The region surrounding La Grange, California offers diverse camping opportunities within the rolling foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Located at approximately 800 feet elevation, the area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal camping seasons. Most campgrounds in this region sit near reservoirs or lakes where water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting both water access and fishing conditions.
What to do
Water recreation at Modesto Reservoir: The reservoir provides swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities for campers. One visitor noted, "We starter visiting Modesto Resivor in the sixties. My father would hail all of our gear out to one of the many islands, and let the kids and dogs run free. Now that we are older, we camp on the shore line. Rustic tent camping near the water-skiing course is my favorite" (John G., Modesto Reservoir).
Orienteering course: Some campgrounds offer unique activities beyond standard water recreation. "There is also a 1 Mile Orienteering Course which is used to train my boys to use a compass. Bow fishing is also allow certain time of the year" (Eddie N., Modesto Reservoir).
Explore hiking trails: Several camping areas provide access to hiking routes. At Glory Hole Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy "a lot of hiking trails to choose from. The only setback was the closeness of the sites and some neighbors weren't always mindful after dark when it came to noise" (Kayla M., Glory Hole Recreation Area).
What campers like
Lake access for swimming: Many campers appreciate direct water access from their sites. At Woodward Reservoir, "T-Island sites you right on the water. Which is were we go. Both our kids family have Kayaks so that makes getting on the water great" (Craig & Linda L., Woodward Reservoir).
Multiple camping styles: The reservoirs offer various camping setups. At Modesto Reservoir, there are "two style of camping based on your camping style. To the left of the pay station, One side of the lake has disbursed camping with very minimal shade as most campsites do not have awnings of tables. no electricital or water hookups, and then to the right on the pay station, other side of the lake has multiple camping loops with paved camping spots with water and electrical hookups" (Russell L., Modesto Reservoir).
Free camping near Yosemite: For budget travelers, free dispersed camping options exist near regional attractions. Goat Meadow offers "beautiful scenery, clean, close to Yosemite, and easy to reach. As others have said, follow Mount Raymond Rd up until you see the sign for the snow play area, and look to the right. There's an open area with fire pits" (Derrick H., Goat Meadow).
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Lakes in this region experience significant water level fluctuations. At Codorniz Recreation Area, "This COE is on a small lake that is used for irrigation during the summer resulting in a much lower water level than in the spring. Fishing is good" (Tom D., Codorniz Campground).
Facility maintenance varies: Some campgrounds have inconsistent facility upkeep. At Glory Hole Recreation Area, "Showers and bathrooms aren't working but otherwise a great place to camp. been going to the nearby Tuttletown camp for showers and working bathrooms while they work on Gloryhole" (Tyna B., Glory Hole Recreation Area).
Wildlife awareness: Wildlife encounters are common throughout the region. At Goat Meadow, "Coyotes and bears are active in the area- coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" (Alexander Mark C., Goat Meadow).
Tips for camping with families
Look for cul-de-sac sites: Some campgrounds offer ideal setups for families with children. At Codorniz Recreation Area, "We rented sites #10 & #11 for the weekend. Sites #9-11 make up the cul-de-sac so it was great for our kids to ride their bikes and scooters. It would make the perfect group site as they were a bit tucked back from the other sites" (Haley M., Codorniz Campground).
Consider heat protection: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. One camper at Glory Hole Recreation Area noted, "We were there for 1 night. The view at campsite 57 is gorgeous! However, be prepared for the heat. It can reach up to 110F in summer. It is toasting even with shade" (Susan Y., Glory Hole Recreation Area).
Check for play amenities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Woodward is our family go to place to camp in the summer heat. Lots of campsites with room for tents or RVs. Fire pits and picnic tables at each site. Plenty of bathrooms, some with showers. Usually somewhat clean. Water feels good when it's 100+ degrees outside" (Bonnie S., Woodward Reservoir).
Tips from RVers
Prepare for variable site quality: RV sites vary significantly in quality and levelness. At USBR Tuttletown Recreation Area Oak Knoll Group Site, one camper with a 43-foot RV noted, "Sites are asphalt. Many sites may take some time to level. Back in and pull through are available. A nice dump stations is available within the COE park" (Tom D., Codorniz Campground).
Check connectivity: Cell service varies throughout the region. At Codorniz Recreation Area, "AT&T cell signal from 45 was non existent but T-mobile worked well enough to stream Netflix" (Candy H., Codorniz Campground).
Research road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging for larger rigs. One visitor warned that at Codorniz, "although not far off of Highway 99, the road from Chowchilla was incredibly rough. 15 miles of poorly-patched pot holes. I went no faster than 35 mph but still bounced the rig badly" (John W., Codorniz Campground).
