Yosemite Pines RV Park in Groveland is a solid choice if you’re heading to Yosemite with your dog and want to stay outside the park itself. The location on Highway 120 puts you just minutes from the main entrance, which is genuinely convenient for early morning hikes or multiple days exploring the valley.

The park has a mix of RV spots and furnished cabins, so depending on what you’re comfortable with, you’ve got options. We found the facilities well-maintained, and the staff was genuinely helpful about where we could take our dog in the area. There’s a swimming pool if you want to cool off after a hot day of driving, plus they’ve set up a petting zoo and gold panning activities if you want to take a break from hiking or exploring nearby trails.

What actually matters for dog owners: the exercise trails and bike paths on the property give your dog space to burn energy without having to drive anywhere. The campfire areas are nice for evening hangouts, especially if you’re traveling with a group and want to coordinate plans for the next day. The clubhouse with a full kitchen is handy if you’re cooking for multiple people or just want a break from camp cooking.

The surrounding area has legitimate Gold Country history — you can actually tour an old gold mine on site if that interests you — but the real draw is how close you are to Yosemite. We appreciated being able to leave the park and hit different trailheads without a long drive, then come back to a comfortable base with decent amenities. It’s the kind of place that works well for a long weekend or week-long trip where you want flexibility about what you’re doing each day. Check their website for current rates and availability before heading out, especially during peak season.