Sweetwater (Stanislaus National Forest)

From Fresno take Highway 41 to Oakhurst. Turn right on Forest Road 6S07 just below Fish Camp.

Nestled on a sprawling sandy flat where Big Creek winds through the Sierra National Forest, Big Sandy Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its 18 well-appointed sites. Each campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with grills, fire rings, and picnic tables, creating the perfect basecamp for your wilderness adventures. While some sites offer welcome patches of shade for those warm summer afternoons, visitors should note that this rustic retreat operates without drinking water—so come prepared with your own supply for a true back-to-nature experience.

Highway 41

Nestled just 1.5 miles from Yosemite's South Entrance, Summerdale Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. This hidden gem has earned its reputation as a serene gateway to America's most beloved national park, where pristine facilities blend seamlessly with the tranquil sounds of babbling creek waters and rustling forest canopy. Here, wildflower meadows paint the landscape in seasonal hues, creating a photographer's paradise and a peaceful retreat for those seeking respite from crowded park campgrounds.

Yosemite National Park

Discover your perfect escape where adventure meets tranquility. This hidden gem offers an authentic outdoor experience with modern comforts, creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're seeking peaceful mornings by the campfire or thrilling days exploring nature's playground, you'll find your ideal basecamp here.

Sierra National Forest

Nestled in the heart of the Sierra National Forest, Jerseydale Campground offers a distinctive camping experience where the modern world fades away among towering cedars and pines. The upper loop welcomes equestrian adventurers with dedicated hitching posts, making it a haven for those who prefer to explore on horseback. While the campground's hillside location creates a more rustic atmosphere perfect for RV camping, a select few sites offer level ground for tent enthusiasts seeking an authentic wilderness experience beneath the generous canopy of old-growth shade trees.

PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389, USA

Nestled in the southern reaches of Yosemite National Park, Wawona Campground beckons adventurers to experience the quieter side of this iconic wilderness. At 4,000 feet elevation, this riverside retreat spreads across 93 thoughtfully arranged campsites through three distinct loops—A, B, and C—each offering its own character and charm. The gentle murmur of the South Fork Merced River provides a natural soundtrack as it winds past your tent, while families gather around evening campfires and equestrians settle their horses for the night. Just minutes away, the ancient giants of Mariposa Grove stand sentinel, making Wawona the perfect basecamp for those seeking both tranquility and adventure in America's most treasured national park.

Merced River Recreation Management Area

Nestled along the pristine Wild & Scenic Merced River, McCabe Flat Campground beckons adventurers to discover one of California's hidden riverside treasures. Just 2.3 miles downstream from the historic Briceburg suspension bridge, this serene retreat within the Merced River Recreation Management Area offers an enchanting blend of sandy beaches, crystal-clear swimming holes, and the soothing soundtrack of rushing water. Here, where the river carves its ancient path through the Sierra foothills, campers find themselves immersed in a natural playground that feels worlds away from civilization.

Merced River Recreation Management Area

Tucked away 3.6 miles downstream from the suspension bridge along the scenic Briceburg River Road, Willow Placer Campground offers an intimate escape for those seeking tranquility beside the rushing waters of the Merced River. This hidden gem features 8 secluded walk-in campsites and 1 convenient group drive-in site, each positioned within a stone's throw—just 200 feet—from the river's edge. As one of the smaller, more peaceful facilities in the Merced River Recreation Management Area, Willow Placer provides the perfect balance of riverside accessibility and serene wilderness camping.

Merced River Recreation Management Area

Journey to the end of Briceburg River Road, where Railroad Flat Campground awaits 4.5 miles beyond the suspension bridge in the stunning BLM Merced River Recreation Area. This hidden gem draws modern-day gold prospectors seeking fortune in the river's glittering sands, while hikers launch their adventures from the nearby Merced River Trail. Crystal-clear swimming holes beckon on warm days, anglers cast lines into productive waters, and the rhythmic sounds of the river create nature's perfect soundtrack for your camping experience.

PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389, USA

Perched high along the scenic Glacier Point Road, Bridalveil Creek Campground invites adventurers to experience Yosemite's high country magic across 115 thoughtfully designed sites. Whether you're seeking a family getaway, planning a group expedition, or arriving with horses in tow, this mountain sanctuary at 7,200 feet serves as your basecamp for exploring iconic vistas like Glacier Point and conquering beloved trails that wind through the surrounding wilderness.

