Janet R.
Traveler
TravelerHorton Creek Campground — Alabama Hills
Beautiful campground
This campground has amazing views, vault toilets, potable water, trash bins, and a friendly camp host! I am still here.
Camping near Shaver Lake, CA
367 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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The Sierra National Forest region around Shaver Lake encompasses a variety of camping options ranging from developed sites to dispersed camping areas. Camp Edison, situated directly on the shores of Shaver Lake, provides full hook-up sites with electricity and nearby water spigots throughout the property. Dorabelle Campground and Dinkey Creek Campground offer more rustic experiences with basic amenities like pit toilets and picnic tables. The area accommodates various camping styles including tent camping, RV sites, and even glamping options at select locations.
Road conditions and seasonal closures significantly affect camping access throughout the Shaver Lake region. Most developed campgrounds operate between Memorial Day and late October, with Camp Edison and a few others remaining open year-round. Several campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends when lake access draws large crowds. Winter brings snow conditions that limit accessibility to many forest service roads and primitive sites. Facilities vary widely from full hook-up RV sites with showers to primitive sites with no drinking water. "If you're looking for the picturesque mountain lake camping experience look no further. The employees were so friendly and caring it made our weekend. Area is clean, maintained and well loved," noted one visitor about Camp Edison.
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings across multiple campgrounds in the area, with Camp Edison earning particular praise for its proximity to Shaver Lake. Campers highlight the clear water quality and easy lake access as major benefits. Several visitors mentioned the convenient boat rentals available at the marina, allowing for water recreation without hauling personal watercraft. Fire restrictions vary seasonally but often impact camping experiences during dry months. Wildlife sightings, including deer and occasionally bears, add to the mountain experience. "We saw some deer cruising through the campground, once with a coyote tracking them. A bear visited Cedar loop and made a mess out of one of the dumpsters," reported one camper, noting the active wildlife presence that can be expected in this Sierra Nevada setting.
Best Campgrounds near Shaver Lake (367)
1. Camp Edison
"Great campsite if you want to camp around Shaver Lake in the Sierras of California. Beautify lake, plenty of water sports. The small town has great rustic mountain vibe."
"Shaver Lake is so beautiful! We try to get a campsite next to the water. We also reserve a boat so we can explore the lake."
from $40 - $105 / night
Check Availability2. Dorabelle Campground
"As a solo traveler, seeking a camping spot in the mountains near Shaver Lake, Dorabelle Campground was recommended to me by a long time local."
"Well maintained campground on Shaver Lake. Tight roads throughout the site, wouldn’t recommend a large trailer"
from $48 - $99 / night
Check Availability3. Dinkey Creek
"I grew up going to Dinkey Creek and to the Girl Scout Camp nearby. This campground is remote and secluded there are good swimming holes, fly fishing and really beautiful area."
"It's location had perfect weather, warm during the day and cool, but not cold, at night. You surrounded by gorgeous tall trees and have access to swimming holes about a mile away."
from $47 - $275 / night
Check Availability4. Musick Creek Falls
"Just minutes from shaver lake and less than an hour away from so many iconic trailheads and wilderness areas. 45 mins from Snow at China Peak, 38 mins from the world's largest trees, dinky creek wilderness"
from $65 - $165 / night
Check Availability5. Sierra National Forest Rancheria Campground
"It is a great place to stay for a week or longer and go explore all the surrounding area has to offer!"
"A well maintained campground & walking distance from the lake. Standard but roomy sites with the usual fire ring/grill & picnic table, bathrooms are clean too."
from $47 - $121 / night
Check Availability6. Deer Creek Campground
"Deer creek campground sits on the edge of Huntington Lake. Many of the sites have views of the lake or are right on the lake."
"Campground is right on the lake with walking trails. Added bonus is the campground is next to the boat launch."
from $47 - $96 / night
Check Availability7. Whisky Falls Campground
"Let me start by saying it was worth driving six and a half hours to get here."
"The lakes are stunning, and there are a LOT of campsites to choose from. I also appreciated the space they provide at campsites to store food that are bear proof."
8. Bretz Mill Campground
9. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area Campground
"Bathrooms were so-so with regard to cleanliness but most sites had its own access to water which was awesome!"
