Best Campgrounds near Twain Harte, CA

Camping options in the Twain Harte area encompass a diverse range of facilities throughout the Stanislaus National Forest region. Established campgrounds like River Ranch Campground offer tent and RV sites with amenities including drinking water, picnic tables, and showers. Three Links Camp provides cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping, while more rustic options can be found at Sand Bar Flat Campground. Several properties feature mixed-use camping areas that accommodate various camping styles from basic tent sites to full RV hookups, with some locations offering glamping options including yurts.

The camping season in this Sierra Nevada foothill region typically runs from spring through fall, with most campgrounds operating between April and October. Road conditions vary significantly, particularly for remote sites like Sand Bar Flat, where visitors navigate approximately 14 miles of dirt roads with tight turns. Higher elevation campgrounds like Pinecrest experience cooler temperatures even in summer months, while lower elevation sites can become quite hot during peak season. Campground amenities range from primitive vault toilets to developed facilities with hot showers, drinking water, and electrical hookups. A visitor observed that "the drive starting off 108 is bad and then gets horrendous. I got car sick for the first time because of the drive."

Campers consistently mention the peaceful setting and natural beauty of sites in the region. River Ranch Campground receives particular praise for its creek-side camping spots, with one review noting, "We were backed up to the river and slept with our van back door open. The sound of the creek was awesome, made falling asleep so easy." Several campgrounds provide access to local recreation opportunities including fishing in the Stanislaus River, hiking trails, and proximity to attractions like Cherry Lake and Rainbow Pools. The level of privacy between campsites varies considerably across facilities, with some offering secluded spots while others feature more communal layouts. Cell service is limited in many areas, though some campgrounds like Three Links Camp provide WiFi for those who don't want to disconnect completely.

Best Camping Sites Near Twain Harte, California (257)

    1. Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging

    23 Reviews
    Groveland, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 962-7690

    "If you plan to go into Yosemite NP, it's a long drive so plan accordingly. Our family really enjoys Rainbow Pools and Yosemite Pine's proximity to Rainbow Pools is part of why we stay here."

    "Not located in the Yosemite Park (we made that mistake). 20-30min drive to Yosemite Park.

    Very cute and quiet spot.

    Trails around camp grounds, petting zoo for kids."

    2. North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park

    22 Reviews
    Arnold, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 795-2334

    $25 - $70 / night

    "I think this is my favorite California State Park. It is situated in the Calaveras Big Trees Giant Sequoia Grove."

    "Pros - you are in the middle of the Sequoias, near hiking, kayaking, etc. Beautiful river nearby; pretty easy in and out for small-ish RVs. Hard to beat the location."

    3. Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes

    40 Reviews
    Eastman Lake, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Whip out your wallet and empty on it on the check-in desk of this thousand trails (or whatever) park."

    "Our tent site was #311 and it was perfectly tucked in the trees with a stream alongside."

    4. River Ranch Campground

    5 Reviews
    Twain Harte, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 586-3234

    "Watering holes on campgrounds and around the area like Cherry Lake, Rainbow Pools and Gods Bath! California is full of beautiful wonders and this little gem in Stanislaus Forest is one of them!"

    "The site has several trails and is secluded in a great little canyon."

    5. Pinecrest Campground

    18 Reviews
    Long Barn, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 965-3116

    $40 / night

    "The campsites are a very short walk from the lake. the sites are spacious, well spaced and shady. Amenities are quite good with flush toilets, showers, a general store and more."

    "This is a nice campground on Pinecrest Lake near Sonora Pass in Stanislaus National Forest."

    6. Diamond Gulch

    10 Reviews
    Groveland, CA
    12 miles
    +1 (209) 484-3137

    $30 - $89 / night

    "You feel like you're in the middle of nowhere but you're so close to things. Directions are easy to follow, leveling is required but there were pretty good lots."

    "It was a bit hard to find in the dark, but the camping area is fenced in under an oak grove so eventually we found the stump with our name on it next to the tent."

    7. Tuttletown Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Jamestown, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 536-9094

    $150 / night

    "Cute small campsites, kind of close to your neighbor. Not a lot of bugs which is always a plus when your near water, we went mid October and the weather wasn’t too hot or too cold."

    "New Melones was not a top destination but it was close to a very special place for us, Natural Bridges."

    8. Fraser Flat Campground

    6 Reviews
    Long Barn, CA
    13 miles
    Website

    "Surrounded by trees, typical pretty campsite. Campgrounds is next to the water for close fishing. Less than 10 minutes to Pinecrest Lake. First come First serve. Dog friendly."

