Campgrounds Near Yosemite Gateway Giant Sequoia Views
Yosemite Gateway in Oakhurst offers RV travelers the perfect basecamp for exploring Yosemite National Park and the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains. Just an hour from Yosemite Valley, this region attracts outdoor enthusiasts with world-class hiking, breathtaking granite cliffs, and pristine alpine lakes. Whether you're chasing waterfalls or enjoying peaceful mountain camping, the variety of campgrounds near Yosemite Gateway ensures you'll find the perfect spot for your RV adventure.
From private RV parks with full hookups to rustic national park campgrounds, camping near Yosemite Gateway caters to every travel style. Year-round access, diverse elevation ranges, and proximity to major attractions make this region ideal for both short getaways and extended stays. Many campgrounds offer modern amenities, making it easy to enjoy the wilderness without sacrificing comfort.
Ready to explore Yosemite and the surrounding wilderness? Rent an RV and experience the freedom and flexibility of RV travel. Browse our selection of quality RV rentals to plan your perfect Yosemite Gateway adventure.
Best Campgrounds Near Yosemite Gateway
Discover our curated selection of 12 outstanding campgrounds near Yosemite Gateway, ranging from pristine national park sites to modern RV resorts. We've selected a diverse mix of public and private options to suit every traveler—whether you're seeking a rustic national park experience or a comfortable RV park with full hookups. Each campground has been verified for quality, amenities, and accessibility to ensure your camping trip is unforgettable.
Yosemite RV Resort
Premium RV park with full hookups near park
Located in Coarsegold, just minutes from Yosemite's south entrance, this private RV resort offers 80 spacious pull-through sites with full hookups. Amenities include a heated pool, laundry facilities, and on-site propane, making it an ideal home base for exploring Yosemite National Park. The resort caters to both short-term guests and extended stays with modern facilities.
5 miles from Yosemite with 30/50 amp hookups and pull-throughs
Outdoorsy Yosemite
Large resort with full amenities near Bass Lake
With 159 spacious sites, Outdoorsy Yosemite near Bass Lake offers a full-service RV resort experience. Features include pull-through sites, full hookups, laundry facilities, and a heated pool. The location provides easy access to both Yosemite National Park and the recreational opportunities around Bass Lake, including hiking, boating, and fishing.
159 sites with 30/50 amp hookups and pull-throughs
Indian Flat RV Park
Highway 140 access to Yosemite west gate
Located on Highway 140 near the western approach to Yosemite, Indian Flat RV Park offers 50 RV sites with pull-through availability. The park provides full hookups, cable TV, a pool, and fishing access, making it convenient for travelers entering Yosemite from Highway 140. Many sites accommodate larger RVs and can be reserved year-round.
50 sites on Highway 140 with full hookups
Creekside RV Park
Full hookups in the Bishop area
Located in Bishop on the eastern side of the Sierra, Creekside RV Park offers 49 well-maintained RV sites with full hookups and pull-through capability. The park provides laundry facilities, showers, and access to the beautiful Bishop Creek area, known for fishing and hiking. It's an excellent base for exploring the Inyo National Forest and accessing Yosemite via Highway 395.
49 sites with full hookups near Bishop
Willow Springs Resort
Bridgeport mountain camping with amenities
Nestled in the Bridgeport area at higher elevation, Willow Springs Resort provides 25 sites with full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities. The resort offers pull-through sites and is open seasonally (April-October), providing a mountain basecamp experience. It's well-positioned for accessing the Sierra's eastern lakes and trails, as well as Yosemite via Highway 395.
25 sites in Bridgeport with full hookups
Angels Camp RV Resort
Full-service resort with pool and amenities
Angels Camp RV Resort offers 82 spacious RV sites with full hookups, 50-amp service, and pull-through capability. Located in the historic Gold Country region, the resort features a heated pool, laundry, propane, and a general store. It's an ideal basecamp for exploring both the Sierra Nevada and the cultural attractions of the Mother Lode region, with good access to Yosemite.
82 sites with 30/50 amp and pull-throughs
Sequoia Resort & RV Park
Gateway to Sequoia National Park
Located near Three Rivers in the Sequoia National Park gateway area, this 23-site resort offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations with full hookups and modern amenities. The park provides access to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, featuring giant sequoia groves, hiking trails, and scenic drives. It's a full-service facility perfect for exploring the southern Sierra.
