New Melones Lake offers camping opportunities at elevations between 800-1,200 feet in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The reservoir spans over 12,500 acres when full, with 100 miles of shoreline accessible for camping and recreation. Water temperatures range from 50°F in winter to 80°F during summer months, affecting both swimming conditions and fishing productivity.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds provide access to hiking paths with views of the reservoir. At Glory Hole Recreation Area, trails range from easy to moderate difficulty. A camper noted, "There are easily accessible hiking trails that were a great help in wearing out the pups... The Carson Creek Trail is listed as a 'moderate' trail as is the Gold Rush Trail. Don't be dissuaded by that. Both trails are really easy and offer great views."
Fishing year-round: Tuttletown Recreation Area offers multiple fishing locations with varying shoreline access. "Fishing areas were easy to get to and we watched numerous people enjoy water sports on the lake," reports a visitor. Rainbow trout, bass, and crappie are common catches depending on season.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities for wildlife sightings around campgrounds. A camper at Lake Tulloch RV Campground and Marina shared, "Several 'packs' walked through our campsite all throughout Sunday night when everyone else was gone. They walked up to us to smell our campfire and our food."
Astrophotography: The limited light pollution makes New Melones Lake excellent for night sky photography. Bring a tripod and camera with manual settings for best results. Weeknights typically offer less ambient light from other campers.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Acorn Campground features well-spaced camping areas suitable for different equipment configurations. "This is a large campground with sites generally well spaced apart, you don't feel right on top of your neighbors. Lots of site variation, so do your homework or be flexible, you might get an amazing lake side spot with a view," one camper advised.
Clean facilities: Despite seasonal challenges, most campgrounds maintain functional amenities. At USBR Gloryhole Rec Area Big Oak Campground, "Bathrooms were kept very clean and well stocked. Sites were a good size and were tucked down a slight hill from the road which was great for privacy."
Weekday solitude: Visiting Sunday through Thursday provides a dramatically different experience than weekends. A camper observed, "We pulled in on Easter Sunday to a near empty campground. The campground is quiet and the scenery is amazing this time of year... The campground was a little busier than last visit, but surprisingly empty during the week."
Lake views: Higher elevation sites offer better vistas, particularly in the early morning and at sunset. "Site 116 is great. It is a little steep to get to the fire pit but the views were worth it," noted a camper.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Researching specific site numbers before booking improves camping experience. "Sites 116 and 117 had great views of a larger part of the lake... Site #142 has great afternoon shade, a nice view, and is very level," advised a repeat visitor at Glory Hole Recreation Area.
Heat preparation: Daily temperature swings can be extreme, especially in summer. A camper at Ironhorse - Glory Hole Area reported, "This site is right on the lake, the bathrooms were clean. It was pretty busy but the spaces are far enough apart that it wasn't super loud even in a tent. There aren't a lot of trees so no hammock and no privacy but still a really great park."
Facility variability: Bathroom and shower conditions vary significantly between campgrounds and seasons. "The bathrooms that were open were disgusting... No camp host onsite while we were there," reported one camper, while another noted, "They have flushing toilets and coin operated showers with is nice, but the toilet situation near our campsite was questionable."
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited or no cellular reception. Download maps, reservation details, and activity information before arrival to avoid connectivity issues.
Tips for camping with families
Shade structures essential: Most lakeside sites lack natural shade. "No hammocks allowed so if that's your sleeping method you'll want to bring a tent," advised a visitor at Tuttletown. Bring pop-up canopies for daytime comfort, particularly during summer months.
Swimming locations: Angels Camp Campground and RV offers controlled swimming areas better suited for children. "There's a day use area and a swimming area with a beach," notes a visitor. Lake access points vary significantly with water levels, requiring drives from some campsites.
Wildlife precautions: Secure food items at all campgrounds to prevent unwanted visitors. "Deer and cats get into everything! And cats pee on everything!" warned one camper. Use provided food lockers or bring sealed containers for nighttime storage.
Campsite terrain: Many sites feature uneven ground requiring careful tent placement. "The tent spot was level and clear of big rocks," noted one satisfied camper, but conditions vary across campgrounds and individual sites.
Tips from RVers
Dump station logistics: Facilities at Tuttletown include a fee-based dump station. "There is a nice dump station ($8 fee recommended... pay station is at park entrance)," advised an RVer. Plan to dump early morning to avoid lines on busy departure days.
Site dimensions: RV campers should research specific site measurements before booking. "Def geared for tent camping although I was lucky enough to be here when it was dead empty and picked a good site for my 27' toy hauler," reported one RVer at Tuttletown.
Water access challenges: RVers noted varying distances to water sources. "Water was available at campground," mentioned one visitor, while another cautioned, "No idea where the water is at but didn't really look." Bring hose extensions to ensure hookup reach at partially-serviced sites.
