Best Campgrounds near Raymond, CA
Campgrounds surrounding Raymond, California provide a mix of established and dispersed camping experiences within the Sierra foothills region. The area features several developed facilities like COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground and Hidden View Campground at Hensley Lake, both offering tent and RV camping options with various amenity levels. Goat Meadow provides dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking a more primitive experience. The camping landscape ranges from lakeside sites with hookups to more remote locations with minimal facilities, situated among rolling hills approximately 30-40 miles northeast of Fresno and within driving distance of Yosemite National Park.
Campers should be aware that water levels in both Hensley and Eastman lakes fluctuate significantly throughout the year, with spring offering fuller lake conditions while summer and fall reveal more exposed shoreline. Most established campgrounds in the area require reservations through recreation.gov, with sites filling quickly during spring and summer weekends. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Many campsites offer shade structures or tree cover for relief from summer heat. Several campgrounds feature electrical hookups and water access, though amenities vary widely between locations. According to one visitor at Codorniz Campground, "There are few gems along the Hwy 99 route between Sacramento and Bakersfield but this is definitely one of them! Located a short 20 miles east of 99, just north of Fresno, this Army Corps of Engineers campground is stunning."
Wildlife viewing represents a common attraction at campgrounds around Raymond, with visitors frequently reporting coyotes, deer, and seasonal tarantula migrations. Campers praise the clean facilities at Codorniz and Hidden View, though bathroom maintenance can be inconsistent during busy periods. The relatively remote location provides quieter camping experiences compared to more popular destinations closer to Yosemite. A review noted that "Sites are asphalt. Many sites may take some time to level. Back in and pull through are available." Several campgrounds feature lakeside views, though water access points can be limited or rocky in some areas. Most established campgrounds provide fire rings, picnic tables, and vault or flush toilets, while dispersed areas require self-contained camping with proper waste disposal practices.
