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Indian Flat RV Park
Overview
Indian Flat RV Park serves as a practical and scenic basecamp for travelers heading into the Sierra Nevada mountains. As the closest private campground to the Yosemite National Park boundary on Highway 140, it offers a rustic mountain atmosphere that complements the natural beauty of the region. This park provides a no-frills experience focused on accessibility and convenience, making it a reliable choice for those who want to maximize their time exploring the national park's iconic landmarks while enjoying the sounds of the nearby river.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the small community of El Portal, the park is nestled deep within the Merced River Canyon. The surrounding landscape is characterized by steep, oak-studded hillsides and the rushing waters of the river just across the road. Staying here allows guests to enjoy the dramatic canyon scenery while remaining only a few miles from the Arch Rock Entrance of Yosemite. The location is particularly advantageous during the peak season, providing a significant head start for those looking to beat the morning crowds entering the valley.
Amenities & Park Features
The park offers a variety of sites including water and electric hookups for RVs of various sizes, with some sites offering sewer connections. While the facilities are modest and prioritize a traditional camping feel, they include essential services such as a small on-site grocery store, laundry facilities, and restrooms with showers. One unique perk is that guests often have seasonal access to the swimming pool located at the neighboring lodge property, providing a refreshing way to unwind after a long day of hiking on dusty trails.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is undoubtedly Yosemite National Park, where visitors can marvel at El Capitan, Half Dome, and the mist of Yosemite Falls. Just outside the park gates, the Merced River provides world-class opportunities for whitewater rafting during the spring runoff or quiet fishing spots in the late summer. For a change of pace, the historic town of Mariposa is a short drive away, offering local boutiques, dining, and a glimpse into California’s Gold Rush history through its well-preserved architecture and museums.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for active adventurers who view their RV as a comfortable home base between rugged outdoor excursions. Because the mountain terrain can make for tighter maneuvering, it is best suited for mid-sized RVs and campervans rather than massive luxury coaches. If you value a short commute to Yosemite’s valley floor and prefer a quiet, wooded environment over a high-density resort, this location provides the perfect functional gateway for your California mountain road trip.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Internet
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jerry South
I will start with the good. Fantastic WiFi, extremely clean bathrooms and shower rooms, excellent pool at cedar Lodge next door, short walkable distance to the YART bus stop into Yosemite, great price for a campground 8 miles from a national park entrance and easy access to a beautiful little river park across the highway. The only negative is, out of the several hundred campgrounds I have camped in over the last six years, none have even come close to how packed this place is. I was fortunate to get the best campsite in the park but across from me are 4 campers in an area no larger than some single campsites I have stayed at. The spaces don't allow for parking both your camper and your towing vehicle so you need to use the overflow parking which is outside the campground parallel to the highway. The Jupe Tents, tent cabins, and cottages are also packed just as tight as are the tent sites. I would still recommend this campground to anyone wanting to go to Yosemite though. It's definitely the closest and most convenient campground
Stacy F
The staff here were SOOOOO nice. I was so flustered after traveling 4 hours to get to a trail head that was blocked from a landslide. They helped me squeeze in a booking even though they technically didnt have space, gave me great advice on the nearby trails, and when it still didn’t work out and I ended up defeated, going home, they helped me cancel and refunded the full amount. I am so grateful for their kindness and compassion. The location is great, their sites were clean, and the staff….100/10 🙌🙌
Perle Treguier
I honestly don't understand the negative reviews here. There is a couple tight spots due to this random spot in the middle, but if you follow the length restrictions and know how to park your trailer you'll be fine. I did it solo in the rain so... The staff is SO SO nice I can't say enough, they helped me when I made a mistake in finding my spot in the rain, everyone I met was very friendly. Access to the gym, hotel pools, cute river spot, and a little restaurant on site, 45 minutes from the valley is lovely. I would 100% stay here again.
Hilton Jaimie
I have camped here several times and love the location and proximity to the park. Service is great, camp spots are small but easy to access. Facilities are great especially with the add on of the hotel amenities next door (pool, restaurant etc). The river area is great to go to and it’s a quick drive to the park. Shower and bathrooms are clean and kept well. Good value and good team.
S B
We stayed for two nights on 128. One of the nicer RV sites since you have no one in front of you and the others are above. The showers were very clean and water was good - the 2 showers right behind the dishwashing station. Its nice you can use the indoor pool and hot tub and having the bar and restaurant is convenient. Yes the tent sites in the front are close together but its not a state or national park. If you are tent camping id suggest the tent sites behind the 128 further up. They have a small shop to buy some goods if you need to. Prices are very good with the winter discount (till mid March?). BBQ and fire ring is also there. Great location to get into Yosemite from just a short 20 minute drive. Also a nice hike down the road is the Hites Cove Trail especially with the wildflowers blooming. What could be improved? The table was quite rundown on our site but it did its job after cleaning.