Tent camping near Mariposa, California provides access to multiple ecosystems where Sierra Nevada foothills transition to higher mountain zones. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 4,000 feet, creating temperature variations that can drop 20 degrees between daytime and nighttime during summer months. Most primitive campgrounds remain snow-free from April through October, though early season campers should prepare for occasional late spring storms.
What to do
River swimming spots: The Merced River offers multiple swimming areas during summer months. At Willow Placer Campground, campers have direct river access. According to Sara S., "We absolutely loved camping here. There are mostly walk in sites and 2 drive in sites. So peaceful listening to the river all night."
Off-season exploration: November through April provides quieter camping experiences with fewer crowds. One camper at Railroad Flat Campground noted, "I visited in November, on the first days of rain after a long dry season... It was late in the season, so there were only a few campers at each location."
Mountain biking: Several campgrounds offer trail access suitable for beginner to intermediate riders. A visitor mentioned, "I rode my bike along and went fishing while the sky was blue, then hid under a blanket with a cup of tea and watched the stormy skies."
Wildflower viewing: Spring brings extensive wildflower displays, particularly April through June. One camper described Railroad Flat as "especially beautiful during spring wildflower season, and in the fall."
What campers like
Wildlife watching: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Railroad Flat, one camper reported seeing "wildflowers, newts, and river otters" while noting visitors should "watch out for rattlesnakes!"
Quick access to Yosemite: Many dispersed camping areas sit minutes from park entrances. A visitor to Hardin Flat Road commented, "~8min drive to Big Oak Entrance and ~40min drive to Yosemite Valley Welcome Center. Why stay at Hodgdon when you can stay here!"
Private campsites: Many sites offer separation from neighboring campers. A Hardin Flat Road visitor noted, "This was a really nice stay close to Yosemite with really spread out spots. Couldn't even see your neighbor and the vicinity to the park made it perfect."
Water sounds: Multiple campers mention enjoying river acoustics. As one camper stated, "There are lots of available spots along Hardin Flat Road, most with good shade. We found one away from the water and not at all buggy."
What you should know
Varying road conditions: Access roads to many primitive sites require careful navigation. About Willow Placer, one camper warned, "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."
Limited capacity: The best tent sites fill quickly during peak season. At Little Yosemite Valley Campground, "Yosemite only allows a certain number of people to camp at the backcountry sites and it shows."
Weather variations: Mountain conditions can change rapidly. One camper described, "It rained on-and-off with sunshine in between, so I rode my bike along and went fishing while the sky was blue, then hid under a blanket with a cup of tea and watched the stormy skies."
Site closures: Some campgrounds listed online may be permanently closed. Recent visitors to Dirt Flat and Dry Gulch reported both as closed, with one noting, "This place is closed, it seems to be longer" and another stating it "seems to be closed for ever."
Tips for camping with families
Select established campgrounds: For families with young children, developed sites offer better amenities. At Housekeeping Camp, a camper noted, "Super easy with great views of Yosemite falls and creek to play in. Bathrooms were clean. Spaces have enough room that you aren't on top of each other."
Pack for temperature swings: Campers should bring clothing for variable conditions. One family explained, "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)."
Bear safety education: Before arrival, teach children about proper food storage. A camper at Little Yosemite Valley reported, "Bears are prevalent so take care."
Consider bug protection: Riverside sites may have more insects. A Hardin Flat Road visitor advised, "The spots along the creek were very buggy. We found one away from the water and not at all buggy."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large RVs cannot access many campgrounds. A camper with a 16' Airstream noted about Railroad Flat: "I would not recommend anything larger. The narrow road winds along the steep canyon wall with occasional pull-outs to allow oncoming cars to pass."
Arrival timing: Reaching campgrounds before dark improves navigation. One RVer at Hardin Flat Road suggested, "I recommend arriving a little early, we didn't have a little trouble finding the right road."
Turning radius concerns: Some roads have tight turns challenging for trailers. A camper shared, "It's kind of nice though because it keeps class A RVs out and keeps it fairly quite and off the grid."
Adequate clearance: Many forest roads require higher-clearance vehicles. A camper noted, "All wheel drive, okay. Large grounds, many motorbike and trails, permit required (bikes). Camped upper level."
