Camping in Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

80% (9 reviews)

Play in the water or boat on the lake created by the Friant Dam.  

Top public campgrounds in the park

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
80% (9 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Millerton Lake State Recreation Area adventure.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

91%
(530)

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

Forget Me Knot Farms

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Yosemite Lakes, CA
Nestled on a sprawling 7-acre expanse, our haven boasts some of the most breathtaking sunsets you'll ever witness. Experience the magic from our dedicated sunset observatory, a vantage point that offers panoramic views of the picturesque landscape. As you explore our grounds, you'll encounter the rhythmic charm of our growing homestead, complete with lively chickens and ongoing expansions that promise even more to discover. Amidst the tranquility of the nights, our diligent guard dogs keep watch, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere with occasional reminders of their protective duties. During the daylight hours, immerse yourself in the soothing melody of neighboring cows grazing in the lush pastures. Our days are an ode to nature's symphony, where the harmonious interplay of the surroundings becomes a backdrop to the serenity that defines our little slice of paradise. Welcome to a sanctuary where each moment is a celebration of the beauty that unfolds on our 7-acre canvas.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$52
 / night
98%
(254)

Musick Creek Falls

4 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Shaver Lake, CA
Musick Creek Falls: A Carbon-Negative Legacy of Gold, Wilderness & Renewal Perched at 4,800 feet near Shaver Lake, this 40-acre sanctuary is where California’s soul stirs. Named for the Musick family, whose 1848 gold strike here sparked the Gold Rush, this very property played center stage for millennia—from the Nuimmu (Mono) people to pioneers, loggers, and innovators. Today, we’re rewriting its legacy as the areas first carbon-negative campground, blending agro-tourism, conservation, and sustainability into every aspect. This place is like no other. There is only 4 sites to ensure groups will have ample space , each site with its own waterfall. Shaver Lake is just a few minutes away and is absolutely stunning and is a MUST SEE!, as well as Dinky Creek wilderness area , and so many other iconic Sierra Nevada destinations. The night sky absent a moon will provide a truly remarkable night sky as is was 1000 years ago. Explore three cascading waterfalls, trails, and climbing routes framed by wild Sierra Manzanita, cedars, and meadows of Indian paintbrush. Rock climbing Borrow kayaks, gear, or blankets onsite, then just 7 minutes away Shaver Lake for fishing, skiing at China Peak, Mono Hotsprings, Mamoth Pools and so so much more. Honoring the Past, Building Anew Walk paths where Nuimmu hunters, Gold Rush dreamers, and Louis L’Amour’s heroes once tread. This land witnessed triumph, tragedy, and reinvention—stories we share to inspire 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. 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. 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 We are thrilled to share with you Musick Creek Falls so so much more than just a campground. Come recharge your soul, and feel the magic of the falls. You will never look at camping the same.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$93.50
 / night
99%
(36)

Sequoia Highland Camp

17 sites · Lodging120 acres · Dunlap, CA
Discover Sequoia Highland Camp nature retreat, perched at almost 5000 feet altitude, offering breathtaking views of a valley on one side and snow-capped peaks on the other. Nestled on 120 acres of pristine forest in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this haven is conveniently located near Kings Canyon, a mere 200 miles from both San Francisco and Los Angeles. It serves as an accessible and idyllic base for exploring Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite National Parks. Sequoia Highland Camp is home to a variety of cabins and yurts, surrounded by a landscape that includes a pond, meadows, and a forest, providing an immersive experience in the untouched Sierra wilderness. Enhance your stay by booking additional facilities such as the Bungalow (recreation and bar), the Cloud room (yoga and workshop space), the Cloud (yoga and workshop space in a dome), a yoga deck, a sunset spot (no need to book), and a stargazing structure (no need to book). Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains and create lasting memories in this serene and well-appointed camp.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$94.50
 / night
99%
(146)

Dunlap Canyon Retreat

34 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
88%
(56)

Camp ikigai Animal Sanctuary 501c3

224 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents72 acres · Yokuts Valley, CA
Camp ikigai is a 72 acre farm/ranch stay near Sequoia-Kings (SEKI) Canyon Nat'l Parks. Rescued/EOL horses, sheep, chickens, and ducks freely roam the property. The property has a communal clubhouse with a fully stocked kitchen, washer/dryer, firepit, hot/cold showers, compost and pit toilets, and an above ground swimming pool. Our business is committed to inclusivity and respect for people from all backgrounds and a safe inclusive space for solo female travelers. 30 minutes from park entrance, 20 min from nearby lakes, 50 minutes from Fresno. 3 hours from SF, 3.5 from LA. We have running hot/cold water for our outdoor shower but NO flushable toilets. We have pit and compost toilets filled with cedar shavings for now! Our priorities: 1. Wildfire prevention 2. Community building 3. Environmentalism and Sustainability If you're coming July-Mid August, please know it is HOT (95 average/75 night) and wildfires are a consistent threat. With that, wildfire prevention is a high priority. We have a lot of projects we have started and could use all the help we can get! Some of those are: - invasive species management - tiny home building - gardening/greenhouse building - event space building - raising livestock - medicinal plant growing + onsite apothecary (Come volunteer build the food forest and medicinal garden) Come book a cabin, park a bus or RV, bring a tent, bring your cat/dog!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$49
 / night
94%
(103)

