Expert: Steve Summers - 7/30/2007

Question
Hi Steve,
I am planning a camping trip for a family reunion for July 2008. We have had
trouble in the past finding a suitable place and are willing to travel from SD to
Yosemite for a fun time. We would like to be in spots nearby eachother, we
have about 10 families with pets, would need mixed RV/camping sites, would
prefer near a swimming source (i.e river, lake, beach), and if possible have a
place like a grassy area/ lawn/ beach etc where we can play family games and
have meetings. Any advice you can give would be great thanks!

Answer
Hi Breanna,

Nice to see someone is planning ahead. Usually people ask me about such places that they can find... for NEXT weekend!

There are a number of group campsites within that area. The first one that comes to mind is at Carpinteria State Beach. They have two group campsites that can accomodate your group, with places for cars, tents, and RV's. The Heron group campsite, located in the Santa Cruz section, accomodates 65 people, has eight 35' long parking spaces, has a nice flat area for tent camping/meeting, and is steps away from the beach. If you don't need that much space, then you can get the Racoon group site, located in the Anacapa section of the park (40 people max).

There are also some good group spots at El Capitan State Beach, which are large grassy areas on the bluffs above the beach. They hold 50, 60, or 100. Both of these can be reserved at www.reserveamerica.com at 8 AM January 1st. Don't be late, or the sites will be gone. July is the most popular month.

At San Clemente State Beach, there is a group area, but it's pretty much just dirt.

In Yosemite, there used to be a Valley Group Campground. No beach, but the Merced River is pretty nice in spring and early summer. Of course, it's mighty cold water (recently melted snow, actually). At least you can cool off in the pool at Curry Village. However, the only group campgrounds in Yosemite are outside the valley. I prefer Bridalveil Creek campground.
Not much in the way of meadows, lawns, etc. here. Just a lot of granite. However, the views are incredible, and worth making adjustments for.


Have fun!