North Tule Campground
4.2384 reviewsBOX 1072, PORTERVILLE, CA 93258-1072, USA
North Tule Campground
$20.00 - $30.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Rates are $20 per night for non-electric sites and $30 per night for sites with electricity. Discounts apply for senior pass holders and other Interagency pass holders, reducing the fees by 50%. Additional fees may include reservation service costs ($8-$9 online or through the contact center).
About this campground
Nestled along the northeastern shores of Success Lake, North Tule Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 103 thoughtfully designed campsites, including convenient electric hookup options for modern camping comfort. This beloved destination seamlessly blends natural beauty with essential amenities—from refreshing hot showers and flush toilets to family-friendly playgrounds and scenic boat ramps. Whether you're launching your morning fishing expedition, gathering for an evening program at the amphitheater, or simply soaking in the lakeside atmosphere, North Tule delivers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra foothills adventure. The campground's enduring popularity stems from its unbeatable combination of lakefront access and endless recreational possibilities.
North Tule Campground accommodates various camping preferences, including RV and tent camping. A few sites have electric hookups, while others are primitive. There are pull-through and back-in sites.
Historical SignificanceWhile Success Lake represents a more recent chapter in California's water management story, the surrounding Sierra Nevada foothills whisper tales of the region's transformation from rolling grasslands to a recreational haven that now draws thousands of visitors annually.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the diverse personality of California's seasons at North Tule, where year-round camping unveils nature's changing moods. Spring and fall emerge as camping sweet spots, offering crystalline skies, gentle breezes, and comfortable temperatures that invite endless exploration. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched paradise perfect for water activities, though early risers and evening adventurers find the most pleasant conditions. Winter brings its own stark beauty alongside crisp temperatures and occasional gusty winds—ideal for those seeking solitude and dramatic skies. Savvy campers know to check forecasts during transitional seasons when mountain weather can shift from balmy afternoons to brisk evenings.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself waking to panoramic views across Success Lake's shimmering expanse, where 2,450 acres of pristine water stretch before you when the reservoir reaches capacity. The campground's setting strikes a delicate balance between accessibility and natural splendor, with scattered trees providing welcome shade pockets throughout the terrain. Come spring, the surrounding hillsides burst into a painter's palette of wildflowers, transforming the golden California hills into a vibrant tapestry. While the landscape favors hardy, drought-adapted vegetation over dense forests, this openness rewards campers with unobstructed lake views and spectacular sunsets that paint the water in shades of amber and rose.
Geological RegionDiscover your Sierra Nevada foothills sanctuary where ancient granite meets golden grasslands at the edge of Success Lake. This transitional landscape captures the essence of California's diverse terrain—neither mountain nor valley, but a perfect blend of both. The gently rolling topography creates natural viewpoints and sheltered camping spots, while the sparse tree coverage allows for expansive vistas across the water and surrounding hills. Each spring, this seemingly austere landscape transforms as wildflowers carpet the hillsides, revealing the hidden fertility of these weathered foothills that have been shaped by centuries of seasonal rains and summer drought.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible flush toilets, drinking water stations, and picnic areas. Some campsites are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and able to accommodate RVs and tent setups.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some sites being open and exposed while others offer more seclusion. Shade is limited due to sparse trees.
Total Campsites103 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose a site with shade and ensure water faucets are accessible. Avoid sites with known weed infestations or spider activity. Confirm proximity to restrooms if desired.
