Best Campgrounds near Madera, CA

The Madera region in California's Central Valley provides various campground options including RV-oriented facilities and family-friendly lakeside camping. Established sites include Madera District Fair RV Campgrounds with full hookups, Hidden View Campground at Hensley Lake, and COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground. Bass Lake Recreation Area offers tent camping with lake access approximately 30 miles northeast of Madera. Several campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with amenities ranging from primitive sites with vault toilets to developed areas with showers, electricity, and sewer connections.

Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping experiences in the Madera area, with summer bringing intense heat to lower elevation sites. "Springtime has the grasses green with abundant wild flowers in late February through early March. Summer can be hot as the elevation is low in the California Central Valley and the grasses are brown," noted one camper about the Codorniz campground. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak periods, with some sites booking up to six months in advance. Many locations offer National Park Pass discounts, providing significant savings for frequent campers. Cell service varies throughout the region, with T-Mobile reception described as "spotty" at some locations.

The proximity to water features represents a significant draw for campers in the Madera area. Lakes near Madera include Hensley Lake, Eastman Lake, Bass Lake, and Millerton Lake, each offering different recreational opportunities. One visitor remarked, "This is a great campsite but there are a few things campers must know. Not all sites are drive up. Some have a 'thrombosis hill and stairs' to get to." Wildlife viewing opportunities include coyotes, bobcats, deer, and seasonal tarantula migrations at certain campgrounds. Several campground reviewers mention the cleanliness of facilities as a positive feature, though bathroom maintenance quality varies between locations. Noise considerations include proximity to highways, train tracks, and occasional airport noise at some of the more accessible camping areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Madera, California (129)

    2. Hidden View Campground — Hensley Lake

    9 Reviews
    Raymond, CA
    17 miles

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Even with all the rain, the lake isn’t very full. The campground, including the bathroom, was clean."

    "The site we stayed at had a nice fire ring, was flat, had a picnic table and it was close to running water. We tent camped, but it looked like there were plenty of RV spots too. Nice and quiet too."

    3. The Lakes RV & Golf Resort

    4 Reviews
    Madera, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 665-6980

    $42 - $1500 / night

    "There is a high fence surrounding the property and it is secured by electronic hand held devices that you receive when you check in. The lake and swimming pool are beautiful and restful."

    "Surrounded by a pond. Cable & wifi. Decent laundry room. Perfect place if you're a golfer. We stayed here multiple nights. My kids loved the pool."

    4. COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground

    9 Reviews
    Raymond, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 689-3255

    $20 - $100 / night

    "It would make the perfect group site as they were a bit tucked back from the other sites. Site #12 could easily be connected to site #11 as the brush is well-cleared between the two."

    "Located a short 20 miles east of 99, just north of Fresno, this Army Corps of Engineers campground is stunning."

    5. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area Campground

    19 Reviews
    Friant, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 822-2332

    $30 - $200 / night

    "Bathrooms were so-so with regard to cleanliness but most sites had its own access to water which was awesome!"

    "Had a fun time with the family, had accesible restroom and showers, had picnic table so we could put our things, shade, place where we could set our tent with our truck next to us, and we were able to"

    6. Bass Lake Recreation Area Rudy

    2 Reviews
    Friant, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 642-3212

    "Bass lake is the perfect campground for young family camping. There are plenty of facilities and even a restaurant."

    7. Arena RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Madera, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 665-1752

    "Close to hwy but far enough that road noise isn't onerous. Train passes through once at night time, bring earplugs. Clean, tidy, well kept campground."

    8. Lost Lake Campground

    6 Reviews
    Friant, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 488-3004

    $25 / night

    "It was quite and have several trails to walk on. Their is a nice that runs by the campgrounds and further down and pass the station where pay the toll to the stake park."

    "A few miles out of town, store close by. Usually mostly empty and good privacy"

    9. Buck Ridge

    1 Review
    Raymond, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 673-5151

    $30 / night

    "Picnic tables, well used.. fire pits, barbecue pits.. sites look d pretty clean, i am across from lake, train noise.."

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Recent Reviews near Madera, CA

531 Reviews of 129 Madera Campgrounds


  • A
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Indian Flat RV Park

    Great site

    If Traveling with kids make use of their fire pit and roast marshmallows

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    Great Campsite

    This site is just about four minutes away from Yosemite entrance. We stayed here two nights. The sites are really spread out, which is super nice!

    Unfortunately, we did find a lot of toilet paper and human waste.

    There were also a lot of ground bee nests. Our dogs pretty much all got stung when they were running around the campsite.

    The road around the campground is super bumpy and it was a little challenging to find a level spot. But there were enough areas to find something level to sleep on.

    We really enjoyed our stay here, though! The spots are nestled in the trees with a lot of privacy and separation from other campers. We were able to let our dogs off and run around, which was a huge plus. Great place to camp!

