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Best Campgrounds near Mariposa, CA

1,062 Reviews

Mariposa, California, serves as a gateway to some of the most renowned camping spots in the region. With Yosemite National Park nearby, campers can explore iconic sites such as Upper Pines Campground. This campground is known for its proximity to Yosemite Valley, offering easy access to hiking trails and breathtaking views. Fish Camp is another excellent choice, providing a more secluded experience with its forested surroundings. Campers should be aware of fire restrictions and ensure they have the necessary permits for their stay. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as campgrounds fill up quickly. Privacy levels vary, with some sites offering ample shade and others being more exposed. Wildlife is abundant in the area, so proper food storage is essential to prevent encounters with bears and other animals. Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including deer and coyotes. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild. Summer months can be crowded, so booking well in advance is advisable. Winter camping is possible but requires preparation for cold temperatures. Many campgrounds in the area have limited facilities, so campers should come prepared with their own supplies. It's important to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Mariposa's campgrounds provide a memorable outdoor experience.

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Detours Nearby

Bagby Camping and Recreation

Bagby Camping and Recreation

20 min away

Willow Placer Campground

Willow Placer Campground

34 min away

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Best Camping Sites Near Mariposa, California (237)

    1. Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park

    41 Reviews
    Wawona, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 375-9535

    $28 - $75 / night

    "The campground's location provides access to various outdoor activities. Nearby attractions include the Mariposa Grove, where you can explore giant sequoias, and the Wawona Golf Course."

    "Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan - all right there, all within walking distance. But after two stints staying in Yosemite for a combined two-and-a-half weeks, I've learned my lesson."

    2. Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    40 Reviews
    Fish Camp, CA
    19 miles
    Website

    "After accidentally driving to this location following the directions of another reviewer for the “Yosemite Boondocks” campground across 41 (which we never found) we were very happy with this location."

    "Great spot about 5 minutes away from Yosemite entrance. Only a few other campers nearby but plenty of space to where they were only seen from a distance."

    3. Shooting Star Sanctuary and Retreat near Yosemite National Forest

    17 Reviews
    Ahwahnee, CA
    12 miles
    +1 (801) 361-1982

    "It’s close to both Yosemite entrances ! Close to town . Love it ."

    "He kept in touch with us all throughout our drive there and helped us get set up upon arrival."

    4. McCabe Flat Campground

    11 Reviews
    Midpines, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 966-3192

    $10 / night

    "There is trash cans for each of the 3 campsites that go with this one. there a great little swimming hole just up the path."

    "No reservations in advance, an hour outside the park, and only $10 a night. There are two pit toilets that are well kept and something like 10-15 sites."

    5. Indian Flat RV Park

    13 Reviews
    El Portal, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 379-2339

    $30 - $289 / night

    "At least when we visited the RV Park and the adjacent Cedar Lodge was functioning as one, meaning we could also use their pool, arcade, ping pong etc. Good places with tables, BBQ included."

    "Location is very good for access to Yosemite."

    6. Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes

    40 Reviews
    Eastman Lake, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Whip out your wallet and empty on it on the check-in desk of this thousand trails (or whatever) park."

    "Our tent site was #311 and it was perfectly tucked in the trees with a stream alongside."

    7. Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park

    66 Reviews
    Yosemite Valley, CA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 372-8502

    $36 / night

    "Close to Happy Isles and Mirror Lake/Meadow, this campground is convenient for day hikers. it's one of the better spots in Yosemite Valley, somewhat off the beaten path, so to speak."

    "FYI, they are not joking about wildlife here, bear lockers are there for a reason and the animals are so comfortable and used to people they get close to camp."

    8. Bagby Camping and Recreation

    6 Reviews
    Midpines, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 354-2955

    "No cell service for us, but that was a good thing in my opinion to get away from the devices."

    "It has a thw beautiful river wrapping around it which you can easily walk down to and play in. There are tons of wild flowers and some geese as well."

