Within the New Melones Resource Management Area, Ironhorse campground occupies a spot along the Glory Hole section of New Melones Lake. The Bureau of Reclamation manages this established campground, which provides both hookup sites and allows pets. Campers can make reservations in advance.
The campground sits in an open area with limited tree cover, as one reviewer notes the lack of trees means "no hammock and no privacy." Sites are spaced far enough apart that tent campers report manageable noise levels even during busy periods. Clean bathrooms serve the campground, though Tabitha mentions "drinking water might be quite far away, bathrooms are basic." Lake water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting access and views.
Summer temperatures run high at this elevation. The campground lacks direct lake access from campsites, requiring campers to walk to reach the water. A gas station operates eight minutes away, stocking firewood and ice for convenience. Staff receives positive mentions from visitors for helpfulness.
Campers seeking additional options can explore campgrounds near New Melones Resource Management Area. Nearby alternatives include Chamise - Tuttletown Area - New Melones Lake, located just over a mile east for those wanting different amenities or settings.
Description
Glory Hole Recreation Area is located at New Melones Lake on the Stanislaus River. The 12,500 surface-acre lake is the fourth largest reservoir in California and is situated along the edge of the Mother Lode, the rich gold vein that prompted the California Gold Rush of 1849. At an elevation of 1100 feet, the diverse and resource-abundant Foothill Oak Woodlands hug the 100 miles of shoreline. Popular activities on and around the large, yet uncrowded lake include fishing, boating, water skiing, wake boarding, jet skiing, sailing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, wildlife viewing, rock climbing, hiking, biking, horseback riding and picknicking. The New Melones Visitor Center offers year-round interpretive events and a museum highlighting natural and cultural resources. New Melones Lake camping provides outstanding access to the Sierra Nevada.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundIronhorse- Glory Hole Area - New Melones Lake is located in California
Coordinates
37.98500045 N
120.53500028 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 1 hr 10 min from Stockton, CA
- 1 hr 22 min from Modesto, CA
- 1 hr 28 min from Merced, CA
- 1 hr 36 min from Sacramento, CA


