Codorniz Recreation Area Campground
4.43207 reviewsP.O. BOX 67, RAYMOND, CA 93653-0067, USA
Codorniz Recreation Area Campground
$20.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season nightly rates range from $20 for Tent Only Nonelectric and Equestrian Nonelectric sites to $100 for Group Standard Electric sites. Discounts apply for Interagency Senior and Access Pass holders.
About this campground
Nestled in the golden Sierra Nevada foothills, Codorniz Campground at Eastman Lake beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse recreation offerings and abundant wildlife. Whether you choose an electric or non-electric campsite, you'll find yourself immersed in nature's playground, where disc golf courses wind through oak-studded landscapes and volleyball courts invite friendly competition. Keep your camera ready—this is prime territory for spotting elusive bobcats prowling through tall grasses, golden eagles soaring overhead, mountain lions traversing distant ridgelines, and wood ducks gliding across the lake's surface.
Codorniz Campground provides a mix of camping types, including electric and non-electric sites for tents, RVs, and equestrian campers. Group camping is also available.
Historical SignificanceWhile Codorniz Campground may not boast ancient ruins or historic landmarks, it serves as a modern gateway to California's natural heritage, offering visitors a chance to connect with the timeless rhythms of the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Codorniz Campground in a different light. Spring arrives in a burst of emerald green, carpeting the hills with wildflowers and offering ideal temperatures for outdoor adventures. Summer cranks up the heat, with temperatures soaring above 100°F—perfect for early morning hikes and refreshing afternoon swims in Eastman Lake. As autumn settles in, the crowds thin and temperatures mellow, creating an intimate camping experience. Winter brings its own quiet charm, with occasional rain showers refreshing the landscape and transforming the hills into a photographer's dream.
ElevationThe campground's foothill location provides a gentle introduction to California's mountainous terrain, offering spectacular views without the challenges of high-altitude camping.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself waking to a landscape that captures the essence of California's wild beauty. Rolling hills stretch in golden waves toward the horizon, punctuated by majestic oak trees that provide welcome shade and frame breathtaking mountain vistas. Native grasses sway in the breeze, creating a sea of amber and green that changes with the seasons. The shimmering waters of Eastman Lake serve as the centerpiece of this natural amphitheater, reflecting sky and hills in its mirror-like surface and drawing wildlife to its shores throughout the day.
Geological RegionCodorniz Campground sits within the enchanting transition zone where California's Central Valley meets the Sierra Nevada mountains. This foothill region showcases nature's artistry through undulating hills adorned with iconic oak woodlands, expansive grasslands that ripple like golden seas, and dramatic mountain backdrops that remind visitors of the granite giants looming to the east. It's a landscape shaped by millions of years of geological forces, creating the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include accessible flush toilets, showers, picnic tables, campsites, grills, and designated parking areas. One user noted accessibility for wheelchairs.
Sites SizeSites vary greatly in size; some are noted as spacious and suitable for large RVs, while others are described as narrow.
Sites PrivacySome sites are described as private and secluded, while others offer minimal privacy and are close to neighboring sites.
Total Campsites64 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for sites with shade during summer months and those closer to the host office for better WiFi coverage. Sites near the lake (e.g., #12, #33) offer scenic views.
Best CampsitesCampsites #52, #53, and #33 are highly praised for views, spaciousness, and privacy. Site #12 is noted for shade and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sites are spacious enough for families and groups, with privacy between campsites.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate larger gatherings, although tents are restricted to certain areas near built-in canopies. One user noted a group size of 48 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground is divided into loops (e.g., CODO, WCAT). Sites are spacious and often paved, with varying distances between neighbors.