  • D
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Mariposa Fairgrounds

    Huge campground on the way to Yosemite

    Nice big campground on our way to Yosemite. Its a self check-in, first come first serve campground. However, we have been welcomed by the very nice and friendly host, who told us everything we needed to know. Restrooms and shower are quiet clean and the Wifi is extremely good.

  • J
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Camp Edison

    Most beautifull place

    This campground was the most beautifull place I have ever seen of all my trips around the world! During our stay we were almost alone at our campsite area. The friendly ladies at the entrance gave us the perfect site very close to the lake - thanks for that!

  • LAUREN H.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Recreation Point Group Campground

    Amazing campsite with great access to the lake!

    It’s still our favorite spot on the lake for my weekends and the hosts are wonderful. These are group sites, and honestly, I think they’re the best on the entire lake. You get easy beachfront access and a great base for visiting Oakhurst or exploring the area.

    geometry dash lite

  • S
    Sep. 1, 2025

    High Sierra RV Park

    Very nice host. Informative, caring

    Nice shot in the middle of town. Easy walk to all u need. Great cell service. Beautiful views of river. Clean

  • Rosemary B.
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Pine Flat Campground

    Weekend getaway

    Very peaceful relaxing experience. Campground very clean , exceptional atmosphere. Very please with amenities,


Guide to Madera

Camping near Madera, CA, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different preferences.

What to do:

  • Explore Yosemite National Park: Just a short drive away, this iconic park is a must-visit. One camper mentioned, “We camped here late February to capture the firefall. Mission accomplished!” at Upper Pines Campground.
  • Hiking Trails: There are numerous trails for all skill levels. A visitor at Wawona Campground said, “The campground's location provides access to various outdoor activities, including hiking trails and scenic drives.”
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A camper at Camp 4 shared, “The rangers are very serious about bear/wildlife safety...”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking landscapes. One review from North Pines Campground highlights, “We had a fire pit, bear locker, picnic table, and two tents! Surrounded by giant granite cliffs.”
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Camp Edison noted, “The entire campsite is huge, well maintained, and just wonderful.”
  • Access to Water: Campgrounds like Lower Pines Campground provide easy access to the Merced River, which is perfect for cooling off.

What you should know:

  • Booking Challenges: Reservations can be tough to secure. A camper at Upper Pines Campground mentioned, “Great place, amazing position... but almost impossible to book.”
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack showers and hookups. A visitor at Wawona Campground pointed out, “The sites are relatively spacious... but it does not offer showers or hookups for RVs.”
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at the dispersed site noted, “The mosquitoes will suck every last drop of blood out of you!”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites that offer amenities like picnic tables and fire rings. A family at Yosemite Lakes RV Resort enjoyed, “The sites are really big... perfect for an outing with young kids.”
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. One camper at Wawona Campground mentioned, “With my family, I may come here and play games.”
  • Safety First: Always keep food secured to avoid attracting wildlife. A visitor at Camp 4 warned, “All scented items must be placed inside the bear lockers.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes said, “The road going in was washed out... but we managed with our 5 Cylinder motorhome.”
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some campgrounds may have poor Wi-Fi and limited bathroom facilities. A visitor at Yosemite Pines RV Resort noted, “Bathrooms were rarely cleaned...”
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving. A camper at Camp Edison mentioned, “The employees were so friendly... but I wish there was a rec room for bad weather.”

Camping near Madera, CA, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be sure to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What lakes can I camp near in Madera County?

Wishon Bass Lake offers beautiful lakeside camping with sites 37-39 being particularly suitable for groups. The campground features flat tent spots surrounded by tall trees. For a more developed experience, Camp Edison near Shaver Lake provides excellent facilities with access to water sports and is close to a charming mountain town. Hensley Lake offers camping at Hidden View Campground with water and toilet facilities. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area Campground is another excellent option with reservable sites, water, and toilets, making it ideal for families wanting a lake camping experience with amenities.

What are the best campgrounds near Madera, CA?

The Madera area offers several excellent camping options. Whisky Falls Campground is worth the drive, offering isolated sites, off-road trails, and plenty of firewood in a beautiful forest setting. For dispersed camping, Texas Flats provides a wilderness feel with ample space for large groups and features an impressively large fire pit. Both locations are perfect for campers seeking a more natural, less developed experience. Other notable options include McCabe Flat Campground along the water and Millerton Lake State Recreation Area Campground, which offers more amenities and facilities for those preferring a developed camping experience.

Are there any RV parks in Madera with full hookups?

High Sierra RV Park provides RV accommodations near Madera, though be aware that some sites may have challenging access for larger rigs. The park features bathroom facilities and showers, though privacy might be limited. Another option is Madera Mobile Home & RV Park, which caters to RVs with necessary hookups. For those willing to drive a bit further, The Lakes RV & Golf Resort near Chowchilla offers full hookups in a resort setting with amenities for big rigs. Arena RV Park also provides water and toilet facilities with big-rig-friendly spaces.