Glamping near Tollhouse, California offers accommodations surrounded by the Sierra Nevada wilderness at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 4,000 feet. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures in the 80s and cool nights, making camping comfortable during peak season from May through September. Water levels at nearby lakes and creeks fluctuate seasonally, with some areas experiencing low water by late summer.
What to do
Swimming holes at Dinkey Creek: Located about 30 minutes from Tollhouse, Dinkey Creek Campground offers access to natural swimming areas. "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," reports camper Michal S. The creek provides relief during summer months when temperatures rise.
Fishing at Pine Flat Lake: The lake near Pine Flat Campground provides fishing opportunities for bass and catfish. "This campground is situated by a lake. Love this spot! You'll hear all the frogs by night and birds in the morning, great place for fly fishing or cat fishing," notes reviewer C N. The lake is accessible for both shoreline and boat fishing.
Hiking at Whisky Falls: For glamping visitors seeking day hikes, Whisky Falls Campground connects to trail systems. "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," says Kelli L. The falls create a natural landmark destination that draws visitors throughout the summer season.
What campers like
Full hookup convenience: At Camp Edison near Shaver Lake, guests appreciate the electrical connections at campsites. "Each site has plenty of room and includes a picnic table and fire pit. It's a short walk to Shaver Lake from virtually any of the sites, and several have a nice view of the lake. Some sites have full hook ups, but most have just electricity and cable TV," reports Angela D., highlighting the amenities that complement glamping offerings.
Private beach access: The waterfront locations provide water recreation opportunities. "We try to get a campsite next to the water. We also reserve a boat so we can explore the lake. We went for the first time a couple years ago and it is now an annual trip that we plan on taking for life," shares Steph M. about Camp Edison. Water access makes these sites popular for summer glamping.
Off-road exploration: The area surrounding Whisky Falls attracts visitors with four-wheel drive vehicles. "Let me start by saying it was worth driving six and a half hours to get here. We loved everything from the isolated campgrounds, the off road trails to test our 4x4 trucks and how our dogs were free to explore with us," writes Alex L. These forest roads connect various glamping locations in the region.
What you should know
Late season water levels: Water features may diminish later in the season. "Great place to relax and enjoy the water. Pretty cold in the off season, and pretty swift for littles. Hot and isolated, bring water or a filter," notes Kate A. about Dinkey Creek. Late summer visitors should check current conditions before planning water activities.
Tree removal impacts: Beetle infestations have changed the forest landscape. "Due to recent one beetle infestation there are less trees then the past, not really a bad thing, just different. In the last two years the campground has been a mess due to the removal of hazard trees, BIG improvement this year," explains Gary M. Shaded sites remain available but the forest character has changed in some areas.
Wildlife encounters: Bears frequent the area, requiring proper food storage. "We had a beautiful cinnamon colored bear wander into our site a couple of times. While we were very careful to follow food storage protocols, not all campers were," reports Kelly H. from Lupine/Cedar Bluff Campground. Glamping sites typically include storage facilities for food and scented items.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming options: Look for safe water access with younger children. "The pool and playground was a lot of fun of the kids," notes Chris H. about Yosemite RV Resort. Many glamping locations offer contained water features as alternatives to creek swimming.
Insect preparation: 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," warns Erin S. Bring insect deterrents and covered food containers for outdoor meals.
Camp store convenience: On-site provisions save trips to town. "Nice store and hospitality center with food, drinks and stock of camp supplies," mentions John G. Most glamping operations maintain small markets with essentials and firewood, though prices typically run higher than town stores.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some glamping sites with RV access require leveling equipment. "Our site was the closest to the bathrooms if that's something you look for. Pretty close to Miller's Landing if you need to restock on anything or get some hot food if you stay for multiple days," shares August M. about Lupine/Cedar Bluff Campground.
Shower facilities: Many campgrounds charge for showers. "Restrooms are clean and plentiful and each has a shower (25 cents for 2 minutes). The laundromat has come in handy several times, too," notes Angela D. Glamping accommodations typically provide access to these facilities, sometimes at additional cost.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies widely. "Verizon is three bars and WiFi works great," reports Kevin F. about Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort, while most forest service campgrounds have limited or no service. This affects glamping guests who need to remain connected during their stay.
