Exploring Yosemite National Park by RV is one of the most rewarding travel experiences I’ve had. Waking up to pine-scented air, granite peaks on the horizon, and trails just a short drive away makes the RV lifestyle feel like it was tailor-made for this iconic destination. But finding RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite takes a bit of research and planning.
The region around Yosemite includes a mix of national forest lands, private campgrounds, and state-run facilities. Some offer full hookups and luxury amenities, while others provide rustic serenity and easy access to nature. I’ve camped all over this area and put together a list of RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite that truly stand out each one tested on the road and offering its own unique charm.
Indian Flat RV Park – El Portal
Indian Flat RV Park is one of the closest private RV campgrounds to Yosemite’s Arch Rock entrance, which makes it ideal for quick and frequent trips into the park. The drive into Yosemite Valley from here is less than 30 minutes, so it’s a great home base for anyone wanting to explore the main highlights.
This campground offers full hookup sites, a small pool, and access to amenities like laundry and a convenience store. I appreciated the balance of convenience and natural surroundings. The sites are shaded by large trees, and I could hear the Merced River nearby, which added to the peaceful vibe.
If your goal is to be as close to the park as possible while still enjoying full RV amenities, Indian Flat is one of the best RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite in terms of location and simplicity.
Yosemite Lakes RV Resort – Groveland
About five miles from the Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite, Yosemite Lakes RV Resort is a spacious Thousand Trails campground that caters specifically to RVers. The resort spans 400 acres and includes a mix of full hookup sites, cabins, and tent areas, giving the place a diverse and lively feel.
I’ve stayed here during both spring and fall, and the setting never disappoints. The South Fork of the Tuolumne River winds through the property, offering opportunities for fishing, swimming, or just relaxing by the water. There are also on-site activities like mini golf, a lodge, and seasonal events.
Yosemite Lakes is one of the most reliable RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite for longer stays. It combines nature with community and gives you the space to unwind while remaining close to the action.
High Sierra RV and Mobile Park – Oakhurst
High Sierra RV and Mobile Park sits in the mountain town of Oakhurst, about 16 miles from the South Entrance of Yosemite. It’s a smaller park with fewer frills, but it’s clean, quiet, and offers full hookups with a lovely creek flowing through the property.
The location is ideal for exploring both Yosemite and nearby attractions like Bass Lake and the Sierra National Forest. I’ve often used this campground as a rest spot before tackling Yosemite’s higher elevations. It’s also within walking distance to restaurants and groceries, which comes in handy when I want a break from cooking.
This is one of the more modest RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite, but it wins points for affordability and accessibility. Plus, the town of Oakhurst is a great spot to resupply or enjoy a post-hike meal.
Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort – Bass Lake
Located just 14 miles from the park’s southern gate, Bass Lake at Yosemite is a favorite of mine for its lakeside charm and shady campsites. It’s part of the Thousand Trails network, but they offer nightly stays as well. The sites are nestled in tall pines, and many of them are level, which makes setup a breeze.
Bass Lake itself is a major draw. I’ve spent days kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing here and evenings grilling lakeside with friends. The resort offers partial and full hookups, laundry facilities, a pool, and access to local hiking trails.
If you’re looking for an RV-friendly campground near Yosemite that doubles as a water recreation hub, this is a great pick. It’s perfect for families and travelers who want downtime between park adventures.
Crane Flat Campground – Inside Yosemite National Park
Although it doesn’t offer full hookups, Crane Flat Campground is one of the few places inside Yosemite National Park that accommodates RVs up to 35 feet. Located along Big Oak Flat Road, it’s a quiet, forested campground that puts you within striking distance of both Yosemite Valley and Tioga Road.
What I love about Crane Flat is the early morning silence and proximity to alpine hiking trails. The campground is seasonal and usually open from late spring through early fall. I’ve dry camped here several times, and while it’s more rustic, the access to the park more than makes up for it.
