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Utica Campgrounds

3 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Campsites at Utica Campgrounds sit in forested terrain with views of the reservoir, putting paddlers within easy reach of the water. No-motor rules apply on the lake, making it well-suited to kayaks, canoes, and SUPs. Weekends draw crowds, but traffic typically thins by Sunday midday. The campground charges $16 per night, includes picnic tables and toilets, allows pets and campfires, and has cell service. Campers heading into dog-friendly campgrounds near Stanislaus National Forest will find this a practical base. Nearby, Sandy Flat - Utica Reservoir (Stanislaus Nf) — Stanislaus National Forest sits just 0.1 miles north if the main sites are full. Arrive on a weekday for the best chance at a site.

Reservation Info

No reservations: first-come, first-served

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Map & DirectionsUtica Campgrounds is located in California near Bear Valley

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From Highway 4, turn onto Spicer Reservoir Road (paved) and go 8 miles. Turn left onto 7N75; from there the roads are gravel. Continue .7 miles to a T-intersection. Turn left and continue one mile. Spicer Reservoir Road is 27 miles east of the Calaveras Ranger Station in Hathaway Pines, California.

Coordinates

38.42487207 N
120.01311436 W

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Connectivity

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    No Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
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    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Utica Campgrounds

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5 Stars

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4.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the stunning reservoir setting with excellent water access for kayaking and paddling. Several reviews noted toilet facilities need improvement and sites fill quickly on a first-come basis.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Aug. 8, 2022

Rocky Point- Great views & warm water

Gorgeous lake. Calmest at sunrise. Great for kayaks and paddle boards. Campsites are nestled in the woods with views of the reservoir. Lots of people on the weekend but by mid Sunday it’s much quieter.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Utica Campgrounds by Samantha V., August 8, 2022
  • Review photo of Utica Campgrounds by Samantha V., August 8, 2022
  • Review photo of Utica Campgrounds by Samantha V., August 8, 2022
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Oct. 27, 2020

Worth it, if you have a boat

Any boat will do. Kayak, canoe, blow up row boat, SUP. The reason you need a floating vessel of some kind (no motors allowed) is because it’s impossible to get a car camping spot anymore. It used to be impossible to get a developed campsite but only somewhat difficult to get on of the (way way better) dispersed sites in the gravel road past the campgrounds. But with Covid, forget about it. Instead, load up your boat(s) with gear and paddle out to pretty much any stretch of shoreline to find a camping site. Even on 4th of July weekend, you can get a fabulous, scenic, private spot of you boat in. And no fees! You can paddle back to the campground for use of the OOT toilet if you want. Or just use nature :)

Please please don’t trash this place! People just don’t understand LNT rules. And if you’re reading this and have no idea, look up Leave No Trace and follow ALL of their rules for recreating in the wilderness. Pack it in, pack it out.

Utica is divine. Sublime. Perfection. There is nothing else like it anywhere in the Stanislaus, El Dorado or Tahoe National Forests. Or anywhere else that I can find.

  • Review photo of Utica Campgrounds by Liz C., October 27, 2020
  • Review photo of Utica Campgrounds by Liz C., October 27, 2020
  • Review photo of Utica Campgrounds by Liz C., October 27, 2020
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Sandy Flat Campground on Utica Reservoir?

Sandy Flat Campground on Utica Reservoir is a small, primitive campground with minimal amenities. It operates on an honor system for payment without a host or stationed park ranger. The campground doesn't offer developed facilities like showers or flush toilets. Campsites are nestled in the woods with views of the reservoir, providing natural surroundings. For those seeking more privacy, there are also island camping opportunities throughout the reservoir that can be accessed by non-motorized watercraft.

How do visitors rate Sandy Flat Campground at Utica Reservoir?

Sandy Flat Campground at Utica Reservoir receives generally high ratings from visitors. Campers particularly appreciate the beautiful surroundings and lake views. The developed campsites are popular and can be difficult to secure, especially on weekends. By Sunday afternoon, the area becomes notably quieter as weekend crowds diminish. The campground is well-regarded for its natural setting and tranquil atmosphere, especially for those who enjoy primitive camping experiences.

What is the elevation of Utica Reservoir and Sandy Flat Campground?

Utica Reservoir is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California at a high elevation, typical of the region's alpine lakes. While the exact elevation isn't specified, the reservoir sits in the High Sierra country, likely between 5,000-7,000 feet above sea level. This elevation contributes to its alpine character with pine forests and granite surroundings. The high elevation means cooler temperatures, especially at night, even during summer months. Visitors should prepare for typical high-altitude conditions when camping here.

What activities can visitors enjoy at Utica Reservoir near Sandy Flat Campground?

Utica Reservoir offers excellent non-motorized water activities including kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and rowing. Motorized boats are not permitted, preserving the tranquil atmosphere. The reservoir is particularly calm at sunrise, making it ideal for peaceful morning paddling. Visitors can explore the lake's islands, which offer isolated camping spots perfect for hammock camping. Fishing is also popular. The surrounding wooded areas provide opportunities for hiking and nature observation.

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