Camping near Clovis, California offers diverse experiences from the 400-foot elevation of the valley floor to pine-covered mountain destinations reaching 5,000+ feet. Temperature variations can be extreme, with summer valley temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F while mountain campsites remain 15-20 degrees cooler. Many recreational areas feature drought-affected water levels that fluctuate seasonally, affecting both accessibility and water activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Pine Flat Campground, the lake provides excellent angling options. "We fished a lot but didn't catch anything," noted a camper, though others report better luck with "outstanding fishing in the spring."
Water recreation: Millerton Lake State Recreation Area offers multiple water activities. "Great place to wakeboard, jet ski, fish, and BBQ," writes Christopher H., while Christina C. mentions "Beautiful nice clear water" for jet skiing.
Hiking networks: Trails connect various recreation areas to natural landmarks, towns, and scenic viewpoints. At Dorabelle Campground, visitors appreciate the "multiple hiking trails from campground to museum, town or around the lake," creating connectivity between different destinations.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campsites vary widely in seclusion. A visitor to Lost Lake Campground noted that "spots are close by to each other but usually respectful neighbors," while another mentioned it's "usually mostly empty and good privacy."
Cost value: Many campgrounds offer affordable options with varied amenities. At Hidden View Campground, campers can "use your national park pass for 50% off such a quiet place," while Lost Lake Campground offers reasonable rates at "$5 dollars day pass, $25 total for camping."
Water access: Proximity to water features heavily in positive reviews. A Camp Edison visitor mentioned, "We try to get a campsite next to the water. We also reserve a boat so we can explore the lake," noting this has become "an annual trip that we plan on taking for life."
What you should know
Wildlife considerations: Ground squirrels can be problematic at certain sites. At Millerton Lake, one camper warned they "heard stories of cars and RV's being towed out because they chewed through wiring. Thankfully we escaped with just damage from them entering the RV and getting into plastic containers of food."
Access challenges: Many campgrounds have narrow entrance roads. At Dorabelle Campground, visitors note "tight roads throughout the site, wouldn't recommend a large trailer," which requires planning ahead with appropriate vehicles.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly across locations. While some campers report "bathrooms are the cleanest I've ever seen at a campground" at Dorabelle, others note that at Hidden View Campground, the "Male bathroom has a toilet and shower and was clean. Female bathroom has the same but was disgusting!"
Tips for camping with families
Lake swimming spots: Shallow, protected areas work best for families with children. At Dorabelle Campground, "the cove is perfect for relaxing with kids" and "the cove is wonderful for swimming and mostly kayaks/SUP with plenty of beach space."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Lost Lake Campground, families appreciate that there's a "playground for kids" and one visitor noted there are "a few playgrounds in the middle of the campgrounds and option to play an activity or two."
Site selection strategy: Corner sites often provide more space and privacy. At Dorabelle, one camper "reserved a corner space with a nearby toilet and water spigot" and found that "my campsite was large, clean, with sunny and shade spots and separated from other sites by trees."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available. At Riverbend RV Park, RVers enjoy "FHU with large pull through spots" that include "grass, dog park, lots of kids play areas, adults game areas, fishing pond, creek and river."
Site levelness: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Camp Edison, one camper mentioned "the site wasn't level but was manageable," indicating the need for leveling blocks or jacks.
Dump station access: On-site waste disposal varies by location. Riverbend RV Park allows visitors to "dump the RV" during their stay, while others may need to plan for off-site dumping. As one visitor noted, "There is a dump station on site and also a 'honey wagon' that will come to your site and pump out your waste water, if you desire."
