Bass Lake Camping Guide (2026): Best Campgrounds + Tips for Families

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I know it feels like the winter will never end, but summer will be here before we know it. And now is the time to start thinking about all the fun summer camping destinations that need to be booked months in advance. If Bass Lake camping is on your agenda, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s what to know about each of the Bass Lake campgrounds.

We were supposed to be camping in a Mammoth Lakes campground last summer, but due to the abundance of snowfall, the campground couldn’t open until late June, and therefore, our reservation was cancelled. We had to scramble for a good backup plan that would provide fun on the lake for our family and friends. I started looking at other fun California lakes to camp at, and realized that Bass Lake would make a great summer spot.

Why Camp at Bass Lake, California?

Bass Lake is one of the best camping destinations in California, especially for families looking for an easy outdoor getaway near Yosemite. Located in the Sierra National Forest just about 20 miles from Yosemite National Park, Bass Lake offers the perfect mix of lake activities, scenic mountain views, and convenient campground amenities.

What makes Bass Lake camping so popular is how accessible it is compared to Yosemite Valley. You can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking—all without the intense crowds or reservation stress of camping inside the national park. And that makes it a great choice for multi-family camping trips as well.

Plus, it’s still close enough to Yosemite for an easy day trip there. So, it’s a great option for family camping near Yosemite.

Whether you’re tent camping, RV camping, or looking for a more comfortable glamping experience, Bass Lake has options for every style of camper.

After reading about various campgrounds and checking the availability, we were stoked to get some last-minute campsites at Spring Cove Campground. It was our first experience with Bass Lake camping, and it definitely did not disappoint. Here’s what to know about that campground along with the other Bass Lake campgrounds you can pick from.

Best Campgrounds at Bass Lake

If you’re planning a Bass Lake camping trip, there are several campgrounds to choose from depending on your preferences.

Spring Cove Campground

The Spring Cove campground is located right across from Bass Lake and right next to the Spring Cove hiking trail. There are 61 campsites, all non-hookup, and some with some pretty lake views. There are also restrooms with flush toilets and water.

The campsites at Spring Cove are great for smaller RVs and trailers. Most sites can accommodate lengths from about 15- 30 feet. Like the other campgrounds, reservations can be made 6 months in advance on a rolling basis.

Cedar Bluff Campground

The Cedar Bluff campground is open year-round and features 22 campsites for groups of 12-24 people. The campground is right next to the Lupine campground and is adjacent to Bass Lake.

This campground doesn’t have hookups, but it does have restrooms and water on site. Reservations are made on a rolling basis, 6 months out from the date you’d like to arrive.

Lupine Campground

The Lupine campground is located right next to the Cedar Bluff campground, but it’s tucked a bit further back than Cedar Bluff. Which is great for those looking for a bit more private Bass Lake camping experience. This Bass Lake campground has 50 non-hookup sites, some of which are tent only, and others than can accommodate trailers and RVs.

Great for families, Lupine Campground includes amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and playgrounds. It’s one of the more developed campgrounds, making it ideal if you want a balance between camping and comfort.

There are restrooms with flush toilets and water in this campground, and reservations are available on a rolling basis six months out.

Wishon Bass Lake Campground

One of the most popular campgrounds at Bass Lake, Wishon Point offers lakeside access and a more scenic, wooded setting. Some sites have lake views, while others are tucked among pine and oak trees for extra shade and privacy.

The Wishon Bass Lake campground is located just across the street from Bass Lake and very close to Millers Landing. It features 46 campsites on the hillside above the lake, offering beautiful lake views from several of the sites.

This campground is ideal for tent camping and small RVs (under 24 feet). The campground has restrooms with running water, and reservations are made on a rolling basis six months out.

Forks Campground

Forks campground is one of the smaller Bass Lake campgrounds, with just 27 campsites. The campground sits on a hill across from the lake, offering beautiful lake views. And the popular Goat Mountain trail is accessible right there in the campground.

