Tent camping options near Madera, California range from lakeside spots to mountain terrain with elevations spanning 1,200 to 7,000 feet across the Sierra National Forest. Most sites lack running water and have seasonal fire restrictions that vary based on drought conditions. The camping season typically runs April through October, with high-elevation sites only accessible in summer months due to snow closures.
What to do
Fishing at Bass Lake: The Recreation Point Group Campground provides excellent fishing access with beach frontage right on the lake. As Amy E. notes, "These are group sites, but they are the best sites on the whole lake in my opinion. My family has been camping here for 78 years and it's part of all my family memories."
Swimming in the Merced River: The pristine waters at Railroad Flat Campground offer natural swimming holes throughout summer months. According to Chris, "Railroad Flat is the last of three campgrounds along this dirt road that was once the railroad route to Yosemite. Set along the banks of the Merced River it's especially beautiful during spring wildflower season, and in the fall."
Hiking to Half Dome: For experienced backpackers, Little Yosemite Valley Campground serves as a strategic base camp. Kate W. recommends, "If you are attempting Half Dome you could exhaust yourself and hike up from base, or you could extend the trip and hike here first, stay a night, wake up early, and be the first on the Dome to watch the sunrise - that's what we did!"
Wildlife viewing: The Merced River corridor hosts diverse wildlife including river otters, newts, and seasonal wildflowers. Chris notes at Railroad Flat Campground to "Watch out for rattlesnakes!" during summer months.
What campers like
River sounds for sleeping: Campers consistently praise the natural white noise at Willow Placer Campground. Sara S. shares, "We absolutely loved camping here. There are mostly walk in sites and 2 drive in sites... So peaceful listening to the river all night."
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, many campgrounds maintain good standards. The San Joaquin River Gorge offers basic but well-maintained facilities. Aaron M. reports, "It's a nice place real nice open large camp area pretty cool nice trail to a bridge overlooking the San Joaquin River gorge."
Swimming access: During summer, riverside camping spots double as swimming locations. Mollie reports about Railroad Flat, "Tons of pull outs to park for dayuse/swimming, we always find a nice beach/spot all to ourselves to swim even when busy."
Less crowded alternatives to Yosemite: Many campers prefer staying outside park boundaries. Meg R. reports about Willow Placer, "It's not a bad drive at all!" when visiting Yosemite, and "I had initially planned to go to Yosemite but was content to stay here."
What you should know
Bear activity: Bear-resistant food storage is mandatory at most sites. Several campgrounds including Railroad Flat provide bear boxes. Gamaliel A. warns about Little Yosemite Valley Campground: "Bears are prevalent so take care."
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads. Meg R. cautions about accessing Willow Placer: "The narrow road winds along the steep canyon wall with occasional pull-outs to allow oncoming cars to pass."
Limited trailer access: Most tent camping areas have tight turns or narrow bridges that restrict larger vehicles. Sara S. warns about Willow Placer: "We're towing a 10-ft trailer and barely made the turn for the suspension bridge. It's almost a 90 degree turn on a narrow bridge."
Permits and planning: Backcountry sites require permits that book quickly. Kate W. advises about Little Yosemite Valley: "It's not easy to organize the proper permits, but it's worth it!"
Tips for camping with families
Infant-friendly options: Bass Lake provides family-friendly amenities. One camper at Bass Lake Recreation Area shared, "Don't let anyone tell you that you can't camp with an infant. It's actually one of the best activities that you can do with them, and it's a great break for the parents."
Shade considerations: Recent tree removal affects sun exposure. Corinna B. warns about Bass Lake: "The campgrounds at Bass Lake are now exposed with very few trees. Please plan for very little shade at the campgrounds."
Seasonal mosquito preparation: River proximity means insects during warm months. Mollie notes about Railroad Flat: "All are extremely close to the river so prepare for mosquitoes at night but the sounds of the river are amazing!"
Swimming safety: River currents can be strong during spring runoff months. Most swimming areas lack lifeguards, requiring constant supervision of children.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Small trailers and vans do better than large RVs at most Sierra foothills campgrounds. Meg R. notes about Willow Placer Campground: "I came with my 16' Airstream in tow, and it fit perfectly. I would not recommend anything larger."
Temperature variations: Lower elevation campgrounds provide warmer options during shoulder seasons. Sara notes, "We'd stayed here while visiting Yosemite which we actually preferred to the campground in Yosemite because it's much warmer here than in Yosemite Valley (at least in the winter)."
Booking strategy: Reserve early for weekend spots. Corinna advises about Bass Lake: "Book online and book early. We were told some spots book up 6 months in advance via the online recreation.gov website, especially on weekends."
