Lake Camping Near Discovery Bay, California, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking to camp near Discovery Bay, California and have a preference for a lake, you're in luck. We have over 550 options available in this area that cater specifically to your preferences. With an average price per night of $66 and options as low as $25, you're sure to find something that fits your budget. Check out some of our top campsites: Finnon Lake Recreation Area (780 reviews), The Meadows at Isleton (514 reviews), and Walden Ranch (418 reviews). And don't worry, we've got you covered with popular amenities like pets, showers, and campfires, as well as activities such as surfing, paddling, and exploring historic sites. Happy camping!

97% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking to camp near Discovery Bay, California and have a preference for a lake, you're in luck. We have over 550 options available in this area that cater specifically to your preferences. With an average price per night of $66 and options as low as $25, you're sure to find something that fits your budget. Check out some of our top campsites: Finnon Lake Recreation Area (780 reviews), The Meadows at Isleton (514 reviews), and Walden Ranch (418 reviews). And don't worry, we've got you covered with popular amenities like pets, showers, and campfires, as well as activities such as surfing, paddling, and exploring historic sites. Happy camping!

97% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Ranch at Cross Road

96%

(658)

17mi from Discovery Bay · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Livermore, CA

Welcome to the ranch at cross road! We are a family owned organic farm in the heart of Livermore wine country. We have 10 camp sites spread across the property for you to choose from. The property is 15 minutes from Lake Del Valle and some of the best wineries and breweries California has to offer. Settle in and enjoy amazing sunsets every night with us! We accommodate tents,Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, Class C RVs, Campervans, and Cars. Our guests love us too! "I had a wonderful stay at Matt’s ranch! It was easy to find even as it was starting to get dark, and the campsites were well lit and easy to find. The ranch is beautiful. It was such a treat to stay here. I would definitely stay again."

2. Walden Ranch

99%

(922)

29mi from Discovery Bay · 2 sites · Tents · Linden, CA

Walden Ranch began with the purchase of a neighboring 20 acres. Couple that with the inspiration of Thoreau's lines and life at the real Walden Pond, the ranch has grown to nearly 300 acres and the small ranch pond has grown to a 5-acre lake with a 3-acre forest and home. Scouts, family and church groups use the site for gatherings. Available are canoes, bonfire, and exploring the ranch's 300-head cattle, llamas, poultry and wildlife. Fires always allowed at fire ring. You are welcome to bring your own wood. Pitch your tent in a forest setting alongside a lake on a working cattle ranch. Watch wildlife or hike to smaller lakes on the ranch. Other animals include dogs, llamas, geese, chickens, and horses. The ranch is within a 20 minute drive to either Stockton or Lodi, CA and is surrounded by vineyards, orchards and pastures. Outdoor flush toilets, sink, tables and fire ring available. Forested area is set amidst grazing lands. This "Walden" even has willow trees slipped from a tree near Thoreau's cabin near Walden Pond, MA. Owner looks forward to sharing this peaceful, special spot!

3. Private Reservoir

96%

(47)

48mi from Discovery Bay · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Valley Springs, CA

Private property on a private reservoir. Enjoy some quiet time on the water, swimming, fishing, camping or just sitting and enjoying this hidden gem. Conveniently located a couple minutes from town to get some groceries or even fast food and gas. Also minutes from the large lake of New Hogan if your brining a jet ski or boat. Come relax on this 10 acres of private water access. Fish till your heart is content. Please catch and release. We have a variety of fish: Bass, Blue Gill, Cat fish and even some big Carp. Use our canoe or paddle boat or bring your own kayak, SUP, canoe etc. Newly added large floating dock, sand beach and large swing set/ hammock polls. Come play and have fun and listen to the sounds of frogs at night and the birds in the morning.

4. Anthony Chabot Regional Park

94%

(33)

78 sites · Castro Valley, California

Camp, bike, ride and hike in the gorgeous East Bay hills near Oakland.

5. New Hogan Lake

71%

(7)

205 sites · Valley Springs, California

Discover the serene beauty of New Hogan Lake and its outdoor delights.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. The Meadows at Isleton

95%

(1524)

17mi from Discovery Bay · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Isleton, CA