"Had a fun time with the family, had accesible restroom and showers, had picnic table so we could put our things, shade, place where we could set our tent with our truck next to us, and we were able to"
from $30 - $200 / night
Check Availability10. Bald Mountain Lookout
"If you enter from the Tamarack trail head and go down Rock Creek Rd its easy to get to the overlook tower."
Drive Time
- 53 min from Fresno, CA
- 1 hr 27 min from Visalia, CA
- 1 hr 30 min from Hanford, CA
- 1 hr 31 min from Merced, CA
Recent Camping Photos near Shaver Lake, CA
597 Photos of 367 Shaver Lake Campgrounds
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Musick Creek Falls
Azizah T.
Camp Edison
Margo A.
Dorabelle Campground
Lance P.
Bretz Mill Campground
Thomas S.
Creek Side Acres
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Redinger Campground
Judy Q.
Dinkey Creek
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Upper Billy Creek Campground
jerryd
Deer creek campground
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Deer Creek Campground
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Kinnikinnick - Sierra NF
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Sierra National Forest College Campground
Recent Reviews near Shaver Lake, CA
1588 Reviews of 367 Shaver Lake Campgrounds
- SSibylle S.
ScoutHigh Sierra RV Park
Small campsites
Very friendly staff. The sites are rather narrow but even. Restrooms are far away. Propane is available.
Kelly C.
GuideSequoia National Forest Hume Lake Campground
Awesome stay
Hume Lake Campground was a beautiful place to stay in the Sierra Nevada. The campground is surrounded by tall pines and has a peaceful mountain atmosphere that makes it easy to relax. The lake is just a short walk away and offers great views, especially in the morning and evening.
The campsites were well maintained and felt fairly private thanks to the trees. Temperatures were much cooler than down in the valley, which was a welcome change during the summer. Wildlife was active around the campground, and there were plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the surrounding area.
Overall, Hume Lake is a great choice if you’re looking for a quiet mountain campground with easy lake access and beautiful scenery. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay an extra day.
Art C.TravelerSierra National Forest Rancheria Campground
Rancheria Sierra Camp
Overall great experience. Lots of tree coverage, with a beautiful lake just a walk away. If you want a more secluded area, I’d recommend getting a site closer to the 100’s area. Not a fan of how close our campsite at 79 was to another site. I felt guilty being outside past 10, with them going to sleep. There was no firewood for sale at the time we went ( early June ) and our campsite host was “off” for the duration of our stay which made getting a trailer out of our parking a bit difficult initially. We also found out they don’t allow amplifying speakers ( any speaker ) as we had a complaint made against us for having the music on. Which in our defense, in the morning when we played it, we didn’t believe it to be too loud. Other than a few hitches, it was an overall good experience, and I’d highly recommend it if you want a wooded camping experience!
- SSibylle S.Scout
Sunset Campground — Kings Canyon National Park
Outdoor /Dry Camping
The Sites are in the woods and there is enough room. Restrooms are far. There is not everywhere potable water available.
- SSibylle S.Scout
Sequoia Resort & RV Park
Good Stay
Friendly staff. Free usage of a gas grill. Free usage of the washing machine.
M H.ScoutHigh Sierra RV Park
Fraudulent business practices
I made a campsite reservation, later changed the dates, and ultimately had to cancel. The cancellation was made both by phone and email more than 7 days before the scheduled arrival date.
I understand and accepted the $5 reservation change fee and the $10 cancellation fee outlined in their policy. However, instead of refunding the remaining balance, they kept the entire amount and issued no refund whatsoever.
As a result, I have initiated a credit card dispute. I would strongly recommend reviewing their cancellation policies and billing practices carefully before booking.
Angela Jerel G.ScoutPark of the Sierras - Escapee Park
SKP Park of the Sierras exceeded our expectations
We stayed at SKP Park of the Sierras for two months during April and May and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. To use the park, you'll need an Escapees membership(about$50), which we found well worth the cost given the quality of the facilities and amenities.
Originally, we were only able to reserve one month at a time, but when our circumstances changed, the office staff were incredibly understanding and worked with us to extend our stay. The staff throughout the park were welcoming, friendly, and helpful.
Our site was spacious, shaded by mature trees, and included full hookups and a concrete patio area that was perfect for setting up chairs and relaxing outdoors. The grounds were well maintained, and the park was surprisingly quiet during our stay. The amenities were excellent. The clubhouse hosted daily activities, and there was a library, games, fitness area, coffee station, and a donation-based thrift shop section. The laundry facilities were clean and well maintained, and quarters were available for purchase in the office during business hours.