Best CampsitesSite #76 is highlighted for its exceptional lake views and privacy. Sites #83 and #85 are noted for proximity to bathrooms but lack shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 a.m.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 p.m.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. A total stay limit of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period applies.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests are limited to 8 individuals per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes both pull-through and back-in sites, with a mix of electric and non-electric options. Sites are spacious but uneven in some areas. Sections of the campground have limited shade.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round from January 1st to December 31st. Reservations are released on a rolling basis every six months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via their contact center. Walk-up availability applies as reservations are not extensive.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is offered, but the campground is highly popular, so sites are often filled quickly.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made up to the day before arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations after midnight the day before check-in incur a $10 fee and the forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. Modifications are allowed for extending or shortening stays without additional fees, provided changes are made before arrival.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at North Tule Campground are diverse, with options for water sports, fishing, hiking, and more. The nearby Success Lake offers boating, jet skiing, and kayaking in its quiet coves. Anglers can fish for bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and trout. Campfire programs are hosted at the amphitheater during summer weekends. Seasonal wildflowers enhance springtime activities.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding Sierra Nevada foothills. Specific trail details are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the lake, with common catches including bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and trout.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in designated areas of Success Lake. Reviewers suggest arriving early to secure a good spot along the shore.Biking
Biking paths are available, but details regarding terrain and difficulty are not provided.Boating
Boating activities include kayaking, jet skiing, paddle boating, and sailing. A marina is located nearby for boat rentals.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible, with birds and other fauna observed by visitors.Cultural and Educational Programs
Campfire programs are presented at the amphitheater on Saturdays during the summer season from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed, though the campground remains open year-round.Water Sports
Popular water sports include kayaking, jet skiing, and paddle boating.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Visitors are encouraged to purchase firewood locally to avoid transporting invasive pests.
- Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include sharp plants (goatheads) that can harm pets, black widow spiders, cockroach infestations, and high winds, which may pose risks to tents and shade structures. There are also reported issues with vermin and thorny weeds.
Active alertsNo current advisories, but hazards such as spider infestations and thorny weeds have been noted.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Porterville, CA (~15 minutes away), includes hospitals, police stations, and emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1st - December 31st. Peak season pricing applies year-round.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but not conveniently located throughout the campground. One reviewer mentioned, 'Garbage cans only at the entrance of the camp, which is a long walk.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is within walking distance of Success Lake (approximately 300 yards), featuring opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include lack of shade, cleanliness issues in restrooms and showers, presence of pests like black widow spiders, cockroaches, and sharp weeds. Noise levels during quiet hours and maintenance of facilities are also areas of concern.
HostHosts are available on-site to assist with queries and maintain quiet hours. Complaints about host behavior have been noted in reviews.
Campground Map
BOX 1072, PORTERVILLE, CA 93258-1072, USA
Driving directionsTake state highway 99, to east on Hwy 190 for 25 miles until you arrive at the campground entrance. Follow the signs.
Roads leading to the campground are paved and accessible year-round. The campground entrance is via Highway 190, which is easily navigable.Nearby places
Porterville, CA (8 miles, ~15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Porterville, CA is about 8 miles away (~15 minutes), offering groceries, camping supplies, and fuel. Firewood and basic essentials can be found at nearby local stores like Eagle Feather Gas Station (~5 minutes).
Camper Reviews
4.2
84 reviews
North Tule Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for North Tule Campground are mixed. Campers appreciate the scenic location, recreational activities, and spacious sites. However, recurring complaints include inconsistent maintenance, lack of shade, and issues with insects.
Review Summaries
Based on 84 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include 'spacious sites,' 'clean bathrooms,' 'great fishing and boating,' and 'friendly staff.' Many reviewers also enjoyed the scenic views and family-friendly environment.
Based on 84 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent complaints involve issues with cleanliness ('dirty bathrooms and showers'), lack of shade ('very little shade over most sites'), and the presence of pests such as spiders and cockroaches....
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing shade equipment due to limited trees, wearing sturdy shoes to avoid sharp plants, and staking down tents due to strong winds. Several reviews suggest selecting campsites...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that spring offers pleasant wildflower displays, while summer can be crowded and hot. Fall and winter reviews are fewer, but the campground is open year-round.
Based on 84 reviewsCamper Quotes
'The campground has a cool playground for the kids to play at, various bathrooms throughout the campgrounds and park.' - Sal Gonzalez. 'If there were a “cleanest restroom” nomination, Success Lake...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites mentioned include site #83, noted for proximity to the bathroom/shower building but lacking shade. Site #85 also lacked shade but offered space and privacy.
Based on 84 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features include flush toilets and drinking water stations. Some reviewers highlighted the staff's efforts to assist campers with disabilities.
Based on 84 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some reviews caution about sharp plants that could injure pets' paws.
Based on 84 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025