Dry Gulch

If you're looking for a great place to camp with your dog in the Sierra National Forest, look no further than the Dry Gulch Campground in El Portal, California. Also conveniently located near Yosemite National Park, the Dry Gulch Campground has four walk-in, tent-only sites that can each accommodate up to six people. Dogs are welcome, too, but must remain on a leash. 

This remote campground sits on the northern shores of the Merced River, and pine and oak trees provide abundant shade. The campground sits at an elevation of more than 3,000 feet, and in addition to the variety of fish in the surrounding bodies of water, it isn't uncommon to spot bald eagles in the area.

Each spot at Dry Gulch has a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. This campground and its washrooms meet accessibility standards. There is no drinking water available, so bring a supply of your own, or plan to boil water from the campground water spigots. This pack-it-in, pack-it-out campground requires that visitors remove their own garbage when they leave. Dry Gulch is located in bear country, so during your stay, be sure to store your food in bear-safe lockers.

In the spring and summer, the Merced River is used for whitewater rafting and kayaking. Experienced campers can navigate the waters on their own, or you can sign up for a guided tour. You're also just a short drive from the west entrance of Yosemite National Park, where you can head for fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, or take the scenic drive on the El Portal Road for 12 miles. This 24-minute drive takes you past the most-photographed spot in the park known as Valley View.

Poison oak is in abundance around the campground, and rattlesnakes frequent the area. Be sure to be on the lookout for both during your stay at Dry Gulch.