Traveling with dogs, we especially appreciated the dog park. It featured separate fenced areas for large and small dogs, water spigots, covered areas for rainy weather, and even a heater for chilly mornings.
The shower facilities were clean and comfortable. They sold propane onsite. Fuel was conveniently located just down the road at the casino, often at reasonable prices. For our longer stay we would drive into Oakhurst or Fresno for groceries, so it's worth planning ahead for larger grocery runs.
One of the biggest advantages of this park is its location. It served as an excellent home base for exploring Yosemite National Park, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Monterey Bay, San Francisco, and Pinnacles National Park,(we don’t mind a long drive!).
We used Starlink throughout our stay and were pleased by how well it worked. Even with a tree-filled site, it was able to find enough open sky to maintain a reliable connection.
A few things future guests should know: some of the roads have tighter curves, but the staff are very knowledgeable about matching RVs to appropriate sites. Our 25-foot trailer had no issues. Mail and package delivery can also require some planning. As guests, we had mail sent to General Delivery at the Coarsegold Post Office. However, we later learned that FedEx would not deliver there, so packages shipped by different carriers may require different delivery addresses. It's worth confirming shipping methods before ordering anything important.
Overall, SKP Park of the Sierras exceeded our expectations. The spacious sites, excellent amenities, quiet atmosphere, friendly staff, and central location made it one of our favorite long-term stays. We would gladly return and highly recommend it to other RV travelers.
Elijah W.ScoutWawona Campground — Yosemite National Park
Just Okay
Wawona Campground is good if all you’re needing is somewhere to camp inside the park. The sites are fairly close together with little to no foliage blocking your view to each site. Some of the sites are not very level so if you have a roof tent like myself keep this in mind. It is about a 30-40 minute drive to the valley and the whole campground just feels busy and not much privacy. If you’re needing a place to stay I would recommend trying for a campground inside the Valley it will make your time in Yosemite much better spent
Guide to Shaver Lake
Shaver Lake campgrounds sit in the Sierra National Forest at an elevation of 5,500 feet, where temperatures average 75°F in summer and drop below freezing in winter. The region offers year-round camping options with notable seasonal transitions affecting water levels and trail access. Several campgrounds feature bear-proof food storage boxes due to active wildlife in the area.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Access trails directly from several campsites around Shaver Lake. From Camp Edison, campers can reach the short Moon Rock trail for evening stargazing. "Moon rock sits in a meadow and soaks up sun all day, making it a nice warm space to star gaze at night while listening to the horses in the stable nextdoor," notes one Camp Edison visitor.
Waterfall exploration: Within 15-30 minutes of many Shaver Lake camping areas, several waterfall hikes offer cooling breaks from summer heat. The area around Whisky Falls Campground provides numerous waterfall access points. "The waterfall is a short hike away, and there are plenty of trails to hike during the day, as well as dirt roads to explore," reports one camper.
Off-road adventures: Forest service roads throughout the region provide off-road experiences for various skill levels. The area around Bald Mountain offers multiple routes. "If you enter from the Tamarack trail head and go down Rock Creek Rd its easy to get to the overlook tower. If you enter from the Dinkey Creek entrance get ready for some good offroad ohv trail action," advises an experienced off-roader.
What campers like
Swimming holes: Cooler, less crowded alternatives to the main lake are popular among campers. Dinkey Creek offers excellent swimming spots with crystal clear water. "This was my best camping experience ever. It's location had perfect weather, warm during the day and cool, but not cold, at night. You surrounded by gorgeous tall trees and have access to swimming holes about a mile away," shares a visitor to Dinkey Creek.
Lakeside proximity: Sites with direct lake access receive high marks from visitors. "We were the only tent campers there were some camp hosts in RVs and campers but far from our site. So when the night came around, we got visited by raccoons and coyotes. They went through our campsite but nothing major," notes a camper about their experience at Camp Edison.
Site privacy: Many campers appreciate the more secluded options available at campgrounds like Dorabelle Campground. "As a solo traveler, seeking a camping spot in the mountains near Shaver Lake, Dorabelle Campground was recommended to me by a long time local. My campsite was large, clean, with sunny and shade spots and separated from other sites by trees," reports one visitor.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Rules vary significantly by season and can change quickly during dry periods. Always check current restrictions before arrival.
