The best camping near Sierra National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sierra National Forest adventure.

The best camping near Sierra National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sierra National Forest adventure.

Camping near Sierra National Forest

92% (171 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sierra National Forest 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.

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Sierra National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Sierra National Forest

98%
(209)

Musick Creek Falls

4 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Shaver Lake, CA
Musick Creek Falls spans 40 acres just south of Shaver Lake, at 4,800 feet elevation. The land, in vibrant regrowth after the Creek Fire, showcases unique wildflowers like Sierra Manzanita, sweet peas, Indian paintbrush, and cedars. The rugged terrain features three stunning cascading waterfalls, hiking trails, rock climbing, mountain biking, and exceptional stargazing opportunities. With proximity to Shaver Lake and China Peak Ski Resort, guests can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, skiing, and more. While the access road is dirt and gravel with some potholes, it is maintained by the community. The property provides pristine spring water, naturally filtered through granite aquifers to a high pH of 9—ideal for re-hydrating and detoxing. On-site amenities include a composting outhouse, trash receptacles, and free use of kayaks. Spare camping gear, tents, and blankets are available upon request. Most cell phones have good reception, ensuring you can stay connected as needed. The property borders the Musick Creek Confluence, a protected Nature Conservancy area. To preserve this ecosystem, we emphasize a strict “leave no trace” policy. Trash bins are conveniently located, and respecting the environment and our downstream neighbors is crucial. Weather is mild year-round, with cool evenings and comfortable days. While wildlife like timber rattlers and bears may be present, encounters are rare. As always, caution is advised around water and after dark. Please note that there is no host on-site during winter months (December–April), and access depends on weather conditions. Visit musickcreekfalls.com for updates and additional details. We’re proud to share this special place with the Hipcamp community. Your visit supports conservation efforts and helps maintain the beauty This property holds profound historical significance, having witnessed pivotal events like the California Gold Rush, the timber and mining booms, and the rise of early electric companies. Once located along the first and main road in the area, it served as a center stage for these developments, inspiring stories in Louis L’Amour novels. It has also borne witness to more somber chapters in history, including acts of genocide. More about its remarkable past can be explored at musickcreekfalls.com
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$63
 / night
99%
(120)

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)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
98%
(70)

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 pets off-leash. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$34.56
 / night
90%
(502)

