RV Camping Near Sonora, CA, US: 20 Best RV Parks 2026

As a gateway to the Sierra Nevada, Sonora makes a great RV camping basecamp for alpine adventure, including hiking, mountain biking, paddling, fishing, and rock climbing. This historic Gold Rush town has multiple RV parks and RV resorts with full hookups and wifi, and RV camping can also be found closeby at New Melones Lake. Both the Tuttletown and Glory Hole Recreation Areas have pet-friendly RV sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms, too. To camp higher up in the Sierra, check out the Pinecrest Campground in Stanislaus National Forest, about 40 minutes east of Sonora. Seated at 5,600 feet on the shores of Pinecrest Lake, the campground has a food mart and restaurant within walking distance. Incredible RV camping in Yosemite National Park is also about an hour away from Sonoma.

95% (6.7K) • 310 campsites

Top-rated RV parks near Sonora

As a gateway to the Sierra Nevada, Sonora makes a great RV camping basecamp for alpine adventure, including hiking, mountain biking, paddling, fishing, and rock climbing. This historic Gold Rush town has multiple RV parks and RV resorts with full hookups and wifi, and RV camping can also be found closeby at New Melones Lake. Both the Tuttletown and Glory Hole Recreation Areas have pet-friendly RV sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms, too. To camp higher up in the Sierra, check out the Pinecrest Campground in Stanislaus National Forest, about 40 minutes east of Sonora. Seated at 5,600 feet on the shores of Pinecrest Lake, the campground has a food mart and restaurant within walking distance. Incredible RV camping in Yosemite National Park is also about an hour away from Sonoma.

95% (6.7K) • 310 campsites

Top-rated RV parks near Sonora

1. Diamond Gulch

96%

(1160)

11mi from Sonora · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Groups of 15 or more use this code for 15% off your stay! ADMXESCZ Check out this sweet YouTube video of the property! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEvKF5nqcUM Early and late check-out available on tent/rv sites, free of charge. Just message me if you need an earlier check in! Free firewood! We are 30 minutes to the main gate of Yosemite National Park. A great place to stay just outside of the park. Be near the park, but feel that complete privacy. These sites are very spaced out from each other and are large. No need to cram together! Explore the mines and hang out on our Groveland, California ranch! We have 824 acres on a beautiful cattle ranch with two small ponds. On our property, you'll find frogs, turtles, oak trees, pine trees and stunning views of Yosemite. We have several campsites to choose from including RV camping, tent camping, and a glamping tent. Pets are welcome. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban. Potable water and toilet are available onsite. There's a golf course less than a mile away. We are also very close to town. In just a few minutes, you can drive to our local grocery store and pizza parlour. We are a 10-minute drive to Pine Mountain Lake. Beautiful Pine Mountain Lake offers golfing, dining, horseback riding, water sports and an airport. When you come to the ranch it feels like you are hundreds of miles away from civilization, but still close to everything you need. It is incredibly peaceful! This is a great place for someone who wants to escape city life and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Much of the ranch is open wilderness for you to explore, and it's not uncommon to see deer, frogs, turtles, quail, turkeys, or other countless species of birds. Diamond Gulch Camp is the perfect place to relax if you’re a photographer, artist, family or a group of friends looking for a place to camp near Yosemite. A small portion of the property was used as a gold mine years ago, and you may find remnants of old home sites if you go exploring. We're not far from Wards Ferry Road, Groveland, Lake Don Pedro and other interesting places.

2. Cosumnes River Ranch

99%

(1896)

45mi from Sonora · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are a family owned/operated ranch, located along the Cosumnes River, one of the last un-dammed rivers in California. As one of the last rivers flowing from the west slope of the Sierra without a major dam, the Cosumnes is a vital example of a healthy watershed. Our goal is to offer a unique outdoor experience for anyone looking for a place to spend time in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a single campsite, or a place for a larger gathering, we're excited to have you visit! Take your pick of activities available on site: swimming , gold panning, fishing, camp fires, wildlife watching, floating, hiking, and mountain biking to name a few. There are 3 miles of river to explore. *Please note: We don't allow wood campfires during the summer months (generally the last week of May through September)*

3. Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

95%

(583)

47mi from Sonora · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

There is NOTHING like being in the wilderness of this area for a good re-centering of the soul! We have found it to be a true blessing for our family, and we hope you can experience this blessing as we share this space with you. We feel certain you will not be disappointed with our beautiful river canyon. Our property is situated right on the middle fork Cosumnes river. The swimming is awesome and the stars at night will put you into a state of awe! In the area there are many family owned wineries in the area, most of them offering free tasting! It’s a short drive to Tahoe and the Marshall gold discovery site as well as the historic hangtown Placerville. We are happy to make suggestions for local hiking areas, like the Devil's Slide "Gorge" only a 15 minute drive but like a trip to mini Yosemite. The Caldor Fire was VERY close to our property and a back burn was initiated nearby the our house (literally 200' away!). Our property became a pivotal point of fighting the fire in our community known as the “Ant Hill Army”.

