Acorn Campground
3.8782 reviews3027 South Petersburg Road, Valley Springs, CA 95252
Quick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
128 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
128 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsAcorn Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Campsite fees are $20 per night for standard non-electric sites. This fee does not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider209-772-1343
What Campers Say
3.87
Mixed Reviews
Based on 82 reviews
314 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsspacioushikingwater
"User reviews are mixed, highlighting both positive aspects such as lake access, spacious campsites, and recreational opportunities, as well as significant complaints about poorly maintained facilities, noise, and crowding during peak times."
Fees & Passes at Acorn Campground
$20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum 14 nights during a visit.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee a...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Recreation.gov website.
Best Time to Camp at Acorn Campground
Bask in the golden California sunshine that bathes Acorn Campground throughout the summer months, where temperatures regularly climb above 90°F, creating ideal conditions for swimming and water sports. As autumn arrives, the heat mellows into perfect hiking weather, while winter brings refreshingly cool temperatures that transform the landscape into a comfortable outdoor playground without the crowds.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: January 1st - December 31st (2025).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground is open year-round.
- Current Alerts: Active drought conditions have caused low water levels in New Hogan Lake. Visitors should be prepared for longer hikes to the lakeshore.
About Acorn Campground
Nestled among the sun-drenched, brush-covered hills of the Sierra Nevada, Acorn Campground serves as your gateway to the sparkling waters of New Hogan Lake. This well-appointed outdoor retreat seamlessly blends natural beauty with modern conveniences, featuring coin-operated hot showers, clean flush toilets, fresh potable water, and smooth paved driveways throughout. Whether you're here to cast a line at dawn, carve through the lake on water skis, or explore winding trails through chaparral-dotted hillsides, Acorn provides the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventure.
Acorn Campground supports a range of camping types, including tent and RV camping. Sites include paved spaces suitable for RVs, tents, and group configurations. Primitive camping is also available.
Historical SignificanceStep back into California's legendary Gold Rush era with fascinating historic sites just a short drive away. Visit Carson Hill, where fortune seekers once unearthed the largest gold nugget ever discovered, a staggering testament to the dreams that built the West. Continue your journey through time at The Black Bart Inn in nearby San Andreas, the very spot where the gentleman bandit and stagecoach robber Black Bart met his match and was finally captured, ending one of the Old West's most intriguing criminal careers.
Weather and SeasonsBask in the golden California sunshine that bathes Acorn Campground throughout the summer months, where temperatures regularly climb above 90°F, creating ideal conditions for swimming and water sports. As autumn arrives, the heat mellows into perfect hiking weather, while winter brings refreshingly cool temperatures that transform the landscape into a comfortable outdoor playground without the crowds.
ElevationThe campground's foothill location provides a comfortable climate year-round, positioned perfectly between the valley floor and the higher Sierra peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic views of New Hogan Lake's impressive 4,400 surface acres of shimmering water, framed by rolling hills dressed in native chaparral and manzanita. The surrounding brush-covered terrain creates a tapestry of greens and golds that changes with the seasons. Keep your camera ready for encounters with the area's diverse wildlife—majestic mule deer grazing at sunset, the occasional glimpse of a coyote trotting through camp, or the rare sighting of a mountain lion in the distant hills. During winter months, look skyward to spot magnificent bald eagles soaring above the lake, their white heads gleaming against the blue California sky.
Geological RegionAcorn Campground occupies a stunning position within the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of rolling, brush-covered hills that cascade down to meet New Hogan Lake. This magnificent reservoir spans 4,400 surface acres when full, its 50 miles of intricate shoreline creating countless coves and inlets to explore. The unique foothill ecosystem supports an impressive array of wildlife, from year-round residents like deer and coyotes to seasonal visitors including majestic bald eagles that arrive each winter to fish the lake's abundant waters.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySites are paved, and accessible flush toilets are available. Users note wide site driveways but caution that not all are level.
Sites SizeLarge sites accommodating RVs, tents, and up to 8 people per site.
Sites PrivacyModerate privacy depending on site location; some sites are spaced well, providing a peaceful experience, while others are close together causing noise issues.