Sequoia Mountain Farms

45 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Miramonte, CA
We have over 10 acres of stunning campground conviently nestled only 15-20 minutes from the North entrance to the Sequoias and Kings Canyon! We are located between both, so you have the best access to both attractions here! We have multiple sites to accommodate every type of camping from tent camping to tents-attached-to-cars, to pop-up campers to RVs and trailers with or without power/water hookups. There are wonderful views down into the valley with off-the-chain sunsets and city lights twinkling in the valley distance! Come get away from it all and enjoy the wonderful beauty and quiet serenity of mother nature in the South West Sierras at Sequoia Mountain Farms!!! Welcome Hipcampers! PLEASE read all of the below before booking and screenshot/print the directions below. Please note we have different site types with different prices and capacities. Choose the type that's best for your group. We are outside of Bear and Marmot areas, so no Bear cans needed here. However, we are not far away and nature is wild and can be unpredictable sometimes, so please keep food in your car at night as a precaution. We have not had issues and we don't want to invite any! Hot showers, flushing toilets, deep sinks for washing and WIFI (over 70 mps in many places for you teleworkers) now available for all campers at no extra charge! ARRIVAL: THERE ARE 3 GATES HERE: RIGHT GATE: just to the right of the Giant Sequoia Tree with address sign, goes to the CAMPSITES! Look for ORANGE CONES a few feet off the highway and drive down camp road about 600 feet to the camp. MIDDLE GATE: RV1 and RV2 LEFT GATE: house, please DO NOT ENTER this gate or approch the house. DIRECTIONS: If you put our address in to navigation apps, sometimes it brings you to our neighbors (fire department) for some reason, even after multiple emails to google...if this happens come south/down hill about 600 feet and look for the ORANGE CONES on the same side of the road. Drive between them and down camp road to your site! (There is a pic of the site map in the posted pic's) Go to Google Maps (NOT GOOGLE SEARCH). Search for Sequoia Mountain Farms Campground. Navigator apps sometimes push folks coming from the south up the 245 highway. It is a very windy and slow climb up the hill. It is doable (even for bigger rigs), but we HIGHLY RECOMMEND continuing north on highway 99 towards Fresno and then heading east on highway 180 up the mountain. It's faster, much more scenic and a much smoother drive. This route also goes right by the nearest gas station on your way up! Heading east on highway 180, out of Fresno, the last gas station is a Valero at 35468 E Kings Canyon Rd. (aka Clingan's Junction). From Clingan's, head east on the 180 for exactly 13.8 miles to the 245 highway (it comes up quick with only 1 or 2 small signs), make a right, heading south. If you hit the park entrance, you went too far, turn around drive back about 5 min and look for the 245 on your left. Once on the 245 heading south, go 5.1 miles. On your right you will pass the 'Pinehurst Lodge', which is on google maps, an easy reference point and is 1 minute or less away (great food, bar, pool table and karaoke on weekends in the summer!). Then a few seconds later the U.S Forest Service "Work Center" is on the right and we are just past that on the same side of the road. First you will see a Giant Sequoia Tree in the front yard (campground road is just to it's right with ORANGE CONES on either side) then an apple ranch with an ole loggers cabin chimney from the late 1800s still standing in the front yard directly off the highway! If you hit the 'leaving sequoia national forest' sign and the community center, you went too far, turn around and drive 1 minute back and look for the apple ranch on your left, pass it and turn left at the ORANGE CONES. Please take note of the posted pics from directly across the street facing what you will see when you get here. PLEASE CHECK THE WEATHER: If you ask us about weather, were just going to have to look online too, so please be sure to check it yourself prior to your trip, before asking us to do it for you. Just know we are operating under the assumption that you are aware of the conditions and are prepared for them. If nature happens message us and we will do our best to assist! We look forward to seeing you soon at Sequoia Mountain Farms!! :)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(85)

Willow Creek Camp North

4 sites · Tents160 acres · North Fork, CA
IF YOU DO NOT HAVE ALL WHEEL DRIVE OR 4x4 Do not read any further this camp ground is not accessible. 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. 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. During winter months we will supply you with wood. 10.00 per day, cash only. PLEASE BRING TOILET PAPER FIRE SEASON IS JUNE TO NOVEMBER. We allow you to bring a camp stove and a portable propane fire pit. 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. We will charge 50.00 which is the fee at the dump. Also dogs are allowed.
Pets
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
98%
(61)

Camp Hye Sierra

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents160 acres · Dunlap, CA
Camp Hye Sierra is a 160-acre property located about 35 miles east of Fresno, California (within five miles of the the entrance to Kings Canyon National Park).Our property offers a unique rental opportunity and serene retreat setting perfect for reflection and fellowship.Learn more about this land:Camp Hye Sierra is a 160-acre property located about 35 miles east of Fresno, California (within five miles of the the entrance to Kings Canyon National Park).Our property offers a unique rental opportunity and serene retreat setting perfect for reflection and fellowshipSPORTS COURTLocated at the center of camp, our all-weather, outdoor, lighted basketball court provides a great experience for basketball, tennis, and a host of other court friendly games. At night, the sport court provides us with an excellent place to take the entire camp for some spectacular stargazing!CAMPFIREOur campfire is also located next to beautiful Ketchoyan Lake. It features a stage, amphitheater, and outdoor lighting. The campfire location is a great venue for daytime classes and an area where campers have a chance to perform skits, sing songs, and roast marshmallows at evening campfires.ARBOROur arbor is a gorgeous open air structure adjacent to the sparkling water of Ketchoyan Lake. It is the perfect venue for an evening dance in the cool mountain air, daytime classes, talent shows, and a host of other activities. LAKESOur property has 2 fully stocked lakes where you can enjoy catch and release fishing, swimming and sunbathing.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$70
 / night
96%
(13)

