New Melones Lake, CA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of New Melones Lake. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in New Melones Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
$150 / night
"Water level in the New Melones Lake was quite low at that time and it is kind of an off-season time to visit this recreation area so campground was not crowded at all."
"Cute small campsites, kind of close to your neighbor. Not a lot of bugs which is always a plus when your near water, we went mid October and the weather wasn’t too hot or too cold."
"We were lucky to have a spot at the dead center of the top of the mountain looking out at the lake (site 13) with a big shade tree."
"There are sites on the lake with shade provided over the tables. It was mid week and was not crowded at all. The lake is gorgeous and at night there were several deer walking thru the site."
$20 / night
"A good clean campground, popular in central California. Reasonably priced $20 per night."
"The lake has receded quite a but that one of the docks is about 100 yards from the actual lake now (California drought). The campsite was well maintained."
$18 - $22 / night
"Showers and bathrooms aren't working but otherwise a great place to camp. been going to the nearby Tuttletown camp for showers and working bathrooms while they work on Gloryhole."
"The view was gorgeous, and there were a lot of hiking trails to choose from."
"The only downside is that the park closes at 8:00 pm so we had to sleep behind the entrance until 4:00 am when they opened the door again. A Fire ring and a bench available at each spot."
"Sites were a good size and were tucked down a slight hill from the road which was great for privacy. Bathrooms were kept very clean and well stocked."
"Super nice, close to the bathrooms. There's a community outdoors kitchen with stove and sink. Small hiking trail that had some horse nearby that cam and said hi to us. Will definitely be coming back."
"Close to lots of cute towns and wineries."
"This site is right on the lake, the bathrooms were clean. It was pretty busy but the spaces are far enough apart that it wasn’t super loud even in a tent."
"If you plan to go into Yosemite NP, it's a long drive so plan accordingly. Our family really enjoys Rainbow Pools and Yosemite Pine's proximity to Rainbow Pools is part of why we stay here."
"Not located in the Yosemite Park (we made that mistake). 20-30min drive to Yosemite Park.
Very cute and quiet spot.
Trails around camp grounds, petting zoo for kids."
$25 - $70 / night
"I think this is my favorite California State Park. It is situated in the Calaveras Big Trees Giant Sequoia Grove."
"Pros - you are in the middle of the Sequoias, near hiking, kayaking, etc. Beautiful river nearby; pretty easy in and out for small-ish RVs. Hard to beat the location."
RangerWe ended up on the “outside” of the spots in the trees. But, we did not have anyone in either side of us. Huge spot. It’s pretty here. No nearby grocery so have what you need. The Yosemite village store has quite a selection but it is an hour away. Easy access to the park.
TravelerNice campsite, nowhere near level. Open sky, big trees, close to your neighbors, but quiet.
LegendEasy to get to and easy to park at although not a great spot for tents. Unfortunately there was a massive fire here and there is nothing to look at but burned out trees.
ScoutThe bathrooms and showers are clean. The sites are a little tight. My Wi-Fi was Starlink so I don’t know how the camp Wi-Fi was.
TravelerWe went to Pinecrest as the first trip we took with our brand new travel trailer. Not only was it a great break-in trip but the location was lovely. The hosts were friendly and very helpful when we had difficulty getting into the site we reserved. Once we set up camp in our new sire, we started to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. And the ravens. Lots of talkative ravens. Very entertaining.
We were thrilled to find out there’s a restaurant and general store located right across the street from the campground. It was just delicious icing on a very tasty cake. Two thumbs up for Pinecrest Campground and an extra thumbs up and thank you to the hosts.
GuideI prefer dispersed camping for the quiet and solitude but we met friends here who picked the campground. That said, this is a nice established cg. Not a lot of privacy (wide open so you can see everyone around you) but individual sites have room between them. Campers when we were there were fairly quiet but even quiet sounds travel, especially at night. Smoke from all the campfires is not great for people with asthma. Bathrooms are very nice: clean, flush toilets, and sinks with cold water taps. Bear boxes provided. There’s lots of trails to hike here, an an extensive ranger station with a Visitor Center, snack bar, and organized talks and activities. The big trees are exactly as advertised: incredibly big and awe-inspiring. Just wish state parks would let you take your leashed dogs on the trails. Otherwise, a very nice public campground if that’s your thing.
ScoutThis is a quiet campground that is good for small trailers or RVs, or tent camping. Access is rough gravel, and narrow roads inside the campground would make anything longer than 25’ difficult. There are vault toilets but no other utilities.
ScoutThis may not be the park it once was, but it's still far better than most in the area. Showers and clubhouse activities are still limited, but the nearby delta offers its own attraction. Day use, tents, and every class of RV are easily accommodated. No shopping or supplies nearby, but anything you may want or need is within 5 miles. It is very relaxing and one of the first sites I try to book if I'm in the area. Hands down better than the county parks.
ScoutGreat campground accessible for most campers but large RVs might struggle. Has water, portable toilets and heated showers. Campsite has Some shade from the sun. Also has a couple glamping tents aswell.
Camping near New Melones Lake, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.
Camping near New Melones Lake, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping at New Melones Lake?
New Melones Lake offers several camping options. The Tuttletown Recreation Area provides well-spaced campsites with good interior roads and facilities. The campground is typically less crowded during off-season months like October. For RV camping near the lake, Glory Hole Recreation Area offers reservable sites with amenities suitable for recreational vehicles. Both areas provide good access to the lake for water activities, though water levels can fluctuate seasonally due to California's drought conditions.
Are there any designated campgrounds at New Melones Reservoir?
Yes, New Melones Reservoir has several designated campgrounds. Ironhorse- Glory Hole Area offers reservable sites with water and toilet facilities. Another option is Chamise - Tuttletown Area, which provides drive-in access with reservable sites and amenities. Both campgrounds are well-maintained and offer varying proximity to the water depending on current reservoir levels. For visitors looking for full hookups near the reservoir, several private RV parks are located within a short driving distance.
What recreational activities are available near the Turtle Town Recreation Area at New Melones Lake?
Turtle Town Recreation Area at New Melones Lake offers diverse recreational opportunities. Boating is popular with multiple boat ramps available when water levels permit. Fishing is excellent, particularly when water levels are high. Hiking trails wind through the area, providing scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Swimming is available in designated areas, though conditions depend on water levels which can fluctuate seasonally. For those wanting to explore beyond Turtle Town, Lake Camanche is nearby and offers additional family-friendly recreation options including easy lake access and well-maintained facilities. Acorn Campground on New Hogan Reservoir is another alternative with excellent boating opportunities.
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