Camping near Jamestown, California centers on the western Sierra Nevada foothills at elevations between 1,400-4,000 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F, while winter brings cooler weather and occasional snow at higher elevations. Most dispersed camping sites in the area are accessible via forest service roads that require vehicles with moderate clearance.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Camanche: Located about 30 miles northwest of Jamestown, this reservoir offers year-round fishing opportunities. "We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend and we had a few neighbors when we went again in mid January... Fishing is awesome!" notes Ed E. from Lake Camanche.
Paddling on waterways: Some campgrounds provide watercraft access or rentals. At Cole Ranch, campers appreciate the complimentary equipment: "They allow you to use their Canoe, paddleboard and kayak with signed waiver of course," according to Eric A. from Cole Ranch.
Hiking through sequoia groves: The giant sequoias attract visitors year-round. "Not only are the trees spectacular to look at but the campgrounds are one of my top favorites. There is plenty to do and trails to hike in this area, easy enough for families with children and rugged trail options for the more experienced hikers," reports Jennifer R. about hiking options near North Grove Campground.
What campers like
Proximity to Yosemite: Several dispersed camping areas offer convenient access to Yosemite National Park. "~8min drive to Big Oak Entrance and ~40min drive to Yosemite Valley Welcome Center. Why stay at Hodgdon when you can stay here!" reports Chris P. about Hardin Flat Road dispersed camping area.
Off-season solitude: Winter and early spring camping provides much quieter experiences. "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... it was full of bird songs and a gorgeous sunset," notes a camper at Lake Camanche.
Spacious campsites: Many dispersed sites offer privacy. "Lots of available spots along Hardin Flat Road, most with good shade. Passed 10-15 pull out spots for car campers, and at least 10 more easily accessible spots for tents," explains miranda at Hardin Flat Road dispersed camping.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary by location and season. At Top of Arnold, one camper advises: "Be sure to obtain a fire permit from Cal fire and check fire restrictions in the area have a bucket full of water and a shovel next to your fire at all times," shares Raymond M. from Top of Arnold.
Bear activity: Bears are common throughout the region. A camper at North Grove Campground reports, "Bear came through our camp one night hit the Bear box and walked off. Rangers were friendly and very informative about the area."
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require navigating rough roads. "The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up," notes Michael S. about Top of Arnold, while at Forest Route 4N39, a camper warns: "You don't need 4x4 but you definitely will need a vehicle with some decent clearance."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: For families, developed sites offer more amenities. "Very clean, maintained campground. Flush toilets, and showers available (tokens required)... Bear boxes, large picnic tables, clean fire rings, and water at each site," explains Tonya P. about North Grove Campground.
Consider visitor programs: Some state parks offer ranger-led activities. "There's lots of trails to hike here, an extensive ranger station with a Visitor Center, snack bar, and organized talks and activities," mentions one camper at North Grove Campground.
Waterfront camping with kids: Lake sites provide swimming opportunities. At Lake Camanche, one visitor notes, "The water isn't freezing, it's usually pretty warm. The lake isn't huge, but makes for great boating," though they caution about potential hazards: "tends to be a lot of trash/bottle caps/etc... the shores in certain areas are filled with big rocks."
Tips from RVers
RV camping amenities: Tent campsites near Jamestown, California vary in RV-friendliness. "Paved roads, no trees but clean bathrooms," writes one RVer about Lake Camanche, though they note the potentially noisy atmosphere: "there was a family 'camping' with a generator and flat screen TV watching a boxing match."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies widely at tent campsites near Jamestown. "No Wi-Fi is at the visitor center and VERY limited cell service, no great loss," reports harry S. about North Grove Campground, while at Top of Arnold, a camper notes "2 bars LTE of Verizon."
Seasonal RV access: Winter camping opportunities exist but require planning. "We camped twice at this campground on the South Shore... We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend," shares an RVer about Lake Camanche, highlighting the potential for solitude during off-peak seasons at Eagle Point.
