Lake Camanche and surrounding waterways near Herald, California offer camping options with elevations ranging from 200 to 400 feet above sea level. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September. Winter camping remains popular with temperatures ranging from 40-60°F during daylight hours, creating ideal conditions for off-season fishing and quieter campgrounds.
What to do
Water recreation: Lake Camanche provides excellent conditions for fishing year-round. "Fishing is awesome! Hiking trails can be better. There is a general store at the boat marina and ramp," notes one winter visitor to Lake Camanche.
Disc golf: Lake Amador Resort features multiple courses for disc golf enthusiasts. "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," shares a reviewer who visited during cooler weather.
Wildlife observation: Acorn Campground offers opportunities to see local wildlife. "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 one camper at Acorn Campground.
Family activities: Jellystone Park organizes structured events for children. "For October, we did an outdoor movie, magic pumpkins, costume contest, trick or treating, hay ride, and haunted house. My daughter loved everything except the haunted house, which she said was 'too scary!'" explains a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Tower Park.
What campers like
Off-season tranquility: Winter and spring camping offers quieter surroundings. "We stayed at the lake for one night, mid-week, off season. We were only one of a few handful of RVs in the RV section of the campground. In the early spring, it was full of bird songs and a gorgeous sunset," notes a visitor to Lake Camanche.
Proximity to water: Many campsites offer direct water access. "The campground offers a range of pull-through and back-in campsites along the slopes of the rolling hills, but most of the individual sites were flat and could accommodate a wide variety of rig sizes. Some are close enough together to make a great group camping set-up, while others were off on their own with a view of the reservoir," explains a camper at Acorn Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good sanitation standards. "The campground was clean as usual. During the pandemic, they closed every other site, therefore, it felt safer and not over crowded. We had a great time and enjoyed the view especially the sunset. This campground has a shower with hot water," shares a visitor to Monument RV Park - Lake Camanche.
Wildlife encounters: The area supports diverse wildlife. "Camping at Lake Amador offers frequent wildlife sightings. "I woke up with 4 deer casually strolling through our campsite, a huge group of turkeys were cruising around the whole weekend," mentions a camper at Lake Amador.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Summer weekends draw larger crowds. "Weekends are filled up and busy, but during the week days it's nice and quiet," explains a summer visitor to Lake Camanche.
Water levels fluctuate: Lake levels change throughout the year. "The water levels drastically change due to it being a privately owned lake. The employees that work there are always really sweet and helpful," notes a camper at Lake Amador Resort.
Varying site quality: Campsite quality differs across areas. "Some sites have plenty of shade, some none, which would be killer in the heat! Great, QUIET time. When the lake is down (like now) it's a bit of a haul to the water — cart/wagon recommended, as well as a shade pop-up AT water's edge."
Reservations required: Book well in advance for peak seasons. "We've been camping here for 10 years now. Always 4+ campsites for 4-5 days around July 4th weekend (reserve at least 6 months out) to start our year off."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Jellystone Park offers extensive facilities. "Great for families with young ones. The price per night is very expensive but there are a lot of amenities. Nice playground, basketball court, volleyball, bouncy pillow, outdoor movies, pool, lazy river, water park, bumper boats, laser tag, boat rentals on the delta, restaurants and quick bites," shares a visitor.
Water activities for children: Lake recreation provides entertainment. "Cool for a weekend stay. We don't have boat and did not rent one, but the kids had a great time with just the floaties. If you have a boat and other watercrafts there is lots to do," notes a Lake Camanche visitor.
Budget-friendly options: Lake Amador has features specifically for families. "Amador is a laid back camping spot that never disappoints. Great for families. Not a party destination but you can still have a great time! They have a water hole with a fun slide, which is all kept nice and clean with tables you can sit at," explains a visitor to Camanche Lake Blue Oaks Campground North Shore.
Seasonal celebrations: Holiday-themed activities occur throughout the year. "We go for Halloween and there is trick or treating through the whole place, a haunted house and a decor and costume contest. Our kids really enjoy the freedom to go play while the adults sit back and relax."
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Some sites require special equipment. "The hookups worked good but the sewer hookup is elevated so you will probably want sewer hose supports to lift your hose."
Site selection: Choose locations based on needs. "The full hookup rv spots are gravel & very dusty. Whole park is actually. Spots are a little tight for my 37' 5th wheel but it worked out pretty good. Back end of my trailer hung over a big hill."
Off-season advantages: Winter camping offers better value. "Winter glamping is particularly comfortable at Monument RV Park. Great location and full hook ups. Open year round, planning on coming back during the Winter!" notes a visitor.
Check-in procedures: Arrival protocols vary by campground. "We camped twice at this campground on the South Shore. The lake has a North Shore Campground as well. We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend and we had a few neighbors when we went again in mid January."
Traveler
