Dirt Flat

Dirt Flat is a peaceful and remote tent-only campsite on the north shore of the Merced River in El Portal, California in the Sierra National Forest. Many of the campsites open up right onto the river, and oak and pine trees provide campers with ample shade. The Sierra National Forest is located on the western side of the Sierra Nevada range so there will be no shortage of gorgeous mountain scenery during your stay! Your dog can come along and enjoy this serene campground with you as well, just be sure to keep them leashed.

Each spot at the Dirt Flat campground is equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring, a grill, and a bear-safe food locker. Campers must keep their food in these lockers to protect themselves and their fellow campers from bears in the area. You should also be on the lookout for rattlesnakes and poison oak around the campsite. There's no water available at Dirt Flat, so make sure to bring lots of your own! The roads around the campground are paved, and they also meet accessibility standards. In addition to the daily camping fee of $26, you'll be subject to a $35 entrance fee to the park for any vehicle with 15 passengers or fewer, and it will be good for up to seven days.

Non-motorized boating is permitted on the Merced River, and the spring and early summer is the best time to go whitewater rafting or kayaking. Campers can venture out onto the water on their own, or take a private boat tour provided by one of several private companies. The campground is close to the western entrance of Yosemite National Park, where campers can head for hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, fishing, golf, and much more. Your dog can join you on paved trails in the park, or for another dog-friendly activity, you can take a scenic drive through the park.

If you bring a second vehicle, you'll be subject to an additional $7 fee per night. Visitors are welcome to stay at the spectacular Dirt Flat campground for up to 14 days, and six guests are permitted at each site.