Camping spots near Biola, California span terrain transitioning from the valley floor at 250 feet to nearby foothills reaching 1,000 feet elevation. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F from June through September, making shade and water access critical considerations for campers. Seasonal water levels at nearby reservoirs fluctuate dramatically, affecting both recreational opportunities and campsite conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing access year-round: Lost Lake Campground offers direct access to the San Joaquin River with productive fishing spots. A camper noted, "Gets hot in summer, spots are close by to each other but usually respectful neighbors... Nice huge area, can go off the trails and explore the area."
Boating and watersports: Millerton Lake State Recreation Area Campground provides multiple launch points for boats and watercraft. One visitor mentioned, "Great place to wakeboard, jet ski, fish, and BBQ," while another said, "The lake is very full now till July 4th. Great boating, and jet ski area."
Hiking trails: Explore the network of paths around Eastman Lake at COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground, which features rolling hills that transform seasonally. A reviewer shared, "Situated among rolling hills that are luscious green in the spring, this campsite is quiet and packed full of things to do. Whether you want to bike, hike, fish, boat or just sit and enjoy the peace and quiet."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The foothills campgrounds offer chances to spot local wildlife. At Codorniz Campground, one camper reported, "Fall has a Tarantula migration and you will definitely see them. Coyote, Bobcat, and deer are frequently seen."
Lakeside views: Hidden View Campground — Hensley Lake offers elevated perspectives of the water. A visitor wrote, "Great Views of the lake... IF you get the right spot. The rate is reasonable and the grounds are clean and well kept with lantern posts, fire rings and sturdy table."
Quieter alternatives to popular parks: Many campers appreciate the less crowded camping options near Biola compared to Yosemite. A reviewer at Hensley Lake said, "Use your national park pass for 50% off such a quiet place," while another noted the "Sparse and open foothills very beautiful in late winter."
What you should know
Rodent concerns: Some campgrounds have issues with wildlife that can damage vehicles. A camper at Millerton Lake warned, "We would not stay here again until the park gets control of the ground squirrels. We heard stories of cars and RV's being towed out because they chewed through wiring."
Seasonal bathroom conditions: Facility maintenance varies widely between campgrounds and seasons. At Codorniz, a camper observed, "Bathrooms were cleaned daily, but quickly trashed, probably by the aforementioned campers."
Water level fluctuations: Lakes in the region serve irrigation needs, affecting recreational access. A visitor to Codorniz noted, "This COE is on a small lake that is used for irrigation during the summer resulting in a much lower water level than in the spring. Fishing is good."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds for children: Bass Lake Recreation Area offers family-friendly amenities. A parent shared, "Don't let anyone tell you that you can't camp with an infant. It's actually one of the best activities that you can do with them, and it's a great break for the parents. Bass lake is the perfect campground for young family camping."
Kid-friendly water access: Some campgrounds have dedicated swimming areas safer for children. A reviewer at Lost Lake Campground mentioned, "A few miles out of town, store close by. Usually mostly empty and good privacy," while another noted, "There is a nice that runs by the campgrounds and further down and pass the station where pay the toll to the stake park. Their is a few playgrounds in the middle of the campgrounds."
Spring visits for cooler weather: Plan family trips during spring months when temperatures are milder. A camper at Millerton Lake recommended, "We stayed for one night but wish we could have stayed longer. The campground is not on the water but is close enough. Very quiet and enjoyable. Enjoyed hiking around the area. Our dogs loved the water."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Blackstone North RV Park provides essential services for larger rigs. An RVer noted, "Simple & Clean. Just passing thru and needed a spot. Very accommodating! Sites are large and level but no screening between rigs."
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require careful positioning. At Codorniz, a camper warned, "Sites are asphalt. Many sites may take some time to level. Back in and pull through are available."
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require driving on rough roads. A visitor to Codorniz reported, "Although not far off of Highway 99, the road from Chowchilla was incredibly rough. 15 miles of poorly-patched pot holes. I went no faster than 35 mph but still bounced the rig badly."
Cell service variations: Mobile connectivity differs between providers at most camping spots near Biola. At Codorniz, one camper shared, "AT&T cell signal from 45 was non existent but T-mobile worked well enough to stream Netflix."