23 sites with full hookups near Sequoia
Kings River RV Resort
Central Valley location with 100+ sites
With 100 RV sites offering full hookups and pull-through capability, Kings River RV Resort near Kingsburg provides an affordable basecamp option with access to Kings River fishing and nearby parks. The resort offers laundry, dump station, and both short and long-term stays. The location provides a good staging point for accessing both the northern and southern Sierra Nevada regions.
100 sites in Kingsburg with full hookups
Riverbend RV Park
Kings Canyon gateway with 45 RV sites
Riverbend RV Park near Sanger offers 45 spacious RV sites with full hookups, 50-amp service, and pull-through capability. Located near the gateway to Kings Canyon, the park features laundry facilities, showers, and access to Kings River activities. It's well-positioned for travelers exploring the Sierra Nevada's southern regions and provides convenient access to multiple hiking trails.
45 sites in Sanger with 30/50 amp service
Lemon Cove Village RV Park
55-site park near Sequoia gateway
Located near the Sequoia National Park entrance, Lemon Cove Village RV Park offers 55 RV sites with full hookups, pull-through capability, and 50-amp service. The park includes a pool, playground, and modern laundry facilities, making it family-friendly. It's an ideal base for exploring Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks while enjoying full RV amenities.
55 sites with full hookups near Sequoia
North Pines - Yosemite National Park
Classic national park camping in Yosemite
Part of Yosemite National Park's premier campground system, North Pines offers 81 sites with basic amenities including water hookups and restroom facilities. Open April through October, this campground provides an authentic Yosemite experience with easy access to El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Yosemite Valley trails. Sites accommodate both tent and small RV camping.
81 sites in Yosemite Valley with water access
Tuolumne Meadows - Yosemite National Park
High Sierra meadow camping near park
Located at 8,600 feet elevation in Yosemite's high country, Tuolumne Meadows offers 304 sites with water access and basic amenities. Open May through October, this stunning campground serves as a gateway to alpine hiking, fishing, and scenic mountain exploration. It's perfect for RVers seeking a cooler, less crowded Yosemite experience with incredible wildflower displays.
304 sites at 8,600 feet elevation
RV-Friendly Campgrounds Near Yosemite Gateway
For RV travelers seeking premium amenities and extended-stay comfort, these five campgrounds offer full hookups, modern facilities, and excellent service. Perfect for families and those who want to enjoy nature without sacrificing creature comforts, these parks feature 30/50-amp electrical service, full sewer and water hookups, pull-through sites, and amenities like pools, laundry, and WiFi. Choose from these top-rated RV resorts for your Yosemite Gateway basecamp.
Yosemite RV Resort
Premium full-hookup resort near Yosemite
Just 5 miles from Yosemite's south entrance, this 80-site premium RV resort is perfect for extended stays. All sites feature 30/50-amp electrical service, full water/sewer hookups, and pull-through designs accommodating RVs up to 70 feet. On-site amenities include a heated pool, laundry center, propane refill, and WiFi throughout the park.
5 min from Yosemite with 30/50 amp service
Outdoorsy Yosemite
159-site resort near Bass Lake
The region's largest full-service RV resort with 159 spacious pull-through sites featuring 30/50-amp electrical service and complete water/sewer hookups. Located near Bass Lake, this resort offers a heated pool, modern laundry, boat launch access, and a general store. Perfect for extended family camping with excellent fishing and water activities nearby.
159 pull-through sites with full hookups
Indian Flat RV Park
50 pull-through sites on Highway 140
Conveniently located on Highway 140 with 50 pull-through RV sites offering full hookups and 30/50-amp electrical service. The park provides laundry facilities, showers, cable TV, and a pool—all essential amenities for comfortable extended stays while exploring Yosemite via the scenic western approach.
50 pull-throughs with full hookups
49er Village RV Resort
Large resort with 329 sites and amenities
One of the largest full-service RV resorts in the region with 329 sites, offering complete hookups and pull-through designs. Located in Plymouth with easy access to multiple Sierra Nevada destinations, this resort features a heated pool, laundry, WiFi, cable TV, and RV storage. Excellent for families seeking a resort experience with extensive amenities and activities.
329 sites in Plymouth with full hookups
Angels Camp RV Resort
82 sites with 30/50 amp service
Angels Camp RV Resort offers 82 spacious RV sites with full hookups, 50-amp electrical service, and pull-through capability. Located in the Gold Country region with good highway access, the resort features a heated pool, laundry, propane, dump station, and general store. Open year-round with reasonable rates, it's a comfortable basecamp for exploring multiple Sierra Nevada attractions.
