The San Joaquin Delta region surrounding Manteca, California sits at approximately 30 feet above sea level with diverse wetland terrain. This area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September, and mild winters with occasional fog. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with waterfront sites often booking 3-6 months in advance during peak season.
What to do
Fishing access: At Lake Tulloch RV Campground and Marina, both shoreline and boat fishing opportunities exist for catching bass and catfish. "The lake is gorgeous and at night there were several deer walking thru the site. The bathrooms weren't so awesome but the campground did offer showers by the store and those were very awesome!" notes a camper.
Boating: Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina provides direct Delta water access with a boat ramp and trailer parking. "Sugar barge is right on the delta. They have a boat trailer parking lot and a boat ramp. The rv spots are very close together," reports a visitor.
Disc golf: Lake Amador Resort offers multiple disc golf courses amid natural surroundings. "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."
Swimming spots: Lake Comanche South Shore features designated swimming areas with beach access that remain usable even during drought conditions. "The water is really nice!! Showers and laundry areas are cleaned daily. Rangers drive around to check on people. Boats have access to beaches hidden down a narrow river like area."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Tuttletown Recreation Area offers frequent wildlife encounters right at campsites. "Lots of deer and raccoons. Gas station with firewood not too far away (Lakeridge Inn Gas), and they have diesel. Boat launch and day use area only a short drive away."
Dark skies for stargazing: The campgrounds around Manteca provide excellent stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. One camper at Tuttletown noted: "It was so dark that I was able to do some great astrophotography. The location was a great step off point for adventure in Gold Country."
Lakeside camping: Lake Amador Resort offers yurt camping and waterfront sites. "We stayed in the dry camping area which was right on the lake. We noted that the sites were very close together with no privacy, but that was ok since there were few people there."
Convenient location: The campgrounds near Manteca serve as excellent base camps for exploring the region. "We've stayed at this campground a couple of times on our way to/from Yosemite National Park, and it is a nice place to spend a couple of nights," shares a visitor about Acorn Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making water activities essential. A camper at Tuttletown notes: "The 105 daytime temps were quelled by dunking ourselves in the lake and taking excursions to some of the other local wonders."
Changing water levels: Lake levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting beach access and boat launches. A visitor to Brannan Island State Recreation Area observed: "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."
Insects and wildlife: The Delta region's water proximity means preparing for insects, especially in warmer months. "Ferral cat problem!!! Dont leave anything out! Deer and cats get into everything! And cats pee on everything!" warns a Lake Tulloch camper.
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for summer weekends and holidays. "We've been camping here for 10 years now. Always 4+ campsites for 4-5 days around July 4th weekend (reserve at least 6months out) to start our year off," advises a Lake Comanche visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Acorn Campground offers family-friendly water recreation. "Acorn Campground is great for tent and RV camping. Warm weather so great for swimming. Good for fishing, boating (they have a launch), kayaking, paddle boarding and you can bring bikes and scooters for the kids."
Child-friendly amenities: Lake Amador Resort offers yurt camping options and dedicated play areas for children. "They have a water hole with a fun slide, which is all kept nice and clean with tables you can sit at. I would recommend a pop up tent for shade if you go to the water hole. There is also a old school playground for the kids."
Safety considerations: Many campgrounds require life jackets for children and have areas with varying depths. "This campground is great if you have a boat or jetski, as you can moor your boat close to your site. There are working bathrooms and showers, not the height of luxury, but fairly clean."
Quiet times: Most Delta region campgrounds enforce quiet hours to ensure family-friendly environments. "Quiet time is 9:00 p.m. till 7:00 a.m. I believe doesn't mean you can't be up just no loud music no carrying on to disturb the other people," explains a camper at Lake Comanche South Shore.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina provides full hookups but sites may be close together. "My only complaint, the water spigot is really close to the ground and really close to the sewer drain. Scrub with bleach before booking up your water and you'll be fine."
Site selection: When booking at Delta campgrounds, research specific site dimensions. "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."
Dump station logistics: Plan ahead for waste disposal needs. "There is 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 (Lakeridge Inn Gas), and they have diesel."
Shade considerations: Many RV sites lack natural shade, making awnings or portable shade structures essential during hot months. "Some are close enough together to make a great group camping set-up, while others were off on their own with a view of the reservoir."