    9. Camp 4 — Yosemite National Park

    42 Reviews
    Yosemite Valley, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 372-8502

    $60 / night

    "These are walk-in sites for tents only and are on a per person basis ( It fills up really fast ) parking is available adjacent to the campground, you will need a parking permit."

    "This iconic campground, situated in the middle of Yosemite Valley, was once home to many of America's early rock climbing pioneers. "

    10. Mariposa Fairgrounds

    2 Reviews
    Mariposa, CA
    2 miles
    +1 (209) 966-2432

    $55 / night

    "It is 2 miles from town, but there are plenty of restaurants and a market in Mariposa to make the trip worthwhile Make sure you go to the Mine and Mineral museum on the the grounds."

    "Big grassy area close to Mineral Museum, water and electric hookups. We basically had the fairgrounds to ourselves. They have additional spots in more of a parking lot setting, well marked."

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Showing results 1-10 of 237 campgrounds

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Recent Camping Photos near Mariposa, CA

439 Photos of 237 Mariposa Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Mariposa, CA

1062 Reviews of 237 Mariposa Campgrounds

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes

    A good campground for full hook

    The bathrooms and showers are clean. The sites are a little tight. My Wi-Fi was Starlink so I don’t know how the camp Wi-Fi was.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    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

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping

    Amazing boondocking!!

    What a brilliant place! Nestled amongst trees right on the edge of Yosemite. Was quite busy when I was there but managed to find a quiet spot tucked away & private. Bumpy roads around the actual camping area but manageable in a camper van. Actually saw a few big rigs here too. Only negative was the biting bugs which were everywhere & hungry but didn’t spoil the evening, just wish I’d taken bug spray or a citronella candle!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Pinecrest Campground

    Beautiful Location With Talkitive Ravens

    We went to Pinecrest as the first trip we took with our brand new travel trailer. Not only was it a great break-in trip but the location was lovely. The hosts were friendly and very helpful when we had difficulty getting into the site we reserved. Once we set up camp in our new sire, we started to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. And the ravens. Lots of talkative ravens. Very entertaining.

    We were thrilled to find out there’s a restaurant and general store located right across the street from the campground. It was just delicious icing on a very tasty cake. Two thumbs up for Pinecrest Campground and an extra thumbs up and thank you to the hosts.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort

    Just outside 18 miles outside the southern entrance to Yosemite.

    We are in spot 116 a bit unlevel but we managed. Check in was quick and easy. Hook ups were easy. Kinda tight we are a Odessey 26D with a jeep gladiator. Verizon is three bars and WiFi works great

  • kThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 14, 2025

    Buck Ridge

    Blm with a lake view

    First come first serve, vault toilets, water pump by outhouse area, pic a site and make a donation, the is a camp host. Picnic tables, well used.. fire pits, barbecue pits.. sites look d pretty clean, i am across from lake, train noise..

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Diamond Gulch

    Great campground

    Great campground accessible for most campers but large RVs might struggle. Has water, portable toilets and heated showers. Campsite has Some shade from the sun. Also has a couple glamping tents aswell.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    Great Spot

    Great spot about 5 minutes away from Yosemite entrance. Only a few other campers nearby but plenty of space to where they were only seen from a distance. A couple nights there were louder campers on the paved side of the area but nothing crazy. Will most definitely stay there again

Guide to Mariposa

Camping near Mariposa, California, offers a fantastic way to experience the great outdoors while being close to Yosemite National Park. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your adventure.

What to do:

  • Explore Yosemite National Park: Just a short drive away, the park is famous for its stunning views and hiking trails. One camper mentioned, "We camped here late February to capture the firefall. Mission accomplished!" at Upper Pines Campground.
  • Visit local attractions: Check out the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias or take a scenic drive through the Sierra Nevada mountains. A reviewer at Wawona Campground said, "The campground's location provides access to various outdoor activities."
  • Fishing and swimming: Many campgrounds are near lakes and rivers, perfect for fishing or a refreshing swim. One camper at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes noted, "The sites were large and the scenery beautiful."