Open and Closed SeasonJan 01, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online, through Recreation.gov, or via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is mentioned but not detailed regarding the number of sites or specific policies.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. Reservations can be canceled online or through the contact center prior to the scheduled arrival date.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, disc golf, volleyball, and horseshoe pits. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with frequent sightings of bobcats, golden eagles, mountain lions, hawks, and wood ducks. Kayaking is possible despite low water levels. Swimming is limited due to algae blooms and muddy conditions.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, including an 8-mile round-trip lake trail that offers scenic views. Some trails are described as interesting and ideal for exploring.Fishing
Eastman Lake is a designated Trophy Bass Fishery, attracting anglers of all skill levels. Despite low water levels, fishing remains a popular activity.Swimming
Swimming is limited due to algae blooms and muddy water near the shore. Several users recommend caution and avoiding the water during certain months.Boating
Boating is an option, with free life jacket rentals available. Kayaking is popular despite muddy water near the lake's edge.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings are frequent and include animals such as coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, turkeys, hawks, and bald eagles. One user mentioned the delight of watching wild turkeys walking through campsites.Winter Activities
Spring and fall are ideal seasons for enjoying green landscapes and moderate weather. Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular despite muddy lake water near the shore.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated areas. Visitors are encouraged to buy firewood locally.
- Quiet hours are enforced after 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsRattlesnakes are frequently reported; caution is advised, especially near walking trails and campsites. Occasional fire ants and blue-green algae in the lake are noted.
Active alertsRoad conditions are challenging due to potholes and incomplete repairs. Water levels in the lake are often very low.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are located in nearby towns such as Chowchilla and Madera. Within the campground, rangers are noted for their active presence and patrols.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 01, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash is sometimes picked up, but several user reviews state that trash cans have remained full during busy weekends. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresEastman Lake is nearby but often has low water levels. Limited swimming opportunities due to algae and muddy shores.
Common complaintsLow lake levels, potholes on access roads, and occasional maintenance issues with bathrooms and showers are recurring concerns in user reviews.
HostHosts are frequently described as friendly and helpful. They actively assist with site issues and provide guidance to campers.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 67, RAYMOND, CA 93653-0067, USA
Driving directionsEastman Lake is 30 miles northeast of Madera, 25 miles east of Chowchilla, and 50 miles north of Fresno. From Highway 99, travel east on Avenue 26 then north on Rd 29. Follow signs into the campground.
Access is challenging in some areas. Avenue 26 leading out of Chowchilla is described as 'horribly potholed'. Road repairs are incomplete, making it rough for towing trailers.Nearby places
Madera: 30 miles, Chowchilla: 25 miles, Fresno: 50 miles.
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Chowchilla or Madera, which are 20 to 30 miles away. Raymond has limited provisions.
Camper Reviews
4.4
207 reviews
Codorniz Recreation Area Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the serene environment, spacious campsites, and friendly staff, but also note challenges such as rattlesnakes, low water levels, occasional unclean bathrooms, and poor cell reception.
Review Summaries
Based on 207 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean campgrounds, helpful rangers and hosts, spacious sites suitable for families, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Highlights include 'clean restrooms with running water...
Based on 207 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include low lake levels, algae blooms, rattlesnakes, poor road conditions, and maintenance issues such as clogged shower nozzles and full trash cans.
Based on 207 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing all necessary supplies due to the campground's remote location and wearing life jackets when near water. Some suggest visiting during cooler months to avoid extreme heat....
Based on 207 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted as the best seasons due to the green landscape and moderate weather. Summer visits can be challenging due to extreme heat and low water levels.
Based on 207 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Showers were nice and hot and the rangers were awesome.' 'We extended our stay twice; quiet park and good amenities.' 'Extremely clean bathrooms and helpful rangers.' 'Rattlesnakes—beware!'
Based on 207 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 42 is noted for its spacious area and shade. Site 23 has accessibility features but lacks WiFi coverage. Site 43 offers electric hookups and privacy. Site 55 is praised for its tranquility;...
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Accessibility Features
Wheelchair accessibility is praised, with one user stating, 'Very accessible for my wheelchair.' Accessible flush toilets, showers, and parking are available.
Based on 207 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but users warn about rattlesnakes in the area. 'Dogs must be leashed; I was warned twice about rattlesnakes.'
Based on 207 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025