Is Mokelumne Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Mokelumne Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

What is the best time to visit Mokelumne Campground?

Mokelumne Campground is open Seasons of Use June - October. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Mokelumne Campground?

Mokelumne Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Are dogs allowed at Mokelumne Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Mokelumne Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Mokelumne Campground?

Mokelumne Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Mokelumne Campground

4.10

29 reviews

SwimmingSummer Destination

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

3,360 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Seasons of Use June ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

3,360 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Seasons of Use June ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

Mokelumne Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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Campground Map

Mokelumne Campground

38.4786, -120.2711

Weather at Mokelumne Campground

Best Time to Camp at Mokelumne Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliably dry weather and full access to the lake and trails—daytime highs are commonly 75–90°F (24–32°C) with cool nights around 45–60°F (7–15°C), ideal for swimming, boating, fishing, and long day hikes. Water recreation is at its peak as snowmelt-fed streams and the main lake have settled to safe levels, and most trailheads and facilities are open. Expect the busiest conditions on holiday weekends and plan extra time for reservations; also watch for fire and OHV Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is most popular: swimming, boating, fishing; daytime highs 75–90°F, cool nights.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Seasons of Use June - October

About Mokelumne Campground

Mokelumne Campground sits in the Eldorado National Forest foothills with direct access to a reservoir and the Pardoe Trail. Operated by the Forest Service, this campground offers tent sites, primitive options, and group camping with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Campers fish, swim, and hike from a peaceful base with mountain views.

Mokelumne Campground is designed primarily for tent camping, catering to both small and group setups.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliably dry weather and full access to the lake and trails—daytime highs are commonly 75–90°F (24–32°C) with cool nights around 45–60°F (7–15°C), ideal for swimming, boating, fishing, and long day hikes. Water recreation is at its peak as snowmelt-fed streams and the main lake have settled to safe levels, and most trailheads and facilities are open. Expect the busiest conditions on holiday weekends and plan extra time for reservations; also watch for fire and OHV Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February

Elevation3360 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits in a pine forest along Mokelumne River, where the reservoir provides the central feature for water-based recreation. Forested terrain surrounds the sites, offering shade and natural screening between camping areas. The Pardoe Trail, accessible from the campground, climbs to viewpoints over the reservoir and surrounding ridges. The region's geology reflects a mix of volcanic and granitic formations, shaped by ancient tectonic activity and glacial erosion, though the campground itself occupies a relatively gentle stretch of riverbank.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or cabins are provided; the focus is on tent camping.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are noted for the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Groups

The campground features four group tent sites, one accommodating up to 50 people and the other three up to 25 people.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site SizeCampsites vary in size to accommodate group tent setups.

PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly mentioned, but the natural forested setting likely provides some seclusion.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site. There is no piped water at the campground. Water from the river is available but should be boiled before using.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Mokelumne Campground is situated in an area rich with recreational opportunities, focusing on outdoor and water-based activities. "Its proximity to the reservoir offers campers a variety of activities like swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating." Hiking is also a highlight, with trails leading into the Mokelumne Wilderness.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsThere are no flush toilets. Vault toilets are available instead and described as part of the campground infrastructure.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

29 reviews

Satisfactory

Mokelumne Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews praise the natural beauty and tranquility of the campground, with many appreciating its proximity to hiking trails and fishing opportunities. Some reviewers found the lack of modern amenities such as showers or flush toilets a drawback.

Review Summaries

Based on 29 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the peaceful setting, fishing opportunities, and access to hiking trails. "The views from the Pardoe Trail are breathtaking," and "the reservoir is a great spot for fishing and...

Based on 29 reviews

Common Concerns

The absence of showers and modern amenities is a frequent criticism. "I wish there were more facilities for a longer stay," one camper noted.

Based on 29 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Group sites were noted as spacious but lacking privacy. "Site 1 is great for large groups, but it's near the main path."

Based on 29 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

"Bring your own firewood as it's not sold on-site." "Early arrival is recommended to secure the best spots."

Based on 29 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter conditions can make accessibility challenging. "Summer is the best time for hiking and enjoying the reservoir."

Based on 29 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The proximity to the Pardoe Trail makes this a hiker's paradise." "Swimming in the serene reservoir was the highlight of our trip."

Based on 29 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically mention experiences related to pets.

Based on 29 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want peaceful lakeside camping with fishing and hiking access in the Sierra foothills.

Skip if

You need electric hookups or prefer developed campgrounds with flush toilets and showers.

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