82 sites with 30/50 amp and pull-throughs
Premium RV Parks Near Yosemite Gateway
The closest premium option to Yosemite's main entrance, offering 80 spacious sites with full 30/50-amp hookups and pull-through access. Ideal for families seeking comfort and convenience.
Full hookups, pool, near Yosemite south entrance
The region's largest RV resort with 159 sites, offering excellent amenities including boat launch, fishing access, and modern facilities for extended stays.
159 pull-through sites near Bass Lake recreation
Gold Country's premier RV destination with 329 sites, full hookups, heated pool, WiFi, and extensive amenities perfect for families.
329 sites, pool, WiFi, near multiple parks
How Far Are Campgrounds From Yosemite Gateway?
Campgrounds near Yosemite Gateway range from just 5 miles away (Yosemite RV Resort) to about 50+ miles for some options. Most popular full-service RV parks are within 30 minutes of Oakhurst, providing convenient access to both Yosemite Valley and the surrounding Sierra Nevada attractions.
Drive times to Yosemite Valley from Oakhurst average 60-75 minutes via Highway 41. Highway 140 from the west offers an alternative scenic route with beautiful views. Winter conditions can occasionally impact drive times, but the main highways are typically well-maintained year-round.
Why Yosemite Gateway is a Popular Camping Destination
Yosemite National Park attracts nearly 5 million visitors annually, and Yosemite Gateway serves as the perfect basecamp. The region offers incredible natural beauty with granite cliffs, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and ancient sequoia groves. World-class hiking ranges from easy valley walks to challenging backcountry routes.
Beyond Yosemite itself, the surrounding area offers abundant recreation: fishing on mountain lakes, rock climbing on iconic formations, photography opportunities at sunrise and sunset, and peaceful forest camping. The proximity to multiple national parks (Sequoia, Kings Canyon) and national forests makes this region ideal for multi-park road trips.
RV camping near Yosemite Gateway combines wilderness exploration with comfortable accommodations, allowing travelers to extend their stays and truly experience the Sierra Nevada's grandeur without the stress of finding accommodation in crowded park areas.
Best Time of Year to Camp Near Yosemite Gateway
Peak season (June-September) offers reliable weather, long daylight hours, and full access to all park roads and trails. However, expect crowds and higher camping fees. Summer temperatures range from 60-80°F in campgrounds, with cooler nights at higher elevations.
Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) provide excellent conditions with fewer crowds, wildflower displays in spring, and stunning fall colors in autumn. Temperatures are mild (50-75°F), making hiking comfortable. Some higher-elevation campgrounds may have limited availability due to seasonal closures.
Winter (November-March) is possible for hardy RV travelers, especially at lower-elevation parks. Yosemite Valley typically remains open, though High Sierra routes like Tioga Pass close seasonally. Spring runoff creates spectacular waterfall displays, particularly in May-June when Yosemite Falls reaches peak flow.
RV Camping Tips for Yosemite Gateway
Reservations & Booking
- Book peak season (July-August) 3-6 months in advance
- Shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) offer better availability
- Many parks offer off-season discounts (November-March)
- Call ahead to confirm water availability at higher elevations
RV Size Considerations
- Verify length limits before booking (range 25-70 feet depending on park)
- Ask about hookup availability for your RV type (30/50 amp)
- Confirm dump stations are operational year-round
- Check turning radius and road access for larger RVs
Road & Navigation Tips
- Highway 41 (south) is most direct but can be crowded
- Highway 140 (west) offers scenic route with easier RV access
- Avoid Highway 120 (Tioga Pass) in winter—verify open status
- Download offline maps for areas with limited cell service
Wildlife & Safety
- Secure food in provided containers—bear encounters are common
- Never approach or feed wildlife including squirrels and deer
- Check park website for current trail closures and safety alerts
- Carry bear spray in backcountry areas and know proper usage
Campgrounds vs RV Parks: Which is Right for You?
