Kelly I.
Traveler
TravelerCrane Flat Campground
Great location
This was a great spot for a quick stay. Restrooms, camping and good spaces between others. Would definitely stay here again!
Best Campgrounds near Wawona, CA
Camping near Wawona, California centers around the South Fork of the Merced River within Yosemite National Park, providing a quieter alternative to the crowded Valley campgrounds. Wawona Campground serves as the primary established camping area, with spacious sites nestled among pine and oak trees. Nearby, Goat Meadow offers free dispersed camping just outside the park boundary in Sierra National Forest. Summerdale Campground provides another option along Highway 41 near Fish Camp. The area sits approximately 45 minutes from Yosemite Valley, allowing campers to access iconic attractions like Half Dome and El Capitan while returning to a more peaceful setting. As one camper noted, "Wawona is different. The sites are large, well-spaced, and idyllic. Many are situated along the South Fork of the Merced River."
Reservations for Wawona Campground are highly recommended, especially during peak summer months when sites fill quickly. The campground offers both reservable and first-come, first-served sites, with limited walk-up availability. Each site includes a bear box, which rangers strictly enforce using for all food, toiletries, and scented items. Weather varies significantly by season, with mid-April bringing a mix of snow and spring conditions. Summer temperatures are moderate due to the elevation. Cell service is limited but some visitors report Verizon hotspots working in certain areas. The campground has flush toilets and drinking water but no showers. A sanitary dump station is available for RVs near the entrance to the Wawona area.
The camping experience differs between locations, with Wawona offering a balance of amenities and natural setting. Loop B and C sites provide more privacy and less road noise than Loop A. Many riverside sites allow easy access to swimming holes and fishing spots along the Merced River. Nearby attractions include the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, accessible via shuttle during peak season. The historic Wawona Hotel (Big Trees Lodge) provides dining options and limited supplies. According to reviews, "The river and swimming holes are close by and accessible to all, sites have ample space between each other, and all sites have their own bear box." Families particularly appreciate the spacious sites and proximity to natural swimming areas, making Wawona a popular multi-generational destination.
Best Camping Sites Near Wawona, California (363)
1. Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
47 ReviewsFish Camp, CA4 milesWebsite"After accidentally driving to this location following the directions of another reviewer for the “Yosemite Boondocks” campground across 41 (which we never found) we were very happy with this location."
"Great spot about 5 minutes away from Yosemite entrance. Only a few other campers nearby but plenty of space to where they were only seen from a distance."
2. Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park
41 ReviewsWawona, CA2 milesWebsite+1 (209) 375-9535$36 - $75 / night
"Wawona has been our yearly family vacation destination since I was a kid. We never grow tire of it!"
"I can finally understand why it is proof positive of how diffficult it can be to get a campsite at this park. The natural beauty is beyond the words of a recreational camper like myself."
3. Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
66 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CA14 milesWebsite+1 (209) 372-8502$36 / night
"Close to Happy Isles and Mirror Lake/Meadow, this campground is convenient for day hikers. it's one of the better spots in Yosemite Valley, somewhat off the beaten path, so to speak."
"FYI, they are not joking about wildlife here, bear lockers are there for a reason and the animals are so comfortable and used to people they get close to camp."
4. Camp 4 — Yosemite National Park
39 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CA14 milesWebsite+1 (209) 372-8502$60 / night
"These are walk-in sites for tents only and are on a per person basis ( It fills up really fast ) parking is available adjacent to the campground, you will need a parking permit."
"This iconic campground, situated in the middle of Yosemite Valley, was once home to many of America's early rock climbing pioneers. "
5. Shooting Star Sanctuary and Retreat near Yosemite National Forest
18 ReviewsAhwahnee, CA9 miles+1 (801) 361-1982"It’s close to both Yosemite entrances ! Close to town . Love it ."
"He kept in touch with us all throughout our drive there and helped us get set up upon arrival."
6. Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping
12 ReviewsFish Camp, CA4 miles"Before we parked we filled up with potable water at Wawona Campground."
"Nestled amongst trees right on the edge of Yosemite. Was quite busy when I was there but managed to find a quiet spot tucked away & private."
7. North Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
23 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CA14 milesWebsite+1 (209) 372-8502$48 / night
"There is a shuttle stop right outside the campground. You are also in easy walking distance to the path to Mirror Lake and the ever popular Mist Trail."
"Within walking distance is the edge of the Merced river, from there you have views of Yosemite Falls."
8. Lower Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
20 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CA14 milesWebsite+1 (209) 372-8502$36 - $60 / night
"Bathrooms were clean, access to drinking water was easy. Park shuttle is nearby and easy to get around."
"There is only a small area next to the paved parkway that is flat for our 6-person tent. But this is a Yosemite campground, we would take whatever campsite available. Restroom is clean."
