231 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The foothills region surrounding Campo Seco, California features a mix of established campgrounds and recreational areas along the Stanislaus River and New Melones Lake. Campgrounds like Lake Tulloch RV Campground and Marina provide year-round access with full hookups for RVs, while Tuttletown Recreation Area offers more primitive camping experiences with tent sites and basic amenities. The area includes several mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate various camping styles from tent camping to RV sites with hookups, and some locations like Yosemite Pines RV Resort feature cabin accommodations and glamping options within driving distance of Campo Seco.
Seasonal considerations affect campground availability throughout the region, with many sites requiring reservations during peak summer months. "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," noted one camper about New Hogan Reservoir. Water levels at Lake Camanche and other reservoirs fluctuate significantly based on California's drought conditions, sometimes leaving docks far from the actual shoreline. Most developed campgrounds in the area maintain vault toilets year-round, while shower facilities are typically available only at larger established sites. Cell service can be limited in canyon areas, particularly around the Stanislaus River corridor.
Campers consistently highlight the region's wildlife viewing opportunities as a key attraction. Several visitors mentioned deer sightings at campgrounds, with one review noting, "The wildlife was 'people friendly' to say the least. I had a family of deer pretty much monitoring my whole trip plus they couldn't seem to wait until I went to bed to come check out my camping gear." Fishing access represents another popular feature at many of the area's campgrounds, with the Stanislaus River and various reservoirs providing opportunities for anglers. Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with campgrounds closer to highways experiencing more road noise, while those nestled deeper in the foothills offer greater tranquility. The proximity to Gold Country towns provides convenient access to supplies and historical attractions for day trips from most camping areas.
"Only 5 minutes away from a small town for groceries. It is quite a drive to get to the actual locations in the Yosemite park from the campground."
"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."
from $24 - $439 / night
Check Availability"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."
"New Melones was not a top destination but it was close to a very special place for us, Natural Bridges."
from $150 / night
Check Availability"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 lake's water was too low for a swim though :( sad"
from $18 - $22 / night
Check Availability"You feel like you're in the middle of nowhere but you're so close to things. Directions are easy to follow, leveling is required but there were pretty good lots."
"It was a bit hard to find in the dark, but the camping area is fenced in under an oak grove so eventually we found the stump with our name on it next to the tent."
from $30 - $89 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"At the junction of Hwy49 the “Chain of Gold” and 108 outside Yosemite National Park. Daily/weekly rates. Short walk to downtown in this 1850’s mining town."
"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."
"There is no visual of the river there, but it is a very short walk to get to the picnic area where you have full view."
"Watering holes on campgrounds and around the area like Cherry Lake, Rainbow Pools and Gods Bath! California is full of beautiful wonders and this little gem in Stanislaus Forest is one of them!"
"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."
GuideWe stayed for two nights and it was amazing. If you keep going you will get to a spot with 360° views. Make sure you drive slowly on the way in past the houses because of all the dust. The only downside is that someone decided to smash glass all over the campfire, so my dog had to have his boots on the whole time.
GuideBeautiful area and so close to Yosemite. A lot of different site options, however the cool ones do fill up fast. I got there around 10PM on a Saturday in June and was able to find a site parallel to the road, but there are bigger ones that are more private as well if you plan better than I did!
ScoutGreat way to do Yosemite without reservations. Did an impromptu visit for 3 days and just van camped in this forest road. Works great if you can deal with driving in and out. Good camping spots here and there, tons of overnight parking areas.
GuideWe arrived with no reservations and had many spots to choose from. The spots aren’t super private but you usually have your own space. There’s a market and lots of hikes super close by. The showers were coin operated, with coins you had to buy from the ranger station (1 coin = 2 mins). The showers and bathrooms were not clean at all. For as many rangers and workers we saw, we were severely disappointed by how gross the bathrooms were. Stars would probably be higher if it wasn’t for that.
ScoutStayed two nights and had our 8 year old grandson with us. We got what we were told was the best full hook up RV site. I can see a little bit of the lake which is very nice. There is a lot of permanent residence mobile trailer homes. Not at all what I expected. It is dirt, rocks and trees that don’t really provide shade. There were cigarette buts all over our camp site. There is a small fire pit but no bbq. For a good five hours today there was some shooting off a gun. Our dog happens to be afraid of that sound so she spent most of the day inside the trailer. When we arrived we had no picnic table and nobody would answer the phone. My husband and I ended taking one from the empty site next to us. Then this morning I called trying to get the Wi-Fi password. They gave me the wrong one, I called back, they never answered. I left a message, they never called back. My grandson and I walked down a small boat ramp to the lake. The area was full of trash and there was sludge at least a foot off the shore. From there you can see many of the small boat ramps off the backs of the permanent trailers and they were in complete disrepair. I get the feeling no one cares.
I can’t speak to any other area in this resort. Only where we are physically. My Husband did say there was a nice pond with picnic tables and shade, but the dog was not allowed to be there so that wasn’t something that we could enjoy.
ScoutThe area was quiet during my stay. Site is adjacent to the road, with a rock fire ring . The road up had some rough areas, but my outback had no real issues. I recommend hugh clearance, 4x4 to get here.