The Mountain Chapel Campground

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Badger, CA
While on a family backpacking excursion through Sequoia King’s Canyon National Park, and the surrounding area, we came across this charming campground. A long-forgotten chapel in the mountains that was formerly a summer camp. From here, a short 15-minute drive will take you directly to the main entrance of Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park for access to the Giant Sequoias at Grant Grove and the Grant Grove Village. For those who prefer to travel off the beaten path, a short 30-minute hike will take you to the National Forest. We are excited to invite you to camp at this hidden gem, while we undertake to restore the campground to its original splendor. Easy drive to available parking, with easy access and pull through drive for any vehicle, even with trailers. For campers bringing their own tents, we provide beautiful and well- shaded sites with level ground, soft grass, tucked underneath the many old-growth trees.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
94%
(1164)

Yosemite Southgate Campground *OYBC

8 sites · Tents6 acres · Oakhurst, CA
Welcome HipCampers! This area was once inhabited by local native American Tribes. In the 1840's prospectors arrived in search of gold but none was found in the immediate area. Old Yosemite Base camp was along the route into Yosemite National Park prior to the construction of Highway 41. Horse and Carriage traveled along Old Yosemite Road from Mariposa and the entire golden state. Visitors from the world now pass through Oakhurst to Yosemite National Park along this route. Don't for to check out Bass Lake and its full service amenities. ALL CAMP SITES REQUIRE 4 WHEEL DRIVE or All-Wheel drive- NO Exceptions. Hipcampers, come pitch your tent at one of five Old Yosemite Base Camp (OYBC) drive in and walk in sites. OYBC offers over six acres of pine, oak, and bay trees, sprinkled around large granite features that remind you that Half Dome is not far away! Each unique site is equipped with a stone fire ring with cook top and a picnic table accommodating four person dining. Old Yosemite Base Camp is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset and stargaze next to a campfire after an adventurous day in the southern Yosemite region. Yosemite tent camping without all the crowds and tour buses is what you can expect. Backing up to the Sierra National Forest OYBC is conveniently located near HWY 41 just 14 miles from Yosemite’s south gate entrance. The region also offers a large amount of hiking trails where you can find swim holes, waterfalls giant sequoias, lakes, and rivers. Take 15-minute drive to Bass Lake and enjoy water sports and lake view dining. OYBC offers five camp sites and all wheel drive is required to get to the top of camp. OYBC sites 1, 2, 3, are drive up sites and 4 & 5 are walk in sites that have a separate parking area. All wheel drive is still needed to get to this lot. Have a large group? Old Yosemite Base Camp offers discounts for larger parties of up to 25 campers. Message OYBC to reserve the whole mountainside to yourselves!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$66
 / night
98%
(596)

Sierra Foothills Ranch -722 acres

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents722 acres · Springville, CA
Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee). Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch. There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public. Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you. Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon. Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us. Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

The best camping near Millerton Lake State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Bask in the sunshine while the kids play in the water at the beach area. You can enjoy a variety of water activities in the Millerton Lake State Recreation Area from scuba diving to boating.

The lake has more than 40 miles of shoreline to explore and discover. In the winter months, sign up for one of the special boat tours to see the bald and golden eagles soaring overhead.

While exploring the area, you might see the original Millerton County Courthouse. Its construction dates to 1867. Hiking in the surrounding foothills might reward you with a glimpse of a mule deer or badgers. Bring your binoculars to catch sight of birds and possibly one of those rare eagles.

Numerous family and group campsites are found surrounding the lake. If you have a boat, enjoy a night on the water with a floating campsite. You can bring an RV and find a full hookup and dump station. Facilities include showers in the restrooms along with outdoor showers.

Notable campgrounds

  • Family Campsites: Ideal for a cozy family getaway, offering a chance to create lasting memories under the stars.
  • Group Campsites: Perfect for larger gatherings, these sites provide ample space for friends to enjoy the great outdoors together.
  • RV Sites w/Hookups: Catering to the modern traveler, these sites combine the comfort of RV amenities with the beauty of lakeside camping.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, as sites can be reserved up to six months in advance to secure your ideal spot.
  • Consider visiting during the off-peak season for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute openings that may arise.
  • Explore nearby camping options if your preferred dates are not available at Millerton Lake SRA.

When to go

The best time to visit Millerton Lake SRA is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm conditions perfect for water activities, while winter provides a unique opportunity to view bald eagles. Avoid peak holiday weekends for a more tranquil visit.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's operating hours by calling ahead, as they may vary seasonally.
  • Remember that dogs are allowed only in the campground areas.
  • Stay safe by following posted safety tips, especially when participating in water sports.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with wheelchair-accessible features available for visitors.
  • Don't forget to bring layered clothing as the weather can be changeable throughout the year.
80%
9 ratings · 5 reviews

Top cities near Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

  1. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area