Once an asparagus farm for Heinz, the property was left neglected for over 25 years. They started to convert the land to a lavender farm when they realized that there was more that they should do to enjoy their journey, hence; they incorporated the camping to share this beautiful location with others. From majestic sunrises to magnificent sunsets, The Meadows offers not only a calm and relaxing atmosphere gained from the Lavenders growing, but also provides a central location to all of the California River Delta venues and experiences. From local wine tasting to boating, fishing or just enjoying the nearby collectic towns, Bring your tent, trailer, or motor home to enjoy the heart of the California river delta. Each campsite is extra large for privacy and room to spread out. Dog-friendly. Watch the sunset while enjoying the picturesque views of the surrounding vineyards. Walk the streets of our historic downtown and visit the small shops and locally-owned restaurants-- Manny’s Barzzeria, Mc Broodery's, Pineapples, or Peters Steak House. Of course, don’t miss out on DeJacks our country store that stocks it all!! Spend the day at the public fishing docks, kayak for the day in the delta waters, or head over to Sherman Islands epic wind/kite surfing areas. Local year-round festivals abound in the Delta and The Meadows is strategically located central to all. Our small town of 800 people will truly give you the feeling of being out of the big city!

7. Rocksteady Adventures

93%

(192)

46mi from Discovery Bay · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Copperopolis, CA

Off-grid campground adjacent to 1000 acre private reservoir perfect for fishing, kayaking & paddle boarding. 70 acres in Sierra Nevada Foothills with Valley Oaks, Gray Pines & Manzanita. Best birding in Calaveras County with over 188 species including Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles, Osprey & waterfowl. Reservoir is a no-wake waterbody created for irrigation of the surrounding private rangeland. Jet Skiing and WaterSkiing is not allowed. Boats of all sizes are welcome for the purposes of fishing. Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding and canoeing with all of those available for rent on site. Please note we host events throughout the year. Upcoming we have: June 22-23 - APBA Boat Racing - no boats or swimming on water July 4-6th - Rocksteady Campout for Celebrate Americana so expect full campground with a laser show on the 4th and live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Sept 20-21 - Rocksteady Campout with Goonies & Pirates so expect full campground with live music on Friday and Saturday night Oct 4-5 - Rocksteady Campout TBD so expect full campground with live music on Friday and Saturday night.

8. Lavanda Cresta Olive Ranch

100%

(2)

41mi from Discovery Bay · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Wallace, CA

Our ranch is 15 acres total including my private residence. The terrain is rolling foothills with stunning views of Lake Camanche and the Sierra Nevada mountain range. We have about 600 Olive trees on the property that we harvest every year to make our Lavanda Cresta Olive Oil and products. The area offers a host of activities including water sports on the many surrounding lakes and rivers, wine tasting in the Lodi Wine Region and Shenandoah Valley Wine Region, both offering hundreds of wineries to enjoy new and your favorite wines. For the more adventurous, Yosemite is about a three hour drive away. Come and enjoy the Calaveras County Motherload Region!

9. Raven Bear Ranch

100%

(4)

43mi from Discovery Bay · 2 sites · Lodging · Ione, CA

10 acre hobby ranch in a secluded area of California- 1 hour from Sacramento and 2 hours to San Francisco yet worlds away from city life.Horses, goats, a 2 acre pond and pool to experience from the comforts of a tiny house on wheels.Wifi is available but about once a month it does go out so please just mentally prepare yourself that you might not have wifi when here. Cell service doesnt really work either unless you are Sprint. Att and Verizon get 1 bar in certain areas of the propertyThis is a place to disconnect but not have to go without modern luxuries of hot water, electricity etc :)

10. Henry W. Coe State Park

89%

(36)

29 sites · Morgan Hill, California

This lesser-known wilderness escape puts you far away from fellow humans.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Rancho Seco Recreational Park

100%

(1)

40mi from Discovery Bay · 21 sites · Herald, CA

Rancho Seco Recreational Area stands out as a unique destination due to its expansive 400-acre park that offers a diverse range of recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for both day trips and overnight stays. Nestled in California's Central Valley, just 25 miles from downtown Sacramento, this scenic area features a 160-acre lake fed by the Folsom South Canal, perfect for camping, boating, fishing, swimming, and wildlife observation. The park, acquired by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District in 1992, has transformed into a beloved recreational haven and wildlife refuge. Visitors and locals alike appreciate the natural beauty and the variety of water activities available. The lake is open year-round, with a designated swimming beach located on the southeastern side, conveniently near group picnic areas. Reservations can be made for group picnics accommodating 50 or more people, while smaller covered pavilions are available for smaller gatherings. For those looking to explore, the Howard Ranch Trail and Amanda Blake Memorial Wildlife Refuge offer public access for hiking and wildlife viewing. Admission to these areas is included in the park fee. Boating enthusiasts can launch electric motor boats, rowboats, or sailboats from ramps located at both ends of the dam, with ramp hours aligning with facility hours.