9. Indian Flat RV Park
18 ReviewsEl Portal, CA14 milesWebsite+1 (209) 379-2339$30 - $289 / night
"Fantastic WiFi, extremely clean bathrooms and shower rooms, excellent pool at cedar Lodge next door, short walkable distance to the YART bus stop into Yosemite, great price for a campground 8 miles from"
"At least when we visited the RV Park and the adjacent Cedar Lodge was functioning as one, meaning we could also use their pool, arcade, ping pong etc. Good places with tables, BBQ included."
10. Summerdale Campground - Sierra National Forest
6 ReviewsFish Camp, CA4 milesWebsite+1 (559) 642-3212$47 - $49 / night
"So we opted to stay right outside- literally miles away! Nothing to write home about at the campsite- but it was quiet enough. The host was super friendly!"
"Near the South entrance to Yosemite National Park, SUMMERDALE campground is a small, quiet, well maintained campground that requires advanced reservations."
Recent Camping Photos near Wawona, CA
609 Photos of 363 Wawona Campgrounds
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Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park
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Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
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Sierra National Forest Summit Camp Campground
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Summerdale Campground - Sierra National Forest
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Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping
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Big Sandy Campground
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Little Sandy Campground - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
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Royal Arch Lake Campsite — Yosemite National Park
Elliott B.
Bridalveil Creek Campground — Yosemite National Park
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Nelder Grove Campground
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Shooting Star Sanctuary and Retreat near Yosemite National Forest
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Texas Flats
Recent Reviews near Wawona, CA
1597 Reviews of 363 Wawona Campgrounds
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.
- TThomas K S.Scout
Mono Vista RV Park
Well kept and friendly owners
Stayed here for six days from May 26, and it was neat and clean. Great sites, no dirt, mostly grass. Just a wonderful stay. Will come again. The only downside is they take no credit cards, only cash and checks, so you have to send a check 14 days ahead of time. They had quite a few vacancies, we called in the day before we arrived, and had no issue, and luckily had my checkbook with me, which is a rarity
N P.ScoutBarrett Cove Merced Irrigation District
Great fun
We have spent summers here on the water for the last 3 years. The site has a convenience store and a restaurant that serves up a really great burger. Also a very short drive into town.
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.
Breanna E.ScoutRiver Ranch Campground
Beautiful but STRICT
This campsite was well kept, in a beautiful area not toooo far from stores if you forget anything and a really beautiful creek and river around it. The camp hosts are nice and seem to really care about the property, which I love seeing. There is no electric hookups at least at some of the sites which is fine, just be aware to plan for that if you need any medical devices etc. The mosquitoes are rabid. So come prepared with the best repellent you can get. They keep the potties clean but like of spiders in them that have clearer been left there, one had a small wasps nest that I took care of since it was right by our head in the toilet. I also wouldn’t plan to swim, if it gets warm enough I guess, but the water is literally ice cold. I got in to my ankles and they were red and stinging after about 10 seconds.
While I understand most of their rules the one rule that is THE MOST insisted and on literally all points of booking and checking in is that they don’t allow any music of and level on any speakers. I understand quiet times and having a sound limit but absolutely no music seems extreme to me. Especially for families, my kids love music and it’s a daily part of our lives, and as a place they used to hold literal music festivals it seems a little saddening to me.
But overall it was a nice time.
- JJessica W.Scout
Fraser Flat Campground
Quiet
It's been some years since I've been here but just downloaded this app. I wouldn't take my children now because of the river, but if it's just adults I think it's a great spot! Small and quiet!
Peter D.TravelerHodgdon Meadow Campground — Yosemite National Park
Beautiful Views, Frustrating Experience
The morning view and the sunset light through the trees were wonderful, and the starry sky at night was a highlight. I also liked the grill area, but the campsite was quite challenging for the tent since the ground wasn't even.
We booked two nights but left after one because of the cold weather and lack of internet connection. Service was only available about 10 minutes away by car, which became inconvenient for us. Since the area is publicly managed, getting help was difficult, and we couldn’t easily cancel the second night because nobody was available. Two volunteers were very kind and tried to help though.
The place would also benefit from adding showers, especially considering how many people stay there.
Overall, the location itself was beautiful, but the inconveniences made it harder to fully enjoy the experience.
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 Wawona
Campsites near Wawona, California range from 4,000 to 6,000 feet in elevation, providing significantly cooler temperatures than the Central Valley during summer months. The region experiences distinct seasons with snow possible from November through April at higher elevations. Nearby Goat Meadow serves as an important overflow option during peak season when established campgrounds reach capacity.
What to do
Swimming in creeks: Several campgrounds in the Wawona area feature access to the Merced River and its tributaries. At North Pines Campground, "Camp sites have tree cover but aren't super private. Provides good access to Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point. Use bear boxes, bears were active in the area while we visited."
Exploring historic sites: The Pioneer History Center near Indian Flat RV Park offers insights into early settlement. "After a long day of hiking in Yosemite it was nice to relax at the pool next door. We will definitely come back in the future," notes one camper about the convenience of this location.
