RV camping near Sierra National Forest offers diverse accommodations across multiple elevations, from 3,500 to 6,800 feet. Cell service deteriorates at higher elevations throughout the Sierra Nevada region, with connectivity strongest in lower-elevation towns. Winter travel requires preparation as some mountain roads become impassable with snow, while summer brings high demand for camping spots.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Bass Lake provides recreational fishing opportunities within a short drive from several RV parks. "We drove 4.5 hours to find that this campsite is dead, totally different place than the one in the website and pictures," warns one camper at Sequoia RV Park, suggesting visitors should confirm current lake conditions before planning fishing trips.
Swimming in natural water features: Some campgrounds offer unique swimming opportunities in natural settings. "There is a really nice swimming hole that we did not test out in March," notes a visitor at Sequoia RV Ranch, which features a spring-fed swimming hole in the North Fork of the Kaweah River accessible by a short walk from the campground.
Exploring small mountain towns: The region contains several mountain communities with local businesses. "We walked to pines village and got some souvenirs and ice cream. Great weather too," shares one camper at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort, highlighting the walkability to nearby attractions in some locations.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers value room to spread out at their sites. "Our site was large enough, although not very level. The sewer connection was almost level with our dump pipe, so it made dumping a challenge," explains a camper at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort, indicating site quality can vary significantly.
Campground amenities: Resort-style facilities enhance the camping experience at some locations. "The park has a breakfast cafe that is open on weekends. This was previously a member's only resort so lots of regulars here," notes one visitor about Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort, providing context about the campground's history and services.
Natural soundscapes: The sounds of moving water create a peaceful atmosphere at creek-side sites. "As a result, the experience was quiet and relaxing with a soundtrack dominated by the creek right outside our site," writes one visitor about their winter stay at Sequoia RV Ranch, highlighting the sensory benefits of waterfront camping.
What you should know
Varying site quality: Not all sites within a single campground offer equal experiences. "We are in spot 116 a bit unlevel but we managed. Check in was quick and easy. Hook ups were easy. Kinda tight we are a Odessey 26D with a jeep gladiator," reports a camper at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort, showing how vehicle configuration impacts site suitability.
Power reliability issues: Some campgrounds experience electrical problems during peak usage. "We had issues with low voltage from the electric post on site 6 which caused our RV's electrical system to cycle on and off every minute or two," reports a camper at Sequoia RV Ranch, noting that "sites 1 through 10 had issues with power, mostly on the weekends."
Bathroom and shower conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds and sometimes within a single property. "The bathrooms are clean which is a great plus," mentions a tent camper at High Sierra RV Park, while another camper at a different park notes, "The showers are coin-operated," indicating visitors should bring quarters.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreational facilities for children. "They have a pool, game room very run down, bathrooms and showers decent, sites a bit to close together for our liking but being close to the lake and Yosemite was a bonus," shares a visitor at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort, providing a balanced assessment of family amenities.
Water safety awareness: Creek and river access requires careful supervision of children. "The creek is lovely and rushes by with the nice sounds of a creek. Be aware that the water is fast and cold. There are not a lot of spots for kids to play so unless they're older (and maybe even then) you'd want to watch them," cautions a camper at Creekside RV Park.
Wildlife education opportunities: The region offers chances to observe native wildlife. "We tromped through some 'trails' and saw garter snakes, chipmunks, mice, and bats at dusk," reports a camper at Creekside RV Park, suggesting informal nature exploration possibilities for families.
Tips from RVers
Mountain driving considerations: RV drivers should research routes carefully before committing to mountain destinations. "The campground is small but clean and the staff is helpful... The signage within the campground needs to be improved so download a map of the campground before you arrive, especially if you are arriving after dark," advises an RVer at Sequoia RV Ranch.
Campsite positioning: Careful site selection improves the camping experience. "We ended up camping in a dry site as it had more space and was at the end of the park under some oaks (site 17). The RV sites were close together and the ones not on the river were on a gravel parking lot," shares a camper at Outdoorsy Yosemite, indicating how terrain and positioning affect site quality.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts camping experiences dramatically in the Sierra Nevada. "We were under the trees this time instead of on the asphalt parking lot slab. All dirt, dirt back in site, dirt camp site accessed by a dirt road. Expect lots of dust. Bring all your campsite mats, you will need it," advises a summer visitor at Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground, highlighting seasonal dust issues.