    "Very nice , loved camping right next to the river. Bathrooms were very clean."

    9. Three Links Camp

    2 Reviews
    Mi-Wuk Village, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 591-0195

    "The campground was beautiful and my kids had a blast walking around all the buildings (hall, chapel, cabins/dorms) and on baseball field, disc golf course, and basketball court!"

    10. Sand Bar Flat Campground

    5 Reviews
    Long Barn, CA
    11 miles
    Website

    "I made the drive in a 2wd cargo van and I saw an 80s Ford Mustang down there at the same time but i don't think I'd recommend doing that. A basic truck or SUV would have an easy time driving down."

    "I loved it super secluded way off the beaten path. Great camp host and the fishing was incredible"

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Recent Reviews near Twain Harte, CA

1071 Reviews of 257 Twain Harte Campgrounds


  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Lower Blue Lake Campground

    Beautiful location!

    My cousins and I stayed in sites one through three. They are extremely close to the lake, near the dam. We were able to leave our chairs and kayaks down by the water, and felt totally secure. we were able to kayak down to the other end of the lake, where there is a small waterfall. our sites had to be reserved, but there are some FCFS sites as well. Pit bathrooms are OK. The portable water spigot was broken, so we had to get some water from Middle blue lake Campground, about a mile away. The water issues is the only reason I am taking a star off, this place is beautiful, and we are definitely coming back. A couple of the sites will accommodate, decent sized rigs.

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

    Good spot for a night or two but nothing here

    Easy to get to and easy to park at although not a great spot for tents. Unfortunately there was a massive fire here and there is nothing to look at but burned out trees.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes

    A good campground for full hook

    The bathrooms and showers are clean. The sites are a little tight. My Wi-Fi was Starlink so I don’t know how the camp Wi-Fi was.

  • Jacqueline G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Dispersed USFS

    Worth the climbs to get here!!

    This is full wilderness camping off the main road between hope valley and the blue lakes. I had no problem getting in with my 30ft bus towing a jeep but the road is steep and winding for about 7 miles to the pull off. There were a lot of other campers for Labor Day weekend but the rest of the time there was no one around. Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction. PLEASE NOTE: There are prolonged climbs to get here (up to about 8% grade) but my bus did fine. Slow and steady and you’ll be fine. Also WATCH THE WEATHER! Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit and deep puddles can appear. There are loads of rocks and fallen trees around to fill in holes if needed. If you’re moderate to high clearance rig you’ll be fine just be mindful. The Blue Lakes are just down the road for swimming, boating, kayaking etc and lots of amazing 4x4 trails. Rivers for fishing and endless hiking and biking. Elevation is 8300ft so definitely a bit high. The trees help with the air however. Not nearly as tough as the high desert of Utah (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you’re not used to high altitude.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Pinecrest Campground

    Beautiful Location With Talkitive Ravens

    We went to Pinecrest as the first trip we took with our brand new travel trailer. Not only was it a great break-in trip but the location was lovely. The hosts were friendly and very helpful when we had difficulty getting into the site we reserved. Once we set up camp in our new sire, we started to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. And the ravens. Lots of talkative ravens. Very entertaining.

    We were thrilled to find out there’s a restaurant and general store located right across the street from the campground. It was just delicious icing on a very tasty cake. Two thumbs up for Pinecrest Campground and an extra thumbs up and thank you to the hosts.

  • eric A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Highland Lakes Campground

    Lake Views, Swimming, Mountain Trails

    Great place to camp, fish, kayak, hike and relax. Dirt roads all the way in from Hwy 4 so be prepared for mild offroading and dust.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park

    Nice for an established campground

    I prefer dispersed camping for the quiet and solitude but we met friends here who picked the campground. That said, this is a nice established cg. Not a lot of privacy (wide open so you can see everyone around you) but individual sites have room between them. Campers when we were there were fairly quiet but even quiet sounds travel, especially at night. Smoke from all the campfires is not great for people with asthma. Bathrooms are very nice: clean, flush toilets, and sinks with cold water taps. Bear boxes provided. There’s lots of trails to hike here, an an extensive ranger station with a Visitor Center, snack bar, and organized talks and activities. The big trees are exactly as advertised: incredibly big and awe-inspiring. Just wish state parks would let you take your leashed dogs on the trails. Otherwise, a very nice public campground if that’s your thing.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Fence Creek Campground

    Good for small trailers.

    This is a quiet campground that is good for small trailers or RVs, or tent camping. Access is rough gravel, and narrow roads inside the campground would make anything longer than 25’ difficult. There are vault toilets but no other utilities.


