Glamping options around Fort Jones exist within California's rugged Siskiyou County, situated near the Klamath National Forest where elevations range from 2,500 to 5,000 feet. Seasonal temperature fluctuations create distinct camping experiences, with summer temperatures typically reaching the 90s while dropping to the 40s during spring and fall nights. Water levels at many local lakes fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting waterfront campsite availability and access to swimming areas.
What to do
Fishing experiences: Lake Camanche offers excellent trout fishing opportunities with convenient boat access. "Fishing is awesome! Hiking trails can be better. There is a general store at the boat marina and ramp," mentions Ed E., highlighting the campground's focus on water recreation over hiking.
Water recreation: At Lake Amador Resort, visitors can enjoy a waterfront camping experience with boat-in access. "They have a water hole with a fun slide, which is all kept nice and clean with tables you can sit at," notes Moonlit_starrynights, recommending "a pop up tent for shade if you go to the water hole."
Disc golf: Lake Amador offers unexpected recreational options beyond standard water activities. "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," explains Christy L.
Wildlife viewing: The campgrounds provide opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. "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," reports Christy L. from Lake Amador.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise waterfront accommodations at Tuttletown Recreation Area, with Scott R. noting, "The view was amazing... It was so dark that I was able to do some great astrophotography." These sites offer direct lake access for swimming during summer heat.
Riverside camping: Pipi Campground receives high marks for its river setting. "This campground is handicapped friendly. Its not large but rests along the Cosumnes River with a boardwalk and cement walking trail good for wheelchairs and canes," explains Heather W., highlighting accessibility features not commonly found at wilderness campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. At Tuttletown Recreation Area, Mon M. observed, "Roads within the recreation area were very good and facilities including toilets and showers were very nice and clean."
Wildlife encounters: Lake Amador campers frequently mention wildlife sightings as a highlight. Dennis W. shares, "The resort is very clean and quiet!" while others mention frequent deer, turkey, and even bobcat sightings around various campgrounds.
What you should know
Campsite variations: Pinecrest Campground features over 300 sites with significant variations in size, shade, and proximity to amenities. "The sites are great because they are quite big. The terrain varies where you stay and if you are in D or E loop you are closer to the lake," explains Christy K., adding that "the tree coverage is bear on some of them so there isn't much privacy."
Seasonal considerations: Water levels at most reservoirs fluctuate dramatically throughout the year. Kimmee P. notes about Lake Amador, "The water levels drastically change due to it being a privately owned lake," which affects both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of waterfront sites.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Heather W. advises about Pipi Campground: "Reservations are highly recommended as they fill up fast."
Insect activity: Some campers report significant yellow jacket activity at certain sites. Dan A. warns about Pipi Campground: "Lots of yellow jackets and the most aggressive mosquitoes and gnats I've ever encountered."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation access: Families particularly enjoy the kid-friendly water features at campgrounds. "Acorn Campground is great for tent and RV camping. Warm weather so great for swimming. Good for fishing, boating (they have a launch), kayaking, paddle boarding and you can bring bikes and scooters for the kids," advises Rosina A.
Entertainment options: Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes provides organized activities for families. "It's a resort so they have something going on every weekend. While we were there it was a family movie and Octoberfest (beer and bratwurst for $5). Then smores by the fire with music," explains Erin S.
Campground amenities: Some sites offer specialized family facilities. Jeanette D. notes that Yosemite Pines RV Resort includes "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."
Safety considerations: Parents should note water conditions at different times of year. Weston W. mentions that Pipi Campground offers "good access to the river from many of the sites and in general the river is kid-friendly (during summer)."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should carefully research site dimensions before booking. Hunter P. advises about Tuttletown Recreation Area: "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."
Hookup availability: Angels Camp Campground and RV offers favorable RV setups. John G. notes, "East side of CG seems to accommodate more for families with kids while west side is better for RVs. Most RV sites have full hookups and are pull throughs."
Power considerations: William V. shares important information about Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes: "There are only a handful of 50amp spots and people move to them quickly after someone leaves lots of 30amp though so you might want to bring an adapter."
Dump station access: Hunter P. provides helpful information about Tuttletown Recreation Area, noting "There is a nice dump station ($8 fee recommended.. pay station is at park entrance)," which is valuable information for RVers planning longer stays.
