Camping spots near Angels, California range from lakefront sites to forested mountain campgrounds at elevations between 1,400-5,000 feet. Summer temperatures in valley campgrounds regularly exceed 100°F while higher elevation sites remain cooler. Water levels at reservoir campgrounds fluctuate seasonally, with spring offering optimal shoreline conditions.
What to do
Water sports at New Melones Lake: At Acorn Campground, kayaking is popular around the reservoir's coves. "We got in our kayaks for an awesome day paddle around the many coves of this reservoir. Since the lake level fluctuates there aren't many good beaches, but you can pull off to have a picnic lunch," notes Shari G.
Hiking Carson Creek Trail: USBR Gloryhole Rec Area Big Oak Campground offers accessible hiking options. "Took the pups for a walk on the Carson Creek Trail. It's listed as a 'moderate' trail as is the Gold Rush Trail. Don't be dissuaded by that. Both trails are really easy and offer great views," shares Lori T.
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common at many campgrounds, particularly during evening hours. "Deer are fearless & majestic, several 'packs' walked through our campsite all throughout Sunday night when everyone else was gone. They walked up to us to smell our campfire & our food," reports Katie K. from Lake Tulloch RV Campground.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Acorn Campground receives praise for its layout. "Nice spacious spots. No power or water hookups. Water spigots close by. Bathrooms with flush toilets and a single spacious shower," according to Martha H.
Lake views from select sites: Specific sites with premium vistas are worth requesting. At Big Oak Campground, Lori T. suggests: "We loved site 106 in the Big Oak campground, but found others that were even better view wise. 116 and 117 had great views of a larger part of the lake."
Clean facilities: North Grove Campground at Calaveras Big Trees State Park maintains well-kept amenities. "Bathrooms are very nice: clean, flush toilets, and sinks with cold water taps. Bear boxes provided," notes L.
Spring wildflowers: Visiting during spring offers botanical displays. "The campground is quiet and the scenery is amazing this time of year," shares Lori T. about Big Oak campground, adding that rates were "$22 per night plus online reservation fee. Our total for 2 nights was $52."
What you should know
Shower conditions vary: Glory Hole Recreation Area facilities sometimes need attention. "Restroom and showers need maintenance," advises Susan Y. Similarly, at Acorn Campground: "The shower needs to be updated."
Seasonal water levels: Reservoirs experience significant level changes throughout the year. "The lake level varies wildly throughout the year, sites that are right on the lake can end up being hundreds of feet from the lake if the water level is low. Early summer is the best time to go for high lake levels," explains Darin D.
Mosquito activity: Insects increase as temperatures rise. "We liked this campground enough to come back a second time in two weeks. The mosquitoes have definitely increased!" warns Lori T. about Big Oak campground.
Campsite selection: Many campgrounds offer varied site options. At Tuttletown Recreation Area, Natalya P. advises: "Cute small campsites, kind of close to your neighbor... Near 39 is nice."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Tulloch RV Campground offers dedicated play areas. "The kids had fun playing at the playground, jet skiing, and making sand castles at the beach," says Elisabeth.
Kid-friendly water activities: Several campgrounds provide safe swimming options. "Acorn Campground is great for tent and RV camping. Warm weather so great for swimming. Good for fishing, boating (they have a launch), kayaking, paddle boarding and you can bring bikes and scooters for the kids," shares Rosina A.
Educational programs: State parks often provide ranger-led activities. "There's lots of trails to hike here, an extensive ranger station with a Visitor Center, snack bar, and organized talks and activities," reports L. from North Grove Campground.
Heat preparation: Summer temperatures require planning. "We were here in July of 2019, and it was hot! But the lake is fantastic and the campsites are big which provides plenty of room for shade structures," advises Trisha L. about Acorn Campground.
Tips from RVers
Supply access: Tuttletown Recreation Area has nearby services. "Gas station with firewood not too far away (Lakeridge Inn Gas), and they have diesel. Boat launch and day use area only a short drive away," notes Hunter P.
Site selection for larger vehicles: RV sites vary significantly across campgrounds. "The campground offers a range of pull-through and back-in campsites along the slopes of the rolling hills, but most of the individual sites were flat and could accommodate a wide variety of rig sizes," explains Shari G. about Acorn Campground.
Solar considerations: Some campgrounds provide adequate sun exposure for solar power. "While there were many trees around for shade, we still had enough open sky for good solar gain and Starlink," mentions Shari G.
Dump station information: Facilities for waste disposal are available but may have fees. "They have a nice dump station ($8 fee recommended.. pay station is at park entrance)," shares Hunter P. about Tuttletown Recreation Area.
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