4. Stanislaus National Forest

93%

(173)

1530 sites · Strawberry, California

An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.

Electrical hookup

Sewer hookup

Pets

5. Calaveras Big Trees State Park

99%

(41)

178 sites · Dorrington, California

Get ready to be amazed, because "Big Trees" is an understatement.

Pets

6. 49er Village

43mi from Sonora · 201 sites · RVs, Lodging

Discover the unique charm of 49er Village, a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque Sierra Foothills of Amador County. This family-friendly campground stands out with its extensive range of accommodations, featuring hundreds of full-hookup sites and delightful cabin rentals that cater to every need. At 49er Village, you can unwind in the inviting swimming pools and rejuvenate in the hot tub. Engage in friendly competition with games like shuffleboard, horseshoes, or billiards. For nature enthusiasts, the fishing ponds offer a serene escape to connect with the great outdoors. Dining is a pleasure at the on-site Café at the Park, where you can savor delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner. When you're ready to explore beyond the campground, the area boasts over 35 award-winning wineries and numerous championship golf courses. Don't miss the chance to experience the stunning natural beauty of Amador Flower Farm in the scenic Shenandoah Valley. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, 49er Village is the perfect destination for your family getaway.

7. Yosemite Colfax Spring

98%

(979)

22mi from Sonora · 13 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Your Basecamp for Yosemite Adventure 🌲⛰ Just 15–20 minutes from the entrance of Yosemite National Park and about an hour from the Yosemite Valley floor, our camp offers the perfect location to recharge after exploring one of the most iconic natural landscapes on Earth. We’re also about 1.5 hours from the high-country beauty of Tuolumne Meadows, making this a great launchpad for day trips in every direction. Perched in the scenic Sierra foothills, our dry camping sites are celebrated for breathtaking panoramic views, open skies, and unforgettable sunrises and starry nights. It’s an ideal place to unwind, reconnect, and experience the outdoors in its raw beauty — without giving up the comfort of flushing toilets and hot, on-demand showers. Most of our sites are best suited for those who plan to explore during the day and return in the evening, as they receive full sun and have limited shade throughout the midday hours (during the summer months). For those looking to hang around camp during the day, we recommend bringing a shade canopy or pop-up to make your stay more comfortable. Whether you’re here for epic hikes, rock climbs, or peaceful views, our camp is a restful and rustic homebase nestled close to the wonders of Yosemite.

8. Yosemite Westlake Camp

88%

(642)

21mi from Sonora · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Located on the John Muir Historic route to Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Westlake Campground and RV Park is convenient to all things Yosemite. Between here and the park is Rainbow Pool, a well-known swimming hole that campers here often visit on their way back to the campground for a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Coulterville was started as a gold-rush town. You can visit the museum and visitor center even try your hand at panning for gold.

9. Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

97%

(358)

45mi from Sonora · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

A six acre organic vineyard & natural winery on 21 acres awaits you at Gold Dust Vineyard. A working natural winery and cidery, come enjoy a glass, relax in the breezes at 2’700 feet. Decomposed granite soils and high elevation make for sweeping views and even better natural wine and cider! We welcome guests year round! Surrounded by nature, there is so much to do! Up in the Foothills, we experience all four seasons! Come relax☮️ March - May 🌸Don’t miss the wildflowers & babbling brooks, steams & rivers June - September 🏞Swimming in the Consumnes River or paddle boarding at Jenkinson Lake September - December 🍂🍁Fall foliage, wine harvest, apple picking and alpaca petting December - March ❄️⛷Snowy hikes, mushroom hunting and quick trips to South Lake Tahoe We accept reservations for wine and cider tastings and typically host guests between the hours of 11 am and 5 pm. Occasionally, during very hot and busy holiday weekends, we will host an evening tasting. We have running water on the side of the winery building. Please note, we are a mom and pop shop with just two of us and our young son running the show. We live on site in a tiny house and use the tasting area as our 'back yard' during off hours. We ask that guests please respect our area and off hours requests. We do not permit live fires or generators.

