Recreation Point

Star4.36
76 reviews
39900 ROAD 222, BASS LAKE, CA 93604, USA
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

3,400 ft

Price

$131 - $397/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Season opens January...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

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Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Recreation Point
$131.00 - $397.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees for group tent-only sites range from $239 to $397 per night, based on size and amenities. Group picnic areas cost $131 or $263 per day.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$397.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
559-642-3212clm@clm-services.com
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What Campers Say

4.36

Recommended

Based on 76 reviews

89 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanrestroomshiking

"Recreation Point receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment score of 4.39 for general opinions but 3.39 for campground-specific reviews. Positive aspects include clean facilities, good lake access, and a wide range of activities. However, issues like overcrowding, maintenance lapses, and non-compliance with quiet hours have been raised."

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Campground Map

39900 ROAD 222, BASS LAKE, CA 93604, USA

Recreation Point

39900 ROAD 222, BASS LAKE, CA 93604, USA

Driving directionsFrom Fresno, California, take Highway 41 north through Oakhurst. Turn right on Forest Road 222 toward Bass Lake. Keep right for 3.5 miles to the campground registration office.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, with clear signage leading toward Bass Lake. Seasonal closures or fire restrictions may occur; contact the Sierra National Forest Headquarters for updates.
Nearby places
- Oakhurst (~9 miles, approximately 20 minutes by car) - Fresno (~50 miles, approximately 1 hour) - Yosemite National Park (~50 miles, approximately 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Oakhurst (~9 miles). Additional options may be available near Yosemite National Park.

Best Time to Camp at Recreation Point

Recreation Point basks in the Sierra's famously clear skies, where sunshine dominates the calendar year. Winter brings crisp mornings with temperatures settling comfortably in the 50s, while spring and fall deliver perfect camping weather with moderate rainfall that keeps the landscape lush and vibrant. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched haven, ideal for lake activities and stargazing under pristine night skies. **Important:** Bass Lake undergoes an annual drawdown beginning after Labor Day, typically reaching 60% capacity by mid-September, affecting water access and shoreline activities through late fall.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Peak season for warm water and activities, but overcrowding and maintenance complaints peak too.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall offers good weather, quieter conditions and stable water levels—excellent season.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring brings good water levels and pleasant conditions for hiking and boating.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Winter is quieter with mild days but fewer water activities available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May through September offers the best combination of warm weather, highest water levels, and full lake access. July-August provides warmest water for swimming. **Avoid late September-November** when annual drawdown significantly reduces water levels and shoreline access.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Season opens January 1 and closes December 31 each year.
  • Current Alerts: No current alerts are specifically mentioned.

About Recreation Point

Perched on the scenic shores of Bass Lake, Recreation Point offers an intimate escape into the heart of Sierra National Forest with its exclusive tent-only camping experience. This tranquil retreat features four distinct group campsites—each with its own character: the elevated Knoll site with panoramic views, the serene Lagoon nestled near the water's edge, the adventure-ready Scout camp, and the shade-dappled Acorn site beneath ancient oaks. Day visitors can gather at one of three group picnic areas—the sheltered Cove, the vista-rich Oak Point, or the spacious South Park—making it perfect for family reunions and outdoor celebrations.
Recreation Point specializes in tent-only group camping, with no RV parking allowed. Four group sites are available: Knoll, Lagoon, Scout, and Acorn. It also offers group picnic areas: Cove, Oak Point, and South Park.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time is stated as 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out time is stated as 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground and up to 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Recreation Point is situated on Bass Lake, offering a variety of water-based activities like swimming, motorized boating, kayaking, water skiing, and fishing for bass, trout, bluegill, and catfish. A designated swim area is available. Hiking opportunities abound, with nearby trails such as Willow Creek, Goat Mountain, Spring Cove, and the Way-of-the-Mono Interpretive Trail. Educational programs are also offered on weekends during the summer.
HikingHiking trails near Recreation Point include Willow Creek, Goat Mountain, Spring Cove, and the Way-of-the-Mono Interpretive Trail. These trails vary in difficulty and are popular among visitors.
FishingFishing opportunities at Bass Lake include catching bass, trout, bluegill, and catfish. The lake is noted for its variety of fish species.
SwimmingA designated swim area is available for campers, offering a safe and enjoyable experience with warmest water temperatures (75-80°F) from May through September. Some users appreciated the direct access to the beach from certain sites. **Note:** Water levels drop significantly during the annual fall drawdown (September-November), which may affect swimming access and beach areas.
BoatingBoating activities such as motorized boating, sailing, kayaking, and canoeing are popular, with ideal conditions from late spring through early fall. A boat ramp is available for visitors. **Important:** Bass Lake's annual drawdown begins after Labor Day - plan water activities for May-September when lake levels are highest and all facilities remain accessible.
Wildlife viewingWildlife in the area includes bald and golden eagles, which are commonly sighted. The natural setting of oak-covered foothills and alpine landscapes adds to the appeal.
Beach activitiesBeach-related activities include sunbathing and swimming. Some users have mentioned that the beach areas can be crowded during peak times.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFire restrictions may be imposed due to dry weather. Wildlife encounters are possible, and food safety precautions (bear-proof storage) are recommended.
Active AlertsNo current alerts are specifically mentioned.

Weather at Recreation Point

Reviews

4.4
76 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Recreation Point is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Recreation Point receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment score of 4.39 for general opinions but 3.39 for campground-specific reviews. Positive aspects include clean facilities, good lake access, and a wide range of activities. However, issues like overcrowding, maintenance lapses, and non-compliance with quiet hours have been raised.
Review Summaries
Based on 76 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include the scenic lake views, clean restrooms (in some reviews), and opportunities for activities like swimming, kayaking, and hiking. "Direct access to the beach for swimming and clean...
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Based on 76 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include overflowing trash bins, lack of bear boxes, overcrowding, and unregistered visitors occupying reserved areas. Safety concerns, such as an incident involving a suspicious...
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Based on 76 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring canopies for shade as some sites lack natural cover. Be aware of potential intrusions from non-campers and consider securing valuables. Opt for 'Scout' or 'Lagoon' sites for better experiences....
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Based on 76 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the busiest season, with complaints about overcrowding and maintenance issues peaking. Winter offers a quieter experience but limits some activities.
Based on 76 reviews

Camper Quotes

"We have been camping here two years in a row, we have enjoyed it so much," praised Elena Bravo. Conversely, Daniel W warned, "The 'Scout' site is pretty good, but 'Knoll' was nearly unusable. We...
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Based on 76 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The 'Scout' site is praised for its facilities, while 'Knoll' is criticized for steep terrain. 'Lagoon' offers seclusion and good access to restrooms. 'Acorn' lacks bear boxes and adequate shade,...
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Based on 76 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited specific details on accessibility were provided. However, some users mentioned that sites like 'Knoll' are difficult to navigate due to terrain.
Based on 76 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcomed with a two-pet limit per site. Reviews note that the campground is dog-friendly but stress keeping pets on a leash.
Based on 76 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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