Campgrounds near Janesville, California range from mountain lake settings at 5,000-5,500 feet elevation to high desert environments in the eastern Sierra transition zone. The area experiences hot summers with daytime highs often reaching 85-95°F between June and August, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures with occasional thunderstorms. Summer visitation peaks after July 4th, with most campgrounds filling by Thursday afternoons during peak season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Antelope Lake Recreation Area supports diverse fishing activities throughout summer. "Gorgeous spot with lots of wildlife. The lake is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and splashing around," notes Megan R. The water warms enough for comfortable water activities by mid-June.
Water sports: Campers can enjoy multiple water activities at Merrill Campground near Eagle Lake. "The lake is appropriately named as we saw bald eagles daily," reports Lori T., who enjoyed the paved Eagle Lake Recreation Trail that connects to Christie Campground and the marina with an approximate 4-mile out-and-back route in each direction.
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas near Boulder Creek Campground offer wildlife observation opportunities. Multiple visitors report seeing deer, various bird species, and occasionally black bears. Laura F. mentions that "water is warm enough to swim June-August" with "great fishing" opportunities at Antelope Lake.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Lone Rock Campground offers generous spacing between sites. "Nice big campsites. Quiet and remote. A bit of a steep grade to get there but well worth it," writes Jason C., who enjoyed the lake access and isolated areas available via access roads.
Clean facilities: Long Point Campground maintains well-kept amenities. Alison notes, "This is one of three campgrounds on Antelope Lake near Susanville CA. Several of the sites are near the lake. All sites are well shaded with fir and pine trees." The campground provides consistent maintenance of restroom facilities.
Natural shade: The tall conifers throughout Merrill Campground provide ample shade at most sites. As Susan L. observed, "The campground is set in deep pines that reach the sky alongside a wide Eagle Lake." This natural cover helps moderate summer temperatures that regularly exceed 85°F.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain thunderstorms occur regularly in summer months. Marisa D. experienced unexpected conditions at Lone Rock: "I went opening weekend so it actually was not busy and snowed which also made it not busy."
Campground hosts: Honey Lake Campground has attentive staff managing the property. One camper notes, "The hostess is a wonderfully kind lady and her little store had everything you need." Another mentions, "Owners were nice. This is a Passport America park and I have a membership so it only cost $25/night."
Facility access hours: Some campgrounds restrict bathroom access overnight. At Susanville RV Park, Paul M. notes, "The one thing that was bothersome was they lock the showers and bathrooms from 7pm to 7am," which can create challenges for overnight needs.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: At Antelope Lake, Laura F. recommends checking conditions first: "Water is warm enough to swim June-August. Great fishing!" However, families should note busier weekend crowds from mid-July through August.
Traffic awareness: Days End RV Park provides convenient overnight accommodations when traveling with children. "Very clean, full hook ups, can accommodate big rigs. Weekly, monthly, overnight," reports Seathrough H., though noting "there is nothing around to do" for extended family activities.
Pet-friendly options: For pet-friendly camping near Janesville, California, Lone Rock Campground permits leashed pets throughout the property. Marisa D. mentions its advantages for unplugging: "There is no cell reception so great to disconnect," making it ideal for family time without digital distractions.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Laufman Campground offers basic accommodations for smaller rigs. Tamara W. shares, "Took in a 19 foot trailer - there were 3 sites we could easily use. The surrounding Forest is gorgeous." However, access requires navigating rougher roads.
Hookup availability: Days End RV Park provides consistent utility connections. C.W. reports, "Only con would be limited shade as the trees are still growing and the slight elevation of the sewage connection." The family-owned business offers attentive service.
Seasonal considerations: Most forest service campgrounds near Janesville close by early October. Boulder Creek Campground typically operates from May 25 to September 3, while Merrill Campground extends slightly longer from May 15 to October 31, offering late-season options for RVers seeking pet-accommodating camping near Janesville.
