Dispersed camping near Wawona, California offers tent sites at elevations between 4,000-7,000 feet in the Sierra National Forest. The region typically receives 35-40 inches of precipitation annually, mostly as winter snow at higher elevations. Summer temperatures range from 45-85°F, with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly, especially at higher elevation campsites.
What to do
Riverside relaxation: The Merced River corridor provides tent campers with natural swimming spots throughout summer months. At Housekeeping Camp, campers can enjoy the riverside location where "some campsites are considered 'river-front' but all campsites are pretty close to the river," according to Heather F.
Pine forest exploration: Hiking through the pine and cedar forests offers relief from summer heat. Near Hardin Flat Road, the terrain features "many motorbike and trails, permit required (bikes)," as DJ M. notes. The dispersed sites are surrounded by "pine and cedar forest" with "large grounds" for exploration.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "When temps are low" at Fresno Dome Campground, the "not too much tree cover" means "you get a fair amount of sun during the day" according to Kelly M., but this same open canopy creates ideal stargazing conditions after dark.
What campers like
Proximity to park entrances: Tent campers appreciate locations minutes from Yosemite without reservation hassles. Along Hardin Flat Road, Chris P. notes it's an "~8min drive to Big Oak Entrance and ~40min drive to Yosemite Valley Welcome Center," making it ideal for day trips into the park.
Water access: Creeks and rivers provide both recreation and practical water filtering options. The Fresno Dome Campground area has "a beautiful creek that was full in August, which flows alongside the grounds," creating "a great sound dampening - perfect for midnight snore charades around the campfire," as Jacqui W. describes.
Solitude between sites: Many dispersed areas offer significant space between camping spots. Bobby J. mentions that at Hardin Flat Road, sites are "really spread out" and you "couldn't even see your neighbor" while still maintaining "vicinity to the park."
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Many forest roads become impassable during winter months. Fresno Dome Campground is "only open for the summer--fall" as "forest service road definitely not maintained when it snows," according to Kelly M.
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region. At Little Yosemite Valley Campground, Gamaliel A. cautions that "bears are prevalent so take care" while camping in the backcountry.
Temperature fluctuations: Evenings can become unexpectedly cold even during summer. Sites with limited tree cover like Fresno Dome can experience significant temperature drops after sunset. Conrad G. recommends the Summit Camp area for its "beautiful place! Camping under the beautiful sequoia trees the smell of the pine cones" but notes visitors "need a 4x4 to get to the campground."
Insect preparation: Bugs can be prevalent near water sources during warmer months. Miranda notes that spots "along the creek were very buggy" at Hardin Flat Road, advising campers to find sites "away from the water" to avoid mosquitoes.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Creek access provides natural entertainment for children. The Recreation Point Group Campground features "great beachfront access" according to Amy E., who notes her "family has been camping here for 78 years and it's part of all my family memories."
Accessible hiking trails: Many trailheads start directly from camping areas. From Fresno Dome Campground, Jacqui W. mentions "lots of drivable trailheads including jackass lake, Fresno dome, Yosemite, mammoth, and ansel Adams wilderness," making it suitable for families with varying hiking abilities.
Campground amenities: Some established sites offer facilities that ease family camping. Housekeeping Camp provides what Randall M. calls "a different kind of camping" with "little shelter things" that make it "super family friendly," especially for those new to tent camping near Wawona.
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Forest service roads vary widely in quality and accessibility. Martin A. reports that at Hardin Flat Road, "with 4x4 not problem" but recommends arriving early as they "had an overall nice time" but finding the right access point can be challenging.
Turn-around space: Many dispersed camping areas have limited space for larger vehicles. Ashley M. found a "great spot a little farther up Hardin Flat Rd" where she "parked across from a private drive so I can turn around with my RV if needed," highlighting the importance of considering vehicle maneuverability.
Campsite selection strategy: Arriving mid-week improves chances of finding suitable tent sites. Miranda confirms that along Hardin Flat Road, they "passed 10-15 pull out spots for car campers, and at least 10 more easily accessible spots for tents" but notes they "were there peak season but mid-week and spots were easy to find."
