One road in, one road out. That single-entry layout keeps through-traffic minimal at Codorniz, a US Army Corps of Engineers campground on the western edge of Eastman Lake, about 21 miles from Chowchilla. The road from town is notoriously rough, with poorly patched potholes that slow most drivers to under 35 mph, so tow vehicles and trailers should expect a bumpy approach. Once you arrive, the campground sits on a hill among rolling terrain with volcanic outcroppings visible across the water, and the site count is spread out enough that neighbors rarely feel close.
Sites are asphalt, and many require some leveling work before they settle comfortably. The Corps has expanded the electric hookups over the years, and the campground now accommodates rigs up to 75 feet, with back-in and pull-through options both available. Tom D. notes there are "lots of space between sites, some with electric and water," and that five or six sites fit a 43-foot motorcoach. Hookup sites tend to sit away from the water, and most don't provide lake views. Site 42 is a noted exception. A dump station, flush toilets, showers, and a playground round out the facilities, though cell service is limited regardless of carrier, and WiFi availability has been inconsistent across visits.
Water access at Codorniz takes some planning. The lake level fluctuates significantly with seasonal irrigation draws, running much lower in summer and fall than in spring. Sites 9 through 11 sit closest to the water but reach it via a rocky trail that isn't well-suited to young children. A beach area roughly a mile up the road and a day-use swimming area across the lake give campers more usable access. Fishing holds up even when levels drop.
Seasonality shapes the experience here in distinct ways. Spring brings green hillsides and wildflowers in late February and March. Summer runs hot at this low Central Valley elevation, and the grasses go brown. Fall is when the tarantula migration draws attention, and coyotes, bobcats, and deer are reported year-round. Candy H. sums up the day-to-day feel simply: "Clean and the camp hosts were great." Rangers and a camp host patrol regularly without being intrusive.
Reservations are required and rates run from $20 to $100 per night depending on site type. The campground is open year-round, though supplies are at least 30 minutes away, so arriving stocked matters. Campers who want full hookups, room for large rigs, and a low-traffic lake setting with room to fish will find Codorniz a workable base. Those prioritizing direct water access or reliable connectivity should weigh those gaps carefully before booking. For a broader look at places to camp near Eastman Lake, the nearby Wildcat Recreation Area Campground — Eastman Lake is another Corps-managed option on the same reservoir.
Description
Overview
Codorniz Campground on H.V. Eastman Lake is a perfect launchpad for activities like fishing, canoeing, birding and hiking. Tucked in the Sierra Nevada foothills, the area attracts abundant wildlife like bobcats, golden eagles, mountain lions, hawks and wood ducks. Information about the lake's water level can be found under Additional Information.
Recreation
Eastman Lake is the first designated Trophy Bass Fishery, by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Both young and old anglers will find fishing on Eastman lake a satisfying challenge. At the campground, visitors can try their hand at disc golf or challenge a group of friends to a game of volleyball. Horseshoe pits are also available for a little friendly competition.
Facilities
A mix of electric and non-electric campsites are available. Fish cleaning stations are near each boat ramp, and showers are on hand as well. Horse camping corrals are available.
Natural Features
The rolling hills around Eastman Lake are surrounded by tall grasses and scattered oak trees, giving way to stunning mountain views. The lake features 1,780 surface acres, fed by the cool waters of the Chowchilla River.
Nearby Attractions
The Sierra National Forest is a short drive to the east of the campground.
Fee Info
Camping fees have increased.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
The playgrounds at H.V. Eastman Lake are temporarily closed for repairs. We thank you for your understanding.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCOE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground is located in California near Raymond
Public CampgroundDirections
Eastman Lake is 30 miles northeast of Madera, 25 miles east of Chowchilla, and 50 miles north of Fresno. From Highway 99, travel east on Avenue 26 then north on Rd 29. Follow signs into the campground.
Address
P.O. BOX 67
Raymond, CA 93653-0067
Coordinates
37.2158333 N
119.9686111 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 8/22/26
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 8/22/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 8/22/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 8/22/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 58 min from Merced, CA
- 1 hr 11 min from Fresno, CA
- 1 hr 32 min from Modesto, CA
- 1 hr 42 min from Hanford, CA
