Best Tent Camping near Modesto, CA

Tent campsites around Modesto, California range from established campgrounds to more secluded areas along nearby waterways. Lake Camanche offers tent camping with access to water recreation, while Cole Ranch provides a more intimate setting with only 8 tent sites along the river. Joseph D. Grant County Park, located near San Jose, offers both drive-in and walk-in tent sites with varying levels of shade and amenities.

Most tent campgrounds in the region provide basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to toilets. Lake Camanche features drinking water, showers, and trash disposal, though sites can be exposed with limited shade during summer months. Cole Ranch stands out with full hookups and showers for tent campers. Surface conditions vary by location, with some sites offering grassy areas while others have dirt or gravel pads. A visitor commented, "The tent spaces are sizable and you can have a fire," regarding Joseph D. Grant County Park, though they noted wild pigs occasionally roam the area during certain seasons.

Walk-in tent sites at Joseph D. Grant County Park provide more seclusion than drive-in options. The campground remains relatively quiet, especially during weekdays and off-peak seasons. "Clean, quiet and quick escape in Bay Area," noted one camper about the park, mentioning clean bathrooms with flushing toilets within a short walk from their site. Lake Camanche experiences significant seasonal variations, with crowded conditions during summer weekends but peaceful midweek camping. Weather considerations are important when planning tent camping trips in this region, as summer temperatures can be extremely hot, particularly at Lake Camanche where shade can be limited. Winter and spring offer more moderate temperatures but may bring occasional rain, making waterproof tent setups essential.

Best Tent Sites Near Modesto, California (11)

    1. Cole Ranch

    3 Reviews
    Waterford, CA
    15 miles
    +1 (209) 620-6218

    $60 - $90 / night

    "They also change the hand towel in the restrooms daily for everyone to use. The campsite is well taken care of as well as the kitchen which is communal use."

    "The amenities were above and beyond anything we have seen at other locations.  Complimentary watercraft for the river, stocked outdoor kitchen, and hot showers with shampoo/lotion etc. "

    2. George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area Group Camp

    2 Reviews
    Stevinson, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 632-1852

    $150 / night

    3. Lake Camanche

    18 Reviews
    Wallace, CA
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 763-5121

    $50 / night

    "Wicked August heat, BUT there’s the lake!

    5 Stars — were it not for the SLOBS who preceded us!!"

    "I come here with my family every year around 4th of July. I would book way ahead for busy holidays like that. 

    The water level really varies on the year."

    4. Joseph D Grant County Park - Horse Camp

    4 Reviews
    Mount Hamilton, CA
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (408) 274-6121

    $15 - $400 / night

    "Lotsa shaded oak spaces. Good trails."

    "Hamilton and a lake up the road a way, there’s also a mansion & rose garden on the property, shower & bathroom are clean, there are nights to gather and stargaze.The tent spaces are sizable &amp"

    5. Joseph D. Grant County Park

    2 Reviews
    Mount Hamilton, CA
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (408) 274-6121

    "They also sell ice which was nice to grab for the cooler. Nice stay, saw a lot of bunnies and a bobcat on the way out."

    "The bathrooms were a short walk down hill. They were clean with flushing toilets. There camp ground was quiet and it was mostly couples or small family groups."

    6. Sunol

    3 Reviews
    Sunol, CA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 327-2757

    "Great backpacking getway.  Many day hikers here but you can backpack as well.  I camped on a beautiful ridge."

    "I have never camped here but hiked many trails."

    7. Delta Bay RV Resort

    2 Reviews
    Rio Vista, CA
    48 miles
    +1 (916) 777-5588

    8. Morgan Territory Regional Preserve

    1 Review
    Brentwood, CA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 327-2757

    9. Eagle Point

    1 Review
    Groveland, CA
    47 miles
    +1 (228) 337-9598

    $50 - $150 / night

    "I was lucky to find Eagle Point this spring for a simple tent set up, and boy was it perfect."

    10. Deer Flat Boat In Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Valley Springs, CA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 772-1343

    $20 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Modesto, CA

409 Reviews of 11 Modesto Campgrounds



Guide to Modesto

Tent camping near Modesto, California, offers a variety of scenic locations and outdoor experiences for nature enthusiasts. From well-equipped sites to beautiful natural surroundings, there’s something for everyone.

Local Activities for Tent Campers

Tent Camping Prices

Features and Amenities

  • Lake Camanche offers electric hookups, showers, and picnic tables, making it a comfortable choice for families.
  • At Joseph D Grant County Park, campers can enjoy clean facilities, including hot showers and well-maintained restrooms.
  • Eagle Point provides a peaceful setting with ample space for tents and access to extra camping gear for those who may need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Modesto, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Modesto, CA is Cole Ranch with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Modesto, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Modesto, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.