Best Tent Camping near New Melones Lake
Tent campsites near New Melones Lake offer options ranging from primitive dispersed sites to established campgrounds with amenities. Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed provides free tent camping on Forest Service land northwest of the lake, while Calaveras Big Trees State Park's North Grove Campground offers developed tent sites among giant sequoias approximately 20 miles northeast of New Melones.
Dirt roads with ruts and potholes characterize access to dispersed tent camping areas like Top of Arnold, though standard passenger vehicles can navigate with care. This primitive camping area lacks facilities such as toilets, running water, or designated fire rings. Campers must bring all necessary water and obtain a fire permit from Cal Fire when camping outside established campgrounds. Bear activity occurs throughout the region, so proper food storage is essential. At established campgrounds like North Grove, each tent site includes a fire ring, bear box, picnic table, and access to toilets.
Morning temperatures at higher elevation tent sites can be chilly even in summer months, with day-to-night temperature swings of 30-40 degrees common. The dispersed sites offer more solitude and flexibility than developed campgrounds, though occasional noise from target shooting or dirt bikes may briefly interrupt the quiet. Cell service is limited but available at some locations, with one camper noting "2 bars LTE of Verizon" at Top of Arnold. According to a visitor, "The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up." Tent campers should prepare for dusty conditions at primitive sites, which can affect bedding and gear.
