Fresno area campgrounds sit at the gateway to California's Sierra Nevada mountains, with elevations ranging from 330 feet in the valley to over 4,000 feet in nearby foothills. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F from June through September, while winter lows can drop to the 30s. The San Joaquin River runs through several camping areas, creating seasonal fishing and swimming opportunities that vary dramatically throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing along the Kings River: Kings River RV Resort offers access to the river which fills during summer months but may be dry in winter. "Great place to wakeboard, jet ski, fish, and BBQ," notes Christopher H. about nearby Millerton Lake State Recreation Area Campground.
Hiking the river trails: "We enjoyed hiking around the area. Our dogs loved the water," reports Allison about her experience at Millerton Lake. The trails connect to several swimming areas and fishing spots with varying difficulty levels.
Water sports on Shaver Lake: About 50 miles northeast of Fresno at higher elevation, Camp Edison offers multiple water activities. "Taking the boat out to explore the other side of the lake offers hidden falls and rock jumping, and private beach lounging," shares Liz, highlighting the additional adventures beyond the main camping area.
Wildlife viewing: The campgrounds around Fresno host diverse wildlife. "We got visited by raccoons and coyotes. They went through our campsite but nothing major," reports Azizah T. about Camp Edison. Bring binoculars for bird watching, especially near water areas.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many visitors appreciate the roominess at Lost Lake Campground. "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," writes Allison.
Evening quiet: The natural setting creates peaceful nights for most visitors. "Gets hot in summer, spots are close by to each other but usually respectful neighbors," explains LosAngeles F. about Lost Lake Campground. Most campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours.
Lakeside proximity: "Camped here twice, pros camp right on the river, playground for kids, trail to the fish hatchery," notes Regina P. about Fresno County Lost Lake Recreation Area. The close water access makes for easy day activities without driving.
Clean facilities: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Fresno maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. "The park is clean and has a lot of space and things to do," shares Sandy J. about Riverbend RV Park.
What you should know
Ground squirrel precautions: "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," warns Tom D. about Millerton Lake. Store all food in sealed containers, even in RVs.
Seasonal river levels: Water flow varies dramatically throughout the year. "The lake is very full now till July 4th. Great boating, and jet ski area," notes Regina P. about Millerton Lake in early summer. By late summer, some rivers may be completely dry.
Reservation timing: Campgrounds fill quickly, especially for summer weekends. "We were told some spots book up 6 months in advance via the online recreation.gov website, especially on weekends," advises Corinna B. about Bass Lake Recreation Area.
Heat preparation: Between June and September, daytime temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. "We stayed over Labor Day during record heat and local fires were not ideal but our site was private," shares Charlotte about Millerton Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several pet friendly campgrounds around Fresno feature dedicated play areas. "Camped here twice, pros camp right on the river, playground for kids, trail to the fish hatchery," notes Regina P. about Lost Lake Campground.
Educational opportunities: "Camp Edison has great activities during the summer season including guided educational nature walks, both day and evening, as well as kids' movies in the amphitheater," shares Angela D. These structured activities help entertain children during longer stays.
Swimming access: "Had a fun time with the family, had accessible restroom and showers, had picnic table so we could put our things, shade, place where we could set our tent with our truck next to us, and we were able to go swimming in the lake," explains Esbeyda D. about Millerton Lake State Recreation Area.
Wildlife awareness: "During our stay we were almost alone at our campsite area. The friendly ladies at the entrance gave us the perfect site very close to the lake," shares Jürgen D. about Camp Edison, where children can observe wildlife safely from designated areas.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: "FHU with large pull through spots. Quiet place that was nice to spend a few days at while exploring Sequoia and Kings Canyon," reports Lauren M. about Riverbend RV Park, one of several dog-friendly RV parks near Fresno.
Leveling challenges: "Sites 120 - 144 offer full hookups. However, the sites are arranged on a parking lot. We were able to get our 43' Blue Bird completely onto site 138," explains Tom D. about Millerton Lake. Bring leveling blocks for uneven sites.
Shade availability: "Loved the grass but not to many shady areas that we where staying at," notes Jenny G. about Riverbend RV Park. Position your RV strategically during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 100°F.
Water connection planning: "Spots have grass. Sites are kind of narrow but are deep. Felt bad that our hooks up were in front of our neighbors door but this could be avoided based on how far back you pull in," advises Cathaleen E. about Riverbend RV Park.
