Camping near Sierra National Forest

Sierra National Forest has many camping options throughout its expansive woodland, with good road access to most sites. Camp Edison sits next to Shaver Lake and works well for families who want to swim, boat, or just enjoy lake views. Dorabelle Campground is another Shaver Lake spot that gives you more privacy with its shady campsites and close hiking trails. Three Rivers Hideaway serves as a good jumping-off point for trips to nearby national parks and comes with RV hookups, tent sites, bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. You'll see lots of wildlife in this forest, so store your food properly - many campsites provide bear lockers to keep your supplies safe. The weather can change quickly here, often with big temperature drops at night. Spring and fall typically have the most comfortable camping weather. While you can reach most campgrounds in a regular car, some of the more remote sites might need a vehicle with higher clearance. It's always smart to check current road conditions before heading out.

Best Camping Sites Near Sierra National Forest (356)

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Recent Reviews near Sierra National Forest

1379 Reviews of 356 Sierra National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Sierra National Forest

Camping near Sierra National Forest, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are campgrounds that cater to all kinds of adventurers.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers rave about the beautiful hikes, with one reviewer mentioning, "The hiking and swimming around Hume Lake was great but this site was also easy driving distance to Grant Tree and General Sherman hikes."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the nearby lakes. One camper at Dorabelle Campground shared, "One quick stroll to our private cove for some fishing and fun."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. A visitor at Sequoia National Forest Hume Lake Campground noted, "Lovely deer, ducks, and toads everywhere."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the breathtaking scenery. One reviewer at Camp Edison said, "Amazing weather and amazing views."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A family at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms are clean and well kept."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise for their helpfulness. A visitor at Dinkey Creek remarked, "The hosts were very helpful and friendly."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A camper at Azalea Campground pointed out, "The bathrooms were the most unattractive part."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. One reviewer at Camp Edison noted, "Only a few campers and no snow (yet). Plenty of spots to choose from."
  • Wildlife Precautions: Bears are known to roam in the area. A camper at Sequoia National Forest Hume Lake Campground advised, "Make sure you store ALL food and coolers in the bear box."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites that cater to families. A reviewer at Camp Edison said, "The entire camp site is huge, well maintained and just wonderful."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. One family at Dorabelle Campground mentioned, "We can’t wait to come back to Dorabelle!!"
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on children, especially near water. A camper at Coldwater Campground emphasized, "The campground has nice access to hiking trails, and Lake Mary."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Dinkey Creek noted, "The paved lots were so far from level that we didn't have enough leveling blocks."
  • Use Amenities Wisely: Take advantage of available hookups. A camper at Camp Edison appreciated the "electric hookups" and "showers."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Don't just stay at the campground. One RV traveler at Sentinel Campground mentioned, "So many amazing hikes and walks to do within the two parks."

Camping near Sierra National Forest, California, is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy quality time with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, there's something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Sierra National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Sierra National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 356 campgrounds and RV parks near Sierra National Forest and 62 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Sierra National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sierra National Forest is Camp Edison with a 4.7-star rating from 22 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Sierra National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 62 free dispersed camping spots near Sierra National Forest.

  • What parks are near Sierra National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Sierra National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.