Jamestown, California sits at approximately 1,400 feet elevation in the western Sierra Nevada foothills, serving as a gateway to Gold Country and high country recreation. This area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional snow at higher elevations. Camping options range from established campgrounds with modern amenities to primitive sites along waterways and reservoirs.
What to do
Swimming at Rainbow Pools: Located near Diamond Gulch, this natural swimming hole attracts many visitors. "We didn't expect was how little there is in Groveland itself. We tried to spend a couple of hours there one afternoon, and ended up just grabbing coffee and going back to camp," notes one camper who used the area as their Yosemite base camp.
Fishing at Lake Tulloch: The reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities for trout and other species. At Lake Tulloch RV Campground and Marina, one visitor mentioned: "We went swimming in the lake: what a pleasure. We saw some squirrels and dears, they didn't bothered us. It was super calm."
Hiking near Pinecrest Lake: The trail system offers family-friendly options with scenic views. A visitor to Pinecrest Campground shared: "The hike around the lake was beautiful too, roughly 2-3 hr hike with some great views. Amazing place to camp."
Stargazing from campsites: The minimal light pollution makes for excellent night sky viewing. "The stars were so so beautiful, you can see the milky-way and in the morning you're greeted by cows outside the fence!" reported a camper at Diamond Gulch.
What campers like
Yurt camping experiences: Yurt accommodations near Jamestown offer comfort with wilderness proximity. At Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes, glamping in yurts includes electricity and access to resort amenities. "We stayed in a Yurt and it was absolutely amazing. We ended up coming in really late but they left our key for us. They were super accommodating," shared one visitor to Yosemite Pines.
Wildlife encounters: Morning deer sightings enhance the camping experience. Diamond Gulch campers report: "We loved waking up to cows and turkeys, and an incredible sunrise view. There were such sweet little birds grazing nearby at sunset."
Waterfront camping: Lakeside sites provide immediate water access and scenic views. A Lake Tulloch visitor mentioned: "These were quite decent campgrounds, kind of close together but decent sized sites. We were lucky to have a spot at the dead center of the top of the mountain looking out at the lake with a big shade tree."
Family-friendly yurt options: For those seeking glamping near Jamestown, California, yurts provide a comfortable basecamp. "The kids had fun playing at the playground, jet skiing, and making sand castles at the beach," noted another visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Lake levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year. A visitor to Acorn Campground noted: "The lake level varies wildly throughout the year, sites that are right on the lake can end up being hundreds of feet from the lake if the water level is low. Early summer is the best time to go for high lake levels."
Cell service limitations: Signal strength varies widely across the area. At Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes, one camper warned: "No cell service and the 'pay WIFI' did not work for us...but there is complimentary WiFi at the laundry to check in on things that works just fine."
Campground maintenance varies: Facility quality differs significantly between sites. "Bathrooms could use some upgrades and store hours could be extended as well," mentioned a Lake Tulloch visitor, while another added: "Bathroom / toilets / showers aren't clean, they are quite old. But we didn't care, the view worth it."
Advance reservations essential: Popular yurt camping sites near Jamestown book quickly. "This campground is great if you have a boat or jetski, as you can moor your boat close to your site," explained an Acorn Campground visitor, highlighting how waterfront sites are especially sought after.
Tips for camping with families
Kitchen amenities: Some sites offer community cooking facilities. At Angels Camp Campground and RV, a visitor noted: "Stayed in the cabin that sleeps 6. Super nice, close to the bathrooms. There's a community outdoors kitchen with stove and sink."
Entertainment options: Campgrounds often provide organized activities. "With 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," shared a camper at Yosemite Pines.
Water safety considerations: Designated swimming areas provide safer options for children. "The kids had fun playing at the playground, jet skiing, and making sand castles at the beach," reported a visitor discussing Lake Tulloch's family-friendly features.
Yurt camping for convenience: Pre-set accommodations reduce setup time with children. "We loved that this campground is tent spots, RV spots and cabins so something for everyone," noted another visitor, highlighting the variety of options including yurt camping near Jamestown that appeal to families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on size needs and shade availability. A visitor to Tuttletown Recreation Area advised: "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: Water and electric services vary widely between campgrounds. "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," shared a Thousand Trails camper.
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal options. A visitor noted: "They have a nice dump station ($8 fee recommended.. pay station is at park entrance). Lots of deer and raccoons. Gas station with firewood not too far away, and they have diesel."
Shade considerations: Tree cover affects comfort in hot months. "Spots are unlevel, but not horribly. Firewood already at the site for your use. Wonderful outdoor showers!" reported a Diamond Gulch visitor, highlighting how amenities can compensate for slight terrain challenges.