Insect activity: Yellow jackets can be problematic in late summer. "The yellow jackets. The hosts said it was quite unusual so I tried not to let it color the overall review, but damn! You would be sitting down trying to read and a few would fly around your head or land on your hands. As soon as the food came out, they would swarm," reports a camper at Dinkey Creek.
Wildlife encounters: Bears and other wildlife are active in the area. "We saw some deer cruising through the campground, once with a coyote tracking them," notes one visitor to Deer Creek Campground. Food storage compliance is strictly enforced at all campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming locations: Certain lake coves offer calm, shallow waters better suited for children. "The cove is perfect for relaxing with kids. Highly recommend," notes a visitor to Dorabelle Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led programs for children. "Camp Edison has great activities during the summer season including guided educational nature walks, both day and evening, as well as kids' movies in the amphitheater. There is also a museum on site that offers activities and fun events like an ice cream social," shares a visitor.
Weather preparation: Temperatures can drop significantly at night even in summer. "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. It definitely kept us toasty," recommends a Camp Edison visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require substantial leveling blocks. "The site wasn't level but was manageable. Bathrooms are outdated but clean, and they charge you an extra $5 to use the showers," notes an RVer at Camp Edison.
Utility access: Only select campgrounds offer hookups. "Some sites have full hook ups, but most have just electricity and cable TV, with water faucets nearby to fill your RV or use as needed if dry camping. There is a dump station on site and also a 'honey wagon' that will come to your site and pump out your waste water, if you desire," explains a visitor to Camp Edison.
Road condition alerts: Several access roads to campgrounds can be challenging for larger rigs. "Tight roads throughout the site, wouldn't recommend a large trailer," warns a camper at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area, which is often used as an alternative when Shaver Lake campgrounds are full.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds at Shaver Lake for tent camping?
What are the best campgrounds at Shaver Lake for tent camping?
For tent camping at Shaver Lake, Dorabelle Campground is highly recommended for its proximity to the lake, making it ideal for swimming and fishing. The campground is well-maintained with accessible restrooms, though the roads throughout are tight. For a more secluded tent camping experience, Dinkey Creek offers high-altitude camping with cool summer temperatures (70s-80s) and close access to water. While some sites aren't perfectly flat and can be close together, the campground features vault toilets, camp showers, and a decent camp store. Both locations provide authentic Sierra Nevada wilderness experiences with plenty of trails and exploration opportunities.
Is RV camping available at Shaver Lake campgrounds?
Is RV camping available at Shaver Lake campgrounds?
Camp Edison offers excellent RV camping options around Shaver Lake. This private campground provides clean facilities and great access to the beautiful lake, making it ideal for water activities. For those looking to accommodate larger RVs, Wishon Village RV Resort can handle Class A RVs from 34' to 43' in length with tow vehicles. Although the drive to Wishon involves a long climb, it remains a favorite among RV campers. Be aware that many campgrounds in the area have tight roads, so larger rigs should check site specifications before booking.
How do I make reservations for Shaver Lake camping?
How do I make reservations for Shaver Lake camping?
Reservations for Shaver Lake area campgrounds can be made through different systems depending on the campground. For Mono Creek, reservations are non-specific to particular sites, which works well for larger groups. Deer Creek Campground at nearby Huntington Lake requires advance bookings for its lakeside sites, which are particularly popular. Most public campgrounds in the Shaver Lake area can be reserved through Recreation.gov, while private campgrounds like Camp Edison have their own reservation systems through their websites. The most desirable sites, especially those with lake views or during summer months, should be booked 6 months in advance when reservation windows open.
What amenities are available at Shaver Lake campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Shaver Lake campgrounds?
Amenities vary across Shaver Lake area campgrounds. Swanson Campground offers a complete Sierra Nevada camping experience with access to plenty of trails but features more basic amenities. For more facilities, Bretz Mill Campground provides water and toilets in a big-rig-friendly environment. Many campgrounds in the area feature vault toilets, while some like Dinkey Creek also offer camp showers and camp stores. The more developed campgrounds provide potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings. Access to recreational activities is a major amenity, with opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking readily available throughout the region.
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