How much does camping cost at Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground?

Camping fees at Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground range from $36/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground 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 Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground before I book?

Yes! Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground has 14 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 Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground?

Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground is open Memorial Day through Labor Day. 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 Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground?

Yes, Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground have?

Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground has 60 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground. 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 Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground?

Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground?

Fire policies at Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground: Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood should not be gathered; purchase is available on-site.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Q: What activities can I do at Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground?

Popular activities at Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground include Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

3.32

25 reviews

22600 Lake Road, La Grange CA 95329

SwimmingSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

250 ft

Price

$36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

60 campsites

Season

Open late March thro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

250 ft

Price

$36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

60 campsites

Season

Open late March thro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground

$36.00 - $36.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard campsites cost $36 per night with an additional reservation fee of $8.25. Fees include entry for one vehicle and one legally towed trailer...

Standard Site Fee$36.00

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Reserve California

Provider

(800) 444-7275interp@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

22600 Lake Road, La Grange CA 95329

Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground

22600 Lake Road, La Grange CA 95329

Nearby places

Modesto (25 miles, approximately 40 minutes), Waterford (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available in Waterford, approximately 15 miles from the campground.

Driving directionsFrom Modesto, take Highway 132 East 14 miles to Waterford. In Waterford, turn right on Hickman Road (County Road J-9) and drive 1 mile to Lake Road. Turn left on Lake Road and drive 10 miles to Turlock Lake SRA.

The campground is accessible via paved roads, although reports from user reviews describe occasional challenges due to overgrown vegetation and degraded parking facilities. Seasonal closures are dependent on operational status.

Weather at Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground

Current alert: The park is temporarily closed while California State Parks and Turlock Irrigation District search for a new operator.

Best Time to Camp at Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground

Fall brings the best conditions. Daytime highs typically run mid-60s to mid-70s°F with cool nights in the 40s–50s, ideal for campfires. Water temperatures stay mild enough for boating and late-season swimming early in the fall, and fishing picks up as fish feed ahead of winter. Wildlife viewing is productive as animals become more active in gentler temperatures. Expect lighter crowds than summer weekends. Summer delivers warm, sun-drenched days perfect for water activities, with nights cooling to the high 60s. Winter stays mild at this elevation, making off-season camping feasible for those who don't mind cooler water.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Seasonal note: 'Fall brings the best conditions' with mild days and cool nights ideal for camping.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open late March through mid-September for reservations; walk-ins are available mid-September through late March.

About Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground

Turlock Lake State Recreation Area sits along the south bank of the Tuolumne River in Stanislaus County's eastern foothills, about a mile from Turlock Lake. The campground has 60 sites (tent and RV) priced at $36 per night, with amenities including showers, flush toilets, and bear lockers. Water activities dominate here: swimming, boating, fishing, and beach access draw families looking for a waterfront basecamp.

The campground offers standard campsites suitable for tent camping and RVs. Group camping and specialized accommodations like cabins or glamping options are not available.

Historical Significance

Dredger tailing piles scattered throughout the park mark a half-century of gold mining operations along the Tuolumne River. These mounds of river stones remain as physical evidence of the prospectors who worked this stretch of water during California's gold rush era.

Weather and SeasonsFall brings the best conditions. Daytime highs typically run mid-60s to mid-70s°F with cool nights in the 40s–50s, ideal for campfires. Water temperatures stay mild enough for boating and late-season swimming early in the fall, and fishing picks up as fish feed ahead of winter. Wildlife viewing is productive as animals become more active in gentler temperatures. Expect lighter crowds than summer weekends. Summer delivers warm, sun-drenched days perfect for water activities, with nights cooling to the high 60s. Winter stays mild at this elevation, making off-season camping feasible for those who don't mind cooler water.

ElevationPerched at just 250 feet above sea level, this low-elevation gem offers the best of California's Mediterranean climate without the altitude concerns. The campground's valley floor location creates an ideal microclimate where warm, golden summers give way to pleasantly mild winters, making it a four-season destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts who prefer comfortable camping conditions year-round.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits at 250 feet elevation where oak-studded savannas meet the Tuolumne River. Native oaks provide shade across the property, while riparian forests line the river corridor. Turlock Lake stretches across 26 miles of shoreline, and the surrounding foothills roll in waves of golden grass. The landscape also features weathered tailing piles from historical gold dredging operations, creating unusual mounded terrain that contrasts with the natural geology. Wildlife is active in the oak woodlands, and the river supports healthy riparian vegetation.

Geological RegionThe eastern foothills of Stanislaus County cradle this unique recreational area where nature and history intertwine. Here, the landscape tells two stories: one of ancient geological forces that carved rolling hills and river valleys, and another of human ambition that left its mark through gold dredging operations. The resulting terrain features oak-studded savannas that sweep down to meet the Tuolumne River and Turlock Lake, while weathered tailing piles create an almost lunar landscape that speaks to the region's boom-town past. This fascinating geological tapestry makes every hike an journey through both natural and human history.

