92% (171 reviews)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sierra adventure.
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Popular ways to camp
Community favorites near Sierra National Forest
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
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Stay at a public campground in Sierra National Forest
Top-rated campgrounds near Sierra National Forest
96%
(69)
Musick Creek Falls
3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Sacramento, CA
Musick Creek Falls is 40 acres that lies just south of Shaver Lake. At an elevation of, 4800ft (1.65 km). The land is in a green and lush state of regrowth following the Creek Fire of four years ago. Exhibiting novel and intriguing wildflowers such as Sierra Manzanita, sweet peas, Indian paintbrush, and cedars. The terrain is natural, beautiful, and rugged. This property boasts three exquisite cascading waterfalls, hiking trails, 4×4 roads, hunting, rock climbing, and stargazing opportunities. With proximity to Shaver Lake, and China Peak Ski Resort, you are just minutes from any outdoor activity imaginable. Including but not limited to; hiking, water and snow skiing, fishing, boating, star gazing and sooo much more. The road into the property, although being maintained by us and the community, can be a challenge for vehicles very low to the ground. There is water, and trash and a composting outhouse on site. My husband and I stay here on site as much as the weather permits, to serve out heaping amounts of privacy, or hospitality. It's up to you. Please explore everywhere. Be sure to check out all 3 waterfalls, and Shaver Lake. Don't stay gone too long, though, as just about every night, there is an unforgettable sunset and sounds and smells of the Sierra Nevada. The experience is supernatural. There is powerful medicine here. It's undeniable. The weather is very mild most of the year, where a sweat shirt is perfect most nights and not too hot in the day We have kayaks available for use free of charge. Musick Creek Falls offers an affordable option, whereas campgrounds and cabins in the area are often booked up and very expensive. Most cell phones have good reception throughout the property. We also have spare tents and camping gear, blankets etc. if you forget something. Please be courteous to our neighbors, as the Golden rule is the law of the land. We appreciate your support more than you know, and we thrilled to share this amazing place with our Hipcamp community. Please be advised Winter months December through April there will be no host on site and access will be limited as weather permits. For more info, https://musickcreekfalls.com.
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$68
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(21)
Willow Creek Camp North
4 sites · Tents160 acres · North Fork, CA
Campsites are located on the creek. With 160 acres to explore you can hike along the trails we have made, which are along the creek and on the hills above. We have built composting out houses and wood picnic tables at both sites. We provide fire pits as well. The cleared area is approx 25 feet wide by 75 feet long. Manzanita lake is 10 min away and Bass Lake is a 20 min drive. There are a few restaurants there as well. In North Fork proper there is Pizza Factory and North Fork BBQ.
50.00 charge for Check in after Sundown
Trash must be taken with you when you vacate the premises. Please bring heavy duty trash bags We do not have trash cans. Let us know if you can not take it we will charge 25.00 which is the fee at the dump. Also dogs are allowed.
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$60
/ night
Booked 4 times
Lakeshore Resort
30 sites · Lodging, RVsShaver Lake, CA
Lakeshore Resort offers a peaceful retreat where the timeless beauty of Sierra National Forest comes alive.
Lakeshore Resort is excited to announce that all of our cabins are undergoing a complete renovation, so you can experience the ultimate comfort during your stay. We have already completed the renovation of three original rustic units, each one offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere that perfectly blends modern amenities with traditional mountain charm.
In addition, we are proud to offer three brand new log cabins that are available for booking. With all of these options available, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs and make your stay with us unforgettable.
Our cabins have recently undergone complete renovations. Limited cabins available for booking! Our resort’s ideal location offers endless year-round activities for visitors to enjoy.
Come with your loved ones and enjoy skiing, snow play, or plan a romantic weekend escape to this charming destination. Each cabin offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
-Pets Policy
At Lakeshore Resort, we strive to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for all of our guests. As much as we love our furry friends, we do not allow pets to stay in our cabins. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us maintain a clean and enjoyable atmosphere. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly staff.
Our rates start at $244.95 from Sunday to Thursday and $294.95 on Fridays and Saturdays, with no minimum stay required for our A Cabins.
Consider Lakeshore Resort as your next destination for a relaxing and fun-filled vacation with your loved ones.
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$85
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96%
(211)
Hudson and Wendy's Land
2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Oakhurst, CA
Welcome to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp. We can't wait for you to stay with us and enjoy what the area has to offer.
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$72
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50%
(4)
Granite Mountain RV Park
32 sites · RVs10 acres · Oakhurst, CA
Our property takes pride in its no-frills approach, emphasizing our prime location, ease-of-access, and affordable prices. While we offer minimal services and amenities, this straightforward approach caters to travelers seeking a practical and unembellished stay while visiting, or just passing through on their way into the park.
We offer a simple and convenient arrival experience. For guests who have already made reservations, just drive straight to your assigned spot!
Walk-ins are also welcome, with a self-check-in area available on the property complete with clear instructions on how to book a site and get settled in after a long day on the road.
