RV sites near Madera, California occupy a central location in California's San Joaquin Valley at elevations ranging from 270-350 feet. The region experiences extreme summer temperatures, often exceeding 100°F from June through September, while winter temperatures typically range from 38-60°F. Camping options near Madera provide convenient access to both Yosemite National Park and the Sierra National Forest.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: McCabe Flat Campground offers accessible fishing on the Merced River with good potential for catches. "I managed to catch a 12" rainbow almost right away, just feet from the campsite. Later on hooked another one but lost it," reports one visitor to McCabe Flat Campground.
Golfing access: Several RV parks cater to golf enthusiasts with direct course access. "You can walk through a gate to the golf course and a nice little restaurant. If a person has the time and is a golfer, this is a great place to stay for a month," notes a camper at The Lakes RV & Golf Resort.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature pools or natural swimming areas for cooling off during hot valley days. "The pool is gorgeous. The sites are meticulously maintained. Wonderful place to spend the night or even longer," says a reviewer about The Lakes RV & Golf Resort.
Day trips to Yosemite: Several campgrounds serve as affordable bases for visiting Yosemite. "This place was a great stay while visiting Yosemite. No reservations in advance, an hour outside the park, and only $10 a night," explains a camper at McCabe Flat Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many visitors highlight well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The bathrooms are clean which is a great plus. There is a nice river (Fresno River)," notes a tent camper at High Sierra RV Park.
Proximity to attractions: Campers appreciate locations that balance access to both natural areas and urban conveniences. "Nothing but helpful, pleasant staff along with friendly full time occupants... This location was helpful when trying to take care of ordinary business matters," explains a visitor to Blackstone North RV Park.
Swimming pools: During hot summer months, pools become essential amenities. "Has a pool, game room very run down, bathrooms and showers decent, sites a bit to close together for our liking but being close to the lake and Yosemite was a bonus," shares a camper at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort.
Security features: Some RV parks offer enhanced security measures. "There is a high fence surrounding the property and it is secured by electronic hand held devices that you receive when you check in," notes a visitor to The Lakes RV & Golf Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F, making water access critical. "We've had days over 100 degrees but we had the river right next to us to cool down. The campsite and the bathrooms were really clean," notes a McCabe Flat camper.
Site spacing varies significantly: Many campgrounds pack RVs closely together. "Sites are very crowded. You gotta love your neighbor. Lots of amenities. Very friendly staff. So helpful and accommodating," reports a camper at High Sierra RV Park.
Fire restrictions: Rules on campfires change seasonally and vary by location. "Fire rings are available at most sites, but check the BLM website for restrictions," advises a visitor to McCabe Flat Campground.
Vehicle size limitations: Some campgrounds have access restrictions. "There is a narrow bridge before the campgrounds that limits vehicle size. It is not advisable for trailers over 18 feet in length," warns a McCabe Flat camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Several RV sites near Madera include playgrounds and recreation areas. "The resort has a great pool and playground for the kids. We stayed here 3 nights not could've stayed here a week easy," notes a visitor to Yosemite RV Resort.
Consider noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. "Lot of noise from the airport, train and highway," mentions a visitor to Arena RV Park.
Bring ant protection: Insects can be problematic at some locations. "ANTS WILL GET IN THERE. We had ants all over our dishes in the morning, but not our stuff in tubs, so make sure your things are ant proof," warns a McCabe Flat camper.
Pack extra water: Limited water access at some sites requires planning. "There are no hookups or water supply offered. However, for those that are self-sufficient, this is a really nice place," advises a McCabe Flat visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extra work to level RVs properly. "Our spot was also very hard to try and level our trailer. We never did quite get it leveled the way we would've liked," reports a camper at High Sierra RV Park.
Hookup placement: Consider how hookup positions affect your camping experience. "The sewer connection was almost level with our dump pipe, so it made dumping a challenge," notes a camper at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort.
Arrival timing matters: Securing preferred spots often requires early arrival. "Definitely come early to snag a spot, and even earlier if you want a good one," recommends a McCabe Flat visitor.
Pull-through accessibility: RV maneuverability varies significantly between parks. "Just passing thru and needed a spot. Very accommodating! Sites are large and level but no screening between rigs," reports a Blackstone North RV Park visitor.
