Tent camping near Volcano, California sits at elevations between 2,000-4,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada foothills, creating distinct seasonal conditions for campers. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F, with cooler nights even during warm months. Fire restriction season generally runs from May through October, affecting camping practices throughout the region.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: At Lake Camanche, the water temperatures remain comfortable during summer months. "The water isn't freezing, it's usually pretty warm. The lake isn't huge, but makes for great boating," reports one camper who visits annually during July and August.
Hiking with sequoias: The trails at Calaveras Big Trees State Park range from family-friendly paths to more challenging routes. A visitor notes, "There is plenty to do and trails to hike in this area, easy enough for families with children and rugged trail options for the more experienced hikers."
Fishing options: Winter camping at Lake Camanche offers excellent fishing conditions with fewer crowds. One regular camper explains, "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."
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The tree cover at Jenkinson Campground provides natural climate control. "This was perfect. We brought our paddle board and we're walking distance to the lake front. Lake was quiet, trails well maintained and facilities were cleaned regularly," shares a satisfied visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Calaveras Big Trees campers report close encounters with local wildlife. "Beautiful site, hiking trails close by, well maintained grounds. Bear came through our camp one night hit the Bear box and walked off," recounts one camper whose experience reinforces the importance of proper food storage.
Star gazing: The dispersed camping at Bear Valley offers exceptional night sky viewing. "We arrived when it was dark and had no problem finding a spot! It was open with plenty of spots & we were the only ones! Perfect spot for star gazing!!" reports an enthusiastic overnight camper.
What you should know
Ground conditions: The soil composition at Top of Arnold Dispersed camping sites presents specific challenges. "Only downside is the ground is basically dust dirt. My dogs love it, my bedding doesn't!" notes one camper about this free camping area.
Seasonal insect activity: Some campgrounds experience significant insect populations during certain times. At Rancho Seco Recreation Area, one camper reported, "Another issue is that I do not know if this is because of the weather but the whole park is infested with ground beetles that would just land all over you and your food."
Water levels: Lake conditions fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping and water activities. A Lake Camanche regular explains, "When the lake is down (like now) it's a bit of a haul to the water — cart/wagon recommended, as well as a shade pop-up AT water's edge."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety planning: Families visiting Lake Camanche should prepare for varying swimming conditions. "We love it. We've been there during drought years and when the water is back at normal levels. Typically when we go is summer, late July to early August, and majority of the grass is dead and it's HOT, but the water makes up for it."
Educational opportunities: Camp Nauvoo offers specialized activities for younger campers. "The owners of this campground have made it there mission that you have a wonderful experience if you are a newbie or seasoned camper. Great sites for families and romantic sites for couples."
Campground selection strategy: For quieter family camping, choose sites farther from main roads. At Jenkinson Campground, a camper advises, "The front half of the lake is sometimes quite close quarters full of large RVs and campers. The real gems are further back into the campground where if you plan it right you can talk to nobody except your camp host."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed camping areas around Volcano have restricted access for larger vehicles. At Top of Arnold, a reviewer cautions, "The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up."
Hookup availability: Rancho Seco Recreation Area offers water and electric connections without sewer at individual sites. "21 water and electric sites with a dump station on the way out. Some pull through sites. About 50 tent only sites, some just feet from the lake. RV sites are farther from the lake on mostly level gravel pads."
Off-season advantages: RVers report significantly quieter experiences during non-peak periods. "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."
