If you're planning a trip to one of California's most iconic natural wonders, finding the right place to stay is just as important as the destination itself. California campgrounds near Yosemite offer a range of experiences, from forested national park lands to state parks with giant sequoias. Whether you're looking for a rustic tent site, a full-service RV park, or a scenic spot along the coast, this list helps you compare top-rated options based on verified data.
We've gathered 12 locations that are part of the broader California camping landscape, including those within driving distance of Yosemite National Park. Using ratings, review counts, and geographic relevance, we've created a transparent list to help you decide where to base your next outdoor adventure. From the high Sierra to coastal redwoods, each entry offers a unique way to connect with California's diverse landscapes.
★★★★★ 4.8 · 3,781 reviews
Sierra National Forest is a vast national forest in California, covering over 1.3 million acres across the central Sierra Nevada. With a rating of 4.8 from 3,781 reviews, it is a highly regarded destination for camping, hiking, and exploring the wilderness. The forest offers numerous campgrounds and dispersed camping opportunities, making it a prime choice for those seeking California campgrounds near Yosemite. Its address is Sierra National Forest, California 91024, United States.
Address: Sierra National Forest, California 91024, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 35 reviews
Oak Hollow Campground is a campground located at 1170 California 4, Arnold, CA 95223, United States. It has a rating of 4.7 based on 35 reviews, indicating a positive experience for visitors. Situated near the Calaveras Big Trees State Park area, this campground offers a convenient base for exploring the giant sequoias and the surrounding Sierra Nevada foothills. The exact amenities and services are not specified in the provided data.
Address: Oak Hollow Campground, 1170 California 4, Arnold, CA 95223, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 104 reviews
California Parks & Recreation, located at 5290 Millerton Rd, Friant, CA 93626, United States, is a park that manages recreational areas in the state. With a rating of 4.6 from 104 reviews, it is recognized for its outdoor offerings. This location is part of the Millerton Lake State Recreation Area, which provides camping, boating, and fishing opportunities. Its proximity to the Sierra Nevada makes it a viable option for those exploring the region.
Address: California Parks & Recreation, 5290 Millerton Rd, Friant, CA 93626, United States
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★★★★☆ 3.8 · 847 reviews
Crazy Horse Campgrounds is a campground with a rating of 3.8 from 847 reviews. While its address is not provided, its coordinates place it in the vicinity of Lake Havasu, Arizona, which is not near Yosemite. This listing is included for comparison, but travelers seeking California campgrounds near Yosemite may want to focus on other options on this list. The campground's services and amenities are not detailed in the available data.
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 7,272 reviews
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is a national reserve located in Calabasas, CA 91302, United States. With a stellar rating of 4.7 from 7,272 reviews, it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. While it is not near Yosemite, it offers camping and hiking opportunities in the coastal mountains of Southern California. This location is included to illustrate the diversity of California's camping options.
Address: Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, Calabasas, CA 91302, United States
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★★★★☆ 4.2 · 85 reviews
Alaska Canoe & Campgrounds is a campground with a rating of 4.2 from 85 reviews. Its address is not provided, but its coordinates place it in Alaska, far from California. This listing is not geographically relevant to California campgrounds near Yosemite and is included only as a data point for comparison. No additional details about the campground are available.
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 2,857 reviews
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a state park located at 52801 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States. With a rating of 4.7 from 2,857 reviews, it is a beloved coastal park famous for its dramatic cliffs and the iconic McWay Falls. Camping is not explicitly mentioned in the data, but the park offers day-use and hiking opportunities. It is far from Yosemite but represents a distinct California camping-adjacent experience.
Address: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, 52801 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 138 reviews
Portola Redwoods State Park Campground is a campground located at Park Office, 9000 Portola State Park Rd, La Honda, CA 94020, United States. With a rating of 4.6 from 138 reviews, it offers a serene redwood forest setting for campers. This campground is in the Santa Cruz Mountains, providing a coastal alternative to the Sierra Nevada. Its amenities and services are not specified in the data.
