The Best Campsites Near Yosemite
Looking for the best campsites near Yosemite? Skip the crowds and high prices inside the park by camping just outside its boundaries. You’ll find incredible spots for rustic tent camping, RV hookups, and even glamping. These handpicked campsites near Yosemite surround you with natural beauty, peaceful settings, and, in some cases, friendly farm animals to keep you company.
Glamping & Unique Stays for the Best Campsites Near Yosemite
Wondernut Farm (Big Oak Flat, CA – 18 miles)
This working homestead offers farmstay camping with tents, glamping sites, a shared kitchen, and a bathhouse.
Dog-friendly? No. Due to livestock on the farm, pets are not permitted.
Best spot: The Bell Tents offer comfy beds and charming decor.
Insider tip: Don’t miss the homemade sourdough bread or the farm tours.
Wildhaven Yosemite Glamping (Mariposa, CA – 19 miles)
This glamping retreat pairs luxury with nature—canvas tents feature real beds, heated blankets, and private fire pits.
Dog-friendly? Yes, in designated tents.
Best spot: Riverside tent sites offer the best views and privacy.
Insider tip: Breakfast boxes and s’mores kits can be pre-ordered for an easy, cozy night by the fire.
Willow Belle Ranch (North Fork, CA – 30 miles)
Tucked on a 20-acre ranch by Willow Creek, this animal lover’s retreat offers glamping bell tents and traditional campsites.
Dog-friendly? Yes. Dogs must be supervised as there are pigs, chickens, and other animals on site.
Best spot: The Columbia Glamping Tent for a comfy stay with creek access.
Insider tip: Campfires are allowed, so bring marshmallows. Don’t miss a chance to walk the property and meet the resident animals.
Pet-Friendly Picks
Yosemite Westlake Campground and RV Park (Coulterville, CA – 12 miles)
Just minutes from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat entrance, this shady campground offers spacious RV and tent sites with full hookups.
Dog-friendly? Yes.
Best spot: Premium RV sites near the back offer extra privacy.
Insider tip: Cell service is limited, but Wi-Fi is strong near the front office. Book early as summer weekends fill fast at this top Yosemite-area campground.
Indian Flat Campground (El Portal, CA – 16 miles)
One of the closest private campgrounds to Yosemite’s Arch Rock entrance, Indian Flat offers tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and a motel.
Dog-friendly? Yes.
Best spot: Choose a tent site close to the river if you want to sleep to the sound of rushing water.
Insider tip: The adjoining Yosemite View Lodge has a pool and restaurant that guests can use.
Red Tail Ranch at Yosemite (Groveland, CA – 32 miles from Yosemite)
This peaceful 90-acre retreat blends forest and meadow, with full-hookup RV sites and walk-in tent camping. Enjoy hot tubs, an outdoor kitchen, a fire pit, laundry, and on-site hiking trails.
Dog-friendly? Yes, on leash. There’s even a fenced dog run.
Best spot: Headwaters RV #1 for privacy and views; Pine Sis
Quiet & Off-Grid Escapes for the Best Campsites Near Yosemite
Diamond Gulch (Groveland, CA – 20 miles)
This quiet, off-grid retreat offers stunning views and a primitive camping experience for those looking to disconnect.
Dog-friendly? Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome.
Best spot: Ask for a site with a view overlooking the canyon.
Insider tip: Solar lighting and private trails make this spot feel like your own hidden escape.
Heart Valley Ranch (Groveland, CA – 31 miles)
A remote and wild experience, this 300+ acre ranch sits along Jackass Creek and features pool access, natural springs, and vacation rentals.
Dog-friendly? No. The property uses working livestock guardian dogs, so guests cannot bring pets.
Best spot: The vacation rentals are the most popular, but inquire directly if looking for RV or tent options.
Insider tip: This is more of a retreat than a campground, so it’s perfect if you want rustic charm with a roof over your head.
Final Thoughts on the Best Campsites Near Yosemite
Camping near Yosemite lets you enjoy the park’s stunning beauty without dealing with crowded lodges or fully booked campgrounds inside the park. Whether you prefer glamping under the stars or pitching a tent beside a peaceful creek, these nearby spots cater to every style and budget. Make sure to book your site early, especially during busy spring and summer months, to secure your perfect getaway.
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