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$49
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(49)
Dunlap Canyon Retreat
43 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Dunlap, CA
22 acres of camp sites and another 40 acres nextdoor to a hang gliders and paragliders landing. We have restrooms with showers attached to a geodesic dome on property. BBQ , water at sites. A seasonal 2 acre pond. We are about 25mi from sequoia and Kings Canyon right off the Highway 180 and a close drive from restaurants, stores. Beautiful views. We strive to make sure you have an amazing experience in the outdoors. We are still working on making the campground 100% so sorry in advance but what we are lacking we will make up for it with making your experience memorable hope to meet everyone soon
P.S I got 6 things ask you to do while you are here
1.Enjoy your time here
2. If you need anything or have concerns say something ( I will try to accommodate the best I can)
3.Have fun
4. Only TP in toilets please
5. Make memories
6. Be respectful to your neighbors ( Get to know them. I don’t really have quite hours just keep in mind some ppl might be waking up early to hike in the park)
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$40
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98%
(48)
Camp SourBerry (near Yosemite)
2 sites · RVs40 acres · Oakhurst, CA
Welcome to Camp SourBerry! Here, you can park your home-on-wheels in a private space with a view. You can enjoy the feeling of rural seclusion while within walking distance (~1 mile) from shops and restaurants in Oakhurst. The South Gate to Yosemite National Park is less than a 30-minute drive (~75 minutes drive-time to the Valley floor), and Bass Lake's shores are only 15 minutes away.
Local wildlife is abundant. Wild turkeys are a common sighting, especially in the spring and fall, as are squirrels, bears, deer, coyotes, and bobcats, plus all kinds of native birds (hawks, quail, jays, woodpeckers, ravens, vultures, and eagles). We have a small homestead-style farm and so do the neighbors, so you can hear the distant sounds of chickens, turkeys, sheep, goats, and cows. Because the safety of our animals (and yours) is paramount, we do not allow other pets to visit.
The parking location is an ease pull-through for passenger vehicles and shorter trailers. People with longer, taller trailers find it easier to pull-in and back out. The best view is on the passenger side of the drive!
Whether you want to stay put and enjoy the natural setting or have a base from which to explore world-class attractions, we would love to host your next vacation.
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$10
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100%
(392)
Ace's Yosemite Hide Out
3 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Coarsegold, CA
Ace's Yosemite Hide Out Is close to Yosemite National Park South entrance on a 30 acre Ranch and is very privately located at the base of a mountain in Coarsegold Ca. with beautiful oak trees and lots of wildlife.
There is a barbecue pit, picnic table, sink to wash dishes and hands and a propane fire pit at each campsite
You can walk or drive a short distance to the outside shower from the campsite
Take a beautiful short hike and see the horses and miniature Donkeys
Yosemite Park South entrance is 27.5 miles, Takes about 50 minutes
Yosemite valley is a 1 1/2 hr beautiful drive. Chukchansi casino is 5 miles.
Bass Lake is on the way to Yosemite with excellent restaurants swimming and day camping by the lake! Lots of biking and hiking trails
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$50
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99%
(65)
The Mountain Chapel Campground
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Badger, CA
While on a family backpacking excursion through Sequoia King’s Canyon National Park, and the surrounding area, we came across this charming campground. A long-forgotten chapel in the mountains that was formerly a summer camp.
From here, a short 15-minute drive will take you directly to the main entrance of Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park for access to the Giant Sequoias at Grant Grove and the Grant Grove Village. For those who prefer to travel off the beaten path, a short 30-minute hike will take you to the National Forest.
We are excited to invite you to camp at this hidden gem, while we undertake to restore the campground to its original splendor.
Easy drive to available parking, with easy access and pull through drive for any vehicle, even with trailers.
For campers bringing their own tents, we provide beautiful and well- shaded sites with level ground, soft grass, tucked underneath the many old-growth trees.
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$35
/ night
97%
(15)
Jackass Hostel
1 site · Tent1 acre · North Fork, CA
Located 23 miles (45 min drive) to the southern entrance of Yosemite, minutes from Bass Lake and a short walk to the sleepy town of North Fork where you'll find food, coffee and grocery stores, Jackass Hostel offers comfortable backyard style camping on .3 acres with a communal fire pit and views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Bring your tent and throw down in our backyard. This is a great location if you are looking for a rest between adventures where you can shower, use a kitchen and rest. Please note that this is backyard style camping. If you are looking for a remote campground in the woods, this isn’t it.
Outdoor adventurists, backpackers and campers welcome! This is an adult only location please ages 18 and up only. This location is not suitable for children.
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$35
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94%
(1142)
Southgate Summit-closed for winter
8 sites · Tents20 acres · Oakhurst, CA
Hey Campers! We are temporarily closed for the winter.... but back open April 1st! See you then!