Night sky viewing: The area's elevation and distance from major cities creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site, campers report "Beautiful scenery, clean, close to Yosemite, and easy to reach. As others have said, follow Mount Raymond Rd up until you see the sign for the snow play area, and look to the right. There's an open area with fire pits."
Wildlife observation: The forests around Wawona support diverse wildlife including black bears, deer, and numerous bird species. A visitor to Shooting Star Sanctuary noted, "We loved our stay here. The surroundings are beautiful and peaceful. The animals are a great bonus. Perfectly family friendly with plenty of room to hang out by the fire."
What campers like
Proximity to park attractions: Upper Pines Campground offers central access to Yosemite Valley features. According to one camper, "Being able to sleep under the stars in Yosemite Valley is a dream come true. The campground is crowded but the scenery makes up for it. Everywhere you look is an Ansel Adams portrait. Lots of trails leave from the surrounding area."
River access for recreation: Many sites feature proximity to water for cooling off during hot days. A Camp 4 visitor mentioned, "Camp 4 is literally in the middle of the trail to upper Yosemite Falls so the view of Yosemite Falls is better than in any other campground."
Less crowded alternatives: Areas outside the park boundaries offer quieter experiences with easier booking. At Summerdale Campground, "The sites are well spaced and private, unlike what you will find in the park. Fishing can be GREAT! But at times, has been really bad. We've often caught our limit each day (trout) and snagged some crawfish to boot."
Natural swimming holes: Campers frequently mention the refreshing swimming opportunities. One North Pines visitor shared, "This campground is right near the creek which people float down in late spring and early summer. Curry Village is a five minute walk away, while Yosemite Village is a ten minute shuttle ride away."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: All campgrounds strictly enforce food storage rules. As noted at Lower Pines Campground, "The main one is food storage, we've seen some rangers go berserk on some people who refused to keep their sites clean. Bear sightings in this campground are very common."
Reservation timing strategies: Most established campgrounds fill months in advance. One visitor to Camp 4 advised, "Since it's a no reservation spot, it's a bit of a struggle to actually get a site (early wake up and wait in line situation), but it's definitely worth it. Protip: get there on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds."
Weather variability: Temperatures can change dramatically between seasons and even day to night. A visitor at Goat Meadow noted, "The elevation at the site is appx 5200, meaning it will get snow in the winter(ish) months. When I was there recently, some of the 'campsites' had 0-3", whereas other spots were about 6-8"."
Noise considerations: Campgrounds within Yosemite Valley experience more traffic and visitor noise. A camper at North Pines observed, "North Pines is the busiest traditional campground in Yosemite Valley. Aside from Curry Village, Housekeeping Camp, or Camp 4, this is the loudest place you can stay."
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Shooting Star Sanctuary offers unique opportunities for children to interact with farm animals. One visitor reported, "We had the pleasure of staying with Jason and his family at the Shooting Star Sanctuary. The kids loved playing with the animals and it was a convenient location to access Yosemite."
Swimming safety: The Merced River features varying currents throughout the season. A visitor to North Pines noted, "The creek that runs by Upper Pines is very popular for swimming and rafting. You can bring dogs to Upper Pines but they must be on a leash and cannot enter fresh water."
Alternative activities: When hiking proves too strenuous for younger children, consider the Pioneer History Center near Wawona. One camper at Indian Flat mentioned, "We stayed here so we could shuttle to Yosemite. The lodge next door is a pick up spot for shuttles into the park. They have a bar/restaurant and a store which is convenient."
Bathroom facilities: Campground restroom quality varies significantly. At Summerdale, a visitor noted, "Pit toilets, trash service and piped water. All good quality and well maintained. The campground is CLEAN. I've never seen a cleaner campground."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some dispersed camping areas have rough roads. At Goat Meadow, one RVer advised, "The road getting there has tons of potholes and the road in the site is super super bumpy."
Hookup availability: Most sites in the region lack full hookups. Indian Flat RV Park stands out with more amenities: "The campground is in a great spot. Ten minutes from Yosemite. We have a 20' trailer and fit fine, but no one was in the site behind us. It might have been a tight fit if there were."
Generator restrictions: Yosemite National Park limits generator hours. A Lower Pines visitor noted, "RVs are allowed but there are no hookups. Generators are allowed certain hours, check with camp host. Dump station is located at the entrance."
Alternative parking: During peak season, finding adequate RV parking can be challenging. One visitor to Yosemite "Boondock National" shared, "When you drive up to the snowplay area, continue straight off of the paved road (don't make the left) and you'll find a plethora of places to park and set up shop."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Wawona, CA?
What camping is available near Wawona, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Wawona, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 363 campgrounds and RV parks near Wawona, CA and 57 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Wawona, CA?
Which is the most popular campground near Wawona, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Wawona, CA is Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site with a 4.5-star rating from 47 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Wawona, CA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Wawona, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 57 free dispersed camping spots near Wawona, CA.
What parks are near Wawona, CA?
What parks are near Wawona, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 parks near Wawona, CA that allow camping, notably Yosemite National Park and Eastman Lake.
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