New Hogan Lake sits at approximately 700 feet elevation in California's Sierra foothills, 30 miles east of Stockton. The reservoir spans 4,400 surface acres with 50 miles of shoreline when full, creating varied camping environments from exposed hillsides to partially shaded sites. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F between June and September, while spring and fall bring milder conditions.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct lake access for non-motorized watercraft. "We got in our kayaks for an awesome day paddle around the many coves of this reservoir. Since the lake level fluctuates there aren't many good beaches, but you can pull off to have a picnic lunch," notes a visitor at Acorn Campground.
Disc golf courses: The area features multiple courses for disc golf enthusiasts. One camper at Lake Amador Resort explained: "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."
Fishing opportunities: New Hogan Lake supports multiple fish species with varying seasonal patterns. "The lake is stocked with Trout, Bass and Catfish. Tackle Box Cafe is really good, weekends only, and the staff is kind and helpful," shares a regular visitor to Lake Amador Resort.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently mention wildlife encounters near campsites. "The wildlife is RIGHT THERE! We saw a tarantula near the tee box on 2. I woke up with 4 deer casually strolling through our campsite, a huge group of turkeys were cruising around the whole weekend," reported an enthusiastic visitor at Lake Amador Resort.
Stargazing conditions: Clear night skies make star viewing exceptional. A camper at Tuttletown Recreation Area noted: "It was so dark that I was able to do some great astrophotography." The area's distance from major cities creates minimal light pollution.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas. "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," explains one reviewer.
What you should know
Variable lake levels: Water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year affecting shoreline access. "The lake level varies wildly throughout the year, 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," warns an experienced camper at Acorn Campground.
Limited shade at some sites: Many campgrounds have minimal tree cover. A visitor to COE New Hogan Lake Coyote Point Campground mentioned: "Lot of people nice place no shade." Consider bringing shade structures during summer months.
Campsite spacing varies: Site proximity differs significantly between campgrounds. "Acorn campground is a great campground for boaters, or anyone looking to camp near a lake. Located on New Hogan Reservoir, there are multiple boat ramps, and large sites, many of them right on the lake," notes one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated swimming areas: Some campgrounds feature kid-friendly water access. "There is 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," recommends a regular visitor to Lake Amador Resort.
Playgrounds available: Several campgrounds offer play equipment. "There is an old school playground for the kids. The staff is super friendly and always there to help. I take my kids at least 3-4 times a year and enjoy any of the seasons," shares a family camper from Lake Amador.
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "The main bathroom building had clean flush toilets and showers, but there were a few extra vault toilets scattered around. Fresh water taps and recycling/trash bins were plentiful," reports a visitor to Lake Tulloch RV Campground and Marina.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers should research specific site dimensions. "The campground offers a range of pull-through and back-in campsites along the slopes of the rolling hills, but most of the individual sites were flat and could accommodate a wide variety of rig sizes," notes an RVer who stayed at Acorn Campground.
Sewer hookup configuration: Some campgrounds have unusual sewer connections. A camper at Monument RV Park observed: "The hookups worked good but the sewer hookup is elevated so you will probably want sewer hose supports to lift your hose."
Luxury glamping close to New Hogan Lake: For RVers seeking upscale glamping accommodations, several options exist. "We stayed in the cabin that sleeps 6. Super nice, close to the bathrooms. There's a community outdoors kitchen with stove and sink," reports a visitor who enjoyed luxury glamping near New Hogan Lake at Angels Camp Campground and RV.
