Camping options near Mi-Wuk Village sit at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 5,500 feet in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Located on the western slope of the Stanislaus National Forest, campers can expect mild summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and cooler 45-55°F nights. Winter camping is limited as many sites close due to snow accumulation from November through April.
What to do
Hiking around Pinecrest Lake: Pinecrest Campground offers access to a scenic trail encircling the lake. "There is a great hike around the lake close by, as well as swimming in the lake, a marina and a convenience store. This campground is open seasonally during spring, summer and fall due to the snow in winter," notes Warren K.
Trout fishing: Anglers can catch fresh fish for dinner at several area lakes. "Me and the girlfriend rented a boat for half the price as the early bird special and caught a bunch of trout. We used a size ten Tribble hook with about a foot leader and pinch weights with rainbow powerbait for those that want to catch fish for lunch," shares Ian G. from Pinecrest.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer opportunities to see local fauna. "We loved waking up to cows and turkeys, and an incredible sunrise view. There were such sweet little birds grazing nearby at sunset. At night, we didn't hear much other than the sounds of nature and the wind," writes Megan A. about her stay at Diamond Gulch.
What campers like
River access: Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes features creekside sites popular with campers. "We lucked out with a pretty big and shaded riverfront spot (site 73) and could not have been happier. Full hook up, VERY well maintained facilities and again the staff are over and above helpful," reports Erin A.
Stargazing opportunities: The high elevation and minimal light pollution create ideal star-viewing conditions. "The stars were so so beautiful, you can see the milky-way and in the morning you're greeted by cows outside the fence!" shares Brenna R. about Diamond Gulch.
Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds provide amenities for children. "With a pool, petting zoo, a corral where they have a fire and s'mores followed by a movie, this is a great place to camp with the kids," explains Jeanette D. about her experience at Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak summer months. "Don't let the fact that this campsite has over 300 sites fool you - it books fast! We managed to secure one of the last spots one weekend," advises Christy K. about Pinecrest Campground.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. "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," notes Erin A. about Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Yurt camping options: Mi-Wuk Village area offers several yurt camping facilities with varying amenities. "We stayed in a Yurt and it was absolutely amazing. We ended up coming in really late but they left our key for us. They were super accommodating. The Llamas were an absolute plus as well," shares Emily Grace M. about her yurt camping experience at Yosemite Pines.
Tips for camping with families
Look for shaded sites: Summer heat can be intense at lower elevations. "The sites are great because they are quite big. The terrain varies where you stay and if you are in D or E loop you are closer to the lake. The other thing that varies is the shade coverage," advises Christy K. about selecting sites at Pinecrest.
Consider campground entertainment: Angels Camp Campground and RV provides structured activities for children. "Lots of activities for kids (pool, horseshoes, playground). East side of CG seems to accommodate more for families with kids while west side is better for RVs," notes John G.
Plan for swimming spots: Many campgrounds offer water access for cooling off. "The lake is amazing and gets a lot of day trippers. You can walk around the lake, fish, rent kayaks or boats, paddleboards etc. There is also an ampitheatre and they had movies at night," says Christy K. about Pinecrest.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Tuttletown Recreation Area has specific considerations for RV campers. "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," suggests William V.
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on length and access needs. "Sites are packed in tight. Def geared for tent camping although I was lucky enough to be here when it was dead empty and picked a good site for my 27' toy hauler," shares Hunter P. about Tuttletown.
Dump station information: Plan for waste disposal before arrival. "They have a nice dump station ($8 fee recommended.. pay station is at park entrance). Lots of deer and raccoons. Gas station with firewood not too far away (Lakeridge Inn Gas), and they have diesel," notes Hunter P.