10. New Hogan Lake

71%

(7)

205 sites · Valley Springs, California

Discover the serene beauty of New Hogan Lake and its outdoor delights.

Sewer hookup

Pets

11. Turlock Lake State Recreation Area

83%

(7)

111 sites · Hickman, California

Park with both lake and river offers camping and water recreation in the San Joaquin Valley.

Pets

12. Yosemite National Park

97%

(1679)

1526 sites · Yosemite Valley, California

Pros know Yosemite camping is either a feat of advanced planning or a willingness to wing it.

Sewer hookup

Pets

13. Sierra National Forest

92%

(176)

1360 sites · Big Creek, California

“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.

Electrical hookup

Sewer hookup

Pets

14. The Painted Lake

97%

(134)

10mi from Sonora · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

15. Squirrel Rock RV Campground

100%

(174)

3.6mi from Sonora · 2 sites · RVs

Private gated RV campground in the Gold Country. Located in the historic townsite of Columbia known as the "Gem of the Southern Mines". There is 1 site so you'll have the campground to yourselves. There are 2 electrical panels so you can bring your family or friends if you like. If there are 2 RV's you can reserve the campground as a double site. WE ONLY ACCEPT FULLY SELF CONTAINED RV'S ONLY. NO TENTS NO LONG TERM STAYS. Campsite has 2 electric pedestals 50/30/110. Water hookups at each site. NO SEWER. NO DUMP NO RESTROOMS AVAILABLE. Includes picnic table, camp fire ring, Weber BBQ, doggie station, horseshoe pit, corn hole, walking trails, and garbage/recycle bins. Winter camping dates subject to weather conditions. Located 0.6 mile to Columbia State Historic Park, parking and entrance is free and open year around. It is about a 15 minute walk. Close to Murphys, New Melones lake and Tuttletown recreation area, Moaning Caverns, Downtown Sonora, Mother Lode Escape Rooms, Columbia Airport, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, Black Oak Casino, Chicken Ranch Casino, Indigeny Reserve, Inner Sanctum Cellars Basecamp with other wineries and breweries nearby. About a 50 minute drive to Big Trees State Park and Pinecrest Lake. Yosemite National Park is about 1-1/2 hour drive to the Yosemite valley floor. Check for YARTS for transportation from downtown Sonora to Yosemite valley. There are several rafting outfitters in the area. Restaurants in the immediate vicinity include Mandy's Breakfast-Lunch, Columbia Frosty, El Jardin, St. Charles Saloon Pizza. Gas, diesel mini mart, market store nearby.

16. Sage

93%

(14)

35mi from Sonora · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Sage (named for our beloved 15 year old lab who passed) is a conveniently located property right on Highway 88 in Pioneer, California. Warm and inviting, Sage is a relaxing, modern spot for people heading up to Kirkwood for skiing or for nature, lakes, and fishing. Our place offers a fully operational commercial style communal outdoor kitchen, a small stage, huge redwood, slab dining table, and 14 acres of camping area. It also offers a beautiful 8 foot stock tank hot tub with the freshest clean snowpack water. So clean that it shares an aquifer with Crystal Geyser bottled water. These are all communal spaces. Please keep this in mind when booking, and be prepared to meet some great folks. Be kind to one another and enjoy the experience. We have several stay options to choose from, including a loft and group rates.

17. Red Tail Ranch at Yosemite

97%

(287)

16mi from Sonora · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

Only 25 minutes from Yosemite's entrance gate, come stay at stunning Red Tail Ranch and avoid the crowds of the big campgrounds. With fast wifi, abundant hot water for showers, clean/flush toilets and inside space for cooking with a commercial sink for dishes, all the necessities for a comfortable stay are on site. Use Red Tail Ranch as an ideal launching off point for Yosemite or stay on the property and enjoy all that it has to offer. Red Tail Ranch is a beautiful 90 acre property in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Among the oak woodlands, meadows and coniferous forest, there are numerous trails to explore the property and direct riding access to a developed mountain biking area nearby. Great birding, botanizing and wildlife watching opportunities abound. We have RV sites with hookups, a five site drive-in campground and one walk-in campsite- all with clean, flush toilet bathrooms, hot outdoor showers, indoor camp kitchen and gathering space. Whether your pitching a tent, parking a campervan or rv, there are opportunities for everyone. For large events, workshops or reunions, Red Tail Ranch can be rented out in its entirety- please reach out with any questions or how to do this. New additions to the campground include hammocks, basketball, cornhole, darts and a ring toss game for all to enjoy. We are 10 minutes from the small town of Groveland with a market and restaurants and just down the road from the put in for rafting on the Tuolumne river. Our pricing is a little higher than other places nearby and this is due to the property's great locations, incredible beauty, and all of the amenities added for a great experience. If wanting more information about Yosemite or the surroundings, host Robb Hirsch is a biologist and professional nature photographer with 25 years of experience in the area. He also is connected with all the local guides for any outdoor adventure referrals. Concerned about getting into Yosemite with the new summer reservation requirements? We know all the details, including how to navigate and get through or around the system. Stay with us and we will show you how to access the park with or without reservations.

