Forks Campground (Sierra)
4.47146 reviews39900 Road 222, Bass Lake, CA 93604
Quick Facts
3,400 ftPrice
$52 - $104/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
40 campsites
Season
Open April 4th throu...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
3,400 ftPrice
$52 - $104/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
40 campsites
Season
Open April 4th throu...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsForks Campground (Sierra)
$52.00 - $104.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates range from $52-$104 per night, with an additional $2 holiday surcharge. Discounts may apply for Interagency pass holders.
Standard Site Fee$52.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$52.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider559-642-3212clm@clm-services.com
What Campers Say
4.47
Recommended
Based on 146 reviews
115 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanrestroomslakefriendly
Some mention
noisecrowded
"Forks Campground receives high praise for its cleanliness, friendly camp hosts, and proximity to Bass Lake. However, some reviewers noted issues such as noise from nearby roads, swarms of insects, and occasional trash overflow."
Fees & Passes at Forks Campground (Sierra)
$52 - $104/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum 14 consecutive nights at the campground and a total of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Cancellation: $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations forfeit the first night’s fee. Refund requests must...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Vista Recreation website.
Best Time to Camp at Forks Campground (Sierra)
Summer transforms this mountain paradise into a sun-drenched playground where temperatures regularly climb above 90°F, perfect for those refreshing dips in Bass Lake. As evening approaches and humidity rises, the forest comes alive with nature's symphony—though you'll want to have insect repellent handy as mosquitoes make their twilight appearance. When winter arrives, the landscape shifts to a crisp, dry wonderland where cold mountain air creates crystal-clear nights perfect for stargazing.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 4 - September 6 (peak season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open April 4th through September 6th annually. Closed during off-season.
- Current Alerts: Fire restrictions and road work may affect access. "Some road work was going to be done so we would have to take the detour."
About Forks Campground (Sierra)
Perched on a scenic hillside above the sparkling waters of Bass Lake, Forks Campground invites you into a world where towering ponderosa pines mingle with ancient oaks and fragrant cedars. This meticulously maintained mountain retreat has earned its reputation as a premier basecamp for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Wake up to panoramic lake views filtered through a canopy of evergreens, and spend your days exploring endless recreational opportunities just moments from your campsite.
Forks Campground accommodates a range of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. No primitive or luxury glamping options are noted.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Forks Campground places you at the doorstep of one of America's most treasured landscapes. Just a short drive away, Yosemite National Park stands as a testament to both natural wonder and human heritage. These lands have been home to Native American peoples for thousands of years, their stories woven into the very granite cliffs and meadows that continue to inspire millions. The surrounding region tells tales of geological forces that shaped continents and cultural traditions that span millennia.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain paradise into a sun-drenched playground where temperatures regularly climb above 90°F, perfect for those refreshing dips in Bass Lake. As evening approaches and humidity rises, the forest comes alive with nature's symphony—though you'll want to have insect repellent handy as mosquitoes make their twilight appearance. When winter arrives, the landscape shifts to a crisp, dry wonderland where cold mountain air creates crystal-clear nights perfect for stargazing.
ElevationAt 3,400 feet above sea level, Forks Campground offers the perfect sweet spot of mountain living. Here, the air carries a refreshing coolness that provides welcome relief from valley heat, while panoramic vistas stretch out before you in every direction. This elevation gifts visitors with comfortable temperatures for hiking, stunning sunrise and sunset views, and that special quality of mountain light that makes every photograph a masterpiece.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within the magnificent Sierra National Forest at 3,400 feet, Forks Campground showcases nature's artistry at every turn. The landscape unfolds in layers of beauty—from gentle, oak-studded foothills that roll like golden waves to densely forested slopes cloaked in emerald green. Keep your binoculars ready for spectacular wildlife viewing, as both bald and golden eagles soar overhead, their majestic silhouettes etched against Sierra skies. Below, Bass Lake sparkles like a sapphire jewel, its waters beckoning adventurers to explore its hidden coves and peaceful shores.
Geological RegionSet on the western slope of the mighty Sierra Nevada, Forks Campground occupies a geological wonderland millions of years in the making. The Sierra National Forest encompasses a dramatic elevation gradient that tells the story of California's natural diversity—from sun-baked foothills dressed in golden grasses and stately oaks, through mid-elevation forests thick with conifers and mountain meadows, all the way up to alpine peaks that scrape the sky. This dynamic landscape offers visitors a front-row seat to the powerful forces that continue to shape the American West.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe flush toilets meet accessibility standards. Some sites may be challenging for those with mobility issues due to hilly terrain.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating small to medium RVs and tents. Site 14, for example, fits a full-size pickup and a 25-foot trailer with limited space remaining.
Sites PrivacyCampsite privacy varies, with some sites offering seclusion and others closely spaced. Site 19 is noted for its privacy, while sites near the road offer less seclusion.
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring shade structures for sites with limited tree cover (e.g., Site 27). Screened gazebos recommended to deter yellow jackets while cooking. Choose sites away from the busy road for quieter experiences.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 consecutive nights at the campground and a total of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 people per site. Larger groups may require additional sites.
