Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Modesto, CA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Modesto. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
"Reminds me a lot of the Modesto reservoir. I enjoy this location because it has stores nearby. I always need to take extra blankets and fire wood. It tends to get chilly and windy occasionally."
"Out in Central valley is Woodward Lake. Great for a day trip if you live in the Bay area and want to get away. They have boat access to the lake."
$40 - $60 / night
"Love coming here anytime of the year.Not to far out from Modesto Or Riverbank. There is an archery range here which I still need to check it out."
"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."
"Campsite amenities were great, easy access to water and bathrooms. Bathrooms were spotless the whole weekend, even though it was a holiday weekend and every site was booked."
"After time spent here at this oasis in the middle of Eastbay, California, you’ll very much feel like part of this place with its endless trails, fantastically well-kept camping grounds and the warm hospitality"
$20 / night
"This is a primitive campground, no showers only vault toilets and restroom near visitor center ( 2 min walk from campground) both decently clean. Water for washing dishes is available."
"There is a small visitor center close to the entrance, with a few souvenirs and some snacks and drinks. Visitor Center only takes cash."
$34 / night
"The lake is closed to any and all water-craft because the water level is too low. It is very clean and well maintained for the most part. Cell phone service for Xfinity/Verizon is spotty at best."
"Campsites are along the beautiful Coyote lake. The lakeside sites are mostly shaded as are the sites along the road. Sites 43, 44 and 45 would be the most secluded."
"The only downside is that the park closes at 8:00 pm so we had to sleep behind the entrance until 4:00 am when they opened the door again. A Fire ring and a bench available at each spot."
"Sites were a good size and were tucked down a slight hill from the road which was great for privacy. Bathrooms were kept very clean and well stocked."
$25 - $45 / night
"Fabulous lakeside camping.... We’ve been in March, May, July and September..... July, just too hot but we love being able to just get up and fish... The lake is stocked with Trout, Bass and Catfish."
"Lake water level was super low at end of summer & lake is hard to access. Unless you got a boat. Saw deer & wild turkeys. This park is huge."
$18 - $22 / night
"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."
"The view was gorgeous, and there were a lot of hiking trails to choose from."
"We were able to rent a boat for tuning on the lake, which made the trip."
"However, this gorgeous state park has dozens of beautiful trails winding through cattle country and down along streams and ponds in the Dinosaur Point area.
NO WATER."
GuideLove coming here anytime of the year.Not to far out from Modesto Or Riverbank. There is an archery range here which I still need to check it out. Price has gone up compare to past years but I like it due to it location. Certain time of the year it get pretty busy but we always camp on the far end of the campground where there is less people. Good area to use a paddle boat or canoe, water lately isn't that deep. Always see people fishing off shore but I haven't had any luck there. Very peaceful area except for waking up to geese near the campsite but they won't bother you at all. Boys like coming here to relax and go in the water right next to the campsite. 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.
Here is the link to the Orienteering Course
https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.yosemitescouting.org/openrosters/DocDownload.aspx%3Fid%3D155218&sa=U&ved=0ahUKEwip8Yy6wsncAhUoHzQIHVtCA5IQFggEMAA&client=internal-uds-cse&cx=006560653457896674193:x7x5xdc5ujm&usg=AOvVaw15PA6PXapbysl-Pgq2DWVQ
TravelerLocated just outside of oakdale, very similar to that of Modesto reservoir as it is managed by the same people. Shallow and warm water great for swimming and water sports. Has paved looped campgrounds and has all necessary hook ups for rv/motorhome camping. Boat docks and tables located near the water good for bbqing and having a relaxing weekend close to home but away from crowds of people. They do have late festivals in the fall so plan accordingly
TravelerReminds me a lot of the Modesto reservoir. I enjoy this location because it has stores nearby. I always need to take extra blankets and fire wood. It tends to get chilly and windy occasionally. Make sure to bring sunblock! Some Roads are dirt so bring goood water shoes or sandals.
ScoutWe 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. Quite nights and darker stargazing. Blonde Beach is where your likely to find us Jetskiing.
GuideYOU CANNOT CAMP HERE. However, this gorgeous state park has dozens of beautiful trails winding through cattle country and down along streams and ponds in the Dinosaur Point area.
NO WATER. Note that there is no safe potable water at the park, so if you're hiking, bring plenty to drink.
NOT DOG-FRIENDLY: Dogs are allowed on leash in the parking lot only. You cannot hike with your dog here.
VERY HORSE-FRIENDLY: The park is especially friendly to horses, because the lady that donated the land was an equestrienne. There is a corral at the main parking lot area and the park is fenced for livestock. They make a point of stating that although the water in the creeks and ponds is unsafe for humans, it is safe for livestock and horses. (The one exception to the no camping rule, actually, is when those on horseback are allowed to camp during special events.)
GuideThis is a primitive campground, no showers only vault toilets and restroom near visitor center ( 2 min walk from campground) both decently clean. Water for washing dishes is available. Spots are not close to each other so there is privacy. It is small, quiet, surrounded with beautiful views. Good hiking trails and good opportunity for bird watching, wild flowers viewing and plenty of deer around. From main road it takes about 35 min drive up the hill through narrow road which is paved but I don't think it is appropriate for RVs. It is a bit of hassle getting here but worth it! If you are car camping I advice NOT to choose drive in spots as it is not leveled but the parking where you have to walk to your camp spot is okay.
TravelerWe stayed in Sites 78 & 80, which were enormous, and could’ve easily fit 20-30 people, not the 8 people the sites were limited too. Careful though, many sites, including these, were mostly exposed with very little shade. Camping Labor Day weekend, temps were in the low 90s, and there were LOTS of mosquitoes. Most people in our party came back with upwards of 20-30 bites, even with lots of bug spray, screened enclosures, and other precautions.
Campsite amenities were great, easy access to water and bathrooms. Bathrooms were spotless the whole weekend, even though it was a holiday weekend and every site was booked. Park staff came by each evening to invite us to programs at the amphitheater. A firewood truck drove by at least once a day. You can also make purchases at a little camp store (in a shipping container), plenty of ice and firewood, but we didn’t see any alcohol for sale.
Check the rules ahead of time, they are quite restrictive and very different from many other campgrounds. No hard alcohol? No hammocks? No entry after 10:00pm?
Also note, the lake isn’t really in walking distance. If you have a dog, you have to head to East Shore (~5 min drive) and the Dog Run trail to let them in the water. Be prepared for a steep scramble down to the lakeside, and very limited beach.
LegendAfter time spent here at this oasis in the middle of Eastbay, California, you’ll very much feel like part of this place with its endless trails, fantastically well-kept camping grounds and the warm hospitality given you both by the camp rangers and fellow campers you’ll come across.
From a range of activities including horseback riding, kayaking on the namesake lake as well as hiking the foothills, if you’ve come here for nature, you’ll strike gold! The amenities are basic and – key to all California Regional Parks – everything is very well maintained, easy to find and wonderful to make use of.
Happy Camping!
GuideThis small and quite campground is our favorite in Bay Area. Each site has a picnic table and a fire pit, with enough of trees and privacy. Campground is really small with only 20 campsites. The camp is a great base for hikes and bike rides all over the park, but also great just to enjoy the campground. There is a small visitor center close to the entrance, with a few souvenirs and some snacks and drinks. Visitor Center only takes cash. Overall, this place is a great spot to run away from Bay Area noise and rush.
Horse camping in California offers a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the company of your equine companions. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to saddle up and enjoy nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Modesto, CA is Woodward Reservoir with a 4-star rating from 16 reviews.
TheDyrt.com has all 18 equestrian camping locations near Modesto, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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