For RVers willing to forgo hookups for a night or two in exchange for being right inside the park, this is one of the best RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite you’ll find.
Summerdale Campground – Fish Camp
Just two miles from Yosemite’s South Entrance, Summerdale Campground is a quiet, wooded oasis operated by the U.S. Forest Service. It only allows smaller rigs (usually up to 25 feet), but it offers a peaceful, natural setting with fire rings, picnic tables, and a bubbling creek.
This is a dry campground, so you’ll need to be self-contained, but it’s a beautiful place to reset after busy days in the park. I’ve stayed here during midsummer when Yosemite is packed, and this spot felt like a calm retreat just outside the chaos.
For smaller RVs or vans, Summerdale is one of the most peaceful RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite, especially for travelers who love the sound of water and rustling leaves.
Mariposa Fairgrounds RV Park – Mariposa
Located about 35 miles from the Arch Rock entrance, this fairgrounds campground is simple but dependable. It offers full hookups, large spaces, and easy pull-through access great for big rigs or anyone traveling with a tow vehicle.
What I like about the Mariposa area is its historic charm and elevation. Even in summer, the nights cool off nicely. You’ll be near restaurants, coffee shops, and the small-town feel makes it easy to meet fellow travelers.
While it’s a bit farther from Yosemite itself, this is one of the better budget-friendly RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite if you don’t mind a scenic drive into the park.
Wawona Campground – Inside Yosemite National Park
Another in-park gem, Wawona Campground is near the southern entrance and allows RVs up to 35 feet in certain loops. Sites here are shaded and spacious, and the Merced River adds a nice touch for campers who enjoy creekside mornings.
This is one of my favorite places to stay inside the park. From here, you can easily access the Wawona Meadow Loop Trail, Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, and Glacier Point Road. Like other in-park campgrounds, it’s dry camping only, but the location is hard to beat.
If you’re planning ahead and can snag a reservation, Wawona is one of the top RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite that puts you within a short drive of several major park highlights.
Sierra Skies RV Park – Sierra Village
Sierra Skies is a lesser-known RV park located northeast of Yosemite along Highway 108. While it’s not right at the entrance of the park, it offers a tranquil escape in the Stanislaus National Forest. It’s a great jumping-off point for visiting Yosemite’s north side, including Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and Sonora Pass.
I’ve stayed here for the mountain serenity. The sites are gravel, level, and surrounded by trees. There’s a creek running through the park, and the staff is incredibly helpful. It’s also cooler here in summer, making it a nice reprieve from lower elevation heat.
For travelers looking to avoid the crowds and approach Yosemite from the north, Sierra Skies is a unique and quiet option among RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite.
Dry Gulch Campground – Stanislaus National Forest
Off Highway 120, not far from the Big Oak Flat entrance, Dry Gulch is a small Forest Service campground that provides a rustic alternative to busier RV parks. It’s best for smaller rigs and trailers, with sites tucked into a shady pine grove.
The simplicity here is what keeps bringing me back. No hookups, no cell service just nature. You’re close enough to reach the park within 30 minutes, but far enough away to hear owls at night instead of traffic.
If you’re in a compact rig and enjoy solitude, this is one of the most peaceful RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite to add to your radar.
Final Thoughts
Yosemite is one of the most visited national parks in the country, but with the right campground, the experience can still feel wild, peaceful, and personal. RV camping near the park opens up a world of flexibility and access that’s hard to match with other lodging options.
I’ve found that RV-friendly campgrounds near Yosemite come in many forms some full of amenities, others quiet and remote. Depending on the season and your rig size, you can pick a spot that suits your needs while still offering stunning access to this remarkable landscape.
Whether you’re parked beside a river, nestled in a pine forest, or staying just steps outside the park’s entrance, each of these campgrounds has helped me enjoy Yosemite in my own way. With a little planning and the right site, your next RV trip to the Sierra Nevada could be your most unforgettable yet.