What campers like:

  • Scenic views: Campers rave about the breathtaking landscapes. A visitor at North Pines Campground shared, "We had a fire pit, bear locker, picnic table, and two tents! Surrounded by giant granite cliffs."
  • Quiet and peaceful atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer a serene environment. A reviewer at Wawona Campground said, "It was very quiet and peaceful. You wouldn’t really notice other people were there unless you looked around."
  • Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds like Camp Edison are well-maintained and have clean facilities. One family shared, "The entire campsite is huge, well maintained, and just wonderful."

What you should know:

  • Booking can be tricky: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Upper Pines Campground mentioned, "Almost impossible to book. At the last moment, I got a reservation."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds lack showers and hookups. A visitor at Hodgdon Meadow Campground noted, "No showers though, but the bathrooms were clear and okay."
  • Wildlife safety: Be cautious about food storage to avoid unwanted visitors. A camper at Camp 4 reminded others, "The rangers are very serious about bear/wildlife safety."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A family at Camp Edison said, "The campsites are spacious and free of clutter."
  • Plan activities: Bring games or outdoor gear to keep everyone entertained. One camper at Wawona Campground mentioned, "With my family, I may come here and play games."
  • Stay close to amenities: Select campgrounds with easy access to bathrooms and water. A reviewer at North Pines Campground appreciated, "The bathrooms were flushable, and the nearest shower is in Curry Village."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site before booking. A camper at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes noted, "The road going in was washed out, but we managed with our 5 Cylinder motorhome."
  • Look for full hookups: Some campgrounds offer full hookups for convenience. A reviewer at Camp Edison mentioned, "Showers do cost but are worth it."
  • Be prepared for crowds: Popular campgrounds can get busy, so plan accordingly. A visitor at Hodgdon Meadow Campground said, "Quite busy and noisy, with generators going quite late."

Camping near Mariposa, California, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're with family or friends, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Mariposa, CA?

Mariposa offers excellent camping options for Yosemite visitors. Mariposa Fairgrounds provides full hookups on level gravel pads with clean showers and exceptional WiFi, located just 2 miles from town with restaurants and markets nearby. For those seeking a traditional camping experience, Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park offers a quieter alternative to the crowded Valley campgrounds with spacious sites and proximity to park attractions. Other solid options include High Sierra RV Park with pull-through sites, Yosemite Pines RV Resort with family lodging, and Upper Billy Creek Campground with creekside sites. Note that road conditions can affect access, particularly at McCabe Flat Campground where closures have been reported on Route 140.

What activities can I do while camping in Mariposa?

Mariposa's location makes it perfect for exploring Yosemite National Park's iconic attractions including Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls. Hiking opportunities abound, from family-friendly trails to challenging backcountry routes like those near Gladys Lake Backcountry, Ansel Adams Wilderness, which offers epic scenery and serene solitude. For winter visitors, Summerdale Campground is near Goat Meadow Snow Play Area, perfect for sledding and snow activities. The Merced River provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and rafting in warmer months. Downtown Mariposa offers historical sites, shopping, dining, and the Mariposa Museum. Wildlife viewing, stargazing, photography, and mountain biking are also popular activities in the region, with many campgrounds providing access to scenic trails.

What amenities are available at Mariposa camping sites?

High Sierra RV Park offers full hookup sites with bathroom facilities, though some sites may require specific maneuvering for larger trailers. The park provides shower facilities, though privacy can be limited. For RV enthusiasts, Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging offers comprehensive amenities as a gateway to Yosemite. The Mariposa area also features campgrounds with varying amenity levels - from basic facilities at dispersed sites to developed campgrounds with potable water, flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Mariposa Fairgrounds provides exceptional WiFi service, clean shower facilities, and full hookups on level sites. Some campgrounds offer camp stores, laundry facilities, and dump stations, though availability varies seasonally.

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