warned about this in advance so it wasn't much trouble," mentions Beth G.
Limited services: Many areas have minimal facilities outside of campgrounds. At Cherry Valley Campground, "There is nothing else for miles around so come prepared with all your food and essentials. It's a long long drive if you forget something."
Bears are active: The region has active black bear populations requiring proper food storage. Campgrounds provide bear boxes for food storage, and visitors should follow bear safety protocols by storing all scented items securely when not in use.
Tips for camping with families
Look for cabins with recreational amenities: Yosemite Pines RV Resort offers numerous family-friendly features. "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 kids," advises Jeanette D.
Consider cabin size requirements: Cabins vary significantly in capacity. "2 adults and 1 kid in the basic cabin over Easter weekend a few years ago. We really enjoyed our stay and the property. Petting zoo animals were adorable," shares Jen U. about Yosemite Pines.
Check for organized activities: Some campgrounds provide structured entertainment. "The kids really love the Amphitheatre where they play pretty good family friendly movies," notes Michael M. about Pinecrest Campground. These activities typically run from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Many campgrounds offer varying levels of RV services. "I have been here a couple times before but this was the first time with a travel trailer. On their website it did state there was water hookups unfortunately there was not," reports Ian G. about Pinecrest Campground.
Site access challenges: Some campground roads may be difficult for larger vehicles. At Angels Camp Campground and RV, "East side of CG seems to accommodate more for families with kids while west side is better for RVs. Most RV sites have full hookups and are pull throughs," notes John G.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between locations. "There is 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," shares Erin A. about Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