ScoutPerfect spot with river access gor fishing. Friendliest people ive met so far. They actually like my bloodhounds ❤️ that right there says alot. Clean pool clean bathrooms and showers. Only bad thing is showers close at 8pm
TravelerWe really enjoyed the campground, there was vaulted toilets and somewhat easy access to the lake it was a bit steep down to the water for young kids. But spacious area and nice views
TravelerThere are a couple spots alongside the road. Powerlines are nearby but there are a few fire pits. They seem to be logging the area and running cattle but it’s pretty quiet.
Camping in the Campo Seco area occurs at an elevation of 900-1,200 feet in the western Sierra foothills, where summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F. This region borders the Stanislaus River watershed with its network of reservoirs that fluctuate seasonally. Fall and spring offer milder temperatures with daytime averages of 65-75°F, making these seasons preferable for tent campers.
River swimming access: At Tuttletown Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy the water when New Melones Lake has adequate levels. "We managed to squeeze a 4 person tent and a 2 person tent but anything larger wouldn't fit unless I wanted to be on a decent slope. The lake was also extremely low but that's not really anyone's fault," notes Jordan L.
Gold Country exploration: The Glory Hole Recreation Area serves as an excellent base for exploring historic mining towns within 15-20 minutes. One visitor shared, "The view was gorgeous, and there were a lot of hiking trails to choose from." Plan for early morning hikes during summer to avoid afternoon heat.
Animal viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer wildlife encounters right in camp. At Diamond Gulch, campers report, "We loved waking up to cows and turkeys, and an incredible sunrise view. There were such sweet little birds grazing nearby at sunset." Wildlife viewing is best at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
Dark skies for stargazing: The relatively remote location of campsites like Big Oak Glory Hole offers excellent night sky viewing. According to one camper, "The view was amazing. It was so dark that I was able to do some great astrophotography." Stargazing is optimal during new moon phases when skies are darkest.
Riverside campsites: Lake Tulloch RV Campground provides sites with direct water access. "We spent one night right in front of the water, amazing view for the sunset. We went swimming in the lake: what a pleasure," notes Clara T. Water-front sites typically cost $10-15 more per night but offer immediate lake access.
Free amenities: Certain campgrounds include unexpected extras. At Diamond Gulch, a camper mentioned, "Having the tent already set up was so incredibly helpful as we had to rent a small car and needed to pack lightly. A clean portable toilet, sink, water hose were all helpful too. The campfire wood was perfect." These amenities reduce what campers need to bring.
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facilities at Yosemite Lakes RV Resort receive consistently positive reviews for cleanliness, but this isn't universal across all campgrounds. "The bathrooms that were open were disgusting. No camp host onsite while we were there," reported one camper at Tuttletown. Bringing sanitizing wipes and toilet paper is recommended.
Lake levels fluctuate drastically: Water levels at reservoirs can drop significantly by late summer. A camper at Big Oak Glory Hole noted, "Water level is down considerably." This affects both recreation opportunities and campsite aesthetics throughout the season.
Fire restrictions: During high fire danger periods (typically July-October), campfires may be restricted or prohibited entirely. "Although it is very close to the park boundary, it is still an hour to the valley," mentioned one Yosemite Lakes visitor, highlighting that driving distances to attractions may be longer than they appear on maps.
Look for structured activities: Some campgrounds provide organized events for children. "With a pool, petting zoo, a corral where they have a fire and s'mores followed by a movie, this is a great place to camp with the kids," says Jeanette D. about Yosemite Pines RV Resort.
Playground access: Lake Tulloch offers family-friendly facilities. "The kids had fun playing at the playground, jet skiing, and making sand castles at the beach," reports Elisabeth. These amenities provide entertainment options when hiking or swimming aren't practical.
Cabin options for easier trips: For families new to camping, cabins provide a comfortable introduction. "Stayed in the basic cabin over Easter weekend a few years ago. We really enjoyed our stay and the property. Petting zoo animals were adorable," notes Jen U. about Yosemite Pines, where cabins typically cost $80-120 per night.
Site selection considerations: At most campgrounds near Campo Seco, reservation systems don't guarantee specific sites. "It is First come first serve (after a reservation) so get there early. We lucked out with a pretty big and shaded riverfront spot (site 73)," advises an RVer at Yosemite Lakes.
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups only. "Sites are packed in tight. Def geared for tent camping although I was lucky enough to be here when it was dead empty and picked a good site for my 27' toy hauler," reports Hunter P. at Tuttletown Recreation Area, indicating that mid-week stays offer better site options.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds with RV accommodations provide dump stations, though not always included in the site fee. "There is a nice dump station ($8 fee recommended.. pay station is at park entrance)," notes a reviewer at Tuttletown. Using these facilities early morning (before 9am) typically means shorter wait times.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Campo Seco, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Campo Seco, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 231 campgrounds and RV parks near Campo Seco, CA and 11 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Campo Seco, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Campo Seco, CA is Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging with a 3.8-star rating from 26 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Campo Seco, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Campo Seco, CA.
What parks are near Campo Seco, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Campo Seco, CA that allow camping, notably Fall River Lake and New Melones Lake.
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