South Tule Campground
4.2384 reviews.
South 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
Displayed nightly rates are $30 for sites with electric hookups and $20 for non-electric sites. Discounts may apply for Interagency Senior Annual Pass, Interagency Senior Lifetime Pass, or Interagency Access Pass holders.
About this campground
Nestled along the northeastern shores of Success Lake, South Tule Campground (also known as Tule Campground) offers outdoor enthusiasts a gateway to Sierra Nevada foothill adventures. This expansive recreation haven features 103 thoughtfully designed campsites, many equipped with convenient electric hookups for modern camping comfort. Families and adventurers alike will appreciate the full-service amenities, including hot showers, flush toilets, and fresh drinking water throughout the grounds. A well-maintained dump station serves RV travelers, while children can burn off energy at the on-site playgrounds. Boating enthusiasts will find easy lake access with convenient boat ramps just moments from their campsite.
The campground accommodates tent camping, RVs, and group camping. Sites are available with and without electrical hookups, and there are pull-through options for RVs.
Historical SignificanceThis area holds stories waiting to be discovered by curious campers exploring the rich heritage of California's Central Valley and Sierra Nevada foothills.
Weather and SeasonsThe Sierra Nevada foothills showcase nature's dramatic seasonal personality at South Tule. Spring emerges as the crown jewel of camping seasons, when vibrant wildflowers paint the hillsides in brilliant purples, yellows, and oranges—creating an Instagram-worthy backdrop for your outdoor memories. Summer brings intense sunshine and soaring temperatures that transform the lake into a refreshing oasis. Experienced campers recommend bringing shade structures and planning water activities during the hotter months, as the campground's open landscape offers minimal natural shade. Fall and winter provide milder temperatures perfect for hiking and exploring the surrounding terrain.
ElevationPerched in the rolling Sierra Nevada foothills, South Tule Campground occupies the gentle slopes characteristic of this transitional landscape between valley floor and mountain peaks. While specific elevation details vary across the campground, visitors enjoy the moderate foothill climate that offers a perfect balance—high enough to escape valley heat, yet low enough to avoid alpine extremes.
Natural Features and ScenerySouth Tule Campground embraces an open, sun-drenched landscape along Success Lake's scenic northeastern shoreline. The terrain unfolds in gentle rolls dotted with scattered trees that frame rather than dominate the vista. This sparse canopy creates unobstructed views of the shimmering lake waters and surrounding golden hills. During spring months, the seemingly austere landscape transforms into a natural gallery as native wildflowers burst into bloom, carpeting the foothills in a spectacular display of color that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the region.
Geological RegionThe campground rests within the iconic Sierra Nevada foothills, where ancient geological forces created a landscape of weathered granite, rolling hills, and seasonal waterways. This transitional zone between California's Central Valley and the towering Sierra Nevada mountains features distinctive sparse tree coverage—primarily oaks and occasional pines—that have adapted to the Mediterranean climate. Spring rains awaken dormant seeds, producing the region's famous wildflower displays that blanket the decomposed granite soils in temporary splendor.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, drinking water, flush toilets, grills, parking, picnic areas, and showers are available. Reviews highlighted helpful staff in assisting disabled campers with site selection.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, but some are not level. Pull-through sites are available but close to roads.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies. Some sites are noted as more private, especially in the north ground, while others lack shade.
Total Campsites103 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider sites with close access to water spigots, especially if camping during hot weather. Site #76 is recommended for its privacy and views.
Best CampsitesSite #76 is praised for its excellent lake view and distance from other sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes pull-through and back-in sites, some closer to the road. Campsites are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and water spigots.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens January 1, 2025 and closes December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is first-come, first-served as it is not reservable.
Cancellation PolicyChanges made to a reservation may incur a $10 change fee. Late cancellations (after midnight 1 calendar day prior for individual campsites) will result in forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee and a $10 cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Tule Campground offers a wide range of recreational activities, including kayaking, fishing, hiking, biking, and swimming. Success Lake's coves are perfect for kayaking, while anglers target bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and trout. On-site amenities include a boat ramp and marina.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available, though no specific trails or difficulty levels are detailed.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity with species like bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and occasional trout. Success Lake provides ample opportunities.Swimming
Accessible swimming areas are available, but some reviews noted the water as unclean.Biking
Biking opportunities exist, with no specific trails or terrain details provided.Boating
Boating is a key activity, supported by a marina and rental options. Activities include kayaking, paddle boating, and motorized boating.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching is notable in the area, with one user highlighting the diversity of bird species.Cultural and Educational Programs
Campfire programs are held at the amphitheater during Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
Opportunities for kayaking, paddle boating, and non-motorized water activities are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed at designated fire rings. Visitors are encouraged to buy firewood locally.
- Quiet hours are enforced after 10 p.m.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as black widow spiders and cockroaches have been noted by users. Additionally, puncture vines and goathead thorns are prevalent.
Active alerts.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.1 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
Mailing address mentions Porterville as the closest town, approximately 8 miles away, which likely has emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are located at the entrance of the campground, leading to long walks for disposal. Recycling options are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Success Lake, which covers 82,500 acre-feet of water when full. However, the water level varies seasonally.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include poor maintenance of restrooms, lack of shade, unclean campsites, and noise from vehicles or nearby bars.
HostUser reviews highlight mixed experiences with staff; some campers praise the friendliness of employees like Nancy, while others report rude behavior and lack of assistance.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsTake state highway 99, to east on Hwy 190 for 25 miles until you arrive at the campground entrance. Please follow the signs.
The campground is easily accessible via Highway 190, which is paved and has clear signage. Roads leading to the facility appear to be in good condition as per user comments.Nearby places
Porterville: 8 miles.
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be found at the Eagle Feather gas station just 5 minutes away from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.2
84 reviews
South Tule Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
South Tule Campground has mixed reviews, with sentiments ranging from 'fantastic campground' to 'disgusting toilet blocks.' Cleanliness, staff friendliness, and amenities are frequent themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 84 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight spacious sites, clean restrooms (in some instances), hot showers, and a variety of activities. The campground is also praised for its accessibility features and...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include inconsistent cleanliness of facilities, lack of shade, overgrown grass with thorny weeds, and poor management. Several users mentioned black widows and other insects as a...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring stakes for tents due to windy conditions. Carry pliers to operate water spigots. Avoid walking barefoot due to stickers and thorns. Check site features (e.g., proximity to water spigots) before...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted for moderate weather, while summer can be extremely hot with limited shade. Winter sees lower lake levels but fewer crowds.
Based on 84 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The showers are awesome and the restrooms are good, just bring wipes & soap!" - Armando Marin. "Bring a broom and give it a good sweep. For whatever reason it was really windy that weekend." - Sal...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 76 is noted for its great lake view and end-of-row privacy. Sites 83 and 85 are close to restrooms but lack shade.
Based on 84 reviewsAccessibility Features
Disabled campers appreciated staff assistance in site selection and the availability of accessible facilities.
Based on 84 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Users advised caution due to thorny weeds that can harm pets' paws. Dogs must be on a 6-foot leash at all times.
Based on 84 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025