PML Campground

For Californians looking to explore the breathtaking wonders of Yosemite National Park without breaking the bank, PML Campground in Groveland, CA, presents a practical and budget-friendly option. Situated conveniently close to Yosemite Valley, this campground offers a no-frills, rustic experience, making it an ideal base for those prioritizing accessibility to the park's iconic sights over luxurious amenities. It’s a place where you can set up camp, prepare for your adventures in the Sierra Nevada, and unwind after a day of hiking, all while keeping your travel budget in check.

PML Campground caters to a variety of campers, from those in RVs seeking essential hookups to tent campers embracing a more traditional, rugged outdoor experience. While it emphasizes basic amenities and a rustic feel, its strategic location near Yosemite and the nearby town of Groveland provide a valuable combination of natural access and convenience. For locals in California, this means a straightforward drive to some of the state's most revered natural landscapes, offering an affordable entry point into the Sierra Nevada's beauty. It’s a reminder that incredible outdoor experiences don’t always require a hefty price tag, and sometimes, a simple, functional base is all you need to create lasting memories.

PML Campground is conveniently located at Ferretti Rd, Groveland, CA 95321, USA. Its address places it squarely in Groveland, a charming town that serves as a popular gateway to Yosemite National Park. The most significant aspect of its location and accessibility is its proximity to Yosemite Valley.

According to visitor reviews, PML Campground is approximately 1.25 hours from Yosemite Valley. This makes it an excellent choice for Californians planning day trips into the heart of Yosemite, allowing for relatively easy access to popular destinations like Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Glacier Point. The drive through the scenic Sierra Nevada foothills to Yosemite is part of the experience, offering beautiful views along the way.

Furthermore, the nearby town of Groveland is a notable advantage for campers. It's described as "not too bad and has a grocery store," which is a crucial convenience for stocking up on supplies, grabbing forgotten items, or simply enjoying a meal out before or after your Yosemite adventures. This combination of being close enough to a major national park and having essential services nearby enhances the overall accessibility and practicality of PML Campground for Californians looking to explore the region without being entirely isolated. While the campground itself may be rustic, its external access points to both natural wonders and town amenities make it a functional and appealing base for your California outdoor excursions.

PML Campground offers a set of basic, yet essential, services designed to accommodate various types of campers, focusing on functionality and a rustic experience.

• Mixed Site Types: The campground provides a mix of camping options. At the "top of the campground, there’s a mix of full hookups and just water spouts," catering to RVs and trailers that require power and water connections.
• Tent Camping Areas: The "bottom is tent camping only," indicating dedicated zones for traditional tent setups. These sites are described as more rustic and may have "shared water spouts," meaning water access points might be communal rather than at each individual site.
• Restrooms and Showers: Essential for any campground, PML offers restrooms and showers. The requirement for "door codes" for these facilities suggests a measure of security and control, which can be reassuring for campers.
• Security Patrols: "PML security drives through a couple of times a day," a notable service that enhances safety and provides peace of mind for campers, particularly for those camping alone. This regular presence can deter undesirable behavior and assist with any issues that may arise.
• Proximity to Basic Amenities: While not a direct service of the campground itself, its location near Groveland means campers have easy access to a "grocery store," allowing them to restock food and supplies conveniently.
• Affordable Rates: A key "service" or benefit highlighted by reviews is that the place is "cheap," making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to save money on accommodation while visiting the Yosemite region.

PML Campground, while basic, has several features and highlights that make it a notable option for campers, especially those prioritizing budget and location for exploring Yosemite:

• Proximity to Yosemite National Park: This is arguably the biggest highlight. Being "1.25 hours from Yosemite Valley" makes it an extremely convenient and practical base for daily excursions into one of California's most iconic natural wonders. This proximity allows for early starts to popular trails and attractions, maximizing time within the park.
• Budget-Friendly Option: Repeatedly emphasized as "cheap," PML Campground offers a significantly more affordable alternative to campgrounds located directly within Yosemite National Park or more amenity-rich private resorts. This makes it an attractive choice for cost-conscious Californians.
• Mixed Camping Options: The ability to accommodate both RVs with "full hookups and just water spouts" and dedicated "tent camping only" areas provides flexibility for different camping styles and preferences.
• Rustic and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite some individual experiences, the campground is generally described as "rustic and quiet." This appeals to campers looking for a traditional outdoor experience without excessive noise or development, allowing for a more natural ambiance. The presence of security patrols also helps maintain this quiet environment.
• Security Presence: The fact that "PML security drives through a couple of times a day" is a valuable feature, contributing to a sense of safety and oversight, especially for solo campers or families.
• Access to Nearby Town Amenities: The close proximity to Groveland, with its "grocery store" and other basic town services, is a practical highlight. It means campers don't have to venture far for essential supplies or a quick meal.
• Potential for Creek Access (Seasonal): While one reviewer noted the creek was "mostly dried up" in late June, the presence of a creek implies a natural water feature that, when flowing, could add to the campground's appeal for relaxation and exploration, particularly earlier in the season.

Address: Ferretti Rd, Groveland, CA 95321, USA

Phone: (209) 962-8615

Mobile Phone: +1 209-962-8615

When contacting PML Campground, it is important to remember that this is a private campground associated with the Pine Mountain Lake community. The phone numbers provided should connect you directly with campground management or the relevant office for reservations and inquiries.

For Californians planning their visit, it is highly recommended to call in advance to:

• Check current availability for your preferred dates and camping type (RV with hookups or tent site).
• Inquire about specific site features, such as shade or proximity to water spouts.
• Confirm pricing and any applicable fees.
• Ask about the current condition of the creek, especially if water features are important to your camping experience.
• Clarify any rules regarding noise, check-in/check-out times, or visitor policies to ensure a smooth stay.

While reviews suggest mixed experiences with management responsiveness regarding noise issues, direct communication before your trip can help manage expectations and clarify details about the campground's operations and amenities.

For Californians looking to explore the majestic beauty of Yosemite National Park without straining their travel budget, PML Campground stands out as a highly suitable option. Its most compelling advantage is its strategic location, a mere 1.25 hours drive from the iconic Yosemite Valley. This proximity allows locals to maximize their time enjoying the park's trails, waterfalls, and granite monoliths, rather than spending hours commuting. It provides an affordable and practical base camp for daily adventures into one of the state's most treasured natural wonders.

While it's acknowledged as a "basic campground" with a "rustic" feel, this simplicity is precisely what appeals to many who prefer a no-frills outdoor experience. The availability of both "full hookups" for RVs and dedicated "tent camping only" areas ensures flexibility for diverse camping preferences. The presence of "PML security drives through a couple of times a day" offers an added layer of safety and peace of mind, a welcome feature for those camping alone or with family. For locals who prioritize accessibility to Yosemite and a budget-conscious approach over luxurious amenities, PML Campground offers a functional and convenient solution. It’s a pragmatic choice for creating memorable outdoor experiences in the stunning Sierra Nevada, proving that California's natural wonders can be within reach for every adventurer.

PML Campground

Ferretti Rd, Groveland, CA 95321, USA