Best Campgrounds near Stockton, CA

Camping near Stockton, California, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly campground or a peaceful retreat, there are options that cater to all kinds of campers.

What to do:

• Water activities: Folsom Lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. One visitor mentioned, “Folsom Lake with all water-related activities” makes it a great spot for families looking to enjoy the water.
• Hiking and biking: Trails abound in the area. One camper noted, “The paved American River Bikeway was good for walking, running, and horseback riding,” making it ideal for those who love to explore on foot or bike.
• Wildlife watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A reviewer shared, “A couple of wild turkeys came to pick up the dropped food on the ground,” adding a fun twist to camping at Anthony Chabot Regional Park.

What campers like:

• Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review stated, “Beals Point Campground is a very clean and well-maintained State campground,” which is a big plus for families.
• Spacious sites: Campers enjoy having enough room to spread out. A visitor at Skyline Wilderness Park mentioned, “Spots were pretty level, but close together,” indicating a good balance of space and community.
• Friendly staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper noted, “The park managers are very professional, courteous, and pleasant,” which can make a camping experience much more enjoyable.

What you should know:

• Road noise: Some campgrounds, like North Grove Campground, can have noise from nearby highways. A reviewer mentioned, “Some road noise from Hwy 4, trucks going by were sometimes pretty noticeable.”
• Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or extensive facilities. A camper at Acorn Campground pointed out, “Bathrooms are a problem for cleanliness,” so be prepared for basic amenities.
• Wildlife encounters: Be aware of local wildlife. One camper warned, “Beware of the bees!” at Lake Camanche, which can be a nuisance during your stay.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with easy access to water and activities. A reviewer said, “Beals Point Campground is great for family-friendly camping,” making it a solid choice for those with kids.
• Plan for activities: Bring bikes and water toys to keep the kids entertained. One family enjoyed “great access to hiking, bike trails” at Yosemite Pines RV Resort, which kept everyone busy.
• Pack snacks and drinks: Having food on hand is essential. A camper noted, “We love it at this lake,” emphasizing the importance of being prepared for a day of fun.

Tips from RVers:

• Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campground. A reviewer at Acorn Campground mentioned, “Geared mostly for small trailers and tents,” which is important for larger RVs.
• Be ready for limited hookups: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A camper at Woodward Reservoir noted, “They offer senior and military discounts,” which can help save money if you need to stay longer.
• Stay connected: If you need cell service, check reviews beforehand. One camper at Lake Camanche mentioned, “Low cell service but very nice place to tent camp,” so plan accordingly.

Camping around Stockton, California, has something for everyone. Whether you’re in an RV or tent, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors!