Oakdale sits at the transition between California's Central Valley and Sierra foothills, with elevations ranging from 160 to 190 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F and mild winters. While reservoir-based campgrounds dominate the region, camping options vary significantly in their amenities and access to natural features.
What to do
River activities: Float trips. At Caswell Memorial State Park Campground, campers can enjoy a relaxing float downstream. "This campground is terrific. The park has a creek that runs from the camp ground to the public beach down below. You can take your floating stuff up to the camp area and literally float down stream in 45 minutes or so," notes Julie P.
Photography: Wildlife and seasonal changes. The area offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography, particularly in spring and fall. "Great spot for photo enthusiasts, especially Spring & Fall," reports a camper from Tuolumne River Ranch. Deer sightings are common at several campgrounds.
Fishing: Lake and river options. Fishing is popular at most campgrounds in the region. At New Melones Lake, "Fishing areas were easy to get to and we watched numerous people enjoy water sports on the lake," according to Debbie R.
What campers like
Complimentary water equipment. Some campsites offer unexpected amenities. At Cole Ranch, Joyce L. shares, "The amenities were above and beyond anything we have seen at other locations. Complimentary watercraft for the river, stocked outdoor kitchen, and hot showers with shampoo/lotion etc."
Waterfront camping options. Many campers appreciate direct water access from their sites. "On the T-Island sites you right on the water. Which is were we go. Both our kids family have Kayaks so that makes getting on the water great," says Craig & Linda L. about Woodward Reservoir.
Diverse campsite options. Campgrounds offer varied experiences depending on location preferences. At Modesto Reservoir, Russell L. explains, "Has two style of camping based on your camping style. To the left of the pay station, one side of the lake has disbursed camping with very minimal shade... then to the right on the pay station, other side of the lake has multiple camping loops with paved camping spots with water and electrical hookups."
What you should know
Weather preparation essential. Summer heat requires proper planning. "It was something like 107 when we were setting up the tent and most of the day time but on the lake itself, the temperature was perfect," reports Scott R. about camping at Tuttletown Recreation Area.
Wildlife encounters. Many campsites have regular animal visitors. "Deer and cats get into everything! And cats pee on everything!" warns Melissa P. at Lake Tulloch. At Tuttletown, another camper notes, "Lots of deer and raccoons."
Reservation periods vary. Some campgrounds have seasonal restrictions. At Woodward Reservoir, Jeff D. noted in 2020, "This campground is only open to Stanislas County residents." Check current policies before planning.
Maintenance inconsistencies. Campground conditions can vary widely. "The brush in the non hookup campsites needs to be cared for as it was knee high, an made it a little bit of a treck to the water," reports lanora G. about a campsite near Oakdale.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water swimming areas. For families with children, look for campgrounds with gentle water entry. "Shallow and warm water great for swimming and water sports," says Russell L. about Woodward Reservoir.
Playground access. Some campgrounds offer additional recreational facilities. At Lake Tulloch RV Campground, Elisabeth notes, "The kids had fun playing at the playground, jet skiing, and making sand castles at the beach."
Best times for family trips. Timing matters for a positive family experience. "The park is pack during the summer months on the weekends but during the off season if is a great time to go during the week when children are in school," advises one camper.
Weekday advantages. For a quieter experience with children, consider mid-week bookings. "It was mid week and was not crowded at all," shares Melissa B. about Lake Tulloch, making it easier to manage family activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles. RVers should research sites carefully. At Acorn Campground, "The campsites are big which provides plenty of room for shade structures," according to Trisha L., but another camper advises, "do your homework or be flexible, you might get an amazing lake side spot with a view, but not enough room for a tent."
Full hookup locations. Several campgrounds offer complete RV services. "Full hookups were use and enjoyed by all each time," reports Craig & Linda L. about Woodward Reservoir.
Dump station availability. Not all campgrounds provide sewer connections. Tuttletown offers "a nice dump station ($8 fee recommended.. pay station is at park entrance)," notes Hunter P.
Shade considerations. Many RV sites lack natural shade. "Most of the drive in camp sites had absolutely no shade (including nowhere to hang a hammock)," warns Scott R. about Tuttletown, important information for summer RV camping near Oakdale.
