Camping in Ripon, California offers a diverse range of options within 30 miles of the Central Valley town. Located at an elevation of 56 feet in San Joaquin County, Ripon experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for camping trips. The area's proximity to both the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and Sierra Nevada foothills creates varied camping experiences from waterfront sites to mountain terrain.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Tulloch: Visitors to Lake Tulloch RV Campground and Marina can enjoy swimming at the dedicated beach area. As one camper notes, "We went swimming in the swimming area and there were a surprising amount of people there via Covid. We went in the little shop briefly but from what I could tell they had a lot of useful things campers may need varying from firewood, ice, snacks. fast food, alcohol, & camping/fishing supplies."
Fishing year-round: Lake Camanche offers excellent fishing opportunities even in cooler months. "We camped twice at this campground on the South Shore. The lake has a North Shore Campground as well. We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend and we had a few neighbors when we went again in mid January. There are several campsites in the South Shore location. We stayed in the Riverview site where there is no alcohol permitted. We liked the site because we can launch our kayaks from our campground down to the lake. Fishing is awesome!"
Wildlife viewing: The Delta region provides ample wildlife sighting opportunities. At Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina, you can spot native wildlife while enjoying waterfront camping. "We (party of 4) were there primarily because we rented a boat from their Marina. That went well! This is an RV campground & full-complement resort on Bethel Island, San Joaquin River Delta."
What campers like
Lakeside camping experiences: Lake McSwain Recreation Area offers campsites with direct lake access. One visitor shared, "The site was a good size for two trucks and the trailer. The site was not too close to the water, not too far. The bathrooms had showers which we used since our site didn't have a sewer hookup. The site did have water and power though."
Quiet off-season camping: Many campers appreciate visiting during less crowded periods. At Lake Camanche, a camper reported, "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. But in the early spring, it was full of bird songs and a gorgeous sunset. Decent cell service, no wifi."
Yurt camping options near Ripon: For those seeking yurt camping near Ripon, California, Lake Amador Resort provides yurt accommodations along with traditional camping options. "Nice campground on the lake. We stayed in the dry camping area which was right on the lake. We noted that the sites were very close together with no privacy, but that was ok since there were few people there. The showers worked well and didn't require coins."
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: The Central Valley experiences extreme temperature changes. At Acorn Campground, a camper warns, "We've stayed at this campground a couple of times on our way to/from Yosemite National Park, and it is a nice place to spend a couple of nights. Many campers come here to get on the lake in their powerboats, or fish from the shore, and there will be no shortage of anglers most weekends."
Campground maintenance varies: Facility quality can differ significantly between locations. "This Campground has lots of potential. We expected a cleaner site for $40 a night. Really just a cleaner campground in general. Our site had lots of trash at it. Like Chewing Tobacco, old empanadas, cereal, etc. But it had some positives. Like the store, Lake and splash n dash."
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We've been camping here for 10 years now. Always 4+ campsites for 4-5 days around July 4th weekend (reserve at least 6 months out) to start our year off. And at least once a month thru Sept/Oct."
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Families seeking child-friendly activities should consider Brannan Island State Recreation Area, which offers designated swimming areas. "Brannan Island is conveniently located from SF Bay Area. Great for families. Plenty of roads to bike out/back. Love being close to the water for recreation. Clean facilities. Can be windy. Since easy access it is busy, sometimes more noise in evenings to my liking."
Seasonal programming: Some campgrounds offer special events for children. "For October, we did an outdoor movie, magic pumpkins, costume contest, trick or treating, hay ride, and haunted house. My daughter loved everything except the haunted house, which she said was 'too scary!'"
Protected swimming areas: Lake Amador Resort provides specialized swimming areas for younger campers. "They have a water hole with a fun slide, which is all kept nice and clean with tables you can sit at. I would recommend a pop up tent for shade if you go to the water hole. There is also a old school playground for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Tuttletown Recreation Area offers various site types for RVs, but with limitations. "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. Fire pits and picnic tables at every site. No idea where the water is at but didn't really look."
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research sites carefully. "Some sites have plenty of shade, some none, which would be killer in the heat! Great, QUIET time. When the lake is down (like now) it's a bit of a haul to the water â cart/wagon recommended, as well as a shade pop-up AT water's edge."
Water hookup positioning: Be prepared for varying hookup configurations. "The water spigot is really close to the ground and really close to the sewer drain. Scrub with bleach before booking up your water and you'll be fine. We would definitely stay here again!"
