How much does camping cost at Tule?

Camping fees at Tule range from $20-$30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Tule first-come first-served or reservation?

Tule accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Tule before I book?

Yes! Tule has 3 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Tule?

Tule is open January 01 to December 31. 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 Tule?

Yes, Tule has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at Tule?

Cell phone service at Tule is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Tule have?

Tule has 103 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Tule?

Yes, pets are allowed at Tule. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Tule?

Tule offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Tule?

Popular activities at Tule include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Tule

4.08

679 reviews

BOX 1072, PORTERVILLE, CA 93258-1072, USA

Top 18% in CAWinter

Summer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

673 ft

Price

$20 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

103 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

673 ft

Price

$20 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

103 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Tule

$20.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD ELECTRIC: $30.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

559-784-0215

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

BOX 1072, PORTERVILLE, CA 93258-1072, USA

Tule

BOX 1072, PORTERVILLE, CA 93258-1072, USA

Nearby places

Porterville: 8 miles (approximately 15 minutes), Tulare: 30 miles (approximately 40 minutes), Visalia: 45 miles (approximately 50 minutes)

Weather at Tule

Best Time to Camp at Tule

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best balance of mild weather, lower crowds, and full access to lake recreation — daytime highs are commonly in the 60s–80s°F (15–27°C) with cool nights in the 40s–50s°F (5–12°C). This is prime time for hiking, biking, shore fishing, and boating as water temperatures remain comfortable and trails are dry after summer heat; the foothill vegetation takes on warmer hues and wildlife is active. Expect noticeably fewer campers than summer, making it ideal for quieter lakeside camps and Peak months: October, November, April, May

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall reported as best: mild temps, pleasant swims, drier trails, and fewer crowds.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Tule

Tule Campground sits at Success Lake near Porterville in California's Sierra Nevada foothills, operated by the Army Corps of Engineers. This large campground offers electric and water hookups, showers, and a dump station alongside primitive walk-in options, serving as a base for lake recreation and day trips to Sequoia National Park. Campers fish, swim, boat, and explore foothill trails under open skies with limited shade.

Tule Campground accommodates various camping preferences, including sites for RVs, tents, and group camping. Electrical hookups are available at some sites, and primitive camping is an option.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best balance of mild weather, lower crowds, and full access to lake recreation — daytime highs are commonly in the 60s–80s°F (15–27°C) with cool nights in the 40s–50s°F (5–12°C). This is prime time for hiking, biking, shore fishing, and boating as water temperatures remain comfortable and trails are dry after summer heat; the foothill vegetation takes on warmer hues and wildlife is active. Expect noticeably fewer campers than summer, making it ideal for quieter lakeside camps and Peak months: October, November, April, May

Elevation673 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground overlooks Success Lake from its northeastern shore, where the Central Valley rises into foothill country. Rolling terrain and scattered native trees frame views across the reservoir. Spring brings wildflowers in yellows, purples, and oranges to the surrounding hills. The landscape shows the characteristic geology of this transition zone, with ancient waterways having carved the basin now filled by the lake. Shade is limited at many sites.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is mentioned within the campground; accommodations are limited to campsites.

Programs & ActivitiesCampfire programs at the amphitheater are held on Saturdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend, offering opportunities for learning and engagement.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

The campground enforces a stay limit of 14 consecutive nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 guests per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessible campsites, drinking water, flush toilets, parking, picnic areas, and showers are available. Users report friendly staff assisting with accessibility needs.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, with many described as spacious and accommodating larger RVs and tents.

PrivacySites are spaced out, offering a sense of privacy. Some users appreciated this feature, while others noted noise from neighbors and crowded conditions during peak times.

Total Campsites103 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites closer to restrooms for convenience, and avoid areas with excessive goathead thorns.

Best CampsitesSite 76 gets mentioned for lake views and distance from neighbors. Reviews suggest arriving early to claim better spots during busy periods.

Need help booking Tule?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Tule Campground offers a range of amenities catering to diverse needs of campers. Showers, flush toilets, potable water, and a dump station are provided on-site, along with accessible drinking water and flush toilets. Each campsite features a picnic table and a grill/fire ring combo. Additionally, the campground has facilities such as playgrounds, boat ramps, and a marina. Campfire programs are held at the amphitheater on Saturdays between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend. Shade is limited at many sites, and users often recommend bringing additional shelter for comfort.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Tule Campground provides a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The lake is especially popular for bass fishing and kayaking in quiet coves. Other activities include hiking, star gazing, and picnicking. Seasonal campfire programs are held at the amphitheater.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

679 reviews

Satisfactory

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

User reviews highlight mixed experiences. Positive feedback includes spacious sites, friendly staff, and scenic lake views. Complaints often focus on cleanliness, maintenance issues, and safety concerns. Reviews reflect varied sentiments depending on the season and individual expectations.

Review Summaries

Based on 679 reviews

What Campers Love

Spacious campsites, clean showers, scenic views, helpful staff, proximity to Sequoia National Park, and family-friendly ambiance.

Based on 679 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues include lack of shade, poor restroom and shower maintenance, presence of black widows and roaches, overcrowding, and safety concerns involving homeless individuals and noise.

Based on 679 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site highlights include #76 for the best lake view, #18 for spaciousness, and complaints about uneven ground at #29. Reviews also note issues with noise and maintenance at specific sites.

Based on 679 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring shade structures, insect repellent, firewood, and extra toilet paper. Arrive early for swimming spots. Carry hand soap for restrooms and wear sturdy footwear to avoid thorns.

Based on 679 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter visits are quieter and less crowded, with clean facilities. Spring and summer bring more visitors and activities but also maintenance and overcrowding issues. Fall is noted for being peaceful...

Based on 679 reviews

Camper Quotes

Direct quotes include: "Definitely won't camp here again until management is fixed," "Unmind and hear nothing but my thoughts," and "Loved this campground! The campsites are spaced out so well."

Based on 679 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible facilities are praised, with staff assisting individuals with disabilities. Some reviews mention well-maintained paths and proximity to restrooms.

Based on 679 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but require leashes. Users warn about thorns and goatheads that can harm pets' paws.

Based on 679 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a full-service lakefront base for boating and fishing with easy runs to Sequoia National Park.

Skip if

You need heavy shade or expect spotless facilities during peak season.

Nearby Campgrounds

4.2

(348)

South Tule Campground

South Tule Campground sits at low elevation on Success Lake near Porterville in California's Sierra Nevada foothills. This large campground offers electric and water hookups, hot showers, and a dump station for tent and RV campers. Visitors fish, boat, and swim in the lake during spring when wildflowers blanket the surrounding hills and temperatures stay mild.