Glamping near Lodi, California occurs within the unique Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta region where elevation averages just 15 feet above sea level. The delta's Mediterranean climate features hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F from June through September. Water levels in the area's lakes and waterways fluctuate seasonally, affecting both campsite availability and water recreation options.
What to do
Watercraft activities: Lake Camanche offers excellent boating and fishing access with changing shorelines throughout the year. "We've been camping here for 10 years now. Always 4+ campsites for 4-5 days around July 4th weekend to start our year off. Water is really nice!! Boats have access to beaches hidden down a narrow river like area. Very beautiful!!" notes Julie E.
Disc golf courses: Lake Amador Resort provides multiple disc golf courses alongside camping. "As disc golfers, of course we love camping here, having 3 courses to choose from. But there is something for everyone in the family here, there is amazing fishing, boating and swimming," shares Christy L., who adds that wildlife sightings are common: "I woke up with 4 deer casually strolling through our campsite."
Seasonal water recreation: Water activities vary by location and time of year. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, the amenities include a seasonal water park with specific hours. "Water park is open 11 to 7 but Lazy river closes at 5 not sure why," reports Jill P., who visited with multiple generations of family members.
What campers like
Diverse accommodation options: From full-service sites to rustic tent camping, the Lodi area offers varying levels of comfort. At Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina, tent campers enjoy a different experience than RV guests. "The tent-area was a clearing, fully backed up to the levee, with some shade and a water spigot. Appears to be only 4 'sites,' which are defined by picnic tables, GENEROUSLY spaced, no fire rings," writes Larry W.
Winter camping opportunities: Off-season camping provides unique experiences with fewer crowds. "We camped twice at this campground on the South Shore. We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend and we had a few neighbors when we went again in mid January," writes Ed E. about Lake Camanche, noting that "fishing is awesome" during winter months.
Family-oriented activities: Scheduled events create special memories beyond standard camping. "We go for Halloween and there is trick or treating through the whole place, a haunted house and a decor and costume contest. Our kids really enjoy the freedom to go play while the adults sit back and relax," shares Katie B. about seasonal programming at Jellystone Park.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The delta region experiences significant wind conditions that may affect camping comfort. At Brannan Island State Recreation Area, the climate can present challenges: "This place is noisy (lots of traffic on the main road bc of all of the boating traffic), hot and windy (seriously, it's like being in a super hot wind tunnel)," warns Kimberly M.
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites near Lodi require advance planning, especially during peak periods. "Always 4+ campsites for 4-5 days around July 4th weekend (reserve at least 6 months out) to start our year off," advises Julie E. about Lake Camanche.
Campground maintenance variations: Facility upkeep can vary seasonally and by location. "Middle loop with hookups and showers was closed because the grass wasn't mowed yet. Upper loop has hookups and tight sites, no bathrooms or showers. Lower loop has no hookups but has two bath houses. One was completely locked. Other was mostly locked," reports daren W. about Brannan Island during off-peak times.
Tips for camping with families
Check age-appropriate amenities: Different glamping sites cater to specific age groups. "Great for families with youn ones, but expensive and crowded," notes Nancy G. about Jellystone Park, while another visitor specifies it's "Great for kids under 14," explaining the many amenities: "Nice playground, basketball court, volleyball, bouncy pillow, outdoor movies, pool, lazy river, water park, bumper boats, laser tag."
Consider site spacing: Privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. At Lake Amador Resort, campsites offer different experiences: "We noted that the sites were very close together with no privacy, but that was ok since there were few people there," explains Mike A. about camping during low season.
Check for wildlife encounters: Local campgrounds offer educational wildlife viewing opportunities. "The wildlife is RIGHT THERE! We saw a tarantula near the tee box on 2. I woke up with 4 deer casually strolling through our campsite, a huge group of turkeys were cruising around the whole weekend," reports Christy L.
Tips from RVers
Site-specific constraints: RV spaces vary dramatically in size and accessibility. "The full hookup rv spots are gravel & very dusty. Whole park is actually. Spots are a little tight for my 37' 5th wheel but it worked out pretty good. Back end of my trailer hung over a big hill," explains Kelly G. about Lake Amador.
Hookup considerations: Water and sewer connections require attention at certain campgrounds. At Ko-Ket Resort, RV sites include docks for boats. "This place is awesome! Has a cute restaurant on the water too. Very clean facilities, it's right on the water- the California delta river," reports Lexi L. who adds that water recreation equipment rentals are available: "They have paddle boards you can rent and go out on the water in the morning."
Gate closure times: Some campgrounds restrict late entry. "Note that there's a gate that closes so that you can't enter - we just barely made it by the 9pm Friday closing time (I think this time varies by day of the week)," warns Mike A. about Lake Amador.