18. Camping At Yosemite's Doorstep

96%

(96)

27mi from Sonora · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Reserve your tent site on 15 exclusive, wooded-acres only 10 minutes from the entrance to Yosemite National Park. Once you've set up camp, you can explore the walking trails on the property and if you make it to the top, why not enjoy a lovely picnic with beautiful mountain views? Conveniently located across the highway from a gas station and a general store, you never have to worry about running out of ice or forgetting to bring the bug spray. If our base package isn't enough, as an "extra" we can have a tent set up and ready for you when you arrive. Whatever you're looking for, Yosemite's Doorstep is ready to provide the ideal camping experience to suit your needs.

19. Cole Ranch

100%

(401)

31mi from Sonora · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

"I firmly believe that Nature brings solace in all troubles." -Anne Frank- Serene, quiet acreage on the Tuolumne River, with views of the snow capped Sierra Nevadas on a clear day. Scores of wildlife sightings, including river otters, eagles, wild turkeys, beavers, and many more. Perfect for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or just relaxing. Like to fish? Fishing at Cole Ranch is a Love/Hate thing. If you Love to Fish, you will Hate to leave. Gateway to Yosemite National Park, the Mother Lode region, hiking trails, and spelunking opportunities, Cole Ranch has just about everything a camper would look for. All sites have access to our community outdoor kitchen, which has a refrigerator, coffee bar, sink, BBQ's, and stoves. Also available are our bathrooms, quite possibly the cleanest campground bathrooms in the 13 western states, which include flushable toilets, two sinks, and warm showers. Book your visit now. (Group bookings must be approved by host. Group bookings that have not been pre-approved may be cancelled.) ** Ever see a meteor shower? Cole Ranch is a perfect place to view one. Following is a list of Meteor Showers in 2025. (Dates indicate best night to see meteors) Lyrids. - April 22 Eta Aquarids. - May 4 Delta Aquarids - July 30 Perseids - Aug 12 Orionids. - Oct 22 Leonids. - Nov 17 Geminids - Dec 13 (Cole Ranch is a working ranch, surrounded by walnut and almond orchards. Harvest for these orchards occur mid-August thru September, and can create dust and noise. Occasional noise from common ranching activities may be heard. Landscaping activities like mowing, watering, etc. generally occur Mondays-Wednesdays) Check back here periodically for advisories on river conditions. ** RIVER ADVISORY UDATE - 4/21/25 ** The river rose unexpectedly yesterday, about a foot so far. According to those in control of the fluctuations, it is supposed to be back to normal level by Friday, 4/25/25. Feel free to text or call Barry at (209) 484-3675 if you have any questions.

20. Camp Electra in Mokelumne Hill

95%

(22)

28mi from Sonora · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Meander through Historic Mokelumne Hill also known as Moke Hill to locals. Listen to music and have a drink on weekends at the Renegade Winery. Explore the Mokelumne river up Electra road. Plenty to see and experience all within walking distance. Mokelumne Hill is a quant town with lots of charm in the heart of the Gold Country. Bring your own tent or your small RV and campout at our rig site or "glamp" in our vintage VW "Choncho".

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

H

Harley

2 days ago

16 ft car

1 night at Shangrilog Near Yosemite

Such a beautiful location and the host was so kind and accommodating!

C

Connor

1 week ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

Great spot to camp, clear directions, felt very welcoming and safe!

K

Kelsey

1 week ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

Clean and well organized, thanks for the stay. We would recommend

A

Artur

3 weeks ago

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Squirrel Rock RV Campground

What an amazing spot. Had everything we needed and was extremely clean. Lot's of things to do around town. Highly recommended.

G

Gaven

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

The campground has amazing views of the canyon and waterfalls. The bathrooms and campsites were very clean and the area felt very safe, definitely would recommend to come camp.

A

Anne

December 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cole Ranch

I had to cancel my reservation but Barry the host was very understanding . I hope to get there at a later time.

