Best Campgrounds near Modesto, CA

Camping near Modesto, CA, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From serene lakes to lush parks, there’s something for everyone looking to escape the city.

What to do

• Hiking: Explore the trails at Mount Madonna County Park. Reviewers appreciate the extensive hiking options, with one stating, "There are quite a few trails that are currently closed due to storm damage, but crews were actively working on them."
• Fishing: Head to Lake Camanche for some fishing fun. A visitor mentioned, "We love it at this lake," highlighting its appeal for anglers.
• Wildlife Watching: At Anthony Chabot Regional Park, you might spot wild turkeys and other wildlife. One camper shared, "We were able to take a closeup look at them and they were beautiful birds."

What campers like

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful scenery at North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park. A reviewer noted, "Great view, great facility and coin-based shower, great trails."
• Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One camper at Mount Madonna County Park said, "Like everything else in this campground, they were clean and well maintained."
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the activities available at Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging. A visitor mentioned, "The petting farm was a big hit too with the kids."

What you should know

• Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like Lake Camanche, have low cell service. A camper mentioned, "Low cell service but very nice place to tent camp."
• Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can get busy. A visitor at Woodward Reservoir noted, "Got very crowded on the weekend."
• Road Conditions: Some campgrounds, like Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes, have rough access roads. A reviewer mentioned, "The road going in was washed out—the alternate route was extremely steep."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Del Valle Regional Park, which is great for families. A camper said, "Great place for a quick getaway with some friends or family."
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities lined up. One family at Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging enjoyed the "huge campground all to ourselves!"
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with snacks. A visitor at Acorn Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms are a problem for cleanliness," so having your own supplies can help.

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Acorn Campground noted, "Geared mostly for small trailers and tents."
• Be Prepared for Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Live Oak Campground — Mount Diablo State Park, have limited facilities. A reviewer mentioned, "Drought meant that flushing toilets were all locked."
• Use Dump Stations Wisely: Many campgrounds have dump stations available. A visitor at Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging appreciated the "convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park."

Camping near Modesto, CA, has its ups and downs, but with the right planning, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!