Scenic ViewsSeveral lookout points provide views of surrounding savannas, cattle ranches, orchards, and dredger tailing piles.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available; the campground accommodates standard campsites only.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 10 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each campsite allows up to 8 guests.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are arranged in loops separated by paved and unpaved roads. RV pads run 24 feet long with standard widths. Reviews mention privacy issues, with campers sometimes walking through occupied sites. The layout places sites close to the river, which contributes to evening mosquito activity.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable from mid-September to late March during the park's off-season.

Cancellation PolicyReservations are available up to six months in advance and must be canceled within the operator's guidelines, especially during peak seasons.

AccessibilityTwo designated accessible picnic tables are located near the swim beach. Accessible parking spaces are available, but assistance may be required to access water faucets and grills.

Site SizeSite dimensions include a pad length of 24 feet. Site widths are standard.

PrivacySome reviews mention privacy issues, stating that other campers often walk through campsites without regard for peace and quiet.

Total Campsites60 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites closer to the river for easy access to water activities. Opt for shaded sites during summer for comfort.

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Amenities available

The Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground offers 60 campsites located along the shady south bank of the Tuolumne River, approximately one mile from Turlock Lake. Amenities at the campground include picnic tables, potable water, flush toilets, and fire rings as part of the standard campsite setup. "Food lockers" are available at each campsite, and pets are allowed as long as they are on a leash. The campground office sells firewood to support the park's interpretive programs; however, gathering wood on-site is prohibited. Showers are available but require payment and are not ADA compliant.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground and surrounding recreation area offer abundant water-related activities and outdoor recreation opportunities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Past reviews describe enjoyable family outings that include kayaking and pontooning.

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews mention vandalized facilities, broken glass, and overgrown areas that may pose risks.

Food Storage RequiredFood lockers are provided at each site to store perishables and secure items from wildlife.

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.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood should not be gathered; purchase is available on-site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services include the nearest hospital in Modesto, approximately 25 miles away, and a nearby ranger station within the park.

Trash & RecyclingReviews describe widespread trash problems, including garbage bags, broken glass, and appliances dumped in parking areas. No mention of organized trash or recycling facilities was found.

Water FeaturesAll campsites are within 300 feet of the Tuolumne River.

Camp HostPast reviews mention a helpful camp host named Danny, who provided excellent service. No current host information is available.

Cell CoverageRecent user reviews mention that there is no cell phone service available at the campground, which could be problematic for visitors relying on connectivity.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.3

25 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews reveal a mix of experiences, ranging from fond memories of family outings to concerns about the degraded state of facilities. Positive aspects include enjoyable water activities and spacious campsites, while common complaints focus on vandalized infrastructure and lack of maintenance.

Review Summaries

Based on 25 reviews

What Campers Love

"Great place to camp!" "Lots of room for families." "Peaceful, enjoyable, away from the city!" "Camp host Danny is the best host we’ve ever had."

Based on 25 reviews

Common Concerns

"Facilities are trashed." "No cell service." "Bathrooms are in horrible shape." "People walk through campsites without regard for privacy," "Looks like a homeless camp," "Trash throughout the...

Based on 25 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites #23 to #29 are reported to have standard dimensions, a pad length of 24 feet, and proximity within 300 feet to the Tuolumne River.

Based on 25 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring floating devices for the lake; ensure valuables are secured as theft can occur. Prepare for mosquito activity during evenings due to proximity to the river.

Based on 25 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with heavy use reported during this time. Late summer and fall provide ideal conditions with warm days and cool nights. Winter months are less...

Based on 25 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Spent the day at Turlock Lake; brought the kayaks and had fun," "Bathrooms are clean and well-stocked," "Lots of mosquitoes in the evening," "Trash throughout, sinks vandalized."

Based on 25 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible picnic tables are available, but assistance may be needed for grills and water faucets. Some reviewers note that ADA compliance for facilities like showers is lacking.

Based on 25 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed if leashed. One review noted, "My dogs didn’t even want to get out of the car; very dry and deserted."

Based on 25 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Families who boat, swim, and kayak got the most out of this place when it was running, especially at sites 23-29 near the Tuolumne River. Fall reopening would be the time to check back, when crowds thin and conditions improve.

Skip if

The park is currently closed with no reopening date confirmed. Beyond that, past visitors report vandalized restrooms, trash throughout the grounds, and a campground atmosphere where some campers outside the local social mainstream described feeling unwelcome rather than at ease.

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Horseshoe Road Recreation Area sits along the Stanislaus River near Oakdale, managed by Stanislaus River Parks. This very small, primitive campground offers walk-in tent sites and group camping with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors come for fishing, rafting, and biking along the river corridor, with shaded spots under valley oaks and cottonwoods.