K

Kenneth

December 2025

29 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Squirrel Rock RV Campground

Best campground in Gold Country. We always stay here when visit this area of California.

R

Robert

December 2025

Tent

2 nights at Diamond Gulch

Great place. The host was warm and welcoming. Loads of signs to find your way. The cows roam but can be close sometimes which was fun. I stayed at the top of the hill in a sense and woke up to a great sunrise. Clean porta potty and overall clean site. Loads of places to discard trash. Great place and close enough to Yosemite.

M

Michael

December 2025

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Squirrel Rock RV Campground

Our stay at Squirrel Rock was absolutely fantastic. Julie was super nice and gave us the perfect balance of attention and privacy. The campground is beautiful and so well maintained plus there are lots of things to see in the Columbia area. We will definitely be coming back and recommend Squirrel Rock to everyone else looking for a quiet getaway in the gold country.

G

Gwendal

November 2025

25 ft Class C

With kids

Weekend Trip to Squirrel Rock RV Campground

Beautiful camp, extremely well maintained. Our 2 families had a great time and the kids loved climbing the rocks! Walking distance to Columbia state park as well! Highly recommend

M

Madison

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Diamond Gulch

we’ve stayed at John’s farm 3 times now, once in spring and twice in late November. every time it has been so amazing! the property is gorgeous and there’s so much open grassy areas to wander and sit on a blanket and just enjoy being in nature and not hearing any sounds but cows mooing! the porta potty is always clean and the camping spaces are large and well equipped with fire pits and wood! i would highly recommend John’s land to anyone. thank you again for sharing your property, John!

S

Sabina

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

My husband and I had an amazing stay at this campsite! The bathrooms were extremely clean and well-maintained, with two separate restrooms each equipped with a sink. The showers had reliably hot water. The campsite itself came with a picnic table and benches, a fire ring (with propane available to rent for an additional fee), and a nicely leveled area perfect for setting up tents. There were convenient small water stations nearby. The views were beautiful, and the site was very easy to find thanks to the clear and detailed instructions from Leeza and Tom. They were incredibly responsive and diligent hosts, making the entire process—from locating the site to settling in—smooth and stress-free. The location is also excellent: just about 40–50 minutes from the Yosemite entrance, making it a convenient and affordable option for exploring the park. For our first time camping in a car and visiting Yosemite, this was the ideal spot. We really enjoyed our stay and are already planning to return. Perfect for a one-night weekend getaway from the city. Highly recommended! 🌲✨

H

Hillary

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Yosemite Colfax Spring

Beautiful area and views, very peaceful. Our plan for a heat source didn’t cut it and the hosts were super helpful and responsive anytime we messaged!

RV/Van Site with full hookups at Camp Electra

Jhonathan

November 2025

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Camp Electra in Mokelumne Hill

Ryan was a great host and very gracious. We purchased firewood from him and he brought us kindling twice when we were having trouble, teaching us about making fires along the way. We have an RV, but there is an outhouse with toilet and hot shower, and a sink to do dishes on the other side. Great view of the stars with minimal light pollution. Would recommend.

M

Mia

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake

Amazing and attentive hosts, Jeremy is awesome! Super friendly animals on the property and great views of the lake. Highly recommend, hosted our large group with ease. Will be returning!!

R

Ruth

November 2025

29 ft Class C

With kids

1 night at Diamond Gulch

Very quiet, basic campsite. We loved it! The road to the campsite is narrow and a bit bumpy, but we made it with our 28ft motorhome.

R

Rosalina

November 2025

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Diamond Gulch

It was such a peaceful place. It's super clean and we just loved the beautiful nights with endless firewood! Thank you for such a great experience!

K

Kryss

November 2025

25 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cole Ranch

We've camped at Cole Ranch twice now and had a great time both times. Barry is a great host. I love the amenities there.

K

Kevin

November 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

My wife and I loved our stay at Aaron’s vineyard. Our camper van was parked over looking the grape vines. We spent Saturday afternoon tasting wine at the outdoor tasting room, with a beautiful sunset. Aaron was very nice and accommodating. Will definitely be back again!

L

Liss

November 2025

24 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Yosemite Colfax Spring

The Hipcamp was perfect for our RV, we just pulled right up to the deck. No worries about rocks or stickers! Morning view with coffee was peaceful and the starry night was beyond words. The water fill station was convenient and the bathrooms were clean and comfortable. We came out to enjoy Yosemite and we were so close to the gate we lounged in the morning and got to the park so early we had the best parking space for our 24ft. Lastly, there are beautiful river spots on the way to Yosemite. Hope the review was helpful!