The 132 sites at this Army Corps of Engineers campground spread across rolling hills beside New Hogan Lake, with many positioned directly on the water when levels are high. Early summer brings the best lake access, though seasonal fluctuations can leave waterfront sites hundreds of feet from shore during dry periods. Most sites accommodate large RVs despite narrow paved driveways that require careful navigation.
Geese patrol the grounds year-round, leaving their mark throughout the campground, while deer wander between sites checking out camping gear. Weekdays offer relative solitude, but weekends draw boaters launching from multiple ramps around the reservoir. The lake supports fishing, water skiing, and swimming when conditions allow. Some sites provide enough trees for hammocks and shade structures, though coverage varies significantly across the property.
Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, grill, and lantern pole. "Fresh water taps and recycling/trash bins were plentiful," notes Shari G.. The main bathhouse offers flush toilets and showers, though maintenance issues affect functionality at times. Vault toilets supplement the facilities throughout the grounds.
Site selection matters considerably here. Many sites sit on steep slopes that challenge tent camping, while others offer level ground with lake views. Pull-through and back-in options exist, but pad orientation may position RV doors away from tables and fire pits. The nearby Zippy Mart provides forgotten supplies, bait, and firewood just outside the campground entrance.
Reservations through Recreation.gov secure specific sites, particularly important for waterfront locations that fill quickly. Campers exploring campgrounds around Valley Springs will find this the primary lake option in the immediate area.
Description
Overview
Acorn Campground is a sunny campground in the brush-covered hills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The area is generally characterized by a warm, dry climate with summer temperatures regularly soaring above 90 degrees.With sites just a short walk from the shores of the popular New Hogan Lake, visitors will have no problem finding relief in the comfortable clear waters.
Recreation
Boating is a popular pastime, with boat ramps conveniently located around the lake. The large surface area allows for plenty of water skiing, wake boarding, jet skiing and more. Year-round fishing for stripers, bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish is perfect for experts and beginners alike. Some of the largest fish are found in less than 25 feet of water. The "River of Skulls" hiking trail is located below the dam at the Monte Vista Recreation Area. There is also a staging area for an eight mile equestrian trail on a scenic loop that winds along the lake and through the foothill chaparral. Trail guides are available at the park office. Bicycle trails suitable for the beginner as well as the advanced rider are found on the west side of the lake and next to the group camping area. An easy 3-mile trail connects the park office with Acorn Campground. Hunting with bow or shotgun during the open season is permitted in certain areas of the lake. Upland game such as turkey, quail and dove is available and waterfowl includes a variety of duck and geese.
Facilities
Acorn Campground offers 128 spacious campsites with modern amenities such showers and accessible flush toilets, as well as drinking water, an important part of staying hydrated in the summer sun.
Natural Features
The 4,400 surface-acre lake was created in 1964 with the completion of New Hogan Dam. When full, the lake has 50 miles of shoreline and extends nearly eight miles upstream to the confluence of the north and south forks of the Calaveras River. The dam was built to provide flood protection to the city of Stockton and water for irrigation, drinking and hydroelectric power, and it now offers recreation opportunities for thousands of visitors each year. The New Hogan area supports a wide variety of wildlife. The foothills location is home to grey fox, mule deer, coyote, turkey, mountain lion, bobcat and rattlesnakes. New Hogan is also a wintering home for bald eagles. The south shore of the lake has been designated as a wildlife viewing area.
Nearby Attractions
A number of historic sites are located nearby, including Carson Hill, the discovery site of the largest gold nugget ever found, and The Black Bart Inn, located in San Andreas, where the famous outlaw Black Bart was captured. Groceries, gas, camping supplies and more can be found in the nearby town of Valley Springs, California.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundAcorn Campground is located in California
Directions
From Stockton California, take Highway 26 east for 30 miles. Turn right on Hogan Dam Road and continue for a mile, then follow signs to the campground. Park Headquarters: 2713 Hogan Dam Road Valley Springs, CA 95252 Acorn Campground: 3027 South Petersburg Road Valley Springs, CA 95252
Address
2713 HOGAN DAM ROAD
Valley springs, CA 95252-9510
Coordinates
38.1762611 N
120.7997222 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 3/13/26- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 3/13/26
AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 3/13/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 3/13/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 3/13/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 3/13/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 40 min from Stockton, CA
- 57 min from Sacramento, CA
- 58 min from Modesto, CA
- 1 hr 30 min from Merced, CA