12. Pardee Lake Recreation Area

48mi from Discovery Bay · 51 sites · Ione, CA

Pardee Recreation Area stands out as a remarkable camping destination, offering over 100 sites for both tent and RV campers amidst the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. With two distinct campgrounds, Oaks and Lake View, visitors can choose from a variety of sites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. The campgrounds are generously shaded by oak trees, providing a cool and comfortable environment. Portable restrooms and shared water spigots are conveniently located throughout the area, while flush toilets, showers, and laundry facilities are available near the marina. Lake View Campground features sites with breathtaking views of the water, including twelve short-term full hook-up RV sites. In contrast, Oaks Campground offers smaller, more secluded sites that immerse campers in nature, perfect for those seeking a tranquil wilderness experience. Additionally, three ADA-compliant sites—two for tent camping and one for RV camping—are available for reservation. Since its establishment in 1958, Pardee Lake Recreation Area has been a cherished spot for creating lasting memories. Nestled along the Mokelumne River, this park boasts stunning vistas and a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. Located just twelve miles southwest of Jackson, the area is easily accessible from Highway 88 or Highway 12

Camper favorites near Discovery Bay

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Meadows at Isleton

95%

(1524)

17mi from Discovery Bay · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Isleton, CA

Once an asparagus farm for Heinz, the property was left neglected for over 25 years. They started to convert the land to a lavender farm when they realized that there was more that they should do to enjoy their journey, hence; they incorporated the camping to share this beautiful location with others. From majestic sunrises to magnificent sunsets, The Meadows offers not only a calm and relaxing atmosphere gained from the Lavenders growing, but also provides a central location to all of the California River Delta venues and experiences. From local wine tasting to boating, fishing or just enjoying the nearby collectic towns, Bring your tent, trailer, or motor home to enjoy the heart of the California river delta. Each campsite is extra large for privacy and room to spread out. Dog-friendly. Watch the sunset while enjoying the picturesque views of the surrounding vineyards. Walk the streets of our historic downtown and visit the small shops and locally-owned restaurants-- Manny’s Barzzeria, Mc Broodery's, Pineapples, or Peters Steak House. Of course, don’t miss out on DeJacks our country store that stocks it all!! Spend the day at the public fishing docks, kayak for the day in the delta waters, or head over to Sherman Islands epic wind/kite surfing areas. Local year-round festivals abound in the Delta and The Meadows is strategically located central to all. Our small town of 800 people will truly give you the feeling of being out of the big city!

Rocksteady Adventures

93%

(192)

46mi from Discovery Bay · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Copperopolis, CA

Off-grid campground adjacent to 1000 acre private reservoir perfect for fishing, kayaking & paddle boarding. 70 acres in Sierra Nevada Foothills with Valley Oaks, Gray Pines & Manzanita. Best birding in Calaveras County with over 188 species including Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles, Osprey & waterfowl. Reservoir is a no-wake waterbody created for irrigation of the surrounding private rangeland. Jet Skiing and WaterSkiing is not allowed. Boats of all sizes are welcome for the purposes of fishing. Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding and canoeing with all of those available for rent on site. Please note we host events throughout the year. Upcoming we have: June 22-23 - APBA Boat Racing - no boats or swimming on water July 4-6th - Rocksteady Campout for Celebrate Americana so expect full campground with a laser show on the 4th and live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Sept 20-21 - Rocksteady Campout with Goonies & Pirates so expect full campground with live music on Friday and Saturday night Oct 4-5 - Rocksteady Campout TBD so expect full campground with live music on Friday and Saturday night.

Lavanda Cresta Olive Ranch

100%

(2)

41mi from Discovery Bay · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Wallace, CA

Our ranch is 15 acres total including my private residence. The terrain is rolling foothills with stunning views of Lake Camanche and the Sierra Nevada mountain range. We have about 600 Olive trees on the property that we harvest every year to make our Lavanda Cresta Olive Oil and products. The area offers a host of activities including water sports on the many surrounding lakes and rivers, wine tasting in the Lodi Wine Region and Shenandoah Valley Wine Region, both offering hundreds of wineries to enjoy new and your favorite wines. For the more adventurous, Yosemite is about a three hour drive away. Come and enjoy the Calaveras County Motherload Region!

