Epic Bass Lake Camping Essentials

Overview of Bass Lake Camping

Bass Lake is a fantastic destination for campers looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Sierra National Forest. The area offers seven different campgrounds, each with unique features and breathtaking views of the lake. Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, Bass Lake has something for everyone.

Top Finds at Bass Lake

If you're short on time, here are some highlights to consider:

• Hotels and Vacation Rentals: Explore options for lodging near Bass Lake.
• Tours: Discover guided experiences that take you through the surrounding areas.
• Save Time: Purchase your National Park Pass before your trip to save money and avoid long lines.

About Bass Lake Recreation Area

Bass Lake is part of the 1.3 million-acre Sierra National Forest, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the lake. There are five standard front country campgrounds and two group campgrounds, all of which can be reserved up to six months in advance. This ensures you have a guaranteed spot for your camping trip.

The area is conveniently located near Oakhurst and several resorts, providing easy access to stores, restaurants, and other amenities. Additionally, Bass Lake served as the filming location for the 1988 movie "The Great Outdoors," featuring Dan Ackroyd and John Candy.

Things to Do at Bass Lake

Bass Lake is a hub for outdoor activities, including swimming, motorized boating, canoeing, kayaking, water skiing, sailing, and jet skiing. Hikers will find several trails, such as Willow Creek, Spring Cove, Goat Mountain, and the Way-of-the-Mono Interpretive Trail. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot Black Bears, deer, bobcats, coyotes, western gray squirrels, Bald Eagles, Osprey, Golden Eagles, herons, and ducks.

Fishing is also a popular activity, with a variety of fish species available, including Rainbow Trout, Kokanee Salmon, Bass, Bluegill, Crappie, and Catfish. The area hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as a fishing derby, the Yosemite Half Marathon, and the Light Up the Sky Fourth of July fireworks show.

Other recreational activities include exploring the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway, taking a train ride on the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, and visiting the Wassama Round House State Historic Park. Plus, the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park is just 24 miles away, offering a 90-minute drive to the heart of the park.

Campground Details

Cedar Bluff Campground

• Location: Southeast on Forest Road 222, approximately 2.75 miles from the start.
• Elevation: 3,400 feet.
• Open: Year-round.
• Number of Sites: 22 (14 double sites, 8 quad sites).
• Reservations: Yes, through Recreation.gov.
• Amenities: Water, flush toilets, picnic table, grill, campfire ring, and paved parking spur.
• RVs Allowed: Yes, up to 40 ft.

Forks Campground

• Location: 4.75 miles on Forest Road 222.
• Elevation: 3,400 feet.
• Open: Spring - Sept.
• Number of Sites: 28.
• Reservations: Yes, through Recreation.gov.
• Amenities: Water, flush toilets, picnic table, pedestal grill, stone fire ring, and paved parking spur.
• RVs Allowed: Yes, up to 40 ft.

Lupine Campground

• Location: Adjacent to Cedar Bluff Campground.
• Elevation: 3,400 feet.
• Open: Year-round.
• Number of Sites: 51.
• Reservations: Yes, through Recreation.gov.
• Amenities: Water, flush toilets, picnic table, grill, campfire ring, and paved parking spur.
• RVs Allowed: Yes, up to 40 ft.

Spring Cove Campground

• Location: 20 miles south of Yosemite National Park.
• Elevation: 3,400 feet.
• Open: Spring - Fall.
• Number of Sites: 61.
• Reservations: Yes, through Recreation.gov.
• Amenities: Water, flush toilets, picnic table, grill, campfire ring, and paved parking spur.
• RVs Allowed: Yes, up to 30 ft.

Wishon Point Campground

• Location: Adjacent to Miller's Landing Resort.
• Elevation: 3,400 feet.
• Open: April - September.
• Number of Sites: 24 single, 22 double.
• Reservations: Yes, through Recreation.gov.
• Amenities: Water, flush toilets, picnic table, stone fire pit, and pedestal grill.
• RVs Allowed: Yes, but not suitable for large travel trailers or RVs over 24 feet.

Crane Valley Group Campground

• Location: Not currently open due to hazard tree removal.
• Elevation: 3,400 feet.
• Open: Closed through 2028.
• Number of Sites: 7.
• Reservations: Yes, when open.
• Amenities: Vault toilets, grills, fire rings, tables.
• RVs Allowed: Yes, up to 30 ft.

Recreation Point Group Campground

• Location:
• Elevation: 3,400 feet.
• Open: Year-round.
• Number of Sites: 4.
• Reservations: Yes, through Recreation.gov.
• Amenities: Water faucet, picnic tables, pedestal grill.
• RVs Allowed: No.

Planning Your Trip

To reach the Bass Lake campground office, take Highway 41 north from Fresno through Oakhurst, then turn right onto Forest Road 222 toward Bass Lake. The office is open seven days a week from May 15 through Labor Day weekend, with hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

For current fire conditions or weather closures, contact the Sierra National Forest Headquarters at (559) 297-0706. No electrical hookups or showers are available at any Forest Service campgrounds, but all flush toilet buildings have accessible toilets.

Regulations and Tips

• Maximum number of people per site: 6 for single-family, 12 for double, 24 for quad.
• Number of cars per site: 1 vehicle for single sites, 2 for double, 4 for quadruple.
• Additional vehicles must purchase a valid car pass.
• Check-out time: 12 noon.
• Quiet hours: 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
• Maximum stay: 14 days.
• Pets: Dogs must be on a leash, with a maximum of two per site.
• Parking: Only allowed on spurs and designated areas.
• Day use: Closes at 9 p.m.

Lodging and Tours

If campgrounds are full, consider staying at one of the local hotels, such as The Pines Resort, Sierra Sky Ranch, or Chateau du Sureau. These options offer a range of amenities, including spas, gyms, restaurants, and free Wi-Fi.

For tours, consider the Semi-Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch, California Audio Tour Bundle, or Private Full-Day Fly Fishing. These experiences provide a great way to explore the area and make the most of your visit.

Final Thoughts

Bass Lake is a perfect destination for campers of all levels, offering stunning natural scenery, diverse activities, and convenient access to nearby attractions. With careful planning and the right gear, your camping trip to Bass Lake is sure to be an unforgettable experience.