Guide to Twain Harte

Camping near Twain Harte, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful scenery and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, perfect for all skill levels. Many campers enjoy the breathtaking views and the chance to explore the natural beauty of the area. One reviewer mentioned, "We camped here late February to capture the firefall. We got a decent photo the first day we arrived so mission accomplished."
  • Fishing: The lakes and rivers around Twain Harte are great for fishing. Campers have reported catching a variety of fish, making it a fun activity for families. A visitor noted, "We had a very large 10-person tent that fit well... We brought some river tubes, walked upstream a bit to tube through the mini streams."
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. Many campers have spotted deer and various birds during their stays. One camper shared, "We went mid-March and the park was empty and peaceful."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Upper Pines Campground are praised for their stunning views. A reviewer said, "Great place, amazing position with astonishing views."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peacefulness of the area, especially during off-peak times. One camper mentioned, "Campsite didn’t flood like the others when the rain started and not too much snow in the campsite unlike February times."
  • Amenities: Campgrounds such as Wawona Campground offer basic amenities like restrooms and fire pits, which campers find convenient. A visitor remarked, "The sites are relatively spacious and provide a mix of shade and sun."

What you should know:

  • Booking Difficulties: Reservations can be tough to secure, especially during peak seasons. A camper noted, "Almost impossible to book. At last moment I get a reservation."
  • Limited Facilities: Some campgrounds do not have showers or electric hookups. One reviewer pointed out, "There are zero hookups and you can use a generator 3 times per day."
  • Wildlife Precautions: Be mindful of wildlife safety. A camper advised, "All scented items must be placed inside of the bear lockers at your site when not in use or there will be unwanted visitors."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. One family shared, "This campsite is highly recommended by me. With my family, I may come here and play games."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring along games and outdoor gear to keep everyone entertained. A camper mentioned, "We accidentally left our bear box open while down in the river and the ranger nicely let us know."
  • Pack Snacks and Meals: Having food ready can make mealtime easier. One visitor noted, "The campground offers both reservable and first-come, first-served campsites."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer said, "Our Ram 2500 did not fit in the site with us, so a few of us booked an extra spot to park our vehicles."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds do not have full hookups. One RVer shared, "The road going in was washed out—the alternate route was extremely steep, but we managed."
  • Stay Connected: If you need to stay connected, check cell service availability. A camper mentioned, "We could get some calls/texts, def no internet except at Yosemite Village."

Camping near Twain Harte, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin. With beautiful landscapes and plenty of activities, it's a perfect spot for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping spots near Twain Harte, CA?

The Twain Harte area offers excellent camping options within a short drive. Clark Fork Campground is a spacious campground with 88 well-spaced sites, making it ideal for families and groups with its adjacent 'double sites.' For RV campers, 49er RV Ranch provides well-maintained sites with full hookups including sewer, cable, water and 30/50A electrical service. Other notable options include River Ranch Campground and Fraser Flat Campground, both offering drive-in access with water and toilet facilities. For those willing to travel a bit further, Pinecrest Campground provides additional amenities in a beautiful forest setting. Most campgrounds in the area are open seasonally from late spring through early fall, with reservations highly recommended during peak summer months.

What fishing opportunities are available in Twain Harte?

Twain Harte and its surrounding areas offer diverse fishing opportunities for anglers. Lake Camanche provides excellent fishing access with well-maintained facilities and easy lake entry points. The South Shore area is particularly family-friendly and relaxing for fishing expeditions. Another notable option is the Merced River near Upper Pines Campground, which offers refreshing spots to fish after hiking. Local streams and rivers in the Stanislaus National Forest are stocked with rainbow, brook, and brown trout. The fishing season typically runs from late April through November, with special regulations applying to different waterways. Fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older and can be purchased online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or at local sporting goods stores.

What types of lodging options are available in Twain Harte besides camping?

Twain Harte offers diverse lodging beyond traditional camping. Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging provides cabin accommodations and yurts for those wanting camping convenience with more amenities. Acorn Campground offers reasonably priced sites at $20 per night (with Golden Age passes reducing costs to $10), suitable for those with small trailers looking for an economical option. Throughout Twain Harte, visitors can find vacation rentals ranging from cozy cabins to luxury homes, many featuring mountain views and forest settings. The area also has several bed and breakfasts offering personalized service and local insights. For those seeking full amenities, Twain Harte has lodges and inns with swimming pools, dining facilities, and proximity to golf courses, making it a versatile destination for various accommodation preferences.