Camping at New Melones Lake ranges from basic tent sites to RV hookups across multiple recreation areas spanning 1,700 acres at 1,000 feet elevation. The reservoir sits between Angels Camp and Sonora in California's western Sierra Nevada foothills, with oak woodlands surrounding most camping areas. Water temperature reaches the mid-70s°F by early summer, creating comfortable swimming conditions when lake levels are adequate.
What to do
Fishing access: New Melones Lake offers fishing opportunities with several species available. At Tuttletown Recreation Area, visitors find convenient boat launch facilities. "Fishing areas were easy to get to and we watched numerous people enjoy water sports on the lake," notes Debbie R. from Tuttletown Recreation Area.
Trail hiking: Carson Creek and Gold Rush trails provide terrain for all skill levels despite moderate ratings. "Lots of hiking options and access to the lake for fishing and swimming," states Jordan L. about the recreational possibilities at Tuttletown Recreation Area. Hikers frequently spot wildlife, especially in morning and evening hours.
Swimming locations: When water levels permit, designated swimming areas provide cooling relief from summer heat. At Lake Tulloch RV Campground, campers appreciate water access. "The lake is gorgeous and at night there were several deer walking thru the site. This is hot weather territory but you can take a quick swim to cool off. There is a day use area and a swimming area with a beach," explains Melissa B.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-sized camping areas with standard amenities. At USBR Gloryhole Rec Area Big Oak Campground, campers appreciate the layout: "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," notes Joshua H.
Lake views: Several sites provide direct views of the lake, particularly valuable during higher water periods. "My family of four enjoyed camping here. Site 116 is great. It is a little steep to get to the fire pit but the view were worth it," shares Mallory K. about Big Oak Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Beyond raccoons and deer mentioned in the existing description, campers regularly observe diverse wildlife. "It is beautiful, clean and not crowded. 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," notes Mahdi at Big Oak Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campsite terrain varies significantly throughout the recreation areas. At Ironhorse- Glory Hole Area, one camper notes: "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 inconsistency: Bathroom and shower conditions vary between campgrounds and throughout the season. "Drinking water might be quite far away, bathrooms are basic," reports Tabitha about Ironhorse campground conditions.
Seasonal restrictions: Some campers encounter operational limitations. "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," reports one visitor about access timing.
Tips for camping with families
Boat rental options: Water activities provide family entertainment in summer months. At USBR Tuttletown Recreation Area Oak Knoll Group Site, one visitor shares: "We were able to rent a boat for tuning on the lake, which made the trip."
Dog friendly campgrounds New Melones Lake: Beyond the standard pet policies requiring leashes, multiple campgrounds accommodate families with dogs. "Lots of deer and raccoons," notes Hunter P. about Tuttletown Recreation Area, highlighting the need for pet supervision around wildlife.
Shade considerations: Limited tree cover affects summer comfort levels. "No shade or places to set up hammocks," reports Scott R., advising preparation for direct sun exposure.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Campsite terrain affects setup difficulty. At Acorn Campground, RVers note terrain variations: "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."
Dump station access: Facilities for sanitary dumping exist but sometimes require fees. "There is a nice dump station ($8 fee recommended.. pay station is at park entrance)," notes Hunter P. about Tuttletown Recreation Area.
Limited hookup options: Most New Melones Lake campgrounds provide minimal RV services. "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," observes Hunter P., indicating that site selection timing matters for larger rigs.
Guide
