Camping options near Oakhurst, California range from basic tent sites to cabin and RV accommodations throughout the Sierra National Forest. This gateway town to Yosemite sits at approximately 2,200 feet elevation, with summer temperatures often reaching the 90s while evenings cool significantly. Road conditions to dispersed camping areas can deteriorate after rainfall, requiring appropriate vehicle clearance.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Bass Lake area features multiple cascade 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," notes a visitor to High Sierra RV Park.
Lake activities: 8 miles from Oakhurst at Bass Lake, water recreation dominates summer activities. A camper at Lupine/Cedar Bluff Campground mentioned: "The campsites are relatively close together but not so close you can hear other people's conversations. Pretty close to Miller's Landing if you need to restock on anything or get some hot food if you stay for multiple days."
Swimming in natural pools: Many campsites offer creek access with natural swimming areas. "The creek is cold, but the rock formations create natural pools great for swimming. It a popular spot and fills up fast," reports a camper from Soquel Campground.
What campers like
Privacy at secluded sites: Less developed options provide more solitude. "This campground is found a reasonable distance up in the Forest, and as such, offers a great deal of privacy. Individual sites are quite spread out; the only 'service' is a vault toilet," explains a visitor to Whisky Falls Campground.
Convenience to Yosemite: Location remains a top factor for many campers. "We had a blast here. You're 25 miles from the park entrance, on a straight path. The sites were a great space and the pool and playground was a lot of fun of the kids," notes a camper at Yosemite RV Resort.
Cost-effective alternatives: Dispersed camping provides free options with fewer amenities. A camper at Yosemite "Boondock National" shared: "What a brilliant place! Nestled amongst trees right on the edge of Yosemite. Was quite busy when I was there but managed to find a quiet spot tucked away & private. Bumpy roads around the actual camping area but manageable in a camper van."
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Weather patterns create specific camping conditions year-round. "It was a whole lot colder than I had thought, but luckily we just put some stones around our fire and wrapped it up in wool to keep at our feet and around our bodies when we did go to bed," explained a camper from Camp Edison.
Road conditions: Access to remote sites requires preparation. "The 6 mile road to get into it is rough. With high rain season, you have to cross the creek and it may require a lifted type vehicle like a truck," advises a Big Sandy Campground visitor.
Site size limitations: Many campgrounds have tight spots. "The tent sites have are honestly 20x20 I would say. Therefore, there is no privacy. I understand from a business perspective the concept but to make it more appealing campsite I would suggest changing the layout," suggests a High Sierra RV Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Structured activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events. "The resorts host regular activities like outdoor movie nights during summer months. During our stay we were there, they played movies at sunset next to the pool," reports a camper from Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort.
Water features for kids: Creeks and swimming holes provide natural entertainment. "This has always been one of my families favorite campground from my grandpa taking my dad and my dad taking me. Very peaceful and clean, has a very nice stream that runs right down the middle of campground that basically every site is next to the water," notes a visitor to Big Sandy Campground.
Playground access: Several developed campgrounds include play areas. "The kids loved the rope swing while the mom enjoyed the walk back to the falls," shares a High Sierra RV Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites. "Our spot was also very hard to try and level our trailer. We never did quite get it leveled the way we would've liked," reports a High Sierra RV Park visitor.
Size restrictions: Large rigs have limited options. "To leave with a 26' travel trailer I had to pull out and back down another road just to exit the park," notes another High Sierra RV Park camper.
Hookup variations: Services differ significantly between glamping near Oakhurst, California options. "We stayed in site 43. Spaces were VERY close! Despite this, we still would highly recommend this campground! Especially if you are visiting Yosemite! It is clean, bathrooms in great condition, WiFi was good," shares a High Sierra RV Park visitor.
