Camping options near Big Bar, California range from basic tent sites to full-service RV resorts throughout the lower Sierra foothills. Elevations typically range from 700 to 2,500 feet, creating mild spring and fall camping conditions with hot summer days reaching 90-100°F. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations where snow rarely accumulates for long periods.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Lake Amador Resort offers multiple disc golf courses popular with campers. According to one visitor, "As disc golfers, of course we love camping here, having 3 courses to choose from. But there is something for everyone in the family here, there is amazing fishing, boating and swimming."
Historical exploration: Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground offers a unique cultural experience. "This little park tucked into the Western Sierras will blow your mind. It is a significant Miwok Native American historical site, with home sites, ancient Oak trees, and literally thousands of grain, and acorn grinding stones located in the central part of the park," writes one camper.
Cave tours: Several campgrounds provide access to nearby cave systems. "Stop by the Black Chasm Cavern nearby. It's a small, but unique cavern about 5 minutes drive from campground and well worth the visit," notes one camper at Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park.
Paddling opportunities: Acorn Campground offers water recreation on New Hogan Reservoir. "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," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Off-season tranquility: Many campgrounds are significantly less crowded outside summer months. A visitor to Lake Camanche mentioned, "We camped twice at this campground on the South Shore. We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend and we had a few neighbors when we went again in mid January."
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings enhance the camping experience. At Lake Amador Resort, one camper noted, "The wildlife is RIGHT THERE! We saw a tarantula near the tee box on 2. I woke up with 4 deer casually strolling through our campsite, a huge group of turkeys were cruising around the whole weekend."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas beyond typical lake access. A visitor to Gold Country Campground Resort shared, "Splash pad was great for the littles, definitely bring chairs down w you. The pool was closed down the day we all tried to get together."
Astronomy viewing: Dark skies allow for stargazing opportunities. At Lake Amador Resort, one camper reported, "It was a meteor shower night and it was amazing. I would recommend this place during the cooler months."
What you should know
Insect management: Bees can be problematic during certain seasons. A Gold Country Campground Resort visitor warned, "The only and biggest downfall was the meat bees. Absolutely ruined the trip. We had a group of 9 families so we couldn't eat together cuz we all had to escape to our sites and quickly eat. Recommend bringing nets and tents to eat under."
Water level fluctuations: Reservoir levels vary significantly by season and drought conditions. A visitor to Acorn Campground noted, "Early summer is the best time to go for high lake levels. There is boating, fishing, water skiing, jet skiing, swimming etc available in the lake."
Limited connectivity: Cell service and internet are inconsistent. One camper at Gold Country Campground Resort shared, "Only issue was the internet was not working...and our T-Mobile phones didn't have coverage in the area. That's on us though. If you want cell service and reliable internet I don't think you can hold the campground liable for that!"
Site selection strategy: Some campgrounds have significant variation between sites. A camper at Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park advised, "Our site, 18, didn't have a very big tent pad, and our tent barely fit. The site was pretty large, but only one small flat part. Our friends had site 20, which had a couple flat spots, but none very big."
Tips for camping with families
Water play alternatives: North Grove Campground at Calaveras Big Trees State Park offers river access. "This is a super magical park! Giant trees, great visitor center and junior ranger program, and swimming in the Stanislaus river (cold but refreshing!!)," reports one visitor.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds include interpretive programs for children. A visitor to Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park noted, "Stop by the free museum. The ranger was very knowledgeable and engaged the kids well covering the history of artifacts."
Outdoor game areas: Gold Country Campground Resort provides multiple recreation options. According to one camper, "Good family place. Nice Splash pad and pool. Nothing fancy but it works. They also have a mini golf course."
Traffic considerations: Some campgrounds feature low-traffic roads ideal for bike riding. A visitor to Gold Country Campground Resort shared, "Little traffic so our kids could ride their bikes with no worries. Definitely worth coming back for the price."
Tips from RVers
Site layout awareness: Jackson Rancheria RV Park offers premium view sites. "We specifically stayed in spot 24, but any of the spots along the back have a beautiful view of the canyon," advises one RVer.
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer varying levels of services. A visitor to Jackson Rancheria RV Park noted, "The grounds are clean, nice level concrete spaces with lots of grass around them. Easy to social distance."
Off-season camping: Winter camping is available with proper preparation. An RVer at Lake Camanche wrote, "We've been camping here for 10 years now. Always 4+ campsites for 4-5 days around July 4th weekend (reserve at least 6months out) to start our year off. And at least once a month thru Sept/Oct."
Extended stay options: Some campgrounds accommodate longer visits. A visitor to 49er Village RV Resort shared, "We stayed here for a little over 2 months while waiting for our home to be built. It felt like we were on vacation every night. Pool is open in the winter with heating and a tent over top."