Campgrounds
- Often located on public lands (national parks, national forests, state parks)
- Limited or no hookups—may have water and vault toilets only
- Lower cost ($15-35/night for many national park campgrounds)
- Better for adventurous travelers seeking nature immersion
RV Parks
- Full hookups (water, sewer, 30/50-amp electrical service)
- Modern amenities: pools, laundry, WiFi, general stores
- Higher cost ($35-60+/night but more comfort)
- Best for families, extended stays, and all-weather comfort
Using an RV as a Basecamp Near Yosemite Gateway
The RV basecamp strategy offers significant advantages for Yosemite exploration. Rather than seeking accommodation near the park each night, establish your basecamp at Yosemite RV Resort or another nearby park, then take day trips to different areas. This approach costs less than hotel stays and provides more flexibility.
Plan 5-10 day stays with different day-trip itineraries: Valley days (El Capitan, waterfalls), high country days (Tuolumne Meadows, hiking), and scenic drive days (Glacier Point, Mirror Lake). Evening returns to your comfortable basecamp allow you to relax, cook meals, and avoid late-night driving.
Photography buffs can time sunrise/sunset visits to specific locations, returning to basecamp for processing. This pattern maximizes content creation and minimizes fatigue—critical for capturing the region's stunning beauty across multiple diverse landscapes.
Nearby Areas Worth Camping Instead
If Yosemite is fully booked, consider nearby alternatives within 50-150 miles. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (60 miles southeast) offer giant sequoia groves, alpine lakes, and less crowding. The eastern Sierra near Bishop (80 miles) provides high-elevation camping, fishing, and dramatic mountain scenery.
The Gold Country region (50-100 miles northwest) combines camping with historic mining towns, wine tasting, and lower-elevation recreation. Combining any of these with Yosemite creates a comprehensive Sierra Nevada road trip. Each destination offers unique features—plan 2-3 day segments at different parks to experience the region's full diversity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Camping Near Yosemite Gateway
- When should I book campgrounds near Yosemite Gateway?
For peak season (July-August), book 3-6 months in advance. Shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) have better availability with 1-3 months notice. Winter stays often can be booked with less advance notice as fewer RVers travel during colder months.
- Can I get full hookups near Yosemite?
Yes, multiple private RV parks offer full 30/50-amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups. Public campgrounds in Yosemite typically have water only. Gateway communities like Oakhurst and Coarsegold have 4-5 parks with complete hookups within 5-20 minutes of the park.
- What RV size works best for Yosemite?
RVs up to 40 feet can access most campgrounds, but check specific length limits before booking. Yosemite Valley has tighter road conditions—smaller RVs (under 30 feet) navigate easier. Many parks accommodate 50-60 foot RVs, but verify turning radius and hook-up site availability.
- Which entrance is most RV-friendly?
The south entrance (Highway 41 from Oakhurst) is most RV-friendly with straighter roads. The west entrance (Highway 140) is scenic but narrower. Avoid the north entrance (Highway 120/Tioga Pass) which closes in winter and has tight mountain roads.
- What wildlife safety precautions should I take?
Bears are active year-round. Never leave food, toiletries, or trash outside your RV. Use bear-proof containers at campsites. Carry bear spray on hikes and know how to use it. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife—many park accidents involve visitors getting too close for photos.
- Are roads open year-round to Yosemite?
Highway 41 from the south and Highway 140 from the west stay mostly open year-round with occasional brief closures during storms. Tioga Pass (Highway 120) closes November-May. Always check NPS website for real-time road conditions before winter travel.
- Are pets allowed at campgrounds?
Most private RV parks allow pets with restrictions (usually 2 pets, some size limits). National Park campgrounds permit leashed pets in campsites but not on trails. Confirm pet policies when booking, especially for large dogs or multiple animals.
- What should I pack for different seasons?
Summer: light clothing, layers for cool nights, sunscreen. Fall: sweaters, light jacket, rain possibility. Winter: heavy coats, snow chains (required), heat for RV. Spring: layers for variable weather, rain gear. High elevation areas (Tuolumne) are 20°F cooler than valley.
More Resources for Planning Your Trip
Official Park Resources
- [Yosemite National Park - Official NPS Website](https://www.nps.gov/yose/)
- [Yosemite Campground Reservations](https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232449)
- [Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks](https://www.nps.gov/seki/)
- [Road Conditions and Alerts](https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/conditions.htm)
Travel Planning & Tourism
- [Madera County Tourism Bureau](https://www.homeofyosemite.com/)
- [Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System](https://yarts.com/)
- [Sierra Nevada Visitors Bureau](https://www.sierranevadaresorts.com/)
Ready to start your Yosemite Gateway adventure? Rent an RV and experience the freedom to explore at your own pace. Browse our rental options and book your Sierra Nevada basecamp today.
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