Raven Bear Ranch

100%

(4)

43mi from Discovery Bay · 2 sites · Lodging · Ione, CA

10 acre hobby ranch in a secluded area of California- 1 hour from Sacramento and 2 hours to San Francisco yet worlds away from city life.Horses, goats, a 2 acre pond and pool to experience from the comforts of a tiny house on wheels.Wifi is available but about once a month it does go out so please just mentally prepare yourself that you might not have wifi when here. Cell service doesnt really work either unless you are Sprint. Att and Verizon get 1 bar in certain areas of the propertyThis is a place to disconnect but not have to go without modern luxuries of hot water, electricity etc :)

Rancho Seco Recreational Park

100%

(1)

40mi from Discovery Bay · 21 sites · Herald, CA

Rancho Seco Recreational Area stands out as a unique destination due to its expansive 400-acre park that offers a diverse range of recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for both day trips and overnight stays. Nestled in California's Central Valley, just 25 miles from downtown Sacramento, this scenic area features a 160-acre lake fed by the Folsom South Canal, perfect for camping, boating, fishing, swimming, and wildlife observation. The park, acquired by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District in 1992, has transformed into a beloved recreational haven and wildlife refuge. Visitors and locals alike appreciate the natural beauty and the variety of water activities available. The lake is open year-round, with a designated swimming beach located on the southeastern side, conveniently near group picnic areas. Reservations can be made for group picnics accommodating 50 or more people, while smaller covered pavilions are available for smaller gatherings. For those looking to explore, the Howard Ranch Trail and Amanda Blake Memorial Wildlife Refuge offer public access for hiking and wildlife viewing. Admission to these areas is included in the park fee. Boating enthusiasts can launch electric motor boats, rowboats, or sailboats from ramps located at both ends of the dam, with ramp hours aligning with facility hours.

Pardee Lake Recreation Area

48mi from Discovery Bay · 51 sites · Ione, CA

Pardee Recreation Area stands out as a remarkable camping destination, offering over 100 sites for both tent and RV campers amidst the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. With two distinct campgrounds, Oaks and Lake View, visitors can choose from a variety of sites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. The campgrounds are generously shaded by oak trees, providing a cool and comfortable environment. Portable restrooms and shared water spigots are conveniently located throughout the area, while flush toilets, showers, and laundry facilities are available near the marina. Lake View Campground features sites with breathtaking views of the water, including twelve short-term full hook-up RV sites. In contrast, Oaks Campground offers smaller, more secluded sites that immerse campers in nature, perfect for those seeking a tranquil wilderness experience. Additionally, three ADA-compliant sites—two for tent camping and one for RV camping—are available for reservation. Since its establishment in 1958, Pardee Lake Recreation Area has been a cherished spot for creating lasting memories. Nestled along the Mokelumne River, this park boasts stunning vistas and a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. Located just twelve miles southwest of Jackson, the area is easily accessible from Highway 88 or Highway 12

Public campgrounds near Discovery Bay

94%

(33)

Anthony Chabot Family Campground

30mi from Discovery Bay · 78 sites · Tents, RVs · in Anthony Chabot Regional Park

Deer Flat Boat in Campground

47mi from Discovery Bay · 30 sites · in New Hogan Lake

September 10, 2017
The campsites were a little close to each other but the lake makes up for it.

80%

(5)

Acorn Campground

47mi from Discovery Bay · 128 sites · Tents, RVs · in New Hogan Lake

Oak Knoll Campground

48mi from Discovery Bay · 46 sites · Tents, RVs · in New Hogan Lake

Coyote Point Campground

48mi from Discovery Bay · 1 site · Tent, RV · in New Hogan Lake

89%

(36)

Coe Ranch Campground

50mi from Discovery Bay · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Henry W. Coe State Park

Stories from the community

C

Cara

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Walden Ranch

This is our second time visiting Walden farm. We were snug in our truck camper and our doggies in the back seat. If Emilia the pit belly pig invades your campsite you can leader away just by calling or give her a gentle bump on her rear-end.

K

Kristi

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at The Ranch at Cross Road

This was a lovely site. The views were amazing, easy to find. The bathroom was amazing. I love an open air! The host was responsive and courteous.

A

Amy

3 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at The Ranch at Cross Road

Pretty farm, cute goats, clean bathrooms, zero hassle.

Lindsay

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Walden Ranch

Alan's land is peaceful and a sight to behold. The camp layout gives you plenty of privacy, yet you're just a short walk from flush toilets, a food-prep area, a fire ring, a big table, and even a sink — everything you need close by without feeling crowded. Alan himself has a sweet, laid-back nature, and we really enjoyed chatting with him about his animals. There are so many sweet creatures to wake up with in the morning (and we really fell in love with the brown and white ranch dog who is a cuddle bug). The whole place has a calm, welcoming energy. We absolutely can’t wait to come back. And for birders — this was a paradise. We spotted at least 20 different species right from the property. Highly recommend!

D

Deneen

November 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

3 nights at The Ranch at Cross Road

What a beautiful, scenic place! We highly recommend this spot.

