Dispersed camping near Wishon, California offers diverse backcountry experiences across elevations ranging from 3,500 to 7,000 feet. The area's proximity to multiple watersheds, including both Wishon and Courtright Reservoirs, creates varied camping conditions depending on seasonal water levels. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during the day with nighttime lows in the 50s, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for wider temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Whisky Falls Campground offers access to impressive cascades just a short hike from camp. "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," writes Kelli L. Families can extend their adventure beyond the main falls for even more scenery, as Alex L. notes: "Hike past it for an even more beautiful sight to behold."
Lake activities: Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort provides convenient water access for boating enthusiasts. "Has 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," reports Denise C. The lake offers multiple recreation options within walking distance of many campsites.
Stargazing: The high elevation and minimal light pollution create ideal night sky viewing conditions. At Camp Edison near Shaver Lake, campers report exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Moon rock sits in a meadow and soaks up sun all day, making it a nice warm space to star gaze at night while listening to the horses in the stable nextdoor," shares Liz, highlighting natural features that enhance the experience.
What campers like
Privacy at dispersed sites: Goat Meadow provides secluded camping with minimal facilities. "When I was there recently, some of the 'campsites' had 0-3" [of snow], whereas other spots were about 6-8". Consequently, there were about 6-8 cars/vans that ended up camping in the parking lot of the snowplay area. I was the only one in the actual snow, which was great!" writes Alexander Mark C.
Wildlife encounters: The Sierra forests host diverse wildlife, adding to the camping experience. "Coyotes and bears are active in the area- coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" shares Alexander Mark C. from Goat Meadow. Proper food storage is essential but offers the chance to observe local fauna from a safe distance.
Swimming spots: Whisky Falls Campground provides refreshing water access beyond the main falls. "Bass lake is close by as well so you can take a dip to rinse off all the dust you kick up," mentions Alex L. The combination of waterfall areas and lake proximity creates multiple swimming options during hot summer months.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. At Forks Campground near Bass Lake, one camper notes: "Will note that Verizon cell service was almost none existent despite showing 1 or 2 bars occasionally. Starlink is recommend if need internet or other services."
Weekend congestion: Popular areas can become crowded, particularly during holidays. At Goat Meadow, Katelin M. warns: "Stayed about a week which also crossed over Memorial Day weekend. Arrived the Tuesday before. This place gets CROWDED. At 5:30 it's like everyone got off work and headed home, it's nuts."
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require traveling on rough forest roads. For Goat Meadow, Paige mentions: "The road getting there has tons of potholes and the road in the site is super super bumpy." High clearance vehicles may be needed for accessing certain dispersed camping areas, especially after rain or early in the season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: High Sierra RV Park offers dedicated children's play areas near Oakhurst. "Amenities include a pool, day room with tons of things to do, a separate day room for kids, a large fire pit, showers, store at the office, horseshoe and 2 shuffleboard courts," says Michael C., highlighting the family-friendly facilities.
Educational activities: Some campgrounds provide organized nature programs. At Camp Edison, Angela D. shares: "Camp Edison has great activities during the summer season including guided educational nature walks, both day and evening, as well as kids' movies in the amphitheater. There is also a museum on site that offers activities and fun events like an ice cream social."
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on bathroom proximity and noise levels. At Wawona Campground, allen W. advises: "#37 awesome creekside. water spigot close. bathrooms slight walk. slight slant. bring bug spray!" Selecting sites near amenities but away from high-traffic areas creates better experiences for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at many campgrounds. At Yosemite RV Resort, Aban J. notes: "Site is small little to no space for vehicle at the site we are at some sites have a lot more room than ours." Bringing additional leveling blocks is recommended for most camping areas near Wishon.
Hookup variations: Water and electric availability differs significantly between campgrounds. At Spring Cove Campground, Troy L. advises: "Our spot was small, but worked fine for us. Site 20 was so close it was basically part of our site." Researching specific site dimensions before booking ensures appropriate space for your equipment.
Site access limitations: Several campgrounds have tight turning radiuses. At High Sierra RV Park, Michael G. shares: "To leave with a 26' travel trailer I had to pull out and back down another road just to exit the park." Larger rigs should research site-specific access conditions before arrival, as turnaround space is limited in many forest campgrounds.