Mill Creek Station HWY 395 Bishop

1 site · RV1 acre · Bishop, CA
Mill Creek Station was originally the place where the mules werechanged out to oxen to go up old Sherwin Grade to the north. MillCreek Road was the old road going to Mammoth and north toReno. It was later a gas station and mini-mart.Learn more about this land:Mill Creek Station Hip Camp parallels Hwy 395, nine miles north of Bishop, half an hour to Mammoth Mountain, an hour from the entrance to Yosemite and two and half hours from Death Valley.  Surrounded by world class mountain biking, climbing, hiking, skiing, as well as historic railroad and mining museums. All halfway between Los Angeles and Reno in the eastern Sierra. We have space for three motor homes or RVs. There are no pull throughs so if you are towing a car you may disconnect it and park the car in our parking lot. You must be self contained with water and power. Generators are OK. There is a restroom but there is no shower. We have a hanging fire pit in the backyard behind our house which you may use. Upon request we will open it for you. Wi-fi is available at our residence on the front porch or the backyard .We are 420 friendly but request that cigarette smoking be contained to open areas away from those of us who cannot tolerate cigarette smoke. No Pets please.Our backyard is unique as it was an old stone quarry at one time and now has an outdoor stage for occasional music events which you are invited to attend as well as to explore the rocks. Mill Creek Station was originally the place where the mules were changed out to oxen to go up old Sherwin Grade to the north. Mill Creek Road was the old road going to Mammoth and north to Reno. It was later a gas station and mini-mart. We have a mineral museum and a climbing and mountaineering exhibit dedicated to Warren Harding, a legendary rock climbing pioneer and friendRecreation is unlimited in this area. Mammoth Mountain ski area is ½ hour away. It is also a world class mountain biking destination. There are many other cycling areas in the vicinity as well as hiking, rock climbing, bouldering, fishing, kayaking and general outdoor exploration. We are at an elevation of 4,500 ft and rarely have snow in the winter. We can provide a long list of climbs, hiking trails, and other adventure sports and scenic exploration.  In Bishop the Paiute Casino is 6 miles to the south. Laws Historic Railroad and Mining Museum is 14 miles away. It is open to the public with 11 acres of interesting displays of the old western railroad buildings and artifacts including the huge 20 Mule Team Borax wagons. It is a great place to picnic. We are close to western Nevada’s historic mining towns like Goldfield, Tonopah and Gold Point. Death Valley is 2 ½ hours away. Las Vegas is 5 hours and the eastern entrance to Yosemite is 1 hour to the north by Mono Lake. Enjoy your visit!Roger and Mary Lou
Potable water
Toilets
Trash
from 
$60
 / night
70%
(10)

Golden Arrow Gold Claim

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Buck Meadows, CA
Bring the whole family out for a relaxing weekend of gold panning or metal detecting on my 20 acre claim just down the road from the west entrance to Yosemite national park. Just a stones throw off of highway 120 and a few short miles east of Rush Creek Lodge and spa! Camp here at Golden Arrow and hide out under the trees along soldier creek during the heat of the day! If you don’t feel like panning there are several good fishing holes to be found across the claim along the approximately 1400ft stretch of soldier Creek. Plenty of level space to park your RV, Travel Trailer, or Conversion Van… It’s rare to find an active claim that is accessible by 2wd and even more rare to find someone willing to welcome you to pan on their claim and keep what you find! Take advantage of this rare opportunity and try your luck at hunting down some gold on your next vacation!!
Pets
from 
$30
 / 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

  1. 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.
  2. If you don’t have a reservation, arrive first thing in the morning to grab a site at a first-come, first-served campground.
  3. 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.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

© 2025 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.