Best Campgrounds near Jamestown, CA
Jamestown, California serves as a gateway to several campgrounds in California's Gold Country, with options ranging from lakeside RV parks to primitive tent sites. The area includes established facilities like Lake Tulloch RV Campground and Marina located directly in Jamestown, as well as nearby options such as Tuttletown Recreation Area near Sonora and Glory Hole Recreation Area in Angels Camp. Most campgrounds support both tent and RV camping, with several offering cabin accommodations for those seeking more comfort. The region's campgrounds typically feature amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water, while some provide full hookup sites with electric, water and sewer connections.
Camping in the Jamestown area remains popular year-round due to the mild climate, though summer temperatures frequently reach over 100°F. "We camped out for 2 nights in spot 96 in the height of summer and just before all the fires started. It was something like 107 when we were setting up the tent," noted one camper at Tuttletown Recreation Area. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak summer months when water recreation draws visitors to New Melones Lake. Facilities vary widely between campgrounds, with some offering full shower houses and flush toilets while others provide more basic amenities. Road access is generally good with paved routes to most established campgrounds, though some sites may be challenging for larger RVs to access.
Waterfront access represents a major draw for campers in the area, with multiple sites offering views of New Melones Lake. A visitor to Ironhorse Campground mentioned, "This site is right on the lake, the bathrooms were clean. It was pretty busy but the spaces are far enough apart that it wasn't super loud even in a tent." Many campgrounds experience significant seasonal water level changes, particularly during drought years, which can affect swimming and boating access. Sites with shade are highly sought after during hot summer months, with early reservations recommended. Wildlife sightings, including deer and raccoons, are commonly reported in campground reviews. The mixed-use campgrounds in the region accommodate various camping styles, from those seeking basic tent sites to RVers requiring full hookup services.
