Camping near Raymond, California offers a range of options for outdoor enthusiasts in Madera County. Located in the Sierra Nevada foothills at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 feet, the area serves as a gateway to Yosemite National Park while providing milder temperatures than the Central Valley below. Raymond's proximity to multiple lakes and reservoirs creates diverse camping environments where seasonal changes dramatically affect water levels and wildlife activity.
What to do
Hiking nearby: Goat Meadow dispersed camping area provides easy access to trails near Yosemite's south entrance. "Beautiful scenery, clean, close to Yosemite, and easy to reach. As others have said, follow Mount Raymond Rd up until you see the sign for the snow play area, and look to the right. There's an open area with fire pits," notes Derrick H.
Water activities: While Millerton Lake State Recreation Area offers boating and swimming options, be aware of seasonal changes. "The lake is very full now till July 4th. Great boating, and jet ski area. Swimming areas ok. Also day use. Only one trail," shares Regina P.
Wildlife viewing: Fall brings unique wildlife viewing opportunities at COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground. "Fall has a Tarantula migration and you will definitely see them. Coyote, Bobcat, and deer are frequently seen. Codorniz is 21 miles from Chowchilla. One way in and one way out cuts down on traffic," explains Tom D.
What campers like
Quieter alternatives to Yosemite Valley: Wawona Campground provides a more peaceful Yosemite experience. "Looked like some sites were more ideal than others. River near sites. Basic facilities, older, but clean enough. No showers. About a 45 minute drive to the main attractions of the park. I would go camping here to avoid the crowds," shares Benjamin C.
Farm experiences: Some properties offer unique camping with animal interactions. "We loved our stay here. The surroundings are beautiful and peaceful. The animals are a great bonus. Perfectly family friendly with plenty of room to hang out by the fire. Jason and his family were awesome making sure we had everything we needed," writes Melinda J. about Shooting Star Sanctuary.
Swimming holes: Many campsites offer access to natural swimming areas. "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. about High Sierra RV Park.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to some campsites can be challenging. "The road getting there has tons of potholes and the road in the site is super super bumpy," warns Paige about Goat Meadow dispersed camping.
Site spacing varies: Campground layouts differ significantly between locations. "Sites are very crowded. You gotta love your neighbor. Lots of amenities. Very friendly staff. So helpful and accommodating. Good access to Yosemite. We prefer less neighbors but overall it was nice," notes Tricia F. about High Sierra RV Park.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies widely across the area. "AT&T cell signal from 45 was non existent but T-mobile worked well enough to stream Netflix. I enjoyed my stay. Clean and the camp hosts were great," reports Candy H.
Tips for camping with families
Interactive animal experiences: Pet-friendly camping near Raymond includes places where kids can interact with farm animals. "Jason was super helpful and friendly, he helped us build a fire and showed us around. However, many of the things advertised here weren't offered to us like showers or electricity hookup," mentions Ignacio L.
Playground access: Yosemite RV Resort offers amenities specifically for children. "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. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful," says Chris H.
Swimming safety: When camping with pets and children, choose swimming areas carefully. "We drove to a beach area found about a mile up the road. There is also a day-use area across the lake with some good swimming sites," shares Haley M. about water access.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring adequate leveling equipment as many sites have uneven terrain. "Site is small little to no space for vehicle at the site we are at some sites have a lot more room than ours. Cable works great and staff is very friendly and helpful. Pool and lounge are nice as well," advises Aban J. about Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort.
Water level fluctuations: Seasonal changes affect lake access significantly. "A nice campground. Lots of space between sites, some with electric and water. Nice views of where the lake should be, with volcanic outcroppings all around. Site 01 was shaded, level and easy to back our 24 foot trailer into. Unfortunately the lake was way low due to drought," reports John W.
Site selection strategy: For larger RVs, carefully research specific sites before booking. "While the dirt road/driveway is a bit bumpy, we had no problem with our 23' Airstream -- just go slowly and you'll be fine (there was a 40' Class A there, too, if that says anything)," shares Caroline S.
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