The San Joaquin Valley surrounding Pixley, California features a mix of established campgrounds and RV parks within a 30-mile radius. Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park Campground, located 10 miles southwest in Earlimart, offers year-round camping with both tent and RV sites, complete with modern amenities including showers, flush toilets, and electric hookups. Tule - Success Lake near Porterville provides lakeside camping with basic facilities and is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers. Several private RV parks dot the region, including options in Tulare and Porterville, catering primarily to travelers seeking full hookups and convenient access to Highway 99.
Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F in this agricultural region, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during cooler months when snowbirds and travelers heading to nearby Sequoia National Park increase demand. As one visitor to Colonel Allensworth noted, "While the sounds of highways and trains abound, the historical significance of this amazing site isn't lost to the sands of time." The area's flat terrain means limited natural shade at many campgrounds, though some facilities provide shade structures. Fire restrictions are common during summer and fall due to high fire danger, and campers should bring adequate water supplies even at developed sites.
Campers frequently mention the historical significance of Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park as a highlight of camping in the region. Founded in 1908 as the only California town founded, financed, and governed by African Americans, the park now preserves this history alongside its campground. According to one reviewer, "The campground is set off at the back of the historic town... Bathrooms with flush toilets, free showers, water fountains and an area to wash dishes were ridiculously clean." Wildlife viewing opportunities are limited in the immediate Pixley area, though the Pixley National Wildlife Refuge offers seasonal wetland habitat for migratory birds. For those seeking mountain experiences, campgrounds in the Sierra foothills near Porterville provide cooler temperatures and more diverse landscapes within an hour's drive.
$20 - $30 / night
"While the sounds of highways and trains abound, the historical significance of this amazing site isn't lost to the sands of time."
"The "Town" In 1908, former slave Colonel Allen Allensworth and four other African Americans founded the town of Allensworth in the San Joaquin Valley of California."
$20 - $30 / night
"in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park can fill up quickly, so if you arrive to the area in the afternoon, if the higher-elevation campsites are under snow, or if you’re looking for an option outside"
"We were here on the weekend and we're able to drive in and get a spot. There are bathrooms and showers available. There is a day use area. The lake is beautiful and you are very close to town."
"They all have the events close to the park entrance. Three Rivers is about 5 miles away, i was blown away with this lake by the foothills but it really feels like a lake on a mountaintop!"
"I’ll start with the negatives: you can hear traffic all night because it is located in an industrial area and the showers are not hot."
"Campground really close to the water. Lots of playground equipment. Good for tenors and an RVs with no hook ups. Lots of space and good cell coverage. Bathrooms are flush with showers and OK."
"A friend and I camped here overnight while on a 4-day motorcycle tour of the Sothern Sierra, the location was convenient."
"Nice drive thru RV’s sites. Friendly Staff and good staff especially Jennifer. Very nice dog park, not a lot grass but good running area for dogs."
"We spent one night in this campground and found it to be quiet and far enough away from the freeway and trains that those noise makers did not bother us at all."
$42 - $49 / night
"Nice park adjacent to a great bike trail of 50+ miles. The river is not always running as in some of the pictures. Gravel pads concrete patios surrounded by grass."
"The hot tub jets massaged my neck and shoulders after driving for several days. The site has a recreation room and outdoor grill with picnic tables. The location is close to 99 but not too loud."
GuideDecent little spots right off of the main road, traffic isn't steady or heavy but you're close enough to hear it anytime a vehicle passes. 2wd is possible to get into the sites but it is a challenge that you need to take very carefully.
GuideThe campsite isn't bad, it had good amenities and surprisingly ample privacy. Phone service was spotty at best, and the price per night (at least when I was there) felt a bit steep for what I experienced.
ScoutAmazing park! Very private and our 2 cats loved it here. The host was so friendly and gave us great advices on visiting the Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks.
ScoutTop-notch campsite. Clean. Quiet location. Water, sewage, and electricity available.
GuideMy husband and I spent two nights there while traveling to the national parks. It was a bit dirty and packed in. We travel with two dogs, so a dog park is important to us. Their dog park needs a lot of work, it wasn't very clean or well kept.
GuideThis is our second stay at this campground and we really like it. I only gave it a 4 star rating because 1) unfortunately some campers don’t respect campgrounds and leave their trash in the bbq grill and/or fire pit. Come on people, leave no trace, pick up your trash. 2) Too many squirrels that drive my dogs nuts. They need some type of squirrel abatement program. With that said, we do really like this campground and recommend it.
TravelerFantastic place to stay with considerate & helpful staff. Boundless fun to be had by all from hikes, bikes, outdoor space activities. Nice level spots and hookups inc. Plus lots of furry/ feathery friends my grandaughter loved! Did I mention the amazing scenery! Do the drive!
