Camping options near North Fork, California center around proximity to major attractions including Yosemite National Park, Kings Canyon, and Bass Lake. Elevations typically range from 3,000-4,000 feet, creating cooler camping conditions compared to the Central Valley floor. North Fork camping provides access to the Sierra National Forest with numerous creeks and rivers flowing through campgrounds during spring and early summer months.
What to do
River activities at McCabe Flat: Located approximately 35 miles from North Fork, McCabe Flat Campground offers water-based recreation. "The river is right next to the campground which is very pretty and very cold. As of us being here, it's roaring and unsafe to do anything in, but apparently when it calms down (I think later in summer/fall) it's good for tubing and other river sports," notes a camper about McCabe Flat Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Bass Lake provides various fishing spots accessible from nearby campgrounds. "The closest store is about 10-15 miles from the bridge in Midpines so come prepared... I managed to catch a 12" rainbow almost right away, just feet from the campsite," reports a camper at McCabe Flat Campground about their fishing experience.
Day trips to national parks: Campgrounds serve as base camps for exploring nearby national parks. "This place was great. You're 25 miles from the entrance of Yosemite. The resort has a great pool and playground for the kids. We stayed here 3 nights not could've stayed here a week easy," explains a camper at Yosemite RV Resort.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept washrooms and common areas. "Bathrooms and showers are very clean. We stayed in the large spaces that have electricity and water only. Very quiet and nice," writes a visitor to Mammoth Mountain RV Park.
Riverside locations: Campsites positioned along waterways receive positive mentions. "We had a great time. We were very welcome," notes a simple but direct review from a camper at Sequoia RV Park, where riverside sites are available.
On-site activities: Recreation facilities at campgrounds provide entertainment options. "Many options to stay! Rv, bring your own tent, yurts, safari tents, cabins. RV spaces have many different location styles, secluded, views, groups etc. Large clean pool with a shallow lounging section. Playground," explains a camper at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. "Beautiful campground with even more amazing staff. It is First come first serve (after a reservation) so get there early... Oh 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," reports a visitor at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Distance considerations: Proximity to Yosemite's entrance differs from distance to attractions within the park. "We didn't know that the '20 miles from Yosemite' just meant the entrance, we still had to drive about 30 miles to get into the valley," explains a Bass Lake camper.
Space constraints: Site dimensions vary considerably between campgrounds and specific site numbers. "Quiet; dog park; pool; playground; fire pit; only thing is sites and small," notes a concise review from Yosemite RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational amenities: Campgrounds with pools and playgrounds enhance family camping experiences. "Spots large enough for almost all size rigs. Tents too. Good bathroom amenities and swimming pool/spa. Playground. Walking distance to town. Great walking paths," explains a reviewer at Mammoth Mountain RV Park.
Water access considerations: Swimming opportunities attract families but require safety awareness. "The water was cold, high and fast but I managed to catch a 12" rainbow almost right away, just feet from the campsite," notes a McCabe Flat camper.
Bear awareness: Wildlife precautions remain essential for family safety. "All food goes into the containers, don't leave anything smelly in your car incase a bear tries to break in. Also, the squirrels are a little too friendly, clearly they rely on the humans in the area for food, so try not to drop food on the ground & don't feed them," advises a McCabe Flat Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choosing RV sites strategically affects overall experience. "We ended up on the 'outside' of the spots in the trees. But, we did not have anyone in either side of us. Huge spot. It's pretty here. No nearby grocery so have what you need," shares a Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes visitor about their RV site near North Fork.
Leveling challenges: Some RV sites require additional equipment for proper setup. "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," notes a camper at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort.
Size restrictions: Access roads limit the size of RVs at certain campgrounds. "There is a narrow bridge before the campgrounds that limits vehicle size. It is not advisable for trailers over 18 feet in length," warns a McCabe Flat visitor about RV access.