Total Campsites128 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the water are recommended for scenic views but may involve a hike due to drought conditions. Sites near restrooms and potable water are convenient for families.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Groups
No details provided about specific group site configurations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains paved driveways and asphalt pads. Some sites are reported as sloped, making leveling equipment necessary.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, through their app, or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is dependent on site vacancies. Many sites are reported as first-come, first-served during off-peak periods.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations starting midnight 1 calendar day before check-in.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is situated near New Hogan Lake, offering a variety of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Popular activities include water sports like kayaking, jet skiing, and wakeboarding. Hunting with a bow or shotgun is permitted during open seasons.
Hiking
The 'River of Skulls' trail offers scenic hiking below the dam. An 8-mile equestrian trail and a 3-mile beginner-friendly trail connect the park office and campground.Fishing
Fishing is available year-round for species including bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. Anglers report good fishing experiences but note low water levels during droughts.Swimming
Swimming is available in the lake, but reviews describe the lakebed as muddy and slippery with underwater weeds. Users often hike a considerable distance to reach the water.Biking
Beginner and advanced trails are located on the west side of the lake, including a 3-mile trail connecting the campground to the office.Boating
Boating is a popular activity with nearby ramps. Water activities include jet skiing, wakeboarding, and kayaking.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse wildlife such as deer, bobcats, and bald eagles. Wildlife sightings within the campground are common.Winter Activities
Few reviews mention winter camping. Activities include hiking and wildlife-viewing, but water recreation is limited during cold weather.Water Sports
Popular water sports include kayaking, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and paddleboarding.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated rings. Visitors are encouraged to buy firewood locally and avoid moving firewood to prevent pests.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rattlesnakes and other wildlife such as mountain lions. Visitors are advised to exercise caution when exploring hiking trails and remote areas.
Active alertsActive drought conditions have caused low water levels in New Hogan Lake. Visitors should be prepared for longer hikes to the lakeshore.
Weather at Acorn Campground
47
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Valley Springs, including hospitals and police stations. Park rangers patrol the campground 24/7.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1st - December 31st (2025).
Trash and recyclingUsers are required to remove all trash upon departure. Recycling options are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites are located near New Hogan Lake but the water level is subject to drought conditions, requiring a hike to reach shorelines in some areas.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include lack of shade, unclean restrooms, and noisy neighbors during peak seasons. Some users reported hornets and inadequate enforcement of quiet hours.
HostA camp host is reported to be onsite. Reviews mention park rangers are friendly but enforcement of quiet hours may be inconsistent.
Campground Map
3027 South Petersburg Road, Valley Springs, CA 95252
Driving directionsFrom Stockton California, take Highway 26 east for 30 miles. Turn right on Hogan Dam Road and continue for a mile, then follow signs to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Asphalt-paved site driveways are available but not guaranteed to be level. Visitors are advised to bring leveling equipment for RVs and trailers. Gates are open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.Nearby places
Stockton (30 miles), San Andreas (approximately 10 miles), Valley Springs (approximately 2 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, gas, camping supplies, and other essentials can be found in Valley Springs, California, approximately 2 miles from the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
3.9
82 reviews
Acorn Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, highlighting both positive aspects such as lake access, spacious campsites, and recreational opportunities, as well as significant complaints about poorly maintained facilities, noise, and crowding during peak times.
Review Summaries
Based on 82 reviews
What Campers Love
Spacious campsites with fire pits, picnic tables, and lake views. Recreational activities including water sports, fishing, and hiking are popular. Wildlife sightings add to the camping experience....
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Restrooms and showers are often dirty and lack supplies. High noise levels and partying are common during peak seasons, with rangers reportedly failing to enforce quiet hours. Users also note poor...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for coin-operated showers and your own toilet paper. A canopy is recommended for shade during summer months. Firewood is available for purchase nearby. Avoid weekends for a quieter...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer: Frequent complaints about heat, lack of shade, and crowded conditions. Winter: Quieter with fewer campers but limited water activities due to low temperatures.
Based on 82 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful sky at night as there are no city lights here.' - Daniel K. Rausch.
2. 'The lake is filled with rocks, slimy mud, and underwater weeds!' - Ellen Clemens.
3. 'We were kept up until 2...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 78: Protected side during windy conditions. Site 100: Wide site but slopes downhill. Site 27: Gorgeous lake views with minimal mosquitoes. Site 125: Lake view but requires walking to restrooms.
Based on 82 reviewsAccessibility Features
Paved driveways and accessible flush toilets are available, though some sites are steep and not level.
Based on 82 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed with leash requirements. Users appreciate the ability to hike with dogs around the lake.
Based on 82 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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