Best Tent Camping near Ione, CA

State parks and recreation areas surrounding Ione, California offer diverse tent camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. Lake Camanche, located 15 miles east of Ione, provides tent campsites with varying levels of shade and lake access. Rancho Seco Recreation Area, situated 12 miles from Interstate 5, features approximately 50 tent-only sites, some positioned just feet from the water. For those seeking more seclusion, North Grove Campground at Calaveras Big Trees State Park offers spacious tent sites among towering sequoias. Primitive tent camping opportunities can also be found at Bear Valley Dispersed Camping area, where walk-in tent sites provide a more rustic experience.

Most tent campgrounds in the region feature basic amenities including fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Surface conditions vary significantly, with some sites offering level, graded tent pads while others present more natural, uneven terrain. Bear boxes are provided at several locations, particularly in areas with known bear activity. Campers should note that water availability differs between established and primitive sites. During summer months, fire restrictions may limit campfire use, especially at dispersed camping areas. Tent campers visiting Lake Clementine should bring exact cash for self-registration, as noted by frequent visitors.

In early spring, tent campsites at Lake Camanche offer peaceful conditions with fewer crowds. One camper reported, "We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend and had just a few neighbors in mid-January." At Calaveras Big Trees, visitors appreciate the spacious sites that accommodate larger tents while maintaining privacy. According to reviews, the campground provides "large flat spots for huge tents as well as parking for cars." Walk-in tent sites at some locations require short hikes from parking areas but reward campers with greater seclusion. Tent-only areas often feature better shade coverage than mixed-use campgrounds, an important consideration during hot summer months when temperatures in the foothills can exceed 100°F.

Best Tent Sites Near Ione, California (37)

    1. Lake Camanche

    18 Reviews
    Wallace, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 763-5121

    $50 / night

    "Wicked August heat, BUT there’s the lake!

    5 Stars — were it not for the SLOBS who preceded us!!"

    "I come here with my family every year around 4th of July. I would book way ahead for busy holidays like that. 

    The water level really varies on the year."

    2. Rancho Seco Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Herald, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 748-2318

    "About 50 tent only sites, some just feet from the lake. RV sites are farther from the lake on mostly level gravel pads with picnic table, fire rings, and a trash can at each site."

    "I pitched a tent in site 43 right next to the lake. Excellent place."

    3. North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park

    21 Reviews
    Arnold, CA
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 795-2334

    $25 - $70 / night

    "The campground we chose was kind of close to the road which would have been the only real negative."

    "Beautiful site, hiking trails close by, well maintained grounds. Bear came through our camp one night hit the Bear box and walked off. Rangers were friendly and very informative about the area."

    4. Camp Nauvoo

    3 Reviews
    Diamond Springs, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 207-9441

    $65 - $300 / night

    5. Deer Flat Boat In Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Valley Springs, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 772-1343

    $20 / night

    6. Jenkinson Campground—Sly Park Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Pollock Pines, CA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 644-2545

    "The sites were mostly all at a slant so it was a bit uncomfortable in terms of the sleep situation."

    "We brought our paddle board and we’re walking distance to the lake front. Lake was quiet, trails well maintained and facilities were cleaned regularly. Will definitely stay here again."

    7. Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Arnold, CA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 532-3671

    "Some noise from chainsaws in the distance one day, and some target practice, but neither lasted long. 2 bars LTE of Verizon."

    "There is sun for solar panels and enough shade to be fine mostly, I have a canopy so it helps make it more than fine. Only downside is the ground is basically dust dirt."

    8. OARS American River Outpost Campground (Rafting Guests Only)

    1 Review
    Coloma, CA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 626-5600

    $30 - $99 / night

    "If you have some extra time, be sure to check out Marshall Gold Discovery Park, home of Sutter's Mill, and the nearby wine country."

    9. Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area

    7 Reviews
    Cool, CA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 885-4527

    $38 / night

    "The parking area is at the top of the hill, and you set up your tent below. Most of the sites that have a “driveway” were not level, except for Sites 5 and 6."

    "Place the cash ($28 a night) in the envelope and put it in the post that’s on the parking entrance."

    10. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Sierraville, CA
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 994-3401

    "Wooded campground, cool weather, good phone reception, many spots taken with no activity probably by locals. Lake, hiking, close shopping."

    "Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk."

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Showing results 1-10 of 37 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Ione, CA

644 Reviews of 37 Ione Campgrounds



Guide to Ione

Tent camping near Ione, California offers a variety of beautiful locations where nature lovers can enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from serene lakes to lush forests, there's something for every tent camper.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy fishing and swimming at Rancho Seco Recreation Area, where spacious campsites provide a perfect family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Experience the beauty of nature while hiking and picnicking at Lake Camanche, known for its picturesque views and recreational opportunities.
  • Take part in a rafting adventure at OARS American River Outpost Campground, located in the heart of Gold Rush country, offering thrilling experiences on the water.

Amenities that enhance your camping experience

Tips for tent camping near Ione

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Ione, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Ione, CA is Lake Camanche with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Ione, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 37 tent camping locations near Ione, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.