TravelerWent past the 3 dispersed sites that were listed, and found a site on the right hand side right before the bridge. There are two sites, the one to the left is much more level
ScoutWe have two regular go to camping and adventure spots outside of Los Angeles, Joshua Tree NP and Kernville. We love to come up to Kernville to fish the Kern, kayak, and just generally escape. Kern River’s Edge, which is right on the river, has been our go to spot and it continues to be a great place to camp. The camp host team, who been here for several seasons are great and the owner checked in on us to make sure we were having a good visit. It’s clean, well run, in a great location and one of the better camp grounds we’ve stayed in in our journeys around the USA.
Camping spots near Pixley, California offer varied landscapes from agricultural flatlands to nearby Sierra foothills. Summer temperatures in this Central Valley location regularly climb above 100°F, with winter lows dropping to 30-40°F. Travelers can find options ranging from historical sites to lakeside camping within a 30-mile radius.
Fishing at Lake Success: The reservoir at Tule - Success Lake provides good fishing opportunities close to Pixley. "Very helpful lady at entrance. She helped us find the right spot $20 for the non electric site $10 if you have any of the National Park passes," notes camper Lowell S. The lake atmosphere creates a peaceful retreat.
Visit historic landmarks: Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park Campground preserves California's first African American-founded town. "Historic and cool," explains Brian C. The park combines history with camping, allowing visitors to explore restored buildings from the early 1900s during the day while camping overnight.
Water recreation: Boat rentals are available at Success Lake for those wanting time on the water. "There is very few campsites with shade. It's a pretty far walk to the lake. On the pro side not too far from a town if you need to grab something," shares patricia C., highlighting practical considerations for day use activities.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities at COE Success Lake Tule Campground. "Pretty nice campground, however, ppl dose seem to care about neighbors. Laud music was still playing after 10pm," comments David L., suggesting the campground itself meets expectations despite occasional noise issues.
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers note reasonable rates at several camping locations near Pixley. "Clean, newer type of space. Free showers for campers, and the price is cheap for a developed site. $20 for regular, $30 for an RV," reports Michael H. about Colonel Allensworth, pointing out the value for facilities provided.
Sunset views: Several Success Lake visitors specifically mention beautiful sunset views. "A friend and I camped here overnight while on a 4-day motorcycle tour of the Sothern Sierra, the location was convenient. We found sitting and watching the sunset over the lake perfect site#30 after a long day ride," writes Graeme P., highlighting this natural spectacle as a highlight.
Limited shade: Most camping areas near Pixley feature minimal tree cover. "It's central valley so hot in the summer with a bit of breeze and flat," explains a Colonel Allensworth camper, emphasizing the importance of bringing shade structures during summer months.
Noise factors: Highway and train sounds affect some camping experiences in the area. According to Michael H., "If the trains and small freeway weren't close, it would be 5 as a site." This is particularly relevant for light sleepers planning overnight stays.
RV age restrictions: Some private RV parks maintain specific policies about equipment. At Deer Creek RV Park in Porterville, one reviewer notes, "Won't take you if your rv is older then 10 years old now thats what I CALL DISCRIMMMANATION," indicating potential barriers for travelers with older vehicles.
Kid-friendly recreation: Playgrounds and open spaces provide entertainment for younger campers. "Good place for fishing and boating. Campground really close to the water. Lots of playground equipment," writes Rick L. about South Tule Campground, highlighting amenities specifically valuable for families.
Educational opportunities: The historic sites offer learning experiences for children. "In 1908, former slave Colonel Allen Allensworth and four other African Americans founded the town of Allensworth in the San Joaquin Valley of California. According to wikipedia, it is 'the only California town to be founded, financed and governed by African Americans,'" shares Corinna B., describing the educational value.
Pool access: Lemon Cove Village offers swimming facilities appreciated by families during hot weather. "Nice pull thru sites made setting up super easy. Place was quite and clean. Not much for extra activities on site, but they did have a clubhouse," notes Ryan S., describing the basic but functional amenities.
Pull-through convenience: Several RV sites offer easy access layouts. "Pull through sites made setting up super easy. We have a 34 foot 5th wheel and it was easy to get into these spots. Some spots don't have full hookups so look before you book your spot," advises Tonya C. about Lemon Cove Village, providing practical setup information.
Utility connections: RVers should verify hookup availability when booking. "Electrical is updated and spaces have okay water pressure. Has laundry and pool as well," reports Marc P., noting the variable amenities available for motorhomes.
Uneven terrain: Be prepared for leveling challenges at some sites. "The spot we had was very uneven & the sewer is pretty much on an uphill slant from the trailer, which was an issue for dumping," cautions DeAnna L., highlighting a practical consideration for waste management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Pixley, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Pixley, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 130 campgrounds and RV parks near Pixley, CA and 29 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Pixley, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pixley, CA is Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 6 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pixley, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 free dispersed camping spots near Pixley, CA.
What parks are near Pixley, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 parks near Pixley, CA that allow camping, notably Kaweah Lake and Sequoia National Forest.
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