Mendota, California sits at approximately 174 feet elevation in the San Joaquin Valley, where summer temperatures frequently reach triple digits with less than 10 inches of annual rainfall. The surrounding camping areas include BLM lands to the west and state recreation areas to the north and east. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round, though many experienced campers visit during spring and fall when temperatures are more moderate.
What to do
Hiking on BLM land: Upper Sweetwater Laguna Mountain Campground offers multiple hiking trails with varied terrain. As one visitor notes, "This place is great. If you love hiking this place has awesome views and lots of wildlife. Be careful while hiking we came across a rattle snake. Specially during hot summers they are definitely out more."
Fishing opportunities: Los Banos Creek Reservoir provides shoreline fishing access directly from campsites. According to a camper, "The entire campground is right on the banks of the reservoir so water access no matter where you're staying. Sites #5-9 are the flattest and beach front." Many visitors report catching bass and bluegill throughout the year.
Stargazing: The remote location of Laguna Mountain Campground provides excellent dark sky viewing. One visitor reported, "Fresh Air (despite being surrounded by bad air on all sides) + Nature (deer, quails, turkeys, coyotes in one night) + Dark New Moon Skies means Bright Stars with Clear View of the Milky Way."
What campers like
Natural hot springs: Mercey Hot Springs offers mineral baths approximately 30 miles west of Mendota. According to one camper, "I love that the hot tubs are available all night long. It allows for long soaks while star gazing. The therapeutic water is magical some of the best I have found."
Lakefront sites: Several campers appreciate direct water access at Los Banos Creek Campground. One reports, "It was perfect for our young kids to play in safely (with life vests of course) and we could still be at the campsite and keep eyes on them."
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently note the well-spaced sites at free BLM campgrounds. One Upper Sweetwater visitor mentioned, "Clean, easy, spacious. Any car could make it. No service. Six spots. Each spot has shelter, table and ring. Pretty private."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures in the Mendota area regularly exceed 100°F, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons. One visitor to Pinnacles Campground noted, "Between the long walks, the heat, and the surprisingly bold raccoons and birds, I'd recommend this spot only for a one-night stay—especially if you're planning to hike during the day."
Road conditions: Access to many campgrounds requires traveling unpaved roads with variable conditions. According to a visitor at Upper Sweetwater, "The road on the mountain is paved but can be a little bumpy at times." Another camper at Los Banos Creek warned, "The water crossing is no joke!!!! When I arrived it was about 7" but when I crossed the next day to go into town it was 9-10" high and flowing fast."
Wildlife management: Several campgrounds require strict food storage protocols. A Pinnacles visitor advised, "Many here will tell you about the raccoons! The campground is split by a creek which has a lot of critters, rabbits, chipmunks(?), quail, mice, and raccoon. Don't leave food out and make sure they are afraid of humans. It's for their safety and ours!"
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Families camping at Los Banos Creek Reservoir should bring life jackets for children. One parent reported, "There was a sandy beach front leading into shallow water. It was perfect for our young kids to play in safely (with life vests of course)."
Pest preparation: Several campgrounds report significant spider activity after dark. At Los Banos Creek, one camper reported, "In the light of the headlamp I saw MANY LARGE spiders. They'd come out to hunt, apparently. This is no exaggeration, they were so large that their eyes gleamed when they caught the light of the headlamp."
Swimming alternatives: When reservoir conditions are unsuitable for swimming, Rangers often recommend alternative swimming locations. At Millerton Lake State Recreation Area, many campers enjoy the swimming areas. One visitor noted, "We stayed for one night but wish we could have stayed longer. The campground is not on the water but is close enough. Very quiet and enjoyable. Our dogs loved the water."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds have uneven sites requiring advance preparation. At Los Banos Creek, one RVer advised, "Nice older campground you'll need a tent or smaller rig. If RV... bring leveling blocks... lots."
Security features: The Lakes RV & Golf Resort provides enhanced security systems not found at most campgrounds near Mendota. A visitor mentioned, "There is a high fence surrounding the property and it is secured by electronic hand held devices that you receive when you check in."
Hookup options: Electricity and water connections vary widely between campgrounds. At Arena RV Park, full hookups are available but noise may be an issue. One visitor noted, "Easy on/off from Hwy. 99. Nice management. Spaces large and lots of shade coverage. Close to hwy but far enough that road noise isn't onerous. Train passes through once at night time, bring earplugs."
