Best Campgrounds near Madera, CA

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!