New Melones Lake offers tent camping opportunities in the Sierra Nevada foothills at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 feet. The recreation area encompasses 12,500 acres of water surface when full, making it California's fourth largest reservoir. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during daytime hours, while spring and fall provide milder conditions for camping.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: New Melones Lake supports multiple fish species including bass, trout, kokanee salmon, and catfish. At Lake Camanche, located about 30 miles northwest of New Melones, "Fishing is awesome! Hiking trails can be better. There is a general store at the boat marina and ramp," reports one regular visitor.
Water recreation: Explore the lake by boat, kayak, or canoe. Eagle Point offers "complimentary watercraft for the river, stocked outdoor kitchen, and hot showers with shampoo/lotion etc. One afternoon we took out one of the facilities canoes on the river and relaxed on the water all afternoon."
Hiking trails: Visit nearby Calaveras Big Trees State Park for walking paths through giant sequoias. A camper notes, "There is plenty to do and trails to hike in this area, easy enough for families with children and rugged trail options for the more experienced hikers."
What campers like
Proximity to water: Many tent camping sites around New Melones Lake provide direct access to the shoreline. At Rancho Seco Recreation Area, which offers a similar lake camping experience, "I pitched a tent in site 43 right next to the lake. Excellent place," one camper shared.
Wildlife viewing: The forests and lake areas support diverse wildlife. At Calaveras Big Trees State Park North Grove Campground, a visitor reported, "Bear came through our camp one night hit the Bear box and walked off. Rangers were friendly and very informative about the area."
Natural surroundings: Tent campers appreciate the forested environment. "So peaceful. Great for the warmer months as the trees and creek keep you cool. Many beautiful trails to keep you busy and so much history," commented a visitor about the North Grove Campground experience.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant temperature variations. According to a camper at Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed, "This area is closed in the winter due to snow but is the perfect weather during shoulder seasons, not too hot not too cold."
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads. A camper noted, "Great spot for a tent or small trailer. The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up."
Cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the area. One Top of Arnold camper reported, "2 bars LTE of Verizon," while at North Grove Campground, a visitor mentioned, "The only Wi-Fi is at the visitor center and VERY limited cell service."
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions change seasonally and require permits in some areas. A camper advised, "Be sure to obtain a fire permit from Cal Fire and check fire restrictions in the area have a bucket full of water and a shovel next to your fire at all times."
Tips for camping with families
Campground amenities: For tent camping with children at New Melones Lake, consider established campgrounds with facilities. One family at Cole Ranch shared, "Barry and his wife were amazing hosts! They made sure that we had everything we needed! They allow you to use their Canoe, paddleboard and kayak with signed waiver of course."
Swimming areas: Look for designated swimming spots with gradual entry points. At Lake Camanche, "The water isn't freezing, it's usually pretty warm. The lake isn't huge, but makes for great boating," according to a regular visitor.
Storage solutions: Secure food from wildlife, especially in areas with reported bear activity. A camper at Rancho Seco advised, "Just make sure you put your food away at night raccoons will get your food and snacks."
Tips for RVers
Site selection: Choose campgrounds that accommodate larger vehicles. At Rancho Seco Recreation Area, "21 water and electric sites with a dump station on the way out. Some pull through sites. RV sites are farther from the lake on mostly level gravel pads with picnic table, fire rings, and a trash can at each site."
Seasonal planning: Consider visiting in shoulder seasons for fewer crowds. "This is a wonderful spot to stay for a few days in the off season. We stayed in February. Summers would be very hot and I imagine the area would be packed with day use folks."
Utility hookups: Check for available services before arrival. A camper noted, "No trailer hookups, but every site has a water but can't connect it with the trailer. Park does have a dump station and is included in the space rent."