A

Aaron

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Walden Ranch

This place is special. If you’re looking to get up close with herds of cattle, alpaca, horses, mules, farm dogs, geese and a massive pig this is the spot. Be prepared for lots of night noises- the animals talked all night long. We had great weather and the place to ourselves which was a treat but this farm would be great for groups. Our dog was off leash running with the farm dogs most of the time- and you could smell it on her. Alan’s dogs were very gentle, but they have free range. There was also a comically large pig wandering about. If Alan asks if you want to feed the herd, say yes! We witnessed a minutes-old calf getting up on her feet, while we slinging hay. It was a very cool experience. We would definitely come back for a visit.

C

Chase

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

4 nights at The Ranch at Cross Road

Tons of space. Beautiful farm. Bathroom clean with a fun partially outdoor shower. Overall, would recommend.

j

jeff

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Private Reservoir

We had a great time. They had nice chairs perfect for relaxing on the dock. Lots of wildlife to enjoy the sounds of nature. 10/10 recommend.

B

Barb

October 2025

35 ft Class A

With pets

2 nights at The Ranch at Cross Road

The setting is beautiful. Out in the country with a very large hill behind you and many in front of you. Some livestock and QUIET. It is so quiet; it's wonderful. The physical spaces are wide set which is really nice. I couldn't hear our generator when I took our pup for her morning constitutional once I got to the next space. Having the gate for security is excellent. You get the code once your reservation is finalized. Matt was very responsive to emails sent thru Hipcamp. We'll stay at The Ranch again. We have a 35' motorhome and pull a Jeep.

S

Sharon

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Walden Ranch

As a solo female camper, I couldn’t have asked for a more welcoming or unforgettable experience. The ranch itself stretches across 300 acres of pure peace and wide-open beauty—complete with cows, donkeys, and even a sweet little calf that stole my heart (and got its bottle from me!). The mornings—or, more accurately, the very early mornings—were accompanied by peacocks and roosters who seem to think 3:30 AM is sunrise. Instead of being annoyed, I laughed every time. It’s part of the ranch’s charm: nature doing whatever nature wants. The highlight of my stay was joining the host to feed the cattle. I never realized how vocal cows could be until I was surrounded by a chorus of them, each with their own personality and voice. It was grounding, beautiful, and completely mesmerizing. If you’re craving solitude, connection with animals, and a slice of real country life, this place is a must. It’s safe, peaceful, and full of small, magical moments that remind you how good it feels to slow down and just be.

A

Amit

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at The Ranch at Cross Road

Love the Camp sites. Nice clean and very responsive host.

T

Tharindu

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to The Ranch at Cross Road

The place was pretty good. The bathroom was clean and well equipped. The ranch had everything for a quiet and calm sleep.

Janelle

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Ranch at Cross Road

Had a great experience camping here! The bathrooms can be a little bit of a walk from some of the sites, but I was impressed that the bathrooms were very clean and well stocked. I was extra impressed with the porta-potty’s automatic lights that flicked on when it was dark as well as the sink for hand washing outside. This is a great place to camp if you have a large group since there are a lot of sites that can easily be combined. I’d recommend to arrive early if coming with a group and looking to combine sites since the sites are first come first serve. Lake Del Valle was about 25 min drive away and there were several wineries within 1-15 minute drive. There was even a dispensary 6 minutes away which was a pleasant surprise.

Cassandra

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Ranch at Cross Road

Easy access. Flat ground. Great facilities. 100% recommend if you're looking for a hassle free, worry free place to camp.

Beautiful place to camp. I sleep great here every time.

Rick

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Ranch at Cross Road

Camping at Matt's ranch never disappoints. Fell asleep to near silence, woke to an occasional coyote call, and slept in until 8am when a far off rooster decided it was morning. Bathroom was clean, property was gorgeous, love this place.

A

Alwyn

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Walden Ranch

My family and I enjoyed tent camping on Alan’s land. Very kind and willing to share not only the campground but all of the activities around. Thanks for a great stay.

A

Aimee

October 2025

23 ft travel trailer

4 nights at The Ranch at Cross Road

Communication went smoothly throughout our stay. The site felt spacious, quiet and safe while still being centrally located. We would definitely camp here again.

C

Claire

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Walden Ranch

Beautiful location, quiet and private with lots of space

S

Sam

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Walden Ranch

Alan is a great host! He took us with him to feed the cattle. I hope everyone get to experience the camp! I will definitely come back again!

C

Crystal

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Ranch at Cross Road

We enjoyed our stay. There was lots of space for the kids to play and not interrupt anyone else’s campsites. The kids loved visiting the goats and the swing.