RVs up to 30 feet can fit in this campground. There aren’t any hook-ups, but there are flush toilets and running water. Reservations can be made up to six months out.

Recreation Point Group Campground

Recreation Point Group Campground is perfect for those looking for Bass Lake group camping. It’s a tent-only group campsite that has four campsites. Each one can accommodate 50-100 people. The campground is close to the lake, and visitors can enjoy the adjacent day-use area that consists of a volleyball court, softball field and a swimming area.

Each campsite has its own water faucet, and the campground has bathrooms with blush toilets. Reservations can be made six months out.

Crane Valley Group Campground

Crane Valley Group Campground is a bit further from the lake. However, it is a group campground that can accommodate both tents and RVs. There are seven campsites in total, and each can accommodate 12-30 people.

This campground has portable toilets only and no running water. Campers must bring their own water.

Not Interested in Bass Lake Camping? Stay at the Pines Resort

There are a number of Bass Lake lodges you can stay in if camping isn’t your thing. The Pines Resort is an iconic lakefront resort that has multiple restaurants onsite as well as boat rentals, and a variety of lodging options.

Things to Do While Camping at Bass Lake

One of the biggest reasons families love Bass Lake camping is the variety of activities available right from your campsite.

• Swimming & Beach Time: Bass Lake is known for its warm water in the summer, making it perfect for kids
• Boating & Paddleboarding: Rent a boat or bring your own for a full lake day
• Fishing: Bass Lake is popular for catching largemouth bass and other fish
• Hiking: Explore nearby trails in the Sierra National Forest
• Day Trip to Yosemite: Just a short drive away, making Bass Lake a great basecamp

This combination of lake fun and mountain adventure makes Bass Lake one of the best camping destinations in California.

Best Time to Go Camping at Bass Lake

The best time for Bass Lake camping is typically from mid-June through early September when the weather is warm and ideal for swimming and boating. During this time, daytime temperatures are comfortable, and the lake water is warm enough for extended play.

Spring and fall can also be great if you prefer fewer crowds, though water temperatures may be cooler.

Tips for Camping at Bass Lake

Planning ahead can make your Bass Lake camping trip much smoother:

• Book early: Campgrounds fill up quickly, especially in summer
• Check fire restrictions: Campfires may be limited depending on conditions
• Bring shade: Some campgrounds have limited tree cover
• Pack water gear: Paddleboards, floats, and fishing gear make a big difference
• Arrive early on busy weekends: Parking and lake access can fill up fast

Many campsites also have limits on the number of people and vehicles, so be sure to check regulations before your trip.

What to Bring on Your Bass Lake Camping Trip

When packing for Bass Lake, it’s important you bring all of the camping essentials like a tent, bedding, ice chest and cookware. Because these campgrounds have bear boxes, I like to use storage tubs to store my items, which makes it easier to arrange in the bear locker.

Be sure to bring hiking gear along with your lake attire–bathing suits, covers up, sandals. We brought our kayaks and paddleboards as well. Inflatable stand-up paddleboards are great for using on the lake, and they don’t take up a ton of space in your vehicle.

For a complete packing guide for your Bass Lake camping trip, check out my post: What to Pack for Your Camping Trip.

Bass Lake Camping FAQs

Is Bass Lake good for camping with kids?
Yes! Bass Lake is one of the best family-friendly camping destinations in California thanks to its warm water, easy lake access, and variety of campground amenities.

How far is Bass Lake from Yosemite?
Bass Lake is about 20–25 miles from the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park, making it a convenient basecamp.

Do you need reservations for Bass Lake campgrounds?
Yes—most campgrounds require reservations, and popular sites can book up months in advance.

Can you swim in Bass Lake?
Absolutely. Bass Lake is known for its warm, swimmable water during summer months.

Are there RV camping options at Bass Lake?
Yes, several campgrounds offer RV sites, and some even include full hookups and amenities.

Are there bears at Bass Lake?
Yes, so be bear aware! We saw one on our drive in and there was some bear activity in the campground. Use your bear box for all food and cooking supplies.

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