Groups
Group-specific camping details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in loops with varying terrain. Some are close to the road, while others offer seclusion with wooded surroundings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 4th through September 6th annually. Closed during off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites must be occupied by checkout time the day following the reservation start; otherwise, they are forfeited for walk-ups.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations forfeit the first night’s fee. Refund requests must be submitted within 14 days of departure.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Forks Campground offers a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Bass Lake is a hub for swimming, motorized and non-motorized boating, water skiing, sailing, and fishing. The area is also popular for hiking, with several trails accessible from the campground, including Goat Mountain Trail. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with bald and golden eagles among the highlights. Educational programs are available on summer weekends.
Hiking
The Goat Mountain Trail, at 2.6 miles, is directly accessible from the campground. Other nearby trails include Willow Creek (2.7 miles), Spring Cove (2.6 miles), and the 1-mile Way-of-the-Mono Interpretive Trail. These trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views.Fishing
Bass Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities for bass, trout, bluegill, and catfish. A user review highlighted catching 'amazing size trout.'Swimming
Swimming is available at Bass Lake. Campers are advised to bring water shoes due to rocky entrances. The lake is described as clean and at a pleasant temperature during summer.Boating
Boating is a popular activity at Bass Lake, with options for motorized and non-motorized boating, water skiing, and sailing. A boat ramp is available, though parking for boat trailers is limited at the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing includes sightings of bald and golden eagles. One reviewer noted seeing deer and a hawk close to the campsite.Beach activities
Beach activities are available at Bass Lake, including sunbathing and swimming. The lake features clean water and areas suitable for family recreation.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are offered on weekends during the summer. Details about topics and schedules are not provided.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described for this campground.Water Sports
The lake supports various water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood sold for $8 per bundle. "Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions."
- Quiet hours enforced from 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and yellow jackets are common nuisances. "Yellow jackets were just relentless." Bears have been sighted; campers must store food securely in vehicles.
Active alertsFire restrictions and road work may affect access. "Some road work was going to be done so we would have to take the detour."
Weather at Forks Campground (Sierra)
57
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include Sierra National Forest Headquarters, 559-297-0706, located approximately in Fresno, CA. Additional services available in Oakhurst.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 4 - September 6 (peak season).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, although some reviews mentioned occasional overflow during high occupancy periods. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is steps away from Bass Lake, which offers swimming, fishing, and boating activities.
Common complaintsNoise along road-adjacent sites; mosquito issues during humid dusk hours; lack of shower facilities; crowded conditions during holiday weekends.
HostHosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and diligence. "The camp host drives through several times a day and enforces 10pm quiet time curfew."
Campground Map
39900 Road 222, Bass Lake, CA 93604
Driving directionsFrom Fresno, California: Take Highway 41 north through Oakhurst. Turn right on Forest Road 222 (toward Bass Lake), keep right for 3.5 miles to the Bass Lake Campground office. After registering, continue on for approximately 1.25 miles to the Forks Campground.
Accessible via paved roads. Some reviews report challenges with roadside conditions, particularly near pull-outs. "Our truck almost overturned due to a pipe not being marked from side of road."Nearby places
Oakhurst (10 miles, approx. 15-minute drive), Yosemite National Park entrance (24 miles, approx. 45-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
The Forks Restaurant and general store are walking distance from the campground. Larger stores are located in Oakhurst (10 miles away). Miller’s Landing offers public showers for $4/5 min and is located approximately 3 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
146 reviews
Forks Campground (Sierra) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Forks Campground receives high praise for its cleanliness, friendly camp hosts, and proximity to Bass Lake. However, some reviewers noted issues such as noise from nearby roads, swarms of insects, and occasional trash overflow.
Review Summaries
Based on 146 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised aspects include exceptionally clean restrooms, attentive and friendly camp hosts, and the campground's scenic beauty. Many reviewers appreciated the proximity to Bass Lake and the...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Criticisms include noise from road traffic, lack of showers, insect swarms (mosquitoes and yellow jackets), small campsites, and occasional trash overflow. A few reviews mentioned limited shade and...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing mosquito repellent, pop-up canopies for shade, water shoes for the lake, and a screened gazebo to manage yellow jackets. Sites further from the road offer quieter...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the lake's warm water, family-friendly atmosphere, and increased insect activity. Fall reviews note quieter conditions but less lake activity. Winter reviews are sparse due...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The camp host was amazing! Bathrooms were cleaned multiple times per day and were spotless.'
2. 'Site #19 provides more privacy than any of the other spots in this campground.'
3. 'The lake was a...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 19: Noted for privacy and proximity to the woods. Site 26: Offers great lake views but lacks shade. Site 14: Good lake view but close to the road.
Based on 146 reviewsAccessibility Features
Flush toilets meet accessibility standards, and the grounds are generally well-maintained. However, hilly terrain may be challenging for some visitors.
Based on 146 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, with a limit of two per site. They must be leashed at all times.
Based on 146 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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