Tent camping near West Point, California ranges from primitive, dispersed sites to developed campgrounds throughout the Stanislaus National Forest and nearby areas. The region sits at elevations between 3,000-7,000 feet with pine and cedar forests dominating the landscape. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during daytime hours, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions with nighttime lows in the 40-50°F range.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Stanislaus River Campground provides access to excellent trout fishing in the North Fork Stanislaus. According to a visitor, "Great for trout fishing. Hike downstream for some great views of the river" and another mentions "always great fishing if you get up early."
Water recreation: Lake Camanche offers multiple water activities beyond just swimming. A camper notes, "The water isn't freezing, it's usually pretty warm. The lake isn't huge, but makes for great boating." Another visitor shared that "Cool for a weekend stay. We don't have boat and did not rent one, but the kids had a great time with just the floaties."
Hiking trails: Jenkinson Campground—Sly Park Recreation Area features well-maintained hiking paths. A reviewer mentioned, "The trails are perfectly maintained and you can go around the whole lake in 9 miles. The hike to the waterfall is wonderful and depending where you start depends on length."
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate the unique water attractions in the area. At Stanislaus River Campground, a visitor shares, "If you hike down river you find a nice moss-covered natural water slide." At Jenkinson Campground, another recommends, "You have to see it though! 33ft and the perfect spot to swim when it warms up."
Star gazing: The minimal light pollution makes for excellent night viewing. At Bear Valley Dispersed Camping, a camper mentions, "Perfect spot for star gazing!!" while another at Stanislaus River notes, "Gets very dark at night. Find an open spot for some great star viewing."
Peaceful settings: Many visitors value the quieter camping experiences. A Camp Nauvoo visitor described it as "Glamping heaven along a creek" and mentioned it's "a hidden gem! It's beautiful, clean, and kid friendly." At Boards Crossing, a camper noted the area offers "solitude and rustic camping."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some dispersed areas requires careful driving. At Boards Crossing, a visitor notes, "The road to the campsites is closed to motorized vehicles, but you can still drive up to a gate where there's space to park about 5 vehicles." For Bear Valley, another warns, "There is a point where the paved road disappears and is only dirt road."
Wildlife concerns: Insects and animals can impact your experience. At Stanislaus River Campground, a camper warns, "The only downfall is bees, lots of them. They want your food." At Lake Camanche, another mentions, "Make sure you put your food away at night raccoons will get your food and snacks."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites lack basic facilities. A camper at Boards Crossing explains, "There are no toilets, no running water, and very few visitors." For Bear Valley Dispersed Camping, a visitor confirms, "There are no Volt toilets here nor running water but pretty good Verizon signal."
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: When camping with children, be aware of potential hazards. A visitor to Boards Crossing cautions, "Be mindful of your surroundings—there are many dead-standing trees and potentially hazardous branches, so choose your tent and eating areas carefully."
Kid-friendly water activities: North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park offers family-appropriate hiking and activities. A reviewer shares, "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."
Space considerations: For larger family groups, select appropriate sites. At Boards Crossing, a camper advises, "If you have a group larger than 8, I'd recommend bringing an extra table or some additional seating." At North Grove Campground, another notes, "Campsites are clean and spacious with large trees surrounding everywhere."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose your site based on your specific needs. At Rancho Seco Recreation Area, a camper advises, "21 water and electric sites with a dump station on the way out. Some pull through sites... RV sites are farther from the lake on mostly level gravel pads with picnic table, fire rings, and a trash can at each site."
Seasonal considerations: Time your visit for optimal conditions. A Lake Camanche visitor recommends, "We camped twice at this campground on the South Shore... We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend and we had a few neighbors when we went again in mid January." For the best tent camping near West Point, California, another notes, "Off season, it was full of bird songs and a gorgeous sunset."
Hookup options: Understand what amenities are available at each site. At Rancho Seco, a reviewer explains, "About 50 tent only sites, some just feet from the lake. RV sites are farther from the lake on mostly level gravel pads."