Address: Portola Redwoods State Park Campground, Park Office, 9000 Portola State Park Rd, La Honda, CA 94020, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 1,308 reviews
McWay Falls is a vista point located within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in Big Sur, California. With a rating of 4.6 from 1,308 reviews, it is a must-see natural attraction where a waterfall drops directly onto a sandy beach. While camping is not available at the vista point itself, it is a popular stop for those exploring the Big Sur coast. The address is not provided, but the coordinates place it along Highway 1.
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 1,266 reviews
Pfeiffer Beach is a public beach in Big Sur, California, known for its purple sand and dramatic rock formations. It has a rating of 4.6 from 1,266 reviews, making it a favorite among visitors. Camping is not available directly on the beach, but nearby Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers campgrounds. The beach's address is not provided, but it is accessible from Highway 1.
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 690 reviews
Visitor Center | Calaveras Big Trees is a visitor center located in the Calaveras Big Trees State Park area. With a rating of 4.8 from 690 reviews, it is a highly rated resource for visitors. The center provides information about the park's giant sequoias and recreational activities. Its address is not provided, but the coordinates place it near Arnold, California, close to Oak Hollow Campground.
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★★★★☆ 4.3 · 1,594 reviews
Malibu Beach RV Park is an RV park with a rating of 4.3 from 1,594 reviews. Its address is not provided, but its coordinates place it along the coast in Malibu, California. This park offers oceanfront RV camping, a contrast to the mountain campgrounds near Yosemite. It is included to show the range of camping experiences available across California.
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How We Selected These Places
To build this list, we analyzed a pool of locations categorized as campgrounds, parks, national forests, and RV parks. We prioritized geographic relevance to Yosemite National Park, though we also included notable California camping spots that may appeal to those exploring the state more broadly. Each location was evaluated based on its official category, user rating, review volume, and the completeness of its public information. We only used facts provided in the data, such as addresses, ratings, and review counts, and did not rely on personal visits or unverified claims.
Tips
When planning a camping trip in California, especially near Yosemite, it's wise to book your campsite well in advance, as popular spots fill quickly, particularly during peak seasons. Always check the official park or forest websites for current conditions, fire restrictions, and any reservation requirements. Pack layers, as temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night, and be prepared for wildlife encounters by storing food properly. If you're staying at an RV park, confirm hookup availability and length limits before arriving. For a smoother experience, consider visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons to avoid crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best California campgrounds near Yosemite?
- Based on the data, Sierra National Forest (4.8 rating) offers vast camping opportunities adjacent to Yosemite. Oak Hollow Campground (4.7) near Calaveras Big Trees is also highly rated. Other options like California Parks & Recreation (4.6) provide additional choices in the region.
- Are there RV parks near Yosemite?
- The list includes Malibu Beach RV Park, but it is located in Southern California, not near Yosemite. For RV camping near Yosemite, you may need to look at private campgrounds in gateway towns like Mariposa or Groveland, which are not listed here.
- How can I find campgrounds with high ratings?
- Look for locations with high ratings and a substantial number of reviews. For example, Sierra National Forest has a 4.8 rating from 3,781 reviews, indicating consistent satisfaction. Oak Hollow Campground has a 4.7 rating from 35 reviews, which is also positive.
- What is the closest campground to Yosemite on this list?
- Sierra National Forest is the closest, as it surrounds parts of Yosemite National Park. Its coordinates are near the park's western boundary, making it an ideal base for camping.
- Are there any campgrounds in Big Sur on this list?
- No, there are no campgrounds in Big Sur listed. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and Pfeiffer Beach are not campgrounds, though they are popular outdoor destinations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right California campground near Yosemite can make all the difference in your outdoor experience. While Sierra National Forest stands out as the top-rated and most geographically relevant option, other locations like Oak Hollow Campground and California Parks & Recreation offer solid alternatives. Whether you prefer the high Sierra, the redwoods, or even the coast, this list provides a starting point for your search. Remember to verify current conditions and reservation policies before you go, and enjoy the natural beauty that California has to offer.
Business information, ratings, reviews, opening hours, and other details may change over time. Please verify important information before visiting.
