Dispersed camping options near Mather, California extend beyond the well-known Yosemite Valley campgrounds. The area sits at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates that affect camping seasons and conditions. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing in higher elevations, while summer days can reach 90°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Rainbow Pool, located near Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes, offers natural swimming areas popular with locals. "Plus a short drive to Rainbow Pool and Cherry Lake if you want to avoid park crowds," notes one camper about Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Hetch Hetchy exploration: This less-visited section of Yosemite provides spectacular waterfalls without valley crowds. A camper from Dimond O Campground shares: "We also appreciated being only three miles away from Hetch Hetchy, too. It is a part of Yosemite that does not receive many visitors and to take in what used to be there (It was John Muir's favorite valley), is a trip in itself."
Night sky viewing: The Mather area offers excellent stargazing due to minimal light pollution. "At night you can't sleep because of the brightness. The stars are really pretty," reports a visitor to Camp 4, highlighting the exceptional night sky visibility throughout the region.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer sites directly adjacent to water. At Wawona Campground, "Love the site we had, close to water and surrounded by trees. Close to amenities and a local store for supplies. Prepare for a 45-60 min drive to the Yosemite Park and the valley."
Wider spacing than valley sites: Campgrounds outside Yosemite Valley typically offer more space between sites. "The sites are large, well-spaced, and idyllic. Many of them are situated along the South Fork of the Merced River. It's quiet there - and peaceful," explains a camper about Wawona Campground.
Wildlife encounters: The area provides regular opportunities for wildlife observation. At Hardin Flat Road, one visitor observed "Lots of ticks! be prepared. other than that, our camp was wonderful. there were many other groups camping in this area which provided a sense of comfort." Another camper at Dimond O mentioned: "I even woke one morning to cows in our campsite!"
What you should know
Fire permit requirements: Dispersed camping areas require California campfire permits, even for stoves. A Hardin Flat Road visitor notes: "I believe fires are allowed as long as you have a permit."
Limited cellular connectivity: Most camping areas have minimal or no cell service. At Yosemite Creek Campground, visitors warn there's no connectivity, while a camper at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes reports: "There is no cell service and the 'pay WIFI' did not work for us...but there is complimentary WiFi at the laundry to check in on things that works just fine."
Tree hazards: Dead or drought-damaged trees pose risks during wind events. "I'd think twice about staying here if it's going to be windy—several trees came down the second night we were here, which was pretty scary. Many of the trees (just outside the campsites) are fire and drought damaged, and hence weak," warns a camper about Dimond O Campground.
Supply planning: Limited shopping options exist in the immediate area. A visitor to Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes advises: "No nearby grocery so have what you need. The Yosemite village store has quite a selection but it is an hour away."
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Several campgrounds offer educational programs. "Rangers come during the weekend mornings to bring coffee and info which was nice," reports a visitor to Hodgdon Meadow Campground.
Swimming holes: Look for safe, natural water features for kids. "There is a good amount of tree coverage and a beautiful river running through the campground," notes a camper at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Spacing considerations: Some areas offer better isolation for families. "There are spots here that are fairly shaded. It's first come first serve!" explains a camper at Camp 4, while another visitor to Hardin Flat Road adds: "This was a really nice stay close to Yosemite with really spread out spots. Couldn't even see your neighbor."
Morning wildlife viewing: Dawn offers prime wildlife observation opportunities. A visitor to Hodgdon Meadow shares: "Our site backed up to the meadow and we would stroll there in the morning light and it was beautiful! I slept in the hammock one night and just as the light broke through a small group of deer meandered by. It was a small, quiet, magical moment."
Tips from RVers
Road access limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. A North Pines Campground visitor warns: "Sites are tight would not recommend a rig over 30. Good access to shuttle system."
Generator restrictions: Be aware of when generator use is permitted. A North Pines camper notes: "The only downside to the spot was everyone else had a RV and had there generators on at 6am. We are not RV people so we don't know why they need to run them."
RV site selection: Research specific site dimensions before booking. "Pay attention to the site map as most spots are for just 1 vehicle if you want to camp in a group, and short if you have an RV or trailer," advises a visitor to Upper Pines Campground.
Hookup availability: Limited full-hookup sites exist in the area. At Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes, "There are only a handful of 50amp spots and people move to them quickly after someone leaves lots of 30amp though so you might want to bring an adapter."