This area was once inhabited by local native American Tribes. In the 1840's prospectors arrived in search of gold but none was found in the immediate area. Old Yosemite Base camp was along the route into Yosemite National Park prior to the construction of Highway 41. Horse and Carriage traveled along Old Yosemite Road from Mariposa and the entire golden state. Visitors from the world now pass through Oakhurst to Yosemite National Park along this route. Don't for to check out Bass Lake and its full service amenities.
ALL CAMP SITES REQUIRE 4 WHEEL DRIVE or All-Wheel drive- NO Exceptions.
Hipcampers, come pitch your tent at one of five Old Yosemite Base Camp drive in and walk in sites. OYBC offers over six acres of pine, oak, and bay trees, sprinkled around large granite features that remind you that Half Dome is not far away! Each unique site is equipped with a stone fire ring with cook top and a picnic table accommodating four person dining. Old Yosemite Base Camp is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset and stargaze next to a campfire after an adventurous day in the southern Yosemite region. Yosemite tent camping without all the crowds and tour buses is what you can expect. Backing up to the Sierra National Forest OYBC is conveniently located near HWY 41 just 14 miles from Yosemite’s south gate entrance. The region also offers a large amount of hiking trails where you can find swim holes, waterfalls giant sequoias, lakes, and rivers. Take 15-minute drive to Bass Lake and enjoy water sports and lake view dining.
OYBC offers five camp sites and all wheel drive is required to get to the top of camp. OYBC sites 1, 2, 3, are drive up sites and 4 & 5 are walk in sites that have a separate parking area. All wheel drive is still needed to get to this lot.
Have a large group? Old Yosemite Base Camp offers discounts for larger parties of up to 25 campers. Message OYBC to reserve the whole mountainside to yourselves!
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$66
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96%
(57)
Little Piece of Yosemite
1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Mariposa, CA
Learn more about this land:River status: flowing!
Camp on our small piece of paradise located near Yosemite. We are a family of 5 (me, my husband, our two toddlers and our dog, River) living on 5 acres of mountain land in the foothills of the Sierras complete with an outdoor shower and bath and also flowing (seasonal) stream that you can swim in. Feel free to wander around the property on a few of our trails or just chill by the water and enjoy the magic of the mountains.
Our property is about a 45 min drive to the Yosemite entrance.
Dogs are more than welcome as long as they are ok with our dog wandering around. He’s super sweet loves everybody.
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$120
/ night
The best camping near Sierra National Forest guide
Overview
About
In the western Sierra Nevada between Yosemite and Kings Canyon national parks, Sierra National Forest is an outdoor lover’s dream. With a diverse landscape spanning rolling foothills to towering peaks, the forest is also home to five wilderness areas, two wild and scenic rivers, two national scenic byways, two nationally designated trails, and numerous lakes. Hiking, climbing, biking, horseback riding, off-roading, fishing, swimming, boating, paddling, and rafting are all popular activities. With more than 60 developed campgrounds and plenty of space for dispersed camping, campers have options for spending a few days exploring the region’s riches.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for Shaver Lake access: Dorabelle Campground is the only forest service campground at Shaver Lake.
- Best for hot springs: The Mono Hot Springs Campground is located near several natural hot springs; amenities can be found at the Mono Hot Springs Resort nearby.
- Best for exploring the Ansel Adams Wilderness: Set on the shores of Lake Thomas Edison, Vermillion Campground is just a ferry ride away from trails.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- During peak summer season, plan to reserve a campsite as soon as you know your dates. Reservations can be made at least three days and up to six months in advance.
- If you don’t have a reservation, arrive first thing in the morning to grab a site at a first-come, first-served campground.
- Be sure to check on seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary by campground.
When to go
Summers are the most popular times for camping in the forest. Although the forest is less crowded than many area parks, popular campgrounds fill up early. Visit in the spring and early summer for wildflowers and rafting, and fall for colorful foliage. Winter activities, including downhill and cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing, are also popular and snow dependent. Snow and ice can also affect road and trail access.
Know before you go
- Permits are required for backpacking in the Ansel Adams, John Muir, Dinkey Lakes, and Kaiser wildernesses. Permits go on sale in March for dates six months ahead.
- Campfire permits are required outside of developed campsites. Some areas do not permit any fires, even when fire regulations are not in place.
- Forest products, including mushrooms, bracken fern, and firewood, require permits.
- Be bear aware and store scented items outside your tent in a bear-proof container.
- Fishing licenses are required for anglers 16 and older. Special regulations apply to wild and scenic rivers.
- Motorboats must be registered to access Bass Lake.
Nearby attractions
- Experience the tranquility of riverside camping near the Merced River. With its clear waters, abundant fishing opportunities, and scenic surroundings, the Merced River camping experience blends adventure and relaxation in California's serene wilderness.
- Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting and relaxing fishing sessions when camping near Tuolumne River. With ruggedly beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife, the Tuolumne River camping experience is truly one for the outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list.
Top cities near Sierra National Forest
- Sierra National Forest
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