Incline Rd, El Portal, CA, USA

Tucked away beside the gentle waters of the Merced River, Dirt Flat Campground beckons those seeking solitude and simplicity in nature's embrace. This intimate, walk-in tent camping haven offers a refreshing escape from crowded campgrounds, where the sound of rushing water replaces the hum of RV generators. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, grills, and fire rings for evening gatherings under star-filled skies, while vault toilets provide necessary amenities without disrupting the wilderness atmosphere.

INCLINE RD, EL PORTAL, CA, USA

Tucked away in a secluded corner of the Sierra Nevada, Dry Gulch Campground offers an intimate escape with just four walk-in tent sites nestled beneath a canopy of towering pines and ancient oaks. This hidden gem along the Merced River provides the perfect blend of riverside tranquility and forest serenity for those seeking a genuine back-to-nature experience.

9024 Southside Drive

Nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley at 4,000 feet, Upper Pines Campground serves as your basecamp for exploring one of America's most treasured landscapes. As the valley's largest reservation campground, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned between towering granite monoliths and rushing waters. Wake up to views of Half Dome catching the morning light, spend your days hiking to thundering Vernal Falls, and end your evenings beside the melodic Merced River—all just steps from your tent.

9024 Southside Drive

Nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley, Lower Pines Campground serves as your basecamp for exploring some of nature's most spectacular masterpieces. Wake up to the sight of Half Dome towering above, spend your days chasing waterfalls at Vernal Falls, and cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the Merced River—all just a short walk from your campsite. This reservation-only campground welcomes both tent campers and RV adventurers with thoughtfully designed sites featuring paved roads, modern flush toilets, fresh drinking water, sturdy picnic tables, campfire rings for evening gatherings, and bear-proof food storage lockers to keep your provisions safe.

PO BOX 577, YOSEMITE, CA, 95389, USA

Nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley, Camp 4 stands as a legendary walk-in campground where generations of climbers have gathered to share stories beneath towering granite walls. Just moments from the thundering cascade of Yosemite Falls, this historic site offers a unique communal camping experience that has shaped the very soul of American rock climbing culture.

9024 Southside Drive

Imagine waking up to the majestic silhouette of Half Dome greeting you through towering pines—this is the magic of North Pines Campground. As one of Yosemite Valley's three coveted reservation-only campgrounds, North Pines places you at the heart of one of America's most breathtaking natural theaters. The gentle murmur of the Merced River provides a constant soundtrack to your stay, while sheer granite cliffs frame the sky above. From here, adventure beckons in every direction—whether you're setting out on legendary trails or simply soaking in the splendor of the valley from your campsite.

Yosemite National Park

Escape the crowds and discover Tamarack Flat Campground, a hidden gem tucked three miles off Tioga Road where the wilderness beckons and simplicity reigns. This reservation-only sanctuary offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience with tent-only sites nestled among towering conifers. Each site comes equipped with the essentials—a sturdy picnic table for memorable meals under the stars, a fire pit for evening gatherings, and bear-proof food lockers to keep your provisions safe. Vault toilets provide basic facilities, but leave your expectations of modern amenities at the trailhead. With no cell service, internet, running water, or showers, Tamarack Flat invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature's rhythms.

PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389, USA

Nestled among towering evergreens, Crane Flat Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Yosemite experience without sacrificing essential comforts. This peaceful mountain retreat features thoughtfully designed sites with paved parking spurs and secure food storage lockers—essential in this wild landscape where curious bears and graceful deer frequently wander through camp. While you won't find electrical hookups or shower facilities here, the campground's flush toilets and welcoming atmosphere make it perfect for both tent campers and RV travelers who appreciate the simple pleasure of falling asleep to the whisper of pine boughs overhead.

PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389, USA

Escape the crowds and discover your own slice of wilderness at Hodgdon Meadow Campground, a tranquil haven nestled 25 miles northwest of bustling Yosemite Valley. Here, towering Red firs mingle with aromatic incense-cedars while majestic Ponderosa and Lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral overhead. Whether you're seeking solitude with family or planning a group adventure, this hidden gem offers the perfect basecamp for those who prefer their Yosemite experience with a side of serenity.

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Escape to the tranquil wilderness of Porcupine Flat Campground, where the rush of modern life fades into the whisper of wind through pine branches. Tucked away off the scenic Tioga Road in Yosemite National Park, this rustic retreat embraces the essence of primitive camping. Here, vault toilets and bear-proof food lockers provide essential comforts while preserving the authentic outdoor experience. Your campsite comes equipped with a fire ring for evening gatherings and a sturdy picnic table for meals under towering conifers. The gentle murmur of nearby Porcupine Creek offers a natural soundtrack—and seasonal water for the prepared camper willing to treat it before use. This peaceful haven serves as your launching pad for adventures into the pristine White Wolf area and the breathtaking High Sierra backcountry.

GROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA 95321, USA

Nestled in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest, Pines Group Campground offers an intimate tent-camping experience for groups of up to 50 adventurers. Just a scenic 15-mile drive from the majestic Yosemite National Park, this secluded haven serves as the perfect launching point for unforgettable wilderness expeditions. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout outing, or friends' retreat, this group-exclusive site provides the ideal blend of accessibility and natural immersion.

GROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA, 95321

Discover your perfect basecamp at Pines Campground, where towering conifers whisper secrets of the Sierra Nevada just 15 miles from Yosemite's eastern boundary. This peaceful retreat in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest offers adventurers an ideal launching point for exploring four spectacular wilderness areas—Yosemite National Park, Carson-Iceberg, Emigrant, and Mokelumne. At 3,200 feet elevation, you'll find all the essentials for a comfortable stay: sturdy vault toilets, convenient water spigots, shaded picnic tables, warming fire rings, and secure bear boxes to protect your provisions. Wake to the scent of pine and plan your next adventure from this strategic mountain haven.

9 miles east of Groveland on Old Highway 120, just east of the Groveland District office.

Nestled beneath towering conifers, Pines Campground offers an authentic Sierra Nevada camping experience just steps from the Groveland Ranger District Office. This peaceful retreat features well-appointed sites with picnic tables and campfire rings complete with grills, where evening stories and s'mores await. Modern vault toilets and refreshing potable water (available during summer months) ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. The campground serves as your gateway to the enchanting Little Golden Forest Trail, making it perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking a blend of accessibility and immersion in the forest.

34660 Evergreed Road, Dimond O CG #36, Groveland, CA, 95321, USA

Tucked away in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest, Lost Claim Campground offers an intimate escape with just 10 secluded sites that promise the perfect blend of rustic charm and adventure. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to the wonders of Yosemite National Park, a mere 15 miles down the road, while the melodic waters of the Tuolumne River provide a natural soundtrack to your wilderness retreat. Here, you'll discover the authentic Northern California camping experience—where towering trees shelter your site and starlit skies replace city lights.

34660 EVERGREEN ROAD

Nestled in the shadow of Yosemite National Park's grandeur, Dimond O Campground serves as your gateway to both the iconic park and the lesser-known treasure of Hetch Hetchy. This thoughtfully designed retreat balances modern conveniences with wilderness immersion, where paved roads lead to spacious sites equipped with level tent pads, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings. Bear-proof lockers protect your provisions while maintaining the delicate balance with local wildlife, and clean vault toilets ensure comfort during your stay. As one enchanted visitor noted, "The sites are well spaced apart, so you almost feel like you're alone in the wilderness" - a testament to the campground's masterful layout that grants each guest their own private slice of Sierra serenity.

PO Box 577, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389

Hidden deep within Yosemite's backcountry, where a rugged 5-mile dirt road separates you from the crowds, lies Yosemite Creek Campground—a sanctuary for true wilderness enthusiasts. This primitive, tent-only retreat offers 75 intimate campsites nestled among towering pines, where the only amenities are vault toilets and the raw beauty of nature itself. Without running water, campers must arrive prepared with their own supply or embrace the adventure of treating water from the seasonal creek. For those yearning to trade modern conveniences for starlit nights and the whisper of wind through ancient pines, this secluded haven delivers an authentic backcountry experience that feels worlds away from civilization.

Stanislaus National Forest

Hidden where the South Fork meets the legendary Tuolumne Wild & Scenic River, South Fork Campground offers an intimate escape into California's untamed wilderness. This remote riverside sanctuary sits just a mile from its sister sites at Lumsden and Lumsden Bridge, forming part of the cherished Tuolumne-Lumsden Recreation Area. Each thoughtfully placed campsite comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring with grill, perfect for riverside meals under towering trees. While vault toilets provide basic comfort, the campground's true luxury lies in its pristine isolation—there's no cell service here, just the ancient rhythm of flowing water. Adventurous souls can draw water directly from the river, though purification is essential before drinking from this wild source.

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Nestled in the heart of the Tuolumne Wild & Scenic River corridor, Lumsden Bridge Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. This secluded riverside retreat sits beneath a canopy of towering pines and ancient oaks, where each campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring complete with cooking grill. While the campground maintains a rustic charm with vault toilet facilities, adventurous souls will need to filter or treat water drawn from the crystal-clear Tuolumne River that flows nearby, adding an authentic wilderness touch to your camping experience.

Yosemite National Park

Perched high in the Sierra Nevada at 8,000 feet, White Wolf Campground offers a tranquil escape from the bustling crowds of Yosemite Valley below. This seasonal mountain retreat serves as a perfect basecamp for adventurers seeking solitude among towering pines and granite peaks. Here, the air is crisp and clear, the nights are filled with stars, and the trails beckon hikers and backpackers to explore the park's pristine backcountry wilderness.

Stanislaus National Forest

Tucked into a pristine forest of towering mixed conifers just 1.5 miles from the sparkling waters of Cherry Valley Dam, Cherry Valley Campground offers an intimate escape into the Sierra Nevada wilderness. With 41 single-family sites and five spacious double-family sites, this hidden gem welcomes both tent campers seeking a traditional outdoor experience and small RV adventurers looking for a scenic basecamp. Wake up to the whisper of wind through pine boughs, spend your days exploring the crystal-clear waters of Cherry Lake, and fall asleep under a canopy of stars in this tranquil mountain retreat where fishing, swimming, and water sports await just minutes from your campsite.

Hacienda Campground, River Ranch, Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled in a tranquil shaded meadow where Basin Creek meets the North Fork Tuolumne River, River Ranch - Hacienda Campground offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness charm. This unique destination seamlessly combines public and private lands, providing campers with sweeping scenic vistas while serving as your gateway to the expansive National Forest. Whether you're seeking riverside relaxation or mountain adventure, this campground positions you at the heart of nature's playground.

Stanislaus National Forest

Nestled in the heart of the Stanislaus National Forest, Pinecrest Campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts to a mountain paradise at 5,600 feet elevation. This expansive facility serves as your gateway to the pristine waters of Pinecrest Lake, where days unfold with endless possibilities. Whether you're launching from the marina at dawn, gathering for evening programs at the amphitheater, or exploring miles of scenic hiking trails, Pinecrest offers something for every member of your camping party. The visitor center provides insights into the area's natural wonders, while the inviting swimming beach and day-use areas create perfect settings for family memories.

Stanislaus National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest, Hull Creek Campground offers an intimate escape where towering sequoias create a natural cathedral overhead. A gentle creek meanders through this hidden gem, its babbling waters providing a soothing soundtrack to your wilderness retreat. Adventure seekers will appreciate the direct access to thrilling OHV trails that wind through the surrounding forest, while those seeking tranquility can simply bask in the dappled sunlight filtering through ancient branches.

Stanislaus National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of the forest, Fraser Flat Campground offers an intimate riverside retreat along the meandering South Fork Stanislaus River. This hidden gem features two secluded campsites perfect for those seeking solitude, complemented by modern vault toilet facilities and two thoughtfully designed accessible fishing piers that bring anglers of all abilities right to the water's edge.

INCLINE RD, EL PORTAL, CA, USA

GROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA, 95321

PO Box 577, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389

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Stanislaus National Forest

Merced River Recreation Management Area

Yosemite National Park

Stanislaus National Forest

9024 Southside Drive

34660 EVERGREEN ROAD

Incline Rd, El Portal, CA, USA

34660 Evergreed Road, Dimond O CG #36, Groveland, CA, 95321, USA

GROVELAND RANGER STN HWY 120, GROVELAND, CA 95321, USA

Yosemite National Park

9024 Southside Drive

PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389, USA

Merced River Recreation Management Area

PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389, USA

PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389, USA

Merced River Recreation Management Area