Midpines serves as a gateway to several camping areas within the Sierra Nevada foothills, sitting at approximately 2,900 feet elevation along Highway 140. The region features oak woodland and mixed conifer forests that create distinctive camping environments throughout the year, with many campgrounds operating beyond the McCabe Flat seasonal window from April to September.
What to do
River activities: Suitable during summer months when water levels moderate at McCabe Flat Campground. "Beautiful campground. I've been camping here for a few years now while rafting the Merced river. On this particular trip the weather was over 100 degrees but we had the river right next to us to cool down," reports Arturo C.
Hiking from camp: Multiple trail options at camping spots near Midpines, California. "I saw that there was a small dock and boat ramp at the main entrance if you plan on bringing kayaks or a boat. Fish cleaning station/bathrooms for fisherman," notes Trevor M. about Bagby Camping and Recreation. The attendant "recommended a hike that is accessible from the camp that hike is very nice but not very shaded. I would recommend doing that early morning."
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies make for excellent night viewing. "At night you cant sleep because of the brightness. The stars are really pretty," writes Phillip L., describing the experience at Camp 4 in Yosemite.
Wildlife watching: Various species visible from campsites. "During the morning light a small group of deer meandered by. It was a small, quiet, magical moment," shares Amber B. about her stay at Hodgdon Meadow Campground.
What campers like
Swimming holes: Natural water features throughout the area provide relief from heat. "There is plenty of hiking and several swimming holes nearby for when it gets hot," mentions LILI P. about their experience at Railroad Flat campground. "The water was cold, high and fast but I managed to catch a 12" rainbow almost right away, just feet from the campsite."
Proximity to Yosemite: Strategic location for park access without the crowds. "Great spot to camp when you're in Yosemite but want a more peaceful place to stay for the night," notes Ala B. about Goat Meadow dispersed camping. "It's about 1 hour from the valley visitor center. Had great cell service through Verizon."
Farm experience: Unique camping option at specialty sites. "Jason, the owner has 100 acres he opens up to campers. Very nice, large spots. There are animals on site which the kids liked interacting with and feeding them our leftovers," explains Jennifer D. about her stay at Shooting Star Sanctuary.
Riverside sites: Premium locations along water. "We visited on a Tuesday in late April and there was only one other couple on the opposite end of the campground. The site itself is amazing. It has a beautiful river wrapping around it which you can easily walk down to and play in," shares Beatriz S. about Bagby Recreation Area.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Plan ahead during peak seasons. "I arrived on a Thursday morning around 10:30 and I was lucky to snag a prime spot (#25) at the Railroad Flat campground. There are few actual car camping spots (I sleep in my car) so plan accordingly. By Saturday morning all sites were full," explains LILI P.
Dirt road conditions: Variable quality requiring caution. "The dirt road was fine and only had a few large-ish potholes," notes LILI P. about access to McCabe Flat. For Goat Meadow, a camper reports "The road getting there has tons of potholes and the road in the site is super super bumpy."
Campsite privacy levels: Varies by location across the region. "When you drive up to the snow play area, continue straight off of the paved road (don't make the left) and you'll find a plethora of places to park and set up shop," advises Alexander Mark C. about Goat Meadow dispersed camping.
Bear safety: Essential precaution at all camping areas. At Railroad Flat campground, "You need a parking permit. The closest store is about 10-15 miles from the bridge in Midpines so come prepared," cautions LILI P.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Educational opportunities at select campgrounds. "After we talked for a little he opened up the gate to release several mini pigs, mini goats, ducks, and chickens! My girlfriend and I were smiling cheek to cheek," writes Marco V. about Shooting Star Sanctuary. "While we were distracted by all the farm animals, a handful of kittens came out and started playing with us."
Swimming options: Cooling off during hot summer days. "The creek that runs by Upper Pines is very popular for swimming and rafting," notes R.D. about Upper Pines campground in Yosemite. "It's walking distance from a store and from lots of nearby trails."
Group camping: Family-friendly sites with communal spaces. "Spacious camground for big or small group, plenty of benches already there. Bear boxes on each designated area to store food and scented items when Area not attended or at night, it is required," explains Winnie H. about Hodgdon Meadow Campground.
Educational programs: Ranger activities at select locations. "Rangers come during the weekend mornings to bring coffee and info which was nice," shares Robyn H. about her Hodgdon Meadow experience.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Size restrictions at certain campgrounds. "There is a narrow bridge (see pictures) before the campgrounds that limits vehicle size. It is not advisable for trailers over 18 feet in length," warns Matthew P. about McCabe Flat Campground. "We had a great stay. The campgrounds were very clean, and pit toilets were available."
RV hookups: Limited availability in the region. "Only complaint would be that the driveway into the site from the road is narrow, but manageable," notes Trevor M. about Bagby Recreation Area, which offers "30v/50v hookups, water hookups, fire pit."
Dump station locations: Plan accordingly for extended stays. "There is a spot to RV dump and fill water. This was free when I was there (FEB) but it was clearly being renovated so might be pay in future," advises Christine W. about Upper Pines Campground.
Site spacing: Variable throughout area campsites. "Each campsite contains a fire pit (no grill), picnic table, and four shared food lockers and is near a bathroom with drinking water and flushing toilets," explains a reviewer of Camp 4 in Yosemite.
