Glamping in Oakdale, California provides access to the diverse Sierra Nevada foothills terrain with elevations ranging from 150 to 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures often reach 95-105°F between June and September, making water access important for comfort. Fall and spring offer milder conditions with daytime highs in the 70-80°F range.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Tulloch RV Campground and Marina is known for productive fishing. "I stayed here for one night. There are sites on the lake with shade provided over the tables. It was mid week and was not crowded at all. The lake is gorgeous and at night there were several deer walking thru the site," notes Melissa B.
Day trips to historic towns: Gold rush towns are accessible from Acorn Campground. "There are multiple boat ramps, and large sites, many of them right on the lake. The gold rush towns in the foothills are close by too, so that opens up more day time activities," explains Darin D.
Stargazing: Clear night skies provide exceptional viewing opportunities. "It was so dark that I was able to do some great astrophotography," shares Scott R. from Tuttletown Recreation Area. The campground's dark skies and open space make it ideal for night sky observation.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for native wildlife at most campgrounds. "We camped out for 2 nights in spot 96... The view was amazing. It was so dark that I was able to do some great astrophotography," reports a visitor to Tuttletown Recreation Area.
What campers like
Lake swimming access: Many campers appreciate quick lake access. "The water isn't freezing, it's usually pretty warm. The lake isn't huge, but makes for great boating," notes Kellie D. from Lake Camanche.
Hiking trails: Multiple trails surround the recreation areas. "We enjoyed our stay at Lake McSwain. There's great trails, fishing and very friendly staff. The sites are clean and operational and everything is explained well prior to your stay," shares Jenna A.
Camp store convenience: On-site stores provide essentials at several locations. "There is a great little store called the Zippy Mart, located just outside the campground that sells bait, food, beer, firewood, etc, so if you forget something its easy to run there and pick it up," explains a visitor to Acorn Campground.
Glamping options with proper bedding: Yosemite Pines RV Resort offers enhanced glamping near Oakdale. "We stayed in a Yurt and it was absolutely amazing. We ended up coming in really late but they left our key for us. They were super accommodating. The Llamas were an absolute plus as well," reports Emily Grace M.
What you should know
Water levels fluctuate: Lake levels can change dramatically. "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," advises a visitor to Acorn Campground.
Booking timeframes: Reserve early for peak periods. "Lake Comanche South Shore...Always 4+ campsites for 4-5 days around July 4th weekend (reserve at least 6 months out) to start our year off," recommends Julie E.
Campsite selection matters: Consider site locations carefully. "Sites are packed in tight. 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," notes Hunter P. about Tuttletown Recreation Area.
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility maintenance differs between locations. "The bathrooms that were open were disgusting. No camp host onsite while we were there," reports Scott R. from Tuttletown Recreation Area. Another camper mentions, "Free warm showers and the bathrooms are fairly clean" at Lake McSwain Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Petting zoo attractions: "With a pool, petting zoo, a corral where they have a fire and s'mores followed by a movie, this is a great place to camp with the kids," says Jeanette D. about Yosemite Pines RV Resort.
Kid-friendly swimming spots: Several locations offer designated swimming areas. "The kids had fun playing at the playground, jet skiing, and making sand castles at the beach," shares Elisabeth from Lake Tulloch RV Campground.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds maintain play equipment. "We visited a couple times and have enjoyed it. Staff is friendly and helpful. The kids had fun playing at the playground, jet skiing, and making sand castles at the beach," notes a Lake Tulloch RV visitor.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be significant. "If you are staying in a tent make sure to layer up and bring lots of blankets because nights can get very cold," advises an esmeralda from Lake McSwain Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Many RV sites require adjustment. "Leveling is required but there were pretty good lots," explains Brenna R. from Diamond Gulch.
Power options: Electrical hookups vary across campgrounds. "There are only a handful of 50amp spots and people move to them quickly after someone leaves lots of 30amp though so you might want to bring an adapter," advises William V. from Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Dump station availability: Plan for waste management needs. "There is a nice dump station ($8 fee recommended.. pay station is at park entrance)," notes Hunter P. about Tuttletown Recreation Area.
Off-season benefits: Consider shoulder seasons for less crowding. "We stayed at the lake for one night, mid-week, off season. We were only one of a few handful of RVs in the RV section of the campground. I could imagine it being a loud party-scene in the summer," shares a visitor to Lake Camanche.
