Tent camping near Oakhurst provides access to the Sierra National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F between June and September, while spring camping often means navigating seasonal creek crossings and muddy conditions. Campsites along the Fresno River offer natural swimming areas during summer months when water levels moderate.
What to do
River swimming: 2 miles from Oakhurst. High Sierra RV Park features access to the Fresno River with natural swimming opportunities. "The creek, waterfalls & rope swing over the swimming hole was unbelievable!! The kids enjoyed the rope swing while the mom enjoyed the walk back to the falls & thru the shallow waters," reports Emily L.
Fishing: 30 minutes from campgrounds. Rainbow trout can be caught in early spring at nearby waterways. "I managed to catch a 12" rainbow almost right away, just feet from the campsite. Later on hooked another one but lost it," writes LILI P. from McCabe Flat Campground.
Biking: Easy access from camp. Paved trails connect several campgrounds to town amenities. "Loved all the bike trails. Easy to catch a bus into town or take a quick 5 min drive," notes Karissa J. about Mammoth Mountain RV Park. Some parks offer bike rentals for $15-25 per day.
What campers like
Swimming pools: Summer relief. When temperatures rise above 90°F, campground pools provide welcome relief. "Large clean pool with a shallow lounging section. Playground. Bathrooms/showers were freshly renovated and clean," notes Sherrie R. about Yosemite RV Resort.
Proximity to lakes: 7-15 minute drives. Several campgrounds offer quick access to Bass Lake recreation areas. "We spent the weekend in site 126. Only a 15 min hike to the lake and a 30 min drive into Yosemite. Bingo night was awesome and the staff was very friendly," reports Garett S. from Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort.
Pet accommodations: Dedicated areas. Many rv sites near Oakhurst, California include designated pet areas. "Great place and experience. Large dog run which was amazing. Personal just a bit expensive 100 ish for a rv spot with 30 amp an water," mentions Jesse F. about Yosemite RV Resort.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Varies widely. Many camping areas have limited connectivity. "AT&T service is poor and WiFi is sketchy except in the clubhouse and office areas," notes Mike H. about Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort. Some campgrounds offer WiFi hotspots near main buildings only.
Site spacing varies: Research specific sites. Proximity between sites differs significantly between campgrounds and sections. "Sites were fairly clean where we stayed but a trek to the water. The water itself was pretty gross and tons of geese everywhere," comments Kimmee P.
Road access considerations: Plan ahead. Some rv campgrounds near Oakhurst require navigating narrow roads. "Road closed (indefinite?) about 3 miles before camp. Route 140 from Mariposa. No access to Yosemite," warns Robert H. about McCabe Flat Campground. Check current road conditions before departure.
Tips for camping with families
Petting zoos: Unique entertainment. Yosemite Pines RV Resort offers animal encounters for children. "The Llamas were an absolute plus as well. We loved how close it was to the park. The price for the yurt was like $100 a night and when we split that up, it was nothing!" shares Emily Grace M.
Game rooms: Evening activities. Several campgrounds maintain indoor recreation areas with board games and activities. "The day room with tons of things to do, a separate day room for kids, a large fire pit, showers, store at the office, horseshoe and 2 shuffleboard courts," Michael C. mentions about Bass Lake.
Movie nights: Seasonal programs. Look for campgrounds offering outdoor films during summer. "While we were there, they played movies at sunset next to the pool," notes Michael C. Evening entertainment typically runs between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Call ahead. Many rv sites near Oakhurst, California require specific placement knowledge. "Our spot was 39 and it was right next to the bathroom. To leave with a 26' travel trailer I had to pull out and back down another road just to exit the park," explains Michael G. about High Sierra RV Park.
Leveling challenges: Bring blocks. Several RV parks have uneven sites requiring additional equipment. "The site we pulled into was really tight with a hill and drop off on either side so our picnic table had to be in front of the airstream. You are right next to the resort where there are restaurants but, not really any beach access," shares kim from Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort.
Dump station timing: Plan departures. Morning congestion affects exit times at larger parks. "Upon leaving, the access road is totally blocked by vehicles lined up for the dump station. If you want to avoid this, leave early," advises Patrick J. about